2024 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Jayden Goodwin, DB, Air Force

• Name: Jayden Goodwin
• Position: DB
• College: Air Force
• Height: 6’1”
• Weight: 195 lbs
• X (Twitter): @g2cold_
• Instagram: @g2cold

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

My dad is a football coach so I’ve been involved with football my whole life. Watching and being around football was as normal to me as watching cartoons is to any other kid.

What are your favorite moments from your football life?

Probably the last game of my high school career. Although it ended in a loss in double overtime, it was one of the funnest games with some of my closest friends.

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

Become the best player I can be, I still have a lot of room for improvement and I want to be satisfied with what I was able to do on the field when it’s all said and done.

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

Troy Polamalu for sure just because he’s one of the greatest game changers ever, and I’ve looked up to him for as long as I could remember. He played with a different passion and energy so it would be cool to get to know him off the field.

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

I can’t pick one because they all inspire me in different ways. My mom, dad, older brother and two older sisters have all been through their own struggles and always find a way to win, and with me being the youngest, I’ve always admired that and tried to implement it into my own life.

What is your favorite defensive scheme and why?

4-2-5 because only the teams with a versatile 5th DB are truly successful and I view myself as a versatile 5th DB that can play anywhere so it benefits my play style the most.

What should we know about Jayden Goodwin the person?

People would say I’m an intelligent, caring individual who can put a smile on anyone’s face and always looks for the good in life. My persona on the field and off the field contrast perfectly.

What stands out about your film the most?

The play recognition and nose for the ball. I’m always in the right place, and at the point of attack I have the athleticism to go and make the play.

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

I believe that God is putting the challenges in my life in order to make me a better person and to strengthen my faith in him. Overcoming challenges on the football field is just my way of displaying glory and power of God.

What would a team get in a player like you?

Someone who will do whatever it takes to win. Overall the definition of a football player. Willing to get in wherever I fit in and make the team better.

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

It’s such a great escape from problems you deal with. You could be having the worst day ever but as soon as you’re between those white lines, nothing else matters. Additionally, it’s a way for many people to express themselves. There’s a side of people you never truly see until it’s time to put on the pads. You can try to be whoever/whatever you want off the field, but on the field everyone’s true self is on display.

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

My older brother TJ Goodwin. Once you turn on the tape and watch, there’s things he’s done that can’t be replicated.