2024 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Uvel Paul Jr, LB, Bowie State University
- Name: Uvel Paul Jr
- Position: LB
- College: Bowie State University
- Height: 6’0”
- Weight: 218 lbs
- X (Twitter): @uvelpaul
- Instagram: @16.velly
What made you decide you wanted to be a football player?
At the age of 6, I was thrown into multiple sports. Between football, baseball, and basketball, I was exceptionally good at football. I loved the physicality I was able to dish out on a daily basis. From that point forward, I knew that football was my dream sport. Not to mention, I consistently got into foul trouble for being too physical in other sports.
What are your favorite moments from your football life?
Can’t forget about them youth league days. One of favorite moments during that era was getting my very first big hit/forced fumble. Gave me a rush that I still cherish till this day. As of recently, getting my first collegiate sack, winning a 3-peat CIAA Conference Championship and forming a brotherhood with my teammates are part of my favorite collegiate moments.
Which one of your family members inspires you the most and why?
Gotta go with both my parents! Hard to single out one of them. Both my mother and father worked hard to obtain the things they wanted in life. Being able to witness their work ethic resonated with me because of how much they’ve done to provide for me. Their support and sacrifices inspires me to keep pushing forward.
What are you looking to achieve as a football player going forward?
The opportunity to play football professionally. Whether it’s the NFL, XFL, or CFL, I’m looking forward to demonstrating my abilities at a higher level.
If you could hang out with any football player past or present for a day who and why?
The HOF Ray Lewis! Growing up, I was a huge fan of Ray Lewis’s game. Seeing his relentlessness, football IQ, and energy on the field is what motivated me to become a linebacker. I would pick his brain and learn as much as I can about the game.
What is your favorite defensive scheme and why?
My favorite defensive scheme is a base 4-3 defense. Having 4 defensive linemen partying in the backfield, while 3 linebackers getting over top and wreaking havoc is what makes defense so enjoyable. Meanwhile, the 4 defensive backs fly around and disrupt the pass game.
What should we know about Uvel Paul Jr the person?
As it pertains to football, I’m a selfless leader who is willing to prioritize the team’s goals versus individual goals. I constantly want to provide some sort of positive impact and boost my team’s morale. Off the field, I’m very family-oriented and goal driven.
What stands out about your film the most?
My ability to win my one-on-one matchups and give 110% effort on each rep is what stands out about my film. Understanding where I fit and making plays within our defensive scheme is what I carry out consistently on my film.
How do you handle challenges both in life and on the football field?
I embrace every challenge that comes my way. In my life, every challenge has molded me into the man I am today. My way of handling them is to control what I can and put my best foot forward. On the football field, I look at challenges as an obstacle that I’m eager to conquer no matter what it takes.
What would a team get in a player like you?
A team would get a versatile athlete who will work hard day in and day out to be a strong team contributor. A player who’s dedicated to training, practice, film studying and craft to outwork the next man.
What do you love the most about the game of football?
The thing I love the most about football is the competitive and intense atmosphere. Being very competitive myself, there’s a certain thrill that activates as soon as I put my helmet on. I get into my zone and get to fly around and have fun. Doing it with like minded teammates makes it 10x more enjoyable.
Who is the most underrated player you’ve played with and why?
I’m going with my guy Odion Okojie. On our special teams, Odion is the grit hustler you’ll always see flying down the field. He’s someone who sets the tone and puts our team in great field position, especially in pivotal moments.
Hula Bowl Contributor and Writer/Scout/Interviewer for Draft Diamonds since January 2020. You can find me on X at @jrberendzen and Instagram at justinberendzen