2026 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Carson Keaton, LS, Lenoir-Rhyne University

• Name: Carson Keaton
• Position: Long Snapper
• College: Lenoir-Rhyne University
• Height: 5’10”
• Weight: 210
• Twitter: @CarsonKeaton03
• Instagram: @carsonkeaton_

What makes you a top prospect at your position in the 2026 NFL Draft? 

My consistency and experience in a pro-style punt system makes me a top draft prospect. I’ve put a huge effort into increasing my consistency in snap accuracy over my years in college. My snap speed has been good for years but my consistency has really developed over my time in college. I have also spent years at college in a pro-style punt system, strengthening my ability to be a great asset on the punt unit. 

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

I’m always looking to improve and I have a high football IQ. I’ve had great success at my position in college but I know I still have things to improve on. My strength is a great example. This offseason I took great pride in the weight room and saw progress with my numbers on lifts without sacrificing my foot speed. Also, I am not a specialist who only knows my position. I have experience with building special teams schemes in all four units and I also have knowledge of the game from many other positions on the field. 

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

Clean water. When I was younger I had an opportunity to go on a mission trip to Kenya, Africa to distribute water filters to families in need. That experience opened my eyes to how blessed I was that having something as necessary as clean water was just steps away. If I could donate to help more people with clean water I would in a heartbeat. 

Who was your role model? 

My parents are definitely my role models. The sacrifices they have made to allow my siblings and I to be successful has made me the person that I am today. The way I was raised is the main reason I have had the opportunities and success that I’ve had. What they have done for me is something I could never repay them for and I will carry the lessons I have learned from them for the rest of my life. 

Who is your favorite NFL team?

Carolina Panthers

Who is the most underrated teammate at your school? 

Ryan Whetzel, OL. Whetzel is a fifth year, just like me, who shows up every day and pushes himself to be the best player he can for the team. He’s the type of teammate and friend you want by your side when you suit up. He’s a dude who deserves a shot to show what he can do at the next level. 

What is your biggest pet peeve? 

Complainers. People who complain about doing the work and making sacrifices but expect to play frustrate me to no end. If you’re wanting to be the best you have to show up every day and work harder than you did the day before. QBB.

Who is your favorite teacher ever?

My college history professor was my favorite teacher. He had high expectations and pushed you to always improve. As a history major he helped me greatly improve my writing and researching skills and was a professor that expected your best work every lecture and assignment. 

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

In my second start, my sophomore year at LR, I tore my ACL and meniscus. I finished the 2022 and played the entire 2023 championship season on an injured knee, getting it repaired in the offseason. Those two seasons were the most difficult physical and mental years I have had to overcome. Knowing you were going to show up for lift, run, practice, or games and be in great pain the entire time was very difficult. I kept my head up, staying as positive as I could and pushed myself to excel at my craft during those years and had a great two seasons. I fully recovered before last season, had a great year, and feel great heading into this season. 

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

Cookout. The amount of variety they have would allow you to not get sick of it. Cookout was a staple growing up and that has only increased during my time in college.

What is your favorite snack food? 

I’d have to say Cheez-Its. They’re simple and a solid go-to when you’re hungry. 

What is your degree in? 

History

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

Jesus, George S. Patton, Pat McAfee. Jesus would be amazing to have dinner with to be able to hear his teachings in person. Patton would be great to ask about his experiences and strategies during World War II. Pat McAfee would just be a great guy to hang out with over a good meal.

What is your biggest weakness? 

My biggest weakness has been my size. At 5’10” I have had to work hard to get to where I am at. I have always been considered undersized but I do not believe my height, weight, or strength has ever greatly hindered me from competing at a high level on the field. I am also putting a huge effort into getting stronger and gaining weight.