Name: Jarius Gordon
Position: Defensive Line
School: UNC Pembroke
HT/WT: 6’1” 310
X: @54Jarius or GordonJar93
Instagram: jlgordon93
How’d you end up at your current school? What was the recruiting process like?
I transferred to UNC Pembroke this past year for my final year of college eligibility. For me, the recruiting process was a positive experience since I was able to speak with many schools and learn about what each university had to offer me in terms of both my football career and academic studies. Ultimately, I picked UNC Pembroke because I believe their program would give me the knowledge and tools I need to succeed on the field.
What does being a student of a game mean to you?
Being a student of the game of football means your willingness to learn everything about the game of football and how to get better. Whether you are learning from a coach, watching film, or a teammate critiquing you and giving you advice on how to improve.Learning your strengths and weaknesses to find what areas you lack in then turn weakness into a strength. A student of the game is never satisfied with doing the bare minimum; they are always trying to do more and never settling for mediocrity. There is always a way to get better at the craft of football whether it’s physical or mental.
How does being a (Defensive Lineman) reflect itself in your personal life?
Being a defensive lineman teaches tenacity and the value of perseverance in conquering obstacles which transfers into facing life’s issues head on. A position also instills teamwork and discipline, establishing a mindset that prioritizes collaborative success and accountability. Finally, it builds mental toughness, allowing you to remain calm and determined in the face of difficult circumstances.
How would you describe your work ethic?
I would describe my work ethic as focused and disciplined, always putting in the time and effort to be among the best every single day. This mindset requires consistency and the ability to push through discomfort, knowing that growth happens outside of the comfort zone. Whether on the field or in life, I strive to stay prepared, adaptable, and ready to respond to challenges. Ultimately, my commitment to excellence drives me to maintain high standards.
What do you consider to be one of the most important things you learned from the coaching staff?
One of the most important things I have learned is communication and teamwork.When you are on the field it’s okay to over communicate because if everyone is on the same page the more successful the defense can be.Not having everyone on the same page and not knowing their assignment for each play affects the team its totality.
What would you consider to be your biggest accomplishment in your sports career so far?
My biggest accomplishment so far is just getting the opportunity to play collegiate football.I’m from a small town where not many people have the exposure to make it to the college level so, me just accomplishing that so far I am very thankful for that.
How did you hear about the National Scouting Combine?
I was contacted on twitter.
Why did you choose the National Scouting Combine?
The opportunity for exposure and networking is a great opportunity.
What do you hope to show people at the combine?
I hope to show my overall athleticism, great technique,and competitive nature.
What was your Major?
My major was Physical Education/Coaching.
If you could make a positive impact on all of society what would it be and why?
Building a culture of understanding and empathy would be my one way to positively influence society as a whole. We may be able to remove obstacles that cause friction and division by promoting genuine listening and an appreciation of different viewpoints. Empathy has the ability to fortify communities, lessen inequity, and stimulate group efforts to address global issues. People are more inclined to show compassion to others when they feel heard, noticed, and appreciated, which, in my opinion, has a positive knock-on impact. Future generations may live in a society that is more progressive, unified, and compassionate as a result of this change.
What is something unique about you that people would find interesting?
Aside from professionally playing or coaching football, my ideal career would be being a sports psychologist.Assisting athletes and other competitors in enhancing their mental health and performance would be a career I very much enjoy.
If you had the opportunity to play another sport professionally, what sport would you choose?
I would say baseball because it does not matter how tall or how much you weigh, if you have a good work ethic and are actually good at it you can play.
Are you involved in mentoring, a charity or do you “give back” or “pay it forward” in your community?
I am currently not involved in anything concerning my community but, I have talked with a good amount of high school players and answered their questions on anything dealing with college football based on my experiences and showed them a couple of drills and techniques I learned along the way.
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