NFL DraftProspect Interviews

2021 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Jacob Ellis, TE, Truman State

Jacob Ellis Truman State
Jacob Ellis had a very productive year as a tight end at Truman State University with 536 receiving yards and 7 TDs. He recently sat down with NFL Draft Diamonds writer Jimmy Williams.

Talk about your experience as a student. What is your major/minor? Did you participate in any other activities or campus organizations other than football?
I am majoring in Business Marketing with a minor in Communications. I am active in the Student Athletic Advisory Committee, and I’m looking to join the Advertising/Marketing Club here soon.

With our team, I have helped with the Special Olympics on campus. That was a fun time as we encouraged the athletes and helped them through the events.

What do your teammates say is your best quality?
They would say my consistency and efficiency on the field. I’m also an upbeat light-hearted guy that can ease a stressful situation.

What kind of role do you see yourself in on the team? What scheme and/or position suits your skill set?
I definitely see myself as a leader that leads by example. I play tight-end and get moved around a lot. The majority of the time, I play with my hand in the dirt as an in-line tight-end although I’m also put in the slot or even out wide in order to take advantage of mismatches on the defense.

Who is the best player you have ever played against in college?
Tershawn Wharton. He was a defensive end at Missouri S&T that currently plays for the Kansas City Chiefs. He was a great competitor to go against.

Which one of your teammates impresses you the most?
There’s a lot of teammates that I can talk about. Lawrence Woods is an electric playmaker on the field as a DB and return specialist. Jacob Morris is our fullback. He’s one of the unsung heroes we have on the team who’s a great guy on and off the field. Jacob Van Doren is a big strong guy that plays LT. He’s also quick on his feet and has a good understanding of the game which allows him to game plan for our opponents.

Describe a time in your life when you were able to overcome a struggle.
Throughout most of my time playing football, I actually played QB the most. I played as a freshman and sophomore in high school and even went to a playoff game. As a junior, I hit a growth spurt and another player stepped into the QB role while I was given the opportunity to play WR. I wasn’t too thrilled about it at first because I wanted to be “the guy”. I had to step back and re-evaluate what was best for me and the team. You don’t have to be set on one thing, and you can also help the team in a better fashion.

If you didn’t play football, what other sport would you play?
I played baseball and basketball in high school in addition to football. I would probably play basketball. There was a time when I had to choose whether to pursue football or basketball in college. Basketball is a great game with such a good environment of competition especially in rivalry games. Basketball has definitely helped me as a football player with things such as footwork, coordination, and being physically dominant with a “nobody can stop you” kind of mentality.

What is something that you are most proud of? What would you say is your biggest achievement?
I’m very proud of earning a scholarship for not only football but academics as well. My Grandpa would stress that grades are gonna get you far in life and that a good work ethic goes a long way. Proving that I belong amongst the best student-athletes is something that I can hang my hat on.

Describe one of the most memorable plays of your collegiate career.
My first game as a true freshman, I remember having a long 17-hour bus ride to Michigan Tech. During our first drive in the game, we got down to the 4-yard line. I was able to jump for a 50/50 ball and haul in the touchdown catch.

Do you have a favorite athlete or professional team? Is there a player that you model your game after?
I’ve always grown up a Chicago Bears fan. As far as players, I feel like Hunter Henry flies under the radar. He’s a great weapon in the passing game and is a very effective blocker

NFL Draft Diamonds 2021 Small School Rankings

Who is your favorite music artist? What gets you pumped before a game?
Young Dolph. Before every game, I’ll listen to one of his songs called “100 Shots.”

What is your favorite comfort food?
Barbeque. My favorite local place to go to is Jim’s Rib Haven. I also have to give a shout out to my mom’s cornbread, green beans and crunchy corn salad.

Do you have a favorite movie or actor?
My favorite movie would be Batman “The Dark Knight.” My favorite actor would be Denzel Washington. My favorite TV show right now is Narcos on Netflix

What do you do in your spare time? Do you have any hobbies? Any secret talents?
I enjoy being outdoors whether it’s hiking or fishing

Who or what motivates you the most?
My younger brother, Ben, plays for Central Missouri. He definitely keeps me motivated. We’ve been competing against each other our whole lives. I’m also motivated by the support my friends and family give me.

Related Articles

Leave a Reply

Back to top button