2024 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Jason Hovis, LS, Juniata College

• Name: Jason Hovis
• Position: LS
• College: Juniata College
• Height: 6’2”
• Weight: 220 lbs
• X (Twitter): @jason_h64
• Instagram: @jason_hovis

What made you decide you wanted to be a football player?

I grew up watching football with my dad and his enjoyment for the sport encouraged me to start playing the game at just 5 years old. From there I fell in love with it, and I haven’t stopped playing since.

What are your favorite moments from your football life?

Football has brought me some amazing moments and given me some of my greatest memories. One that stands out to me though is my first college football game. I had a lot of people tell me that I wasn’t good enough to play college football, so to step out on that field in a college uniform for the first time with my family in the stands was really big for me.

What are you looking to achieve as a football player going forward?

My goal is to continue playing football in any way I can. Since I was little, it’s always been my dream to play in the league and I’d be grateful for any opportunity that would allow me to reach that goal of mine.

Which one of your family members inspires you the most and why?

It’s a pretty even tie between my mom and my dad. The two of them are extremely hard workers and they’ve always pushed me to be the best version of myself. Most importantly, they taught me the importance of hard work and perseverance. Each day, they sacrifice so much for me in order to ensure I am successful and taking advantage of every opportunity that comes my way. They’ve never missed a single one of my games and their support is what has always encouraged me to keep playing football and to keep chasing my dreams.

If you could hang out with any football player past or present for a day who and why?

This is a really tough one because there’s so many amazing people who have played the game. If I had to choose just one, I think I would want to hang out with Jason Kelce. I grew up right outside of Philadelphia so I’ve watched Kelce play for a long time. That guy is the definition of toughness and he plays the game with so much passion. He became a fan favorite while playing a position that doesn’t get a lot of love. He’s also just a cool dude and I think we’d have a great time hanging out.

What is your typical training routine?

I like to mix it up but I spend a lot of time training and practicing. During a typical week in the offseason I’ll be in the weight room around four to five days of the week and on three or four of those days I’ll also work on my snaps and run. I just love the process of improving each day and growing as a player.

What should we know about Jason Hovis the person?

I’m a high character guy who brings 100% effort into everything I do. I strongly value time with my family and friends and would do anything for the people I care about.

What stands out about your film the most?

I’d say what stands out about me the most and separates me from other long snappers is my athleticism and physical play. I set blocks with a lot of aggression and I use my athleticism to make plays down field. I take a lot of pride in having an impact on the play after the snap and establishing myself as a threat for other teams.

How do you handle challenges both in your life and on the football field?

I always handle change with an open mind. I believe that everything happens for a reason and I just try to focus on the things that I can control.

What would a team get in a player like you?

They’d get a player with a great attitude that’s going to give an outstanding effort everyday. I’m a player that can always be held accountable to go above and beyond what’s expected of me. I want to do everything in my power to have a positive impact on any football organization I’m involved in.

What do you love the most about the game of football?

I really love the relationships you can build and the team atmosphere. I’ve been very fortunate to be around some amazing players and coaches that I’ll be close with for the rest of my life. Football really creates a beautiful community the way it brings people together. I’ve always enjoyed getting to know players that come from many different backgrounds and having the opportunity to play with these guys to reach a common goal.

Who is the most underrated player you’ve played with and why?

I’d say Chris Mignanelli or Zeb Fisher. I’ve lived with both of them throughout college and they’re great football players. They both battled injury through a good amount of their careers and due to this they didn’t always have the opportunity to prove how truly talented they are.