2024 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Dakota Caton, WR, Indiana State University

• Name: Dakota Caton
• Position: WR
• College: Indiana State University
• Height: 5’10”
• Weight: 185 lbs
• X (Twitter): @_dcat1
• Instagram: @dcat1

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

After my short dream of being an NBA star was over when I was a young kid, I started playing football and fell in love with it. The teamwork it takes and the dedication to keep going makes me love it even more. I decided to put my all into this sport and do whatever it takes to be like the guys I looked up to in the NFL.

What are your favorite moments from your football life?

My favorite football moment was during my freshman college season. I got my first ever touch as a punt returner late in game one. I took my first ever touch to the house. The emotions were high and I was surrounded by my teammates who showed so much excitement and love for me in the moment. It was definitely one of the best moments so far.

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

I hope to achieve nothing but the best, to be a long time veteran player, to help an organization win a Super Bowl. Most importantly make a name for myself so I can use my platform to help those in need and be a big part of change in my community.

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

I would have to say Julian Edelman and Danny Amendola. I’ve been watching them since I was a kid. I’ve modeled my game after them. Very similar builds and I would definitely enjoy learning a lot from them.

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

My uncle has been the most inspirational in my life. He is a man who refuses to settle for nothing but the best in his career and his everyday life. We are very like minded in our approach to life. Leading from the front and always choosing the path most wouldn’t take. We are never satisfied and are always striving to be better than we were yesterday.

What is your favorite offensive scheme and why?

My favorite offensive scheme is the spread option. It’s the best offensive scheme for a guy of my caliber. Someone who cannot only be an outside receiver and slot but someone who can play in the backfield and use my vision to make plays.

What should we know about Dakota Caton the person?

People should know that Dakota Caton is a man of God, goal driven, relentless, perseverance, loving, family oriented, determined to put whatever work in to accomplish goals set.
My entire life I’ve lived by this saying I learned from the Zeller family.
“It’s the word of champions and what it takes to be that both on and off the field.
Character, honesty, attitude, motivation, perseverance, I am responsible, optimistic, have a network of friends, and serve others.”

What stands out about your film the most?

When you see my film, what stands out the most is the durability and toughness every play. Flying around even when I know the ball is coming to me. You’ll also see my speed and my vision on the field as well my ability to catch the ball and get yards after catch. And the drive and determination to keep everyone motivated during each game.

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

I put my trust in God in all situations that may arise both on and off the field. Having faith that this too shall pass. It’s all about perspective and how you choose to handle it. So I wake up everyday choosing to attack each day with positivity. I remind myself that a lot of people go through harder challenges everyday.

What would a team get in a player like you?

They would get a player who is driven by his faith. A player who values their character on and off the field and how they represent themselves and the organization. A player who has that underdog mentality. Someone who is coachable, determined, capable and willing to do whatever it takes to succeed.

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

I love the relationships, passion and teamwork that comes with the game of football. The relationships you create with players, coaches, trainers and other personnel. As well as being surrounded by like minded individuals who have the passion and drive you do. Surrounding yourself with individuals who want to succeed as bad as you do pushes you to be even better. I love that it takes everyone to be successful. You can’t win without everyone being all in. I enjoy the challenge and the ability to work towards the same goal with my teammates.

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

The most underrated player I’ve played with is Jonas Griffith. He was an All American linebacker who didn’t start playing football until his senior year of high school. He was an undrafted player who definitely should have got drafted. He’s not only a great player but a great man. A leader who is driven and hands down the hardest worker in every aspect of life.