Marquis Hendrix
Linebacker / Bethune-Cookman
Alex Khvatov: What are your measurements (height, weight and forty time)?
Marquis Hendrix: 6’0 and 230.
Alex Khvatov: Where are you currently training for the 2020 NFL Draft?
Marquis Hendrix: I am training with Tony McCall in Ocala, Florida.
Alex Khvatov: Describe your overall experience at CGS all-star game in Texas.
Marquis Hendrix: It was great. It was more mental more than anything. They told you about the NFL lifestyle and the ins and outs of the game. I came across other colleges and was competing against those guys. TE from Pitt (Nakia Griffin-Stewart) and TE from Fresno State – Rice stood out in the one on one’s.
Alex Khvatov: Coming out of high school, what programs showed interest in
you?
Marquis Hendrix: I had 13 offers. I had Tennessee, Cincinnati and Boise State. I took a visit Boise. It was a great vibe. I fell in love with it. I liked the coaches.
Alex Khvatov: How did you wind up at JUCO?
Marquis Hendrix: I got in some trouble my freshman year. I got kicked out of school. I had to go to a junior college. I went to Coffeyville, Kansas. I felt like it was a well-known school. After my mishap, I needed to focus on school and football.
Alex Khvatov: Why did you transfer to Bethune-Cookman?
Marquis Hendrix: They offered in high school. My dad played there in the 1990’s. I have some ties. I knew coach Jones back in high school. They offered me again. It was an opportunity to play football and be closer to home.
Alex Khvatov: What are your strengths?
Marquis Hendrix: I work each and every day. I bring intelligence and football IQ. I played on all special teams.
Alex Khvatov: What areas of your game are you trying to improve upon?
Marquis Hendrix: Increasing strength at the point of attack and getting off blocks quicker.
Alex Khvatov: Tell us about your overall career.
Marquis Hendrix: I came in my redshirt sophomore year. I spent three years at Bethune-Cookman. I got into the rotation my sophomore year. Every year, I got better. As a junior, I had 83 tackles, 9 TFL’s, two sacks and two picks. During my senior year, 96 tackles, 5.5 TFL’s, 2.5 sacks and a forced fumble. I was a Buck Buchanan finalist for the top defensive player at FCS. I was Second team all-conference my junior and senior year.
Alex Khvatov: What is the highlight of your career up to this point?
Marquis Hendrix: My senior year. I had goals and I achieved them. I was on the watch list for the Buck Buchanan award.
Alex Khvatov: What is your biggest accomplishment in college that you are most proud of?
Marquis Hendrix: Getting my degree in criminal justice.
Alex Khvatov: What was the biggest thing that you took away from your coaching staff?
Marquis Hendrix: Always being prepared. I took that to heart. Preparation is everything. On Monday, I am watching film on the next opponent. I want to find out their tendencies, feel for their offense and formations.
Alex Khvatov: What is the most important trait for a LB?
Marquis Hendrix: Intelligence and diagnosing plays. Reacting and knowing what is coming. The athleticism just takes over after that.
Alex Khvatov: What is your favorite NFL team?
Marquis Hendrix: I like the New England Patriots.
Alex Khvatov: Who is your favorite NFL player?
Marquis Hendrix: Sean Taylor.
Alex Khvatov: What players on your team should we keep an eye on for next season?
Marquis Hendrix: DT Gilbert, CB Henry Miller, TE Kemari Averett and TE Taron Mallard.
Alex Khvatov: Who is the toughest player that you have faced on an opposing team?
Marquis Hendrix: Jah-Maine Martin, RB from North Carolina A&T. He knows when to use his speed and power on some plays. He is tough to bring down.
Alex Khvatov: What do you enjoy most about football?
Marquis Hendrix: The preparation of the game. I see something on film. When the play is coming during the game, I call it out and make the play. It is the best feeling.
Alex Khvatov: What are your hobbies?
Marquis Hendrix: Hang out with family and friends.
Alex Khvatov: What do you want to do with your life after your football career is over?
Marquis Hendrix: I want to be a personal trainer.
Alex Khvatov: What five words best describe you?
Marquis Hendrix: Fun, caring, energetic, tough and smart.