2022 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Erik Hansen, DE, Upper Iowa University

• Name: Erik Hansen
• Position: Defensive end 
• College: The Upper Iowa University 
• Height: 6’3 
• Weight: 260 
• Twitter: @Erikk_hansen 
• Instagram: @Erikk_hansen 

What makes you a top prospect at your position in the 2022 NFL Draft?

My ability to pass rush at an elite level while still being able to play the run, and still having consistent off-the-chart production these past few years even as a returning All-American. 

At what age were you first interested in the sport of football?

I have always had an interest in sports in general and grew up my whole life playing all kinds of sports such as soccer, lacrosse, and wrestling. However, I fell in love with football during my middle school years due to the physicality of the sport and my ability to take my aggression out on another human. 

What is one thing that NFL teams should know about you?

I enjoy letting my actions speak for themselves, instead of talking. 

If you could donate to one cause in the world, what would it be?

A charity that gives kids the ability to chase their dreams of playing the sport they love because I know how much I love football and I was blessed enough to be able to chase that dream and I think everyone should be able to do the same. 

What is the best advice you have ever received?

Do not make excuses.

Who was your childhood hero?

My father because of how hardworking he is and his history of being a combat veteran, which shows how fearless and this is how he raised me. 

Who is the most underrated teammate in your locker room at your school?

Dwayne Emsweller 

What is your biggest pet peeve?

When people are all talk, and don’t back their words up with action. 

Overcoming adversity is what defines character, what was the hardest moment in your life to overcome

When my mom had breast cancer and I had to see her go through that, this was by far the hardest time in my life.

Tell me something about your school and why it is so special to you?

Upper Iowa University is in a really s0mall town which makes everyone on the team very close because there isn’t much to do except hang out with your teammates, this makes the bond between teammates here something special. 

What is your favorite snack food?

Whey protein 

What is the best part of football?

Being a part of a team with a common goal, and having to work together to achieve that goal.  

If you could sell yourself in one sentence what would you say?

Turn on the tape, and watch me play. 

If you could compare your play to one player in the NFL who would it be?

I think everyone plays differently, so I don’t really like to compare myself to anyone. 

If you could have dinner with three people dead or alive, who would it be and why?

I would have dinner with my grandparents who have passed away, 2