The Best On The Texas Tech D-Line: Eli Howard

Eli Howard is a Senior Defensive Lineman at Texas Tech University. Howard is coming off last season where he had 21 Tackles, 5 Sacks, and a Fumble Recovery. He has started the 2020 season off strong with already 14 Tackles and 1.5 Sacks in only 4 games played. He is looking to help Texas Tech capture a Big 12 title and a National Championship in his final season. He is currently projected to be an early 6th round pick in the 2020 NFL Draft.

Growing up, were you inspired by any NFL Players?

Yes, I was! Sports was huge for me growing up especially football. I really respected guys like Tom Brady & JJ Watt who play the game the right way, give credit to their teammates & didn’t have off the field issues.

What high school is your biggest rival?

Can’t really narrow it down to one, I feel like Tech has a few rivalries. But I grew up a UT fan so whenever we get to play them I really look forward to it.

What songs do you listen to pregame, to get you hyped up?

I just listen to whatever I’m feeling really. I try to change it up & listen to a lot of songs. I typically stick to rap though.

What is your offseason training like?

 Off season training is rough. Try to make as big of strides as I can whether it be in the weight room, speed work or DL technique. It becomes extremely monotonous but the little things really matter.

What is your favorite memory of your college career, so far?

One of my most favorite memories was beating UT at UT my freshman year & it sent us to a bowl game.

What parts of your college game, do you hope to transition to the NFL?

 I think my football IQ, effort & handwork will transition to the NFL but really looking forward to getting better & the new challengers that come with the league.

If you could meet one sports hero, who would it be?

 I think it would be really cool to meet Michael Jordan. He was such an icon in basketball & has had extreme success in business.

What is your favorite sports moment, as a fan?

Favorite sports moment as a fan was watching the Patriots beat the Seahawks in the Super Bowl!

If you were on a deserted island, what is one thing that you that you could not live without?

 I could live without any material thing but except for the essentials to live of course. But I really don’t know if I could live without my family!

What did you do to keep yourself busy during quarantine?

 I stayed busy during quarantine with work outs, film study & school work. Gotta stay busy & stay productive.