2020 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Jamal Ware, OLB/DB Maryville College

• Name: Jamal Ware
• Height: 6’1
• Weight: 210
• Position: OLB/Rover/Nickel
• College: Maryville College
• Twitter: @jware10_

Tell us about your university/college. What was your major/minor? How is campus life?

Maryville College is a small liberal arts school, and everybody knows everybody. My major is Physical Ed with a Business Minor. Campus life is nothing amazing, but the people on campus make school much more enjoyable because we are all big city kids in this small town.

What do your teammates say is your best quality?

Leadership and being very vocal. Being able to take control of the defense and not having an issue of not being liked by peers but they all respected me because I demanded their best.

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

I see myself being the missing piece in the right defense. I can add so much versatility to a team; it is unreal. I can come play off the edge, in the box, I can also line up 10-12 yards from the ball at safety and make the correct read. I can cover slot receivers, I honestly believe that there is not much I can’t do.

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

Mason Kinsey

Which one of your teammates impresses you the most?

Kyle Larson, I never worried about him not giving it his all.

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

I don’t have a specific example, but I know in my early childhood I use to want too much too quickly or just doing too much too fast and I have to realize that time and patience will be my best friend.

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

Soccer or basketball

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

My biggest achievement is making it this far in football and only looking to go further. Nobody from my college has been in this position ever, and it feels good to be here.

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

2018 against Centre College I caught a diving interception, and while I was celebrating with my team I fell and gave myself a concussion.

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

Favorite athlete ever is Dwayne Wade because I just admired the way he played the games of basketball.

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

Favorite artist is hard to choose, but my top 3 are Kodak Black, TLE Cinco, and Youngboy NBA.

What is your favorite comfort food?

Corn bread, rice, chicken, greens, corn and candied yams.

Do you have a favorite movie or actor?
Gridiron Gang

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

I recently picked up journaling and I like it. It allows me to get thoughts off my mind and feeling off my chest.

Who or what motivates you the most?

Being able to say ‘I did this on my own” and to be able to look back at everybody who never imagined I’d be here.