2023 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Seth Ham, DL, Ottawa University (AZ)

• Name: Seth Ham
• Position: DL
• College: Ottawa University-Arizona
• Height: 6’5″
• Weight: 230 lbs
• Instagram: @sethxham

What made you decide you wanted to be a football player?

What made me decide to be a football player was the instant love I had for the game. I watched my older brother play before I was able to and I was hooked ever since. Immediately, I felt like I was on top of the world after winning a huge game and I absolutely despised losing a game as well. So I have been chasing that winning feeling ever since.

If you could hang out with any football player past or present for a day who and why?

If I could hang out with any football player, past or present for a day, I would hang out with Kam Chancellor. When it comes to defense, he’s always been somebody that has been inspiring to me, especially the way his presence was always felt when he was on the field.

What sets you apart from other defensive linemen?

What sets me apart from other defensive linemen is my speed and athleticism. I feel as if these two things allow me to move in a way that isn’t really seen from defensive linemen. Having speed off of the edge lets me make plays that I shouldn’t be able to make.

What are your favorite things about playing football for OUAZ?

My favorite thing about playing football for OUAZ is the family atmosphere. The group of guys that are able to make it here are a special group and we have really gotten so close to each other, especially in the summer. One of my other favorite things is the competitive nature that comes from OUAZ. We are here to compete, and second place is only first loser for us. We are all competing with each other every single day and holding each other to the highest standard possible.

How do you prepare for games?

To prepare for games, I like to pray. None of this is possible without Him, so I thank God for all he has done and ask Him to keep me safe and allow me to perform to the best of my ability to glorify His name. Once I pray, all of my nerves or anxiousness goes away.

What should we know about Seth Ham the person?

Seth Ham, the person, is just a young man who is chasing very ambitious dreams. He is someone who is easy to talk to and accepting of all people and just trying to make the people who raised him proud.

What is your favorite defensive scheme and why?

My favorite defensive scheme is the 3-4. It’s so versatile and allows you to put in a lot of unique types of players for success. For me personally, it felt very comfortable playing in that “hybrid DE/LB” role. These hybrid type of players are becoming more and more common and this defensive scheme compliments these players well, while still keeping the same benefits of having a traditional defensive end and tackle.

What are your favorite moments from your football life?

My favorite moments from my football life were all moments outside of the games. The games were obviously great moments in time and will forever live on, but the little experiences through traveling, or practice, or even summer workouts are the moments that I feel like make football an entirely different sport. These moments that happen in preparation for the big day are moments that me and all of my past teammates will forever remember.

How do you handle challenges both in life and on the football field?

With any challenge I face in any circumstance, I first talk to God. I ask Him for any guidance or teaching that I may require in order to get over whatever hurdle is in front of me. After that then I look within myself, and see if there’s anything that I can modify or change about my lifestyle that will help me.

What would a team get in a player like you?

A team would get my absolute 100 percent everyday. A team would get my consistency and my competitive dog in every aspect of their way of life.

What are you looking forward to in your upcoming season?

I’m looking forward to dominating my position this season. This is the season where I separate myself from the bunch, and go out and dominate in every way of my game. I’m also looking forward to the team making a serious run for the national championships. I’m really excited about the guys we have, and it should be very fun. I’m ready.

Who is the most underrated player you’ve played with and why?

The most underrated player I’ve played with is actually a guy that I played with since I got out here. His name is David Sow. Technically, he’s probably one of the most gifted players I’ve ever played with on the defensive side of the ball. He’s so quick at setting the edge, and I’ve really learned a lot from his game as far as strong side defensive ends.