When I was 6 or 7 years old in Chicago, I was bored at home, and my parents wanted to get me involved in an activity. It started with baseball, but that lasted less than a day. Then, my parents asked if I wanted to try football, which I agreed to, despite knowing nothing about the game. In my first year, I was eager and excited just to be on the field. However, I was immensely disappointed when I realized I wouldn’t start after my first game. Not being able to start in a sport I was beginning to enjoy really bothered me mentally. In response, I showed up at practice, not just physically, but mentally, driven by grit and determination. Over time, I earned my starting spot. Although I was just a young child, the feeling of disappointment stayed with me. I knew I would do whatever it took to never feel that way again.
What are your favorite moments from your football life?
My absolute favorite moment from my football career would be beating Valdosta State in 2023. The victory secured our position to not only win our region but to advance to the semi-finals. Another reason outside of the victory aspect was that, as a senior it felt like I was playing for my past teammates who never received the chance to advance this far. These were men that I looked up to my freshman year and to have this opportunity felt like a kuddos to them as well. In the past Lenoir-Rhyne once faced Valdosta, however we were knocked out of the playoffs in 2018. Our current coaching staff had faced Valdosta while at their previous institution and lost in the semifinals. Once again, illustrating the history between Valdosta State and now every LR Bear on the turf. Personally, I am not one to shy from competition or a tough game; and this was a tough and meaningful game to everyone involved. Although they had the home team advantage, the elements were on our side which ignited a win for our team. On an individual note, I achieved the career record in sacks as well as the single season record in TFLS. Yet, that was not what mattered or was even my favorite moment. My favorite moment was watching my coaches and my team celebrate not only an important win on an advancement level, but a win that they absolutely deserved.
What are you looking to achieve as a football player going forward?
Something that I am looking forward to as a football player going forward is the ability and opportunity to be the most reliable player on the team. Of course, everyone wants an athlete who will strike first but I think consistency and reliability is just as important, if not more. I look forward to showing up, not only physically but mentally; and working consistently to be a better athlete every day.
If you could hang out with any football player past or present for a day, who and why?
If I could hang out with any football player, I would choose Julius Peppers. Outside of him being my favorite player, I spent my childhood watching him on the Chicago Bears wreak havoc in the backfield. He truly was and is my inspiration on how I play the game. I try to model my games in a similar manner as him after witnessing the type of athlete he was in the backfield. It would be a great opportunity to hang out with Julius and to have the opportunity to understand his point of view from when he played.
Which one of your family members inspires you the most and why?
The family member that inspires me the most is my Uncle Sirlester. My uncle always set a clear standard for me in terms of what he expected out of me, whether it was school or sports. He continuously held myself and my actions accountable. When it came to my education, he was hands on and very active. Being able to witness how my uncle carried himself gave me a blueprint for my own life in terms of how I wanted to be perceived. My uncle inspires me to be a better version than the person I was yesterday.
What is your favorite defensive scheme and why?
I have experience playing in both 3-4 and 4-3 defenses. To be honest, I have no preference. The reason for this is that my role as a defensive lineman remains constant. Stopping the run is the primary objective in order to gain the opportunity to pass rush. I’ve come to recognize the 3-4 defense’s distinctiveness this season. To be honest, it’s difficult to stop when the right men are playing and have the correct attitude. An ODD front alters blocking responsibilities in order to protect the offensive line. Particularly if you haven’t witnessed someone unblocking an unexpected front possibility. Additionally, you can masquerade yourself as blitzing while actually being covered with strange front, and vice versa.
What should we know about Andre Jefferson Jr the person?
When looking at Andre Jefferson Jr, the individual I think people should know that I enjoy video games. Specifically, Call of Duty or Apex Legends. As well as the fact that I enjoy building and collecting Legos. Lastly, self-care is extremely important to me and I will take the extra time to complete my self care routine to ensure I feel like the best version of myself.
What stands out about your film the most?
What stands out the most regarding my film is that I have a knack for getting into the backfield. Being able to get to the quarterback and just cause chaos to the opposing team is something I enjoy. Looking at last year’s film compared to this previous season, I see a major difference. This year I planned on how I would win my matchups every week compared to last year where my thought process was different. Being able to process more pre-snap keys truly helped. By doing so, it made the game slower and I was able to make more plays than I had in the past.
How do you handle challenges both in life and on the football field?
The best way I face challenges on both the field and off is being able to take accountability for what happened. In my opinion, it’s being able to accept the fact it happened and plan a way to ensure you’re always progressing and never regressing. I think another factor is problem solving. I do my best to plan the best course of action in order to alleviate the stress stemming from the challenges. It’s important to note that having a strong support system can also make the difference. Being able to have individuals who motivate and reduce the pressure from arising challenges.
What would a team get in a player like you?
A team would be receiving a confident individual who works extremely hard on their craft. I enjoy having the opportunity to become better each day, uplifting my teammates and being a positive and motivational player. I can proudly say that a team would be receiving a player who holds himself to high standards as well as keeps himself accountable to continually improve on his football knowledge. I commend myself on the fact that even in adversity I always find the necessary tools and resources to overcome any obstacles headed my way.
What do you love the most about the game of football?
What I love most about football is that it’s bigger than us. I love the fact that we all come from different backgrounds to pursue a common goal—playing for our families and friends. It’s also about building your own family within the team and organization, creating brothers within the brotherhood. I also love how football pushes you beyond your physical and mental limits, helping you break through personal barriers.
Who is the most underrated player you’ve played with and why?
Nic Cheeley- Nic Cheeley transferred from Eastern Kentucky and plays safety. I only played with him for five games this season, but after watching him throughout the year, it’s clear that he’s extremely smart and has a deep understanding of the game. He was the best player on the field when it came to playmaking and football IQ. Nic is quiet, but once you get to know him, he comes out of his shell. You always know he made a big play when you see that grin, flashing his grills with a smile from ear to ear.
Damien Savage- Damien Savage is another great player, and I’m grateful to have shared the field with him. Whenever I had a good game, he was right there behind me. Savage is always either reading his Bible or studying film—his dedication to the game and his faith is unmatched. He’s a character who gels well with teammates and works extremely hard. No matter what, he gives 100% effort and always seems to make the right plays at the right time.
Eldridge Dockery- Eldridge Dockery plays on the defensive line, and he’s not just a teammate—he’s a friend I’ve been playing football with since middle school. We go way back. He’s an extremely hard worker with a knack for getting into the backfield and causing havoc. I know exactly what he’s capable of because I’ve seen him put his body on the line countless times for the team. He’s all about doing whatever it takes to help us win. With great hand technique and relentless physicality, he’s a force on the field.
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