Name: Jaelyn Gaither
School: Delaware Valley University
Position: DB
Height: 5-11
Weight: 195
Q: What goals did you set and/or accomplish in your final collegiate season?
For my senior year we had a top 5 team in the country so winning a National Championship and being perfect was the goal. We fell short of the ultimate goal but did go to the elite 8. Along the way gaining the experience and film needed to show scouts I can play football at the next level.
Q: What would your coaches and teammates say about the type of player you are?
I believe my coaches and teammates would talk about my work ethic and how I lead by example. I’m a very focused individual and I put everything I have into being an elite football player. That there is no avenue I wouldn’t take to get better.
Q: When you are studying film, what are the things you focus on to improve your game?
I first pull up the roster of the other team and look at the breakdown of how the ball is distributed then you turn on the film and see the situations in which they like to get certain people the ball. Then in practice making sure you’re deliberate in how you’re playing it according to what that offense does that week. Also just trying to find little tendencies of the guys your gonna face, whether it be their split, formation and the down and distance.
Q: What separates you from the other pro prospects at your position?
I believe I’m a special prospect because of my background playing receiver and my versatility on the field to be able to play corner, nickel, safety, and I enjoy playing special teams and making an impact on that huge but often forgotten part of the game. I started as a freshman at Millersville in 2017 and then again the following year and then when Covid hit I transferred to Delaware Valley University and played a season of WR here in 2021 before making the transition to corner where I thrived in my senior season. I have a lot of game experience and I understand both offense and defense and what teams are truly trying to do to me as a DB so I think my IQ allows my athletic ability to do the rest.
Q: What is your offseason plan to train and prepare for professional opportunities?
The plan that’s in effect right now consists of 5 days of training a week. 3 days of speed 3 days of lift w one of the days overlapping to still keep me in shape with that two a day feel. Really been working on explosiveness to run a good 40 and been in the lab getting the pedal and breaks right.
Q: What kind of strengths and abilities will you bring to a team that will stand out both on and off the field?
I’m a smart football player, I’m always prepared for what’s next. I DO NOT take plays off. I’m a selfless football player that just wants to contribute to winning. I lead by example on and off the field. I’ve had a lot of teammates that think I’m quiet or in a bad mood a lot of times. But I’m just focused and locked in. Jalen Hurts has been my favorite player to watch in the NFL for 2 seasons now because of the way he approaches his work. I bring a level of maturity each and every day that normally rubs off on my peers and has us locked in.
Q: What is your final pitch to the NFL and any other pro leagues?
If you draft or sign me you’re gonna get a truly good person, rooted in faith who’s had to work for everything he’s ever gotten athletically. I don’t take football for granted. I am a football player. When people ask me what I wanna do with my life my main goal is to play professional football. You’re gonna get a player who is always in a good mood and always ready to work.
