2023 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Payton Campbell, DL, Saint Xavier University

• Name: Payton Campbell
• Position: DL
• College: Saint Xavier University
• Height: 6’4″
• Weight: 285
• Twitter: @99problemsss_
• Instagram: @paytonc_99

What sets you apart from other defensive linemen?

I would say a couple different things, I’ve always been told my size sets me apart from most. My IQ as a defensive lineman. And my technique. I always try to make sure my technique is perfect.

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

I’m very passionate about football, the energy I bring is all from the love of the game. I think of myself as a natural born leader. Bringing energy to the game only makes you and your teammates better.

What are your favorite moments from your football life?

First moment that comes to mind would be beating Marian in the playoffs three years ago. We lost to them in the beginning of the year and then played them again first round of playoffs. Great team game. The second moment that comes to mind would be signing with Saint Xavier University. I’ve always wanted to play college football and beyond. They gave me a great opportunity to do so. And the final moment that comes to my mind would be when I got pulled up to varsity during my sophomore year of high school.

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

It would have to be Aaron Donald, he’s the best football player in the league. I would have to hangout with him to see what he does daily to be so. We obviously both play defensive line and can relate to that. Someone I’ve always looked up to.

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

As long as I can remember I’ve always wanted to play football, I’ve been playing since I was 5 years old. My dad played football back in the day and was actually really good. I guess you can say it is in my blood or I was born to play. I’ve loved the sport ever since I started playing.

What are you looking forward to in the upcoming season?

I’m looking to do whatever it takes to win the natty, I’m sick of coming close. It’s what we’ve been working for every since I got to Saint Xavier. We have the team to do it, we just need to execute! A personal goal of mind to be a first team All American and I’m not settling for anything less.

What should we know about Payton Campbell the person?

Something you should know about Payton Campbell is that I’m a good person. People have told me that I’m easy to be around. I try to be as nice as possible with the people around me and always make sure to respect people how I’d like to be respected. I am hard working, and I try to lead by example on and off the field.

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

Success on the football field comes with perfecting the little things. Execute the little things and the big things will come. Like I said before, having perfect technique is something I work for. Technique will beat talent any day of the week.

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

By thinking them through, I’ve been at a point where stress takes over and it gets very hard to deal with. Ever since then I have learned to take things slow and think them through and handle them with no stress. Everything will work out if you think it through.

What would a team get in a player like you?

A team would get a player who is hard working and that is determined to do what it takes to be the best. Player and teammate. Football really is my life and I’ve been working for this my whole life, I’m going to give it my all out of respect for myself and out of respect for who ever gives me the chance. I need this and I’m going to show them that I am capable of being the best.

What is your favorite defensive scheme and why?

It would have to be a 4-3. That’s our base defense at Saint Xavier. Defensive lineman are the biggest baddest players on the field and having four of them out there it’s smart. Can stop the run and get to the quarterback in pass situations.

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

1. Leader 2. Passionate 3. Hard working 4. Determined 5. Dedicated