2021 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Kade Parmelly, OG, Abilene Christian

• Name: Kade Parmelly
• Height: 6’3”
• Weight: 308 lbs
• Position: OG
• College: Abilene Christian University
• Instagram: chicken__parm

What is your major/minor? Did you participate in any other activities or campus organizations other than football?
I just graduated undergrad with a 4.0 GPA in Kinesiology. I am involved with the Fellowship of Christian Athletes as a student athlete leader for our campus. I am a member of a men’s Christian social club, Gamma Sigma Phi. I’ve also been a Teacher’s Assistant for Anatomy and Physiology for 5 semesters. 

What do your teammates say is your best quality?
I would say my best quality that my teammates see in me is my ability to connect to anybody on our team. I can easily talk to and connect with people from all different backgrounds. I would also say that my teammates see me as a team leader who can bridge the gap between players and coaches. 

What kind of role do you see yourself in on the team? What scheme and/or position suits your skill set?
The role I see myself playing on our team is one of a team leader. I advocate for and speak for our team by continually gauging players and coaches. I do my best to set the example and hold others accountable to our standards. On the football field, I would say my playing experience helps me to fill this role of team leader because of the amount of games I have been in, but also the experience I have gained from being in this program for 4 years. 

Who is the best player you have ever played against in college?
Nicholls State defensive tackle Sully Laiche. He was always the toughest and most consistent player I ever played in my 3 years of playing. Also James Lynch from Baylor was one of the better defensive lineman I have blocked. Dion Novil of UNT was another very talented player at nose guard. I also went to high school with Dion, and we actually worked out together for a couple months over Covid Quarantine. 

Which one of your teammates impresses you the most? 
Jack Gibbens. Playing against him is good because I learn a lot and we help each other get better. Jack is an instinctual player who’s very smart and is usually at the right place at the right time.

Describe a time in your life when you were able to overcome a struggle.
In high school, I had a medical condition where I had issues with blood clots. So, that led to me sitting out my entire junior year. I was worn down and tired a lot. It took time for me to process what was happening and I had doubts about how I was going to move on. Thankfully, I was able to receive treatment, and by God’s Grace, I haven’t had any issues since. I’m truly blessed to be where I’m at today and being able to play the sport I love.

If you didn’t play football, what other sport would you play?
I would likely be a thrower in track & field. I threw the shot put and discus in high school and made it to regionals my senior year. My bests include a 54’2” shot put and a 156’4” discus.

I would have also wanted to try wrestling. That’s something that I never did but really wanted to try.

What is something that you are most proud of? What would you say is your biggest achievement?
I’m very proud that I was able to graduate in 3 years with a degree in Kinesiology. I also received a post graduate scholarship so that I can continue my education here. I’m currently working on a Masters of Higher Education.

Describe one of the most memorable plays of your collegiate career.
Last year against McNeese State we were at home and in overtime. We were on the goalline since we had just recovered a fumble on a punt. I had known from film that if I got into a 4 point stance that the defense wouldn’t think that I would pull on a run. We called a power run play and our running back was able to easily walk in for a touchdown.

Check out NFL Draft Diamonds 2021 Small School Rankings

Do you have a favorite athlete or professional team? Is there a player that you model your game after? 
Our coaches make sure to get us plenty of film so we can study some of the best players. I definitely admire Quenton Nelson and like to model my game after him.

Who is your favorite music artist? What gets you pumped before a game?
I listen to a lot of different genres of music. One of my favorites is Red Hot Chili Peppers.

What is your favorite comfort food?
Cinnamon Rolls. 100 %. 

Do you have a favorite movie or actor? 
I really enjoy the movie Nacho Libre.

What do you do in your spare time? Do you have any hobbies? Any secret talents?
I like doing things outdoors. I enjoy hunting when I have time. One of the things that people might be caught off guard by is that I can wakeboard and snowboard.

Who or what motivates you the most?
One of the biggest and most important motivators in my life is my faith in Jesus Christ. Since I became a Christian in high school, my sole motivation has been Jesus Christ and bringing Him glory. He has given me breath and life and talent, so it is for His name that I do all things.