2024 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Taquavian Drake, LB, Jacksonville State University

• Name: Taquavian Drake
• Position: LB
• College: Jacksonville State University
• Height: 6’2”
• Weight: 226 lbs
• Twitter: @taquavian10
• Instagram: @quae.drake10

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

I grew up playing football since I was 5 years old, I love the bonds that can be created between teammates and coaches. Growing up in a small town that’s really all we had to do, so it’s something that I’ve enjoyed doing my whole life!

What are your favorite moments from your football life?

Getting my first collegiate sack vs LSU in 2021. Playing in my first bowl game this season in New Orleans and winning it!

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

I am praying that God will present me an opportunity to make it the NFL! That’s been a goal of mine since I was a kid. If granted an opportunity, another goal of mine is to go in and work hard and earn a spot on someone’s roster!

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

My Dad! He gets up every day and grinds for me and my family. There isn’t anything that he wouldn’t do for me or the family. He inspires me every day to wake up and chase greatness no matter the circumstances.

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

Tom Brady. I have been a Tom Brady fan my whole life, I grew up watching him. He’s a great competitor, leader, and knows how to win. The success he had is what we all are working toward, and I know hanging with him I could soak up meaningful knowledge.

What is your favorite defensive scheme and why?

4-2-5, I like it because of how versatile I could be in this scheme. I could play in the box on 1st & 2nd down, but also could walk down on the edge on 3rd downs. It’s sound vs most offensive schemes that teams are running.

What should we know about Taquavian Drake the person?

I am a hardworking guy on and off the field. God and family is something that I value the most in my life. I am from a small town (Wadley, Alabama.) I enjoy playing video games, working out, or hanging with friends during my free time. Also, school has been a big part of my life and is something I enjoy. I will graduate in May with my Masters Degree in Sports Management.

What stands out about your film the most?

If you’re watching my film, you’ll see that I have played multiple positions throughout my career. So whatever a team needs me to play they can see I’ve done so on film. Another thing that stands out on film is that I play with anticipation. Majority of the plays I make I know that they are coming from watching and studying film.

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

I handle challenges by going to God in prayer. My faith in God is strong and I know he’s all the help I need during hard times.

What would a team get in a player like you?

A team would get a determined football player. A guy who’s going to come in and be able to learn the scheme right away. I am going to come in and be a great teammate and soak up all knowledge that I am presented. I will also be a guy that gives great effort day in and day out.

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

I love everything about the game of football. Football allows me the opportunity to have fun with great teammates and coaches. Also, you can’t be soft and play football so the fact that I can go out there and hit someone and not get in trouble is pretty cool.

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

Larry Worth – Jacksonville State.
He’s a big physical player who loves the game of football and you can tell the way he plays. He played multiple positions for us this year and done whatever coach asked of him every game. Had a lot of plays that helped us win games this year, I know he has a bright future ahead.