2025 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Jayden McDonald, LB, UConn

• Name: Jayden McDonald
• Position: Linebacker
• College: UConn
• Height: 6”0.5
• Weight: 230
• Twitter: @_jmcdonald10
• Instagram: @_jmcdonald10

What makes you a top prospect at your position in the 2025 NFL Draft?

My overall football IQ, instincts ability to recognize the play before it happens and sideline to sideline speed.

What is one thing that NFL teams should know about you?

I’m a leader.

If you could donate to one cause in the world, what would it be?

Helping single family households.

Who was your role model?

Everyday.

My mother and my siblings they motivate me to chase my dreams

Who is your favorite NFL team?

I Grew up a longtime falcons fan.

Who is the most underrated teammate at your school?

TJ Sheffield receiver/punt returner he can do it all on the field!

What is your biggest pet peeve?

Someone who expects to get good results but not put the work in.

Who is your favorite teacher ever?

Mrs. Wiley my 4th grade I still talk to her till this day!

Overcoming adversity is what defines character, what was the hardest moment in your life to overcome?

Coming back from season ending ankle surgery in 2021 to coming back 3 games into the season next year and tearing my ACL. It taught me patience and resilience.

If you could have any franchise restaurant in your house what would it be?

Applebee’s 100%

What is your favorite snack food?

Reese’s

What is your degree in?

Interdisciplinary studies

If you could have dinner with three people dead or alive, who would it be and why?

My aunt, My grandpa and Kobe Bryant because one, my family taught me so much and I miss them dearly and Kobe because I liked his mentality he had when he played the game of basketball ,so I wish talked to him and got pointers about his mentality.

What is your biggest weakness?

Being too hard on myself because I want everything to be perfect so I have to find that happy medium .