2024 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Jaysen Triunfer, DL, University of New Haven

- Name: Jaysen Triunfer
- Position: DL
- College: University of New Haven
- Height: 6’0”
- Weight: 280 lbs
- X (Twitter): @54_bigjay
- Instagram: @jay_big_money
What made you decide you wanted to be a football player?
I randomly showed up to a little league practice around 6th grade. Had no clue about the game, didn’t know any of the fundamentals. Coaches made me put my hand in that dirt, and I went OFF. Was told to just tackle the ball carrier and that’s exactly what I did. 2nd season of little league, was awarded Defensive player of the year and led the team to win a championship. Ever since then, I knew this game was it for me and that’s what made me decide I wanted to be a football player along the years.
What are your favorite moments from your football life?
Winning my first ever championship as a kid in little league. Another favorite of mine would be when I had my first career interception at the University of New Haven in 2022 as well as my college senior day football game when my family attended and we won the 2023 NE10 Championship.
What are you looking to achieve as a football player going forward?
Just want to be one of the few to make it out of Paterson, New Jersey, signing a professional contract and just keep living the dream.
Which one of your family members inspires you the most and why?
My older brother Miguel inspires me to be the best I can be, pushes me everyday, and has been with me throughout this whole journey.
If you could hang out with any football player past or present for a day who and why?
Ray Lewis because he is one of my favorites of all time and he played his heart out every game. He was so passionate about the game. I feel like I’d learn a lot from him as a player and as a man.
What is your favorite defensive scheme and why?
4-3 because I feel it’s tough to block us defensive lineman. Having a shade at the 1 and a 3tech especially doing stunts can cause havoc.
What should we know about Jaysen Triunfer the person?
That Jaysen is a great caring person. Gets along with anyone and is a friend that anyone would want to have. Respectful and a hard worker.
What stands out about your film the most?
My motor as well my pursuit to the ball. My strength knocking the O-linemen back and creating a new line of scrimmage.
How do you handle challenges both in life and on the football field?
How I handle challenges in life is by putting my head down, pushing through and continue to work past it. Your always going to have adversity so just controlling what you can control is key. On the football field communication is key. So communication with my teammates helps past difficulties. Messing up on one play is now in the past, just come back the next play like is your last and give it your all.
What would a team get in a player like you?
A team would get relentlessness, dominance and high motor. A dependable and dedicated player. Someone who will bring nothing but maximum effort to the organization.
What do you love the most about the game of football?
Just being able to play violent and dominate people without any trouble. Hitting people is fun. Football is one of a kind, playing with a group of guys that you trust on and off the field. Real padded football cannot be played at a park, a backyard, or a gym. So just having that opportunity to play the game, is a blessing.
Who is the most underrated player you’ve played with and why?
Jack Chandler QB, whenever he got his name called into the game, he would always be ready and never disappoint. Would go out there and have great vision, throw some great passes and even run around a bit. He’s ALWAYS ready.
Writer/Scout/Interviewer for Draft Diamonds since January 2020. You can find me on X at @jrberendzen and Instagram at justinberendzen