2020 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: DeAndre Kelly, DE, Temple University
Student-Athlete Profile:
- DeAndre Kelly
- Temple University
- DE
- 6’1”
- 260 LBS.
- Hometown: Hyattsville, MD
- Twitter: @Dreday_42
Leading up to the 2020 NFL Draft, what about your game have you really been focusing on to improve?
Well, I’m focusing on being more versatile being able to do multiple things for a team. For example, being a 3-4 LB and a 4-3 DE.
What have you taken away the most from Coach Carey, Coach Stewart and the rest of the Temple coaching staff?
Some things I took away from Coach Carey were that everyone deserves a second chance and if you work hard and buy into the program good things can happen for you. Coach Stewart always told us to be consistent and dependable.
You graduated with a degree in human development and community engagement in the spring of 2019. What would you like to do that education after football is over?
I would love to take my degree and help children. I want to develop a program and provide a place where kids can be mentored, trained, and be supported. Kids need support not just from their parents, but support from the community.
What separates you from other players at your position?
I am smart and a quick learner that can stop the run and also play all positions on the D-Line along with OLB. Another thing that separates me is that I have a very quick-twitch which I learned from LaVar Arrington.
Speaking of LaVar, you’ve cited him as being your favorite NFL player. What about his game made you a fan?
Well, that’s my mentor. His love, passion, and relentlessness of how he plays the game. That’s why we call ourselves Mammals.
Currently, who is the best player in the NFL?
In my eyes, Lamar Jackson. The reason being is because of the way he led his team. It’s amazing when the whole organization trusts you and everyone had each other’s backs on that team.
Who is the toughest player you’ve competed against during your collegiate career?
I’ve played against a lot of tough players, but the one that stands out the most was Shane Buechele, QB from SMU. The reason why is because the guy had a great game against us. He made the right checks and in that game, he threw some great passes.
If your life was a book, what would the title be?
“More Than You Think.” The reason, I’m from Southeast D.C. People have always counted me out and I’ve proved them wrong.
Give me your Mount Rushmore of all-time defensive linemen, past or present. What made you choose these four players?
LaVar Arrington, Aaron Donald, Von Miller, Warren Sapp. I chose these players because everyone can pass rush their tail off. I trust them in the run game. I’m pretty this is a 50+ sack season with this line.
Is there a current or former NFL player you emulate your game after?
I would say Von Miller because of the way he bends around the corner. It’s special and any DE would tell you that. Also, he has a great speed to power. In the NFL, you don’t have any time to play around at the LOS.
Let’s take a trip back to the first day of your freshman year of High School. What advice would you give yourself then, knowing what you know now?
I would tell myself to embrace everything. Trust the process and to be more confident and believe in your abilities.
If I’m in Philadelphia on a Saturday night during the Fall, where is the one place I have to eat?
Max’s. The best cheesesteak in Philly.
Give me your elevator pitch to an NFL GM. Why will DeAndre Kelly be an asset to their organization for years to come?
I am dependable and a team player. Also, the energy I bring is contagious. I am trustworthy and very coachable. Lastly, I love to win.
