FPC Raiders Interview: DT Ke’Tyrus Marks

2018 Raiders Draft Prospect Interview
Name: Ke’Tyrus Marks
Position: DT
School: Samford University
Height: 6’2”
Weight: 300 pounds

The 2018 NFL Draft is two months away and the anticipation for many draft hopefuls are in full swing. Prospects have been preparing themselves mentally and physically since their respected seasons ended and are working hard to continue their football careers at the next level.

Here at Full Press Coverage – Raiders, the staff has been in full draft mode with daily player profiles and inclusive interviews. Last week, we had the pleasure of interviewing Samford University defensive tackle, Ke’Tyrus Marks. Marks was a graduate transfer from Arkansas and played one season for the Bulldogs. In 2017 (12 games played, seven starts), Marks accounted for 27 tackles, 1.5 sacks, 7 TFL’s and one forced fumble. Here is what Marks had to say.

1. What are your biggest strengths as a person and player?

I feel like my determination, passion and a love for the game is unmatched by others. I have a “get it done by any means” type of attitude. Football wise, I can pressure up the middle, be disruptive in the backfield and help against the run immediately for a team.

2. What do you think you can improve on for the next level?

In my opinion, the NFL game is 90% mental, 10% physical. Keeping that in mind, I feel like I can work on my football IQ. Being mentally prepared will put me in the right position in games and help me recognize plays quicker.

3. What is your favorite part of the pre-draft process?

What might surprise most people, but I really enjoy the hard work and grind that takes place before workouts and pro days. I enjoy seeing myself improve and continually making strides in a positive direction. Because of the great group of people around me, I get extra motivation from them during the process.

4. Which player in the NFL would you say you try to mimic your game from or has a similar style to yours?

The NFL player I try to mimic my game after the most is Aaron Donald. We are similar in size and we both possess a quick first step off the ball. Anytime I watch film on Donald, I add another pass rush move or technique to my repertoire.

5. In a day and age where athletes leave school without a college degree, how much does it mean to you that you were able to achieve great things academically at Arkansas and Samford?

Academics were always a priority for my family and me growing up. Thus, being able to earn a Bachelor’s degree from Arkansas and a Master’s degree from Samford (debt free) was a huge achievement and blessing for me. These two degrees will offer me great opportunities once my football career is over.

6. What would you like to tell every General Manager and Head Coach in the NFL?

The most dangerous person in a room is the person with their back against the wall. I am that person. God has blessed me with the ability to play football and with my hard work and determination; I can help your team in multiple facets. In addition, in today’s society, you will never have to worry about what type of man I am or what my morals are. I will always do what is best for the team and give it my all to be a great role model in the community.

In essence, Marks would allow the Raiders another interior lineman.

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