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2022 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Jonathan Castaneda, TE, Hardin-Simmons University

Jonathan Castaneda, TE, Hardin-Simmons University
Jonathan Castaneda the starting tight end from Hardin-Simmons University recently sat down with NFL Draft Diamonds writer Justin Berendzen.
  • Name: Jonathan Castaneda
  • Position: TE
  • College: Hardin-Simmons University
  • Height: 6’4″
  • Weight: 250 lbs
  • Twitter: @J_Castaneda11

What sets you apart from other tight ends?

My blocking abilities for sure I’m a converted tackle who loves the trenches but thrives off of athleticism.

If there was a billboard with 5 of your traits on it which 5 traits would be up there?

Relentless, coachable, confident, dominant, and dependable.

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

To me the main things are being knowledgeable and a master of your craft things can vary by position but knowing what to do and when to do it while executing the little things are what make a successful football player.

What are your favorite moments from your football life?

First would be the relationships I’ve made with the people I’ve met along the way but my favorite moment to be exact would be starting as a freshman at HSU and playing UMHB at their house even though we lost the experience was crazy and also I was lined up across from Teidrick Smith who was a phenomenal player in Belton.

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

I’d go with Lamar Jackson because I just like how he carries himself he’s an all in type of guy when he’s on the field and I really respect that.

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

I bring intensity and a swagger that straddles a line of cockiness and confidence mixed with some dominance.

How are you planning to prepare for the draft?

I’ll be training with my universities strength staff doing position specific and combine specific drills and workouts.

What should we know about Jonathan Castaneda the person?

I’m always the same guy that moves with great intentions and a great attitude. Life for me has never been easy so coming out of a small school I feel like there’s so much to prove not only to myself but to others that small school guys can make a way too.

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

The physicality of the game really made me want to be a football player I’ve always been fascinated by hard hits and ball carriers that run with aggression these two things to me make the game fun.

What would a team get in a player like you?

Someone who has leadership qualities and is always ready to work at a level that the competition can’t maintain. Like I said I’m always the same guy and won’t fold or bend under pressure. I’m really a selfless guy that wants the best for the guys around me.

If you could win 1 NFL player award which one and why?

I think getting the Inspire Change Tribute would be overly satisfying because change is what our society needs today and I feel as if I carry myself in a way that can help with social injustice problems by helping people understand each other which in turn can resolve issues.

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

To play in the NFL for sure and to make an impact in my community to show that life is what you make it.

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