2023 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Jaxon Janke, WR, South Dakota State University

• Name: Jaxon Janke
• Position: WR
• College: South Dakota State University
• Height: 6’3″
• Weight: 210 lbs
• Twitter: @jaxonjanke
• Instagram: @jaxonjanke

What is your favorite route and why?

I wouldn’t necessarily say that I have a favorite route. I’m a big fan of plays that allow me to put my head down and take the top off the defense, but I have also had a lot of success with shorter routes that I can get the ball early and make defenders miss.

What are your favorite moments from your football life?

The game of football has given me so many opportunities to make lasting memories with both family and teammates. Looking back at my days playing with my two brothers (Jadon and Riley), I would say that being able to share the field with them throughout my career has given me countless moments in my football life that I will cherish for a long time.

What sets you apart from other wide receivers?

What sets me apart is the size and speed combination that I possess, as well as my ability to play inside or outside.

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

I’m a big believer in positive and contagious energy. I’m not always the most vocal, so the best way I know how to bring this to the field is by making big plays that 1) gets the crowd fired up and 2) allows for my teammates to feed off that energy.

What are you looking forward to in your upcoming season?

I am very excited for our season opener against Iowa and to see all the off-season work pay off. We also have some major contributors back that are coming off injuries and I know those guys can’t wait to make plays. Should be a special year for the Jacks.

What should we know about Jaxon Janke the person?

This is a question that not a lot of people seem to want to ask. Most would consider us as just numbers and pawns on the field rather than realizing that we are people with real-world experiences and feelings off the field as well. All in all, that is what I want people to know, and to understand that us athletes are more than just the sport we play and school we attend.

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

I had a hard time deciding which sport I wanted to further pursue into my college career. Ultimately, it came down to which sport I could play at the highest level, which was football.

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

Devoted, confident, loyal, honest, and reliable.

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

The best way I know how to handle challenges is by preparation and understanding that things don’t always go as planned. This is definitely true for situations both on the field and in everyday life.

What would a team get in a player like you?

A team would get someone that they don’t need to worry about when it comes to the grind and daily tasks of a player. I handle my business and always show up ready to work.

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

Adam Thielen. His story is an inspiration to many and he’s continued to prove that you can defy the odds when it comes to football and life.

How do you prepare for games?

Film study, good nutritional calories, hot tub, yoga/stretching, and Theragun.