2023 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: AJ Hardin, WR, Quincy University

• Name: AJ Hardin
• Position: WR
• College: Quincy University
• Height: 6’3″
• Weight:205 lbs
• Twitter: @ajhardin_18
• Instagram: @ajhardin

What sets you apart from other wide receivers?

I think I got pretty good size and speed. I can be moved around in an offense with the ability to play inside and outside. I also believe I have a very savvy football IQ that allows me to exploit defenses and find spots in my routes.

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

As a captain I’m one of the ones that leads by example. I think off of my big plays I get them riled up so they get the energy they need.

Which teammate goes up against you the hardest in practice?

It’s hard to pick certain people because everyone works hard to get each other ready for our battles but on defense I have 2 guys that really push me, the first is Kenshawn Bragg, he’s a corner who primarily guards me in practice and it’s basically iron sharpens iron, and the second is the heart of our defense Peyten Chappel, the energy he brings on that side is unmatched.

What are your favorite moments from your football life?

Well I think that the game of football has given me many memories since my youth. But most recently as a team beating Missouri S&T on homecoming last year was something I will never forget and as an individual I think my favorite game was against Walsh University, taking a slant 85+ yards was something I won’t forget.

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

Davante Adams, I think he’s the best receiver in the league and I would love to pick his brain and see how he operates as a football player.

What is your favorite route and why?

As a receiver I have a lot of routes that I enjoy running, but I don’t really have a favorite route but if I had to choose I would say my two favorites are the fade and post because I think those are some risky shots an offense can take and they are supposed to be 50/50 balls but I believe on those I come down with the majority of those balls.

What should we know about AJ Hardin the person?

I’m big on family, loyalty and respect, I’ve always preferred to be respected rather than liked.

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

The start of the week with practice and film study and then after that you have to have trust your teammates and coaches and work hard to get things accomplished.

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

I think I handle adversity very well. I had a tough upbringing that prepared me for the world so I try to analyze my options and try to find my best solution for it.

What would a team get in a player like you?

They would be getting someone hard working and devoted to doing anything the coaches want, a real team first guy that will do whatever it takes to get the job done. They would be getting someone that is ready to give their all.

What are you looking forward to in your upcoming season?

I think at Quincy we’ve always been underdogs and I’m looking to change that narrative and be a winner. Individual wise I’m just looking to build and perform at the highest level I can to help my team.

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

Motivated, honest, loyal, respectful, and leader