NFL DraftProspect Interviews

2021 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Elijah Dotson, RB, Sacramento State

Elijah Dotson is an elusive RB and great receiver for Sacramento State University. He recently sat down with NFL Draft Diamonds writer Jimmy Williams.
  • Name: Elijah Dotson
  • Height: 5’10”
  • Weight: 192 lbs
  • Position: RB
  • College: Sacramento State University
  • Twitter: @eazzzydot

What is your major/minor? Did you participate in any other activities or campus organizations other than football?
I am an Ethnics Studies major. Unfortunately, I have not participated in other organizations at Sac State. Although, I have participated in community service helping to feed the homeless.

What do your teammates say is your best quality?
My work ethic. It’s just something that I have every day. I’m always seen working hard during practice and games making as little mistakes as possible.

What kind of role do you see yourself in on the team? What scheme and/or position suits your skill set?
I’m a lead by example kind of guy. I’m laid back, but I’m always attentive to what’s going on. I try to be the guy that does everything right so that the younger players have someone to look up to.

I’m a playmaker and every down back, and can also be used in special packages. With my skill set, I can be used as a RB or slot receiver. I also have experience as a kick returner. That was something I did as a freshman.

Who is the best player you have ever played against in college?
Dante Olson from Montana. He was a very instinctive linebacker who seemed to be everywhere on the field running sideline to sideline.

Which one of your teammates impresses you the most?
Marcus Fulcher is only a sophomore, but he’s an up and coming back that people really need to know. He’s very flexible, agile and has yet to reach his potential

Describe a time in your life when you were able to overcome a struggle.
My freshman year of high school I remember getting the call and hearing that my brother Dajon was shot. I didn’t know what to think. I got home and received a call from my step-mom about his condition. He was shot seven times, and I didn’t know if he’d survive. Dajon was left paralyzed and has gone through several surgeries.

It has been a struggle dealing with this situation. We’ve always had issues dealing with medical bills as well as having a daily caregiver for him. I have actually had to miss football practice in order to take care of my brother. We’ve finally gotten to the point where there is more consistency in his care, and I’ve been able to focus more of my efforts on the football field.

If you didn’t play football, what other sport would you play?
I would say boxing or track. My dad and grandpa have always wanted me to be a fighter. I was really good at track in high school. Some of my personal bests include 10.76-100m, 6’5”-high jump and 22’5”-long jump.

Check out NFL Draft Diamonds 2021 Small School Rankings

What is something that you are most proud of? What would you say is your biggest achievement?
I am most proud of being consistent through adversity in my life. I’ve been able to fight through trials and tribulations and have been successful. I was a Hero Sports Second Team All-American in 2019 and was named a Hero Sports Sophomore All-American in 2018. I have also been named First Team All Big Sky 2 times. My biggest achievement hasn’t happened yet. Stay tuned.

Describe one of the most memorable plays of your collegiate career.
My sophomore year against Montana was a shoot out of a game. Our offense was clicking and our mentality was great in that game. We came up short in that game even though I ended up with my best game statistically with 30 carries, 234 rushing yards and 3 TDs.

Do you have a favorite athlete or professional team? Is there a player that you model your game after?
I don’t really have a favorite team. My favorite player to watch is Alvin Kamara. Players like him and Christian McCaffrey are used a lot like me as a receiver and a running threat. Those are the kind of players that I like watching.

Who is your favorite music artist? What gets you pumped before a game?
My favorite artist would be J Cole. 50 Cent gets me pumped before a game.

What is your favorite comfort food?
French toast from Carl’s Jr.

Do you have a favorite movie or actor?
My favorite actor is Denzel Washington. One of my favorite movies is Finding Nemo.

What do you do in your spare time? Do you have any hobbies? Any secret talents?
Besides working out, I enjoy golfing and playing Call of Duty. I’m big into shoes.

Who or what motivates you the most?
Family. My brother Robert sees more of my potential than I do. He is constantly pumping me up, giving me the brotherly talk to get the best out of me. Robert keeps me level headed.

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