TJ Telphy
Running Back
Fort Lewis College

Alex Khvatov:  What are your measurements (height, weight and forty time)?

TJ Telphy:  5’9, 200lbs, 4.52. 

Alex Khvatov:  Where will you be training for the NFL Draft?

TJ Telphy:  I’am currently training at Landow Performance in CO. 

Alex Khvatov:  How honored were to get an invitation to the 2019 Dream Bowl all-star game?

TJ Telphy:  I was extremely honored to receive an invite to play in the Dream Bowl all-star game.  I’m grateful that God has allowed me to showcase my IQ and talent to scouts and others watching.

Alex Khvatov:  What do you want to show scouts during that all-star game?

TJ Telphy:  I would like to show scouts that I have many great attributes.  My ability to run routes out of the backfield, catching the ball, blocking and running style between the tackles and more importantly my IQ.  All in which, I take seriously. 

Alex Khvatov:  Coming out of high school, what programs showed interest in
you?

TJ Telphy:  Coming out of high school, there were a few teams that showed interest in me as a running back.  USC, Utah State, Colorado State and Tennessee. 

Alex Khvatov:  Why did you decide to go the JUCO route?

TJ Telphy:  My decision to go the JUCO route came from my heart and countless prayer and conversations with my mother and father.  That was the only guidance I had at the time with the recruiting process, and we felt it was something that would allow me to grow and mature in the classroom as well in football.  I rocked with it and don’t regret it at all. 

Alex Khvatov:  Why did you transfer to Fort Lewis College?

TJ Telphy:  Fort Lewis gave me the best opportunity to play football on a full ride scholarship, which allowed me to further my education in what I wanted my degree in.

Alex Khvatov:  What are your strengths?

TJ Telphy:  On the football field, I have great hands, quickness and speed to go along with my blocking ability.  I am very versatile as a player.  I can get you yards after contact.  I also have an outstanding work ethic. 

Alex Khvatov:  What areas of your game are you trying to improve upon?

TJ Telphy: I want to continuously improve on my IQ side of the game.  I think it’s really important to me and what I believe will get me with a job in the league. 

Alex Khvatov:  Describe your overall career.

TJ Telphy:  My career has been a great learning experience for me.  Football has grown me into the man I’ve always wanted to become, and I have God to thank for that. 

Alex Khvatov:  What is the biggest reason behind your huge senior season?

TJ Telphy:  God and my family have been the biggest part of my success this year.  All have taught me a lot about ball and life in general.  They keep me inspired and motivated every day. 

Alex Khvatov:  What is the highlight of your career up to this point?

TJ Telphy:  Up to this point, being mentored and trained by former running back Shane Vereen has been awesome and a blessing.  He’s someone I looked up to coming up. 

Alex Khvatov:  What have you learned the most from your coaching staff?

TJ Telphy:  Hard work will always pay off no matter the circumstances.  Stay true to yourself and never forget where you come from.

Alex Khvatov:  What is your favorite NFL team?

TJ Telphy:  My favorite NFL team is the team that will sign me. 

Alex Khvatov:  Who is your favorite NFL player?

TJ Telphy:  I have two favorite NFL players, LaDainian Tomlinson & Marshall Faulk.

Alex Khvatov:  What is the most important trait for a RB?

TJ Telphy:  Tenacity is an important trait to have as a running back. 

Alex Khvatov:  Before the ball is snapped, what are the tendencies that you are looking for from the defense?

TJ Telphy:  Before the ball is snapped, I’m checking the safeties, watching for movement with them and the linebackers.  Then I am checking the front of the D-line. 

Alex Khvatov:  What players on your team should we keep an eye on for next
season?

TJ Telphy:  Brayden Lucero, Lorenzo Tanner and George Marpaung. 

Alex Khvatov:  Who is the toughest player that you have faced on an opposing team?

TJ Telphy:  Blake Nelson and Brandon Payer.   

Alex Khvatov:  What do you enjoy most about football?

TJ Telphy:  I enjoy the incredible work we are able to do off the gridiron like helping with boys and girls clubs and visiting clinics to cherish and bring joy to others’ lives.  I love that, it also brings brotherhood to your team. 

Alex Khvatov:  Who is your biggest role model and why?

TJ Telphy:  My biggest role model is my Pops.  He works extremely hard, and I feel he doesn’t get enough credit for all he does for our family.  But he and my mother are both fighters. 

Alex Khvatov:  What is your definition of a leader?

TJ Telphy:  A leader to me is someone who doesn’t fear pressure and is understanding of their peers. 

Alex Khvatov:  What are your hobbies?

TJ Telphy:  I like to ride ATV’s and play video games.

Alex Khvatov:  What do you want to do with your life after your football career is over?

TJ Telphy:  After football is over, I want to give back to my community.  I’d like to coach or become a pro scout someday.