2027 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Quinten Christiansen, OL, South Dakota State University

• Name: Quinten Christensen 
• Position: Offensive Line
• College: South Dakota State University
• Height: 6’5
• Weight: 305
• Twitter: QuintenChriste2
• Instagram: fresh_prince_of_springs

What makes you a top prospect at your position in the 2027 NFL Draft?

I am tough, reliable, and durable. I am very coachable and always striving to find ways to improve. No one will outwork me; I play through the whistle and then some. I’ve been an underdog my whole life, and I carry that mentality in everything I do.

Tell me about a time you faced adversity and how you responded?

My sophomore season at LT I had a hernia tear during week 1, which eventually led to a core surgery after the season. I chose to play through it the entire season. I didn’t want to let my teammates and coaches down because it would have been a disservice to them, had I sat out. All the pain I experienced was worth it because I proved to everyone that I would lay it on the line for them. That’s who I am and that’s how I play. Going through this battle taught me that you can get through anything in life if you care enough, surround yourself with people that have the same blue-collar, tough mindset, and find something to play for that is far bigger than yourself.

What are your hobbies outside of football?

I don’t have many outside of football. It’s really all I think about. In my spare time I go back to work on the cattle ranch, hunt, and fish. I enjoy marketing our ranch-raised beef to people in the area as well. 

What role do you see yourself playing at the next level?

I’m willing to do anything to help put the team in a position to win. I’ve been in many different roles and can thrive in any of them. I bring leadership qualities to the table, but have a work-first mindset. I believe if you bring your lunch pail to work and practice with high intensity and effort consistently, then that will give you the right to lead vocally. I care a lot and will be completely invested.

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

I would donate to Feeding South Dakota. For years, the South Dakota Cattlemen’s Foundation has been vital to this program’s success which makes me want to impact the community in a bigger way. This program partners with farmers, ranchers, and distributors in the state to supply food to people in need in the fight against hunger. 

How do you handle coaching, especially criticism or being corrected repeatedly?

I enjoy it. I look for ways to improve technically and physically. Criticism and coaching breeds growth. You have to have a growth mindset in this game or somebody will pass you up. I constantly seek coaching, so that I don’t make the same mistake twice.

Who is the most underrated teammate at your school?

Logan Green. He’s a rock for our defense. His name might not always fill up the stat sheet, but it’s because he consistently does his job at a high level. He helps everyone else on the team succeed. 

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

1. Lyle Christensen- He was my Grandpa and I never had the chance to meet him. I’ve been told he was a great guy in the community and could always capture an audience everywhere he went.
2. Pat Tillman- I’d like to hear how he carried himself every day and what drove him. I envy his selflessness and devotion to our country. I want to learn about his mindset.
3. Logan Mankins/Richie Incognito- I model my game after them. I have the utmost respect for their toughness, no-quit attitude, and durability. I want to pick their brain about OL play, their mindsets, and NFL experiences.

If you were benched tomorrow, what would be the most likely reason?

The most likely reason would be getting a personal foul for playing too long after the whistle.

Walk me through your typical pre-game routine?

I start off the morning with coffee. During walk through I try to visualize myself in the game making the block and executing my assignment. I start off listening to classic country music. I hang out in the training room with our trainer and rehab/stretch. Within 3 hours of the game I’ll do a couple laps around the field. That’s when I crank it up with the music. Before the game, I listen to 80’s and 90’s pump up rock. That gets me rolling. 

What is your favorite snack food?

Beef sticks & cheese curds.

What scheme do you feel you fit the best in?

I love running the ball. We run a balance of zone and gap scheme. I enjoy getting out in space and flat-backing guys, but I do take pride in my pass pro. I would fit well in a balanced run/pass scheme where I can pull. 

What is your degree in?

Agriculture Business. Minor in Land Valuation & Real Estate

What would be the first thing you buy with your first NFL check?

Land. There’s some pasture ground I like that I want to purchase to expand our cattle herd. I’d probably buy some more cows too. 

Describe a time in a game where you feel you made a mistake, and explain how you bounced back?

In my first start against Oklahoma State I lost a rep and gave up a TFL early in the game. I flushed it, took a deep breath, and played the next play. I went on to have a solid game against good competition.

Name three songs, we can expect on your playlist?

1. Battle of New Orleans- Johnny Horton  
2. Thunderstruck- AC/DC
3. Rockstar- Nickelback