Courtesy of UConn Athletics
UConn defensive tackle Jelani Stafford is a great story of perseverance and commitment. The former Youngstown State defensive tackle has dealt with his fair share of adversity and through it all, he has stayed focused on his goal of playing college football and earning a college degree.
Stafford has been an integral part of the Huskies front seven the past two season but he has also played some fullback on offense as well. He truly is a do it all player who puts the team first.
Get to know Jelani Stafford.
NEFJ: When did you start playing football?
JS: “I started playing football when I was around 6 or 7. My dad made me skip flag and go straight into tackle — no shortcuts from the start.”
NEFJ: What do you love about the game of football?
JS: “I love how football gives me an outlet for everything going on in my life. When everything else failed, the game was always there. I respected it, loved it, and it loved me back for giving it my full effort and attention.”
NEFJ: What made you decide to commit to UConn? Why was it the right school for you?
JS: “Honestly, my defensive line coach Kenny McClendon — who was also my coach at Youngstown State — played a big role. We built a close bond over 2.5 years there, and even after he left for UConn, we talked every day like he was still my coach. More like a big brother or uncle figure. My dad passed shortly after he left, and I was still at Youngstown when I realized I needed a change in my life. I told him I was entering the portal, and he let me know he had a spot for me if I didn’t find a school I truly liked. Beyond that, I was drawn to the story behind the program — a team with a troubled past, a new leader in Coach Mora, and a real opportunity to help rebuild something. I love a challenge, and this felt like a leap of faith worth taking with someone I trusted. UConn also appealed to me because it’s a top 25 public school and a Research 1 institution. I knew my degree would hold weight.”
NEFJ: How much has UConn prepared you for the opportunity to play in the NFL?
JS: “As most people know, Coach Mora came from the NFL — and he ran our program the same way. High focus, high intensity, and an unmatched work ethic. He treated us like professionals, and that mindset helped shape us into pros before we even realized it. That’s something I’m especially grateful for.”
NEFJ: When you are not playing football or doing anything football related, what do you like to do off the field?
JS: “I’m really a jack of all trades. I’m into a lot of different things — mainly art, music, and the outdoors. I love capturing moments through photos and videos on my camera, and I enjoy exploring and being outside. As I’ve grown older and more grounded as a man, I’ve found joy in the simple things and started embracing that side of myself more.”
NEFJ: What is your favorite pregame meal and hype song?
JS: “My favorite pregame meal was always the steak and lasagna we had at home games. We had a lot of options, but I liked to keep it consistent. As for my go-to hype song — definitely Left Hollywood by Meek Mill.”
NEFJ: What is an NFL team getting in you if they draft or sign you?
JS: “If an NFL team drafts or signs me, they’re getting more than just a player — they’re getting a leader, a competitor, and a relentless worker with something to prove. I bring discipline, toughness, and a mindset built through adversity. I prepare like a pro and lead by example. I’ve been overlooked before, so I grind like an underdog and play with heart every snap. I understand this game is bigger than me — it’s about legacy, purpose, and representing everything that got me here. They’re not just getting talent — you’re getting character, grit, and a dog that won’t fold.”