COLLEGE PARK, Md. – Former University of Maryland defensive tackle Quinton Jefferson was selected by the Seattle Seahawks in the fifth round (147th overall) of the 2016 NFL Draft on Saturday afternoon.
With Jefferson's selection, Maryland has had three players drafted for the first time since five Terps went in 2009. Jefferson joins Sean Davis (second round, 58th overall to the Pittsburgh Steelers) and Yannick Ngakoue (third round, 69th overall to the Jacksonville Jaguars), who were chosen on Friday.
Jefferson, a 2015 Honorable Mention All-Big Ten selection, started all 12 games on the defensive line for the Terps this past season. He ranked among the Top 20 players in the Big Ten with 12.5 tackles for loss and 6.5 sacks.
Jefferson led all Terp linemen with 39 tackles in 2015. He also recorded an interception, blocked kick, forced fumble and fumble recovery on the year.
Quinton Jefferson Quotes:
On how he feels that Seattle traded up to select him:
“It's great to know that they really wanted me. I can't wait to come to the organization, be in front of the 12s and compete. That's the main thing. I am just so excited.”
On where he is watching the draft:
“I have been watching in Pittsburgh, just at my house, with my parents, my family. It's just anticipation. You've been waiting, waiting, waiting for that call. It's good to get it.”
On his strength as a defensive tackle:
“I think I bring a lot of versatility, because I played defensive end and tackle. I think I can along the front. I think I am very disruptive inside, with the run and the pass. I feel like I can really get after it on third downs, kick inside on sub packages and rush the passer. That's a premium in this league right now.”
On whether the Seahawks told him anything about his role for the Seahawks:
“They just want me to come in and compete. Competition makes everybody better. I'm trying to get in anywhere I can. I'll see when I get there. Right now, I'm just going to learn the playbook and try to make an impact any way I can.”
– Maryland –
