2024 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Roderick Carter Jr, OL, Keiser University
- Name: Roderick Carter Jr
- Position: OL
- College: Keiser University
- Height: 6’3”
- Weight: 325 lbs
- X (Twitter): @bigrod_
- Instagram: @bigrod_____
What made you decide you wanted to be a football player?
Football is in my DNA, my dad Roderick Carter Sr, played linebacker for the University of Miami from 1984-1989 and was drafted by the Cowboys in 1990. Football has always been a big part of my life, but the moment I knew this is what I wanted my career to be was my first tackle football jamboree game. Scoring my first touchdown and just having so much fun out there is what made me decide this was for me.
What are your favorite moments from your football life?
Winning the NAIA national championship this past 2023 season. When the clock hit 0:00 I knew I was a champion and would forever be in the history books.
What are you looking to achieve as a football player going forward?
I’m looking to make history, my goal is to be the first Keiser University football player to play in the NFL.
If you could hang out with any football player past or present for a day, who and why?
Tom Brady, I choose him because I would want to pick his brain. I want to know how he kept his body and mind sharp for all those years, what were his daily routines and what type of sacrifices did he have to make to be great.
Which one of your family members inspires you the most and why?
My dad inspires me to not only be the best I can on the football field but also in life. I’ve always looked up to my dads football success, it’s one of the things that helps me push through the rough days in football. My dad also inspires me to be the best man I can be in life. My dad has always provided for me, been there for me and my family. My dad is the type of man I strive to be.
What is your favorite offensive scheme and why?
My favorite is inside zone, but I also love power, counter and duo. I’m a huge advocate for down hill football, that my front is better than your front mentality you need to successfully run those schemes are why they are my favorites.
What should we know about Roderick Carter Jr the person?
I’m someone who is selfless, kind hearted and well mannered. A firm believer in equality and respect. I am someone who’s determined and resilient.
What stands out about your film the most?
It shows my quickness, footwork, ability to make mid-play adjustments, technique, versatility and aggressive play.
How do you handle challenges both in life and on the football field?
By staying calm, assessing the situation and then coming up with a plan of action to attack whatever the challenge is. On the field it’s a little faster so you have to be able to think quickly on your feet and that’s a strength of mine, but the key is to always remain calm.
What would a team get in a player like you?
They would be getting a player that would be coming in day one looking to make a positive impact in any way to help the team.
What do you love the most about the game of football?
I love the process of going through summer training to fall camp then finally getting to the season. Then after the season you have spring football, then doing it all over again. That constant cycle of going to battle with your brothers whether it is games, practice or conditioning is what I love.
Who is the most underrated player you’ve played with and why?
The most underrated player I’ve played with is RG, #69 Jude Guerrier for Keiser University. This past season Jude had a phenomenal season and the fact that he didn’t get any recognition like All-Conference frustrated me because I knew he deserved it.
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