Name: Keyshawn James
School: Fayetteville State University
Position: DL
Height: 6’2”
Weight: 290
What goals did you set and/or accomplish in your final collegiate season?
My main goal was just to be 1% better each and everyday while molding myself to be the best I can be on and off the field. As I took action with that it’s crazy how many accolade’s were being achieved a long the journey such as, D2 Don Hanson Defense DPOY, Don Hanson 1st team All American, CIAA Defensive player of the year, Defensive MVP In the Championship Game, All-American 1st Team, All Region First Team, 2021 Preseason All-CIAA Team 2021 All-CIAA Team, Recorded holder for the most TFL with 8, 4.5 SACKS in a single game, Record holder for the most TFL’s with 60.5, SACKS with 29.5, at Fayetteville State, Record holder for the most TFLS yardage with 330, SACKS yardage with 229, Most Total Tackles at Fayetteville State 228, Record holder for most Forced fumbles with 11, CGS Showcase MVP Standout, D2 Defensive Player of the Week 2021 Vs. Elizabeth City, The CFB NET WORK Defensive Player of the Week
Q: How do you think you took advantage of the extra year of eligibility to increase your chances of going pro?
I strongly believe that this extra year of eligibility really enlightened me on my knowledge for the game of football. Not only just me knowing what role I play on the defensive side of the ball, but knowing the defense and offense game scheme as a whole against other opponents
Q: What would your coaches and teammates say about the type of player you are?
They would say my perseverance is out of this world when things are not going as planned I found a way to make it right, I’m very competitive, I bring a certain type of energy to the team that makes you want work harder than the next men it kind of tests your character a little bit and makes you think, Did I really leave it all out on the field today?
Q: When you are studying film, what are the things you focus on to improve your game?
Consistency with my hand placement, playing in the trenches is not easy but somebody has to do the dirty work and I take pride in that and while your in those trenches consistent violent hand placement is everything.
Q: What separates you from the other pro prospects at your position?
I’m a quick learner It doesn’t take me long to understand the assignment that supposed to be executed. My motor, my versatility on the defense of line, And my passion for the game, no matter what goes on on I don’t think there’s no chance I’ll ever lose my passion I persevere to throw too much to do such thing, now my versatility, stop the run I can pass rush inside and out and I can take on those double teams, last but not lease my motor I’m one of those players that feels as if the play is not over until I get there so that’s kind of separates me from a lot of the other pro prospects.
Q: What is your offseason plan to train and prepare for professional opportunities?
Staying consistent with my explosiveness of the line, violent hand placement and pass rush moves I feel as if playing in the trenches at the professional level in with some things that you need to keep a job.
Q: What kind of strengths and abilities will you bring to a team that will stand out both on and off the field?
Not only that I’m versatile on the defensive line, but I can also play special teams and other positions such as Fullback and Tight End as well if the opportunity presents itself.
Q: What is your final pitch to the NFL and any other pro leagues?
I am confident in my abilities and the things that I am able to bring to a NFL team. I’m ready to exert my talents, while cultivating new skills and processes into those talents. I strive to be a major asset to a team. I am ready to get to work and I’m willing to do what it takes.
