Carson Steele Draft Networking Interview: 'I Just Want A Chance' (Interviews)
Interviews

Carson Steele Draft Networking Interview: 'I Just Want A Chance'

Darren Yamashita-USA TODAY Sports
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UCLA running back Carson Steele transferred to the program ahead of the 2023 campaign and proved he could play at the highest level in the Pac-12. Steele previously recorded 12 100-yard rushing games across two seasons at Ball State. He then rushed for 847 yards and six touchdowns throughout the 2023 season with the Bruins.

Steele recently spoke exclusively with The Draft Network about his decision to enter the transfer portal, executing coach Chip Kelly’s playbook, running multiple schemes, which teams are showing interest in his services, and more.

JM: Now that you've had time to reflect, how do you look back on the decision to transfer to UCLA from Ball State?

Carson Steele: It was a blessing to enter the transfer portal and attend such a great university like UCLA. It was definitely an experience going from Muncie, Indiana to Los Angeles. It was a great experience overall. I appreciated the opportunity to learn from those coaches. 

JM: You took advantage of your opportunity by rushing for 847 yards and six touchdowns at UCLA. You averaged 5.1 yards per carry. Do you feel like you proved you could play the running back position at a high level?

Carson Steele: I definitely do, especially because I had a lot fewer carries at UCLA than I did at Ball State. I went out there and proved I could play at a high level in the Pac-12. I was happy with the amount of yards I rushed for at UCLA. I was efficient with my opportunities. I showed everyone that I could play at a higher level.

JM: You sure did. What was your favorite play to run in that UCLA playbook?

Carson Steele: Coach Chip Kelly has quite the extensive playbook (laughs). I would probably say inside zone. It’s always been one of my favorites. Either that or a straight downhill power run. That’s always been a big go-to. 

Scrambling in there and not knowing how many yards you’re gonna get, it gives you a chance to break out for five to 10 yards. Running something inside is my favorite activity.

JM: You mentioned inside zone and downhill power. Do you see yourself in a zone-based system, or in more of a gap/power scheme?

Carson Steele: I’d probably lean toward a gap or power system. That was a big reason why I transferred to UCLA. I wanted to learn under coach Foster while taking my game to the next level. I developed into a back that can run everything, outside zone included. I worked to the point where I got a better look and have a better shot at the next level.

JM: Where do NFL teams see you playing at the next level? You've gotten some fullback, Kyle Juscyzk, “move” TE comparisons online. What are you hearing?

Carson Steele: I’m kind of hearing the same thing. It’s mainly been running back and a little fullback. Like you said, some teams see me moving around, that whole tight end sort of deal. Honestly, whatever gets me on the field, that’s what it’s going to be. 

I’m just excited to learn anything and everything. I want to play on special teams as well. I just want a chance to get out there and help the team.

JM: I believe you had in-person visits with the Chiefs, Chargers, and Raiders. You also went to the Colts local day. Any other pre-draft meetings? How are they going?

Carson Steele: Those are all correct. I’ve had a few. I met with the Bengals and Dolphins virtually as well. I have one coming up with the 49ers as well. 

JM: There’s a lot of interest in you and it’s easy to see why. We've appreciated your time today. What kind of impact is Carson Steele going to make at the next level?

Carson Steele: My first goal is to develop into a starting running back. Having availability at multiple positions, being able to play at all, and having an impact—that’s my goal for my rookie season. Whether that’s a versatile role in the backfield, at running back, or through special teams, it doesn’t matter to me. I can play on kickoffs as well.

Those are my main goals. I’m going to acclimate as a rookie. I want to come in and learn.



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