2022 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Rondre Knowles-Tener, DL, UVA-Wise

• Name: Rondre Knowles-Tener
• Position: DL
• College: UVA Wise
• Height: 6’1″
• Weight: 305 lbs
• Twitter: @rondre99

What made you decide you wanted to be a football player?

I can’t quite explain it. I was a baseball player solely and it was almost as if I was meant to play football. Dropped baseball that day 9 years ago and haven’t looked back since.

If you could hang out with any football player past or present for a day who and why?

Easily Aaron Donald. By far my favorite player to watch. Studied hours on end of his game film and workouts. By far my favorite player to watch, I always learn something when watching him.

What should we know about Rondre Knowles-Tener the person?

Rondre Knowles the person is a person who is usually light hearted. Always trying to make others have a better day. Someone who has a chip on his shoulder that he carries everywhere he goes. Someone who is goal centered and trustworthy.

How are you planning to prepare for the draft?

Strict training and diet habits. But most importantly I’m going to enjoy the process. I’m looking forward to it.

What type of energy do you bring onto the football field?

On the field I’m like a quiet assassin. I don’t say much usually but the person in front of my is going to have a long day. I make that known.

What sets you apart from other defensive linemen?

Unlike a lot of guys my size. I have unusual quickness that most guys wouldn’t expect from me. That’s the first thing I hear everytime. I’m always looking to do my job then make the play.

What are your favorite moments from your football life?

Favorite moments would have to be being apart of the national championship team in 2016 at JMU. And definitely beating a powerhouse in Shepherd university 2 years ago.

What do you love about the game of football?

I love the lessons it teaches you about life. A lot of which I’ve already applied to my personal life.

What are you looking to achieve as a football player going forward?

Going forward first and foremost my goal is to make an active roster of a team, to then being a contributor and maybe even more someday.

What would a team get in a player like you?

Every team needs a guy like me. In the words of one of my coaches, team needs soldiers not rebels. Soldiers take orders and execute. Rebels run around and shoot sh**. I’m a soldier.

How do you handle challenges both in life and on the football field?

I try not to dwell on it too much. And turn the page as soon as I humanly can. Life does not wait on you. And why should I. Next play.

What do you think are the keys to success on the football field?

Effort, doing your job, trust, and being relentless.