2025 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Kendrick Cox Jr, LB, Virginia University of Lynchburg

• Name: Kendrick Cox Jr
• Height: 6’4 
• Weight: 200
• Position: Hybrid OLB, Nickel 
• College: Virginia University of Lynchburg 
• Twitter: @kendrickcox20
• Instagram: @_8kc8_

Talk about your experience as a student. What is your major/minor? Did you participate in any other activities or campus organizations other than football?

I had a positive and joyful college experience. It wasn’t everything I expected at first when starting out my college career, but it eventually became something I enjoyed having. My major is in Psychology and my minor is in Criminal Justice. I am currently working on my Master’s. For activities, I participated in parades, student meet and greets, and donations.

What do you think your teammates would say is your best quality?

He’s an Elite player, he loves the game of football!

What kind of role do you see yourself in on the team? What scheme and/or position suits your skill set?

My role would be a versatile outside linebacker. I play a hybrid position that focuses on figuring out defensive schemes. I’d be an excellent fit for a dynamic 4-2-5 or hybrid defense. I have a good understanding of offensive schemes, tendencies, coverage, and blitz patterns. My versatility is demonstrated by my ability to adjust to different strategies and game conditions as well as make in-game audibles or fourth-down choices. Analyzing film for defenses and my skill set lends itself to a hybrid linebacker and a
useful role for any team.

Who is the best player you have ever played against in college?

Mario Anderson. His style of play is very good. His growth over the years has impressed me by far. 

Which one of your teammates impresses you the most?

My previous teammate Kevon Gregory. He’s a dawg Corner, he’s like a brother to me ever since our first-day training together. 

Describe a time in your life when you were able to overcome a struggle.

Growing up as a kid was an ongoing struggle, not having anything to eat for a while, and not being able to have access to things that were needed, often wearing the same clothes over and over. I always knew I wanted a change, and football was my way to overcome all the odds. 

If you didn’t play football, what other sport would you play?

I wouldn’t play No other sport than football because football is all I’ve ever known and all I’ve ever had the feel for, nothing makes me more me than football. 

What is something that you are most proud of? What would you say is your biggest achievement so far?

I’m proud to have been the first to graduate from high school, the first to attend college to play football, and the first to earn a master’s degree from college. My greatest accomplishment thus far is reaching the point I am at today, having the opportunity to do what I’ve been told I wouldn’t be doing at all. 

Describe one of the most memorable plays of your collegiate career.

In JUCO my freshman year against Hockings College, it was 3rd and long, and I had a strip sack for a touchdown for 42 yards.  

Do you have a favorite athlete or professional team? Is there a player that you model your game after?

Sean Taylor. My favorite team is the Lions. I like to model myself like Sean Taylor with his style of aggression, especially big hits, and Derwin James because he’s a dawg with the way he plays with a chip on his shoulders. He’s a true ball hawk to me. 

Who is your favorite music artist? What gets you pumped before a game?

Lil Durk is my favorite artist. I think about my grandmother before every game and before I touch the field I’m honoring her. 

What is your favorite comfort food?

Macaroni. 

Do you have a favorite movie, TV show or actor?

My favorite movie is Friday Night Lights, and my favorite actor is Denzel Washington.

What do you do in your spare time? Do you have any hobbies? Any secret talents?

Other than playing football and doing my best to support my family, I don’t do much else. I love to fish and hunt. I’m for sure a Georgia guy. I have a secret talent for drawing, crafting, and carpentry. 

Why do you play football? Who or what motivates you the most?

I play football because it honestly helps me mentally. It’s like I’m not the same person if I can’t be around football. That’s all I know and all I’ve seen growing up. My grandmother started my football career and from that point on it’s been a road of glory for me. She is my inspiration. She passed away 3 years ago and still to this day I’m still hurting. I put all my pain in football and I play football for her. I play like every game is my last game as well as playing for my family because I love the game so much.