2025 NFL Prospect Interview: Jalen Howard, DE, Central Connecticut State University
Discover the impact and breakout season of Jalen Howard, a talented college football player from Central Connecticut.
I knew Jalen Howard would be an impact college player since I first covered him as a 2019 Villanova recruit. So seeing his outcome with the Central Connecticut was no surprise. At 6â2 265, the Virginia native had a breakout season for registering 49 tackles 8.5 sacks with 1 forced fumble while recovering two for the Blue Devils last season. Howard possesses great moves off the edge and remains a physical presence through four quarters. We discussed his breakout season, what he brings at the pro level, and more for NFL Draft Diamonds.
Leader: Great season Jalen been watching you since high school. Great to see you evolve. What makes Central Connecticut a good university to play for?
Jalen: Central is a program built on resilience and a family atmosphere. Led by Coach Lechtenburg and his staff, central promotes toughness and grit to its players. Playing at Central gave me the platform to compete at a high level while being a part of a close-knit team.
Leader: Describe the type of defense Central Connecticut plays. What did you like about playing with Ron Digravio?
Jalen: On defense at Central Connecticut we play fast paced built on discipline and creating chaos and confusion for offenses. One thing I liked about playing for Coach Digravio was the way he schemed versus opponents. He would build a gameplan that would make sure we were effective on defense.
Leader: You led the Blue Devils in sacks last season. What were the stats of your best game and who did you play.
Jalen: My best game this season was against Saint Francis, I recorded 3 Sacks, 4 TFLS, and 7 total tackles.
Leader: Why would you call that your best game?
Jalen: Facing Saint Francis represented traits I bring to the field, relentless energy, pursuit, and ability to take over in critical moments. I felt that I helped put my team in position to succeed by making plays when we needed them the most.
Leader: What would you be the right pick for and NFL franchise? What type of impact would you add to an NFL defense?
Jalen: Iâm a relentless player that plays with an edge and brings versatility to any defensive scheme. I can disrupt the backfield, set the edge in the run game, and be a leader both on and off the field. My work ethic and commitment to improvement would make an immediate impact.
Leader: Character is huge in sports. What type of character do you bring to an NFL franchise?
Jalen: Iâm the type of player that embraces challenges. Iâve learned to grow through adversity, and I pride myself on uplifting those around me while staying focused on the teamâs success.
Leader: You made a change and change happens in sports. You played for powerhouse program Villanova. Explain why you felt it was your time to move?
Jalen: Leaving Villanova was not an easy decision. Transferring to Central was about finding the best fit for my growth and goals. I wanted to go to a program where I could maximize my potential and have a greater impact on and off the field.
Leader: What NFL player do you model your game after?
Jalen: I model my game after Khalil Mack. His combination of power, speed, and relentlessness is something I try to emulate.
Leader: What NFL team is your favorite team?
Jalen: I grew up a fan of the Washington Redskins, but at this stage Iâm more focused on joining any franchise where I can contribute and help build something special.
Leader: What is your 40 time? What do you bench press?
Jalen: The last 40 I ran was a 4.81 in which was quite some time ago and my max bench press is 425. Iâm consistently working to improve all areas of my physical performance.
Leader: What type of player does an NFL franchise get if they get Jalen Howard?
Jalen: They get a player whoâs hungry, disciplined, and ready to make an immediate impact. Someone who thrives under pressure, adapts quickly, and brings great intensity to every snap. Above all else, theyâre getting a teammate who puts the team first and is committed to winning.
