Jared Brinkman
Defensive Tackle / Northern Iowa
Alex Khvatov: What are your measurements (height, weight and forty time)?
Jared Brinkman: 6’0 ½, 295, and I run in the 4.9 – 5.1 range.
Alex Khvatov: How are you currently preparing for the 2020 season with no offseason training?
Jared Brinkman: After spring break, I have been going to the weight room in my buddy’s garage. They have open fields outside. I have been doing speed work and DL drills.
Alex Khvatov: Besides football, what other sports did you play in high school?
Jared Brinkman: I wrestled and threw shot put and disc. I was a heavyweight champion two straight years. I started wrestling in first grade. Growing up in Iowa, it was my dream to do it. In the shot put, I was a runner up at Drake relays and was a state champion.
Alex Khvatov: What positions did you play in high school?
Jared Brinkman: I was always in love with football. I played DT and C. Most schools looked at me as a DL, but I had a few offers like Army to play center.
Alex Khvatov: Coming out of high school, what programs showed interest in you?
Jared Brinkman: I had offers from NW Missouri State, UNI, Army, and Western Illinois.
Alex Khvatov: How did you wind up at Northern Iowa?
Jared Brinkman: My dad played at UNI. I was familiar with the tradition. They always have a good team every year. I wanted to be a part of UNI. I wanted to compete for conference championships and national championships.
Alex Khvatov: How would you describe your overall career?
Jared Brinkman: I didn’t redshirt my freshman year. I got some experience that season. During my sophomore year, I had two sacks against Iowa in the first game. Then I tore my ankle. I was at about 60 or 70% the whole year, but I played the rest of the way. I had surgery in the offseason. I recorded a lot of tackles and seven sacks during my junior year. I was named to the second team all-conference and named Hero Sports second team All-American.
Alex Khvatov: What are your strengths?
Jared Brinkman: I am very good against the run. I am on the shorter side, but I play with good leverage. My strength is very good. I also have some quick twitch to me.
Alex Khvatov: What areas of your game are you trying to improve upon?
Jared Brinkman: Improve on my get off. See everything faster and cause more disruption behind the line of scrimmage.
Alex Khvatov: What is the highlight of your career up to this point?
Jared Brinkman: This past year, beating South Dakota State at their place. I also recorded two sacks at Iowa.
Alex Khvatov: What is the biggest lesson that you have taken away from your coaching staff?
Jared Brinkman: Coach Paup has been a mentor. He has been at the top level. The biggest lesson from him is only focusing on things I can control.
Alex Khvatov: What is your favorite NFL team?
Jared Brinkman: Carolina Panthers.
Alex Khvatov: Who is your favorite NFL player?
Jared Brinkman: I am a big Cam Newton fan. Position wise, Aaron Donald and Ndamukong Suh.
Alex Khvatov: What players on your team should we keep an eye on for this upcoming season?
Jared Brinkman: Elerson Smith, Spencer Brown, Xavior Williams, and LB Chris Kolarevic is a freak.
Alex Khvatov: Who is the best player that you have faced on an opposing team?
Jared Brinkman: TE Noah Fant from Iowa was the best player two years ago. He got 200 yards against us. NDSU OL Zack Johnson.
Alex Khvatov: What is the most important trait for a DL?
Jared Brinkman: Hands. Everything starts with the first punch.
Alex Khvatov: What do you enjoy most about football?
Jared Brinkman: Hit someone with no consequences. Football is a great stress reliever. Also just being there with my teammates.
Alex Khvatov: What is your definition of a leader?
Jared Brinkman: A leader stays calm when stuff happens. A leader brings the other guys along. Keeps his composure. He is selfless and will do anything for the team.
Alex Khvatov: What can we expect from Northern Iowa this upcoming season?
Jared Brinkman: We have a veteran team. We have most guys on our defense coming back. The goal is to take the conference title. Be the best of the best and make a run for the national championship.
Alex Khvatov: What are your hobbies?
Jared Brinkman: Hanging out with friends and family. I like to play Frisbee golf.
Alex Khvatov: What do you want to do with your life after your football career is over?
Jared Brinkman: My main goal is to be an athletics director and coach a bit. I am a physical education and health major. I want to go to grad school.
Alex Khvatov: What five words best describe you?
Jared Brinkman: Loyal, tough, humble, leader, and hard worker.
