2023 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Johnny Buchanan, LB, University of Delaware

• Name: Johnny Buchanan
• Position: LB
• College: University of Delaware
• Height: 6’0″
• Weight: 232 lbs
• Twitter: @J_Buchanan_1
• Instagram: @johnny_buchanan33

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

I always knew I wanted to be a football player. I come from a football family. My father played football for Rutgers, my great Uncle is Joe Auer, who was the first Miami Dolphin to ever score. My dad likes to tell a story about how when I was first born he said “That’s not a baby, that’s a linebacker!” Which is ironic because he played defensive line. I was always around the game of football growing up. If I wasn’t outside playing football, I was inside playing football video games or watching NFL network. Football has always been my true love and passion. My first year of organized football was when I was 6 years old. I played linebacker and running back my entire career.

What are your favorite moments from your football life?

One of my favorite football moments was when we won the CAA championship in the spring season of 2021 (2020 season on paper). We faced a lot of adversity because of covid that year, but we stuck together as a team and found ways to play and win together. We won that game at Villanova, our rival which made it that much more special. Another one of my favorite football moments came this year, week 1 when we went to Navy and won. We were considered a huge underdog, but there was never any doubt. Other great memories include my first college interception which came on one of my first plays in college, and my first college touchdown which was a pick-6 against Stony Brook in 2019. My favorite high school football moment was winning our Rivalry game against Red Bank Catholic my senior year in 2017.

Which one of your family members inspires you the most and why?

When it comes to football, my father inspired me the most. He taught me what it takes to be great. I watched my own game film with my dad and learned from my mistakes since I was 6 years old. He also taught me how to train in the weight-room. He is a great father and took great care of my brothers and I. My mother is also a big inspiration of mine because she does so much for our family. She is such a hard worker and does everything she can to give my brothers and I a great life. We are so lucky to have her.

What type of energy do you bring onto the football field?

I pride myself on always bringing positive energy to the football field! It’s easy for me to bring energy to practice because playing football is my favorite thing to do. I love practice and of course I love the games. I bring relentless effort and passion. I make sure I am always running to the ball. I lead by example first, but I can also be a vocal leader when needed.

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

I would really love to learn from Luke Kuechly and Ray Lewis. I chose those two because I want to learn how they prepare to play the game. Both of those players seem to always be in the right spot at the right time. I want to learn how they watch film and breakdown opponents. I believe that those two players were so successful because of their mental preparation and film study, along with their physical attributes.

What stands out about your film the most?

My effort and production stands out the most. When you turn on my game film you will always see me run to the ball. I spend a lot of time preparing in the film room by learning offensive tendencies and I think that shows up on my film as well. You will always see me in the picture by the ball on film.

What should we know about Johnny Buchanan the person?

I am a very family oriented person. I love spending time with my family. I also love dogs. I have a pitbull named “Backer” back at home. Outside of football, I am passionate about fitness and training. I love weight training. When I am home, one of my favorite things to do is go get a workout in with my younger brothers. It doesn’t take much to make me happy, All I need is my family, my dog, a team to play football on, a weight room and I’m set!

What is your favorite defensive scheme and why?

I really enjoy playing in our 3 down with a high safety structure. It is a 3-2-6 at times but we can also run a 3-3-5. I enjoy this scheme because the linebackers have to be fast and physical for the defense to be successful. With only 5 men in the box at times, I get the opportunity to showcase my ability to defeat blockers and make lots of tackles.

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

I believe that football taught me a lot about life. When you get knocked down, you have to get back up and keep moving forward. I handle challenges on and off the field by always giving my all and controlling what I can control. I believe that you can control your attitude and your effort, so I choose to keep a positive outlook on life and work as hard as humanly possible to achieve my goals.

What would a team get in a player like you?

The team that signs me will be getting a player that lives football 24/7. They will be getting someone that prepares like a true professional and always works hard. I can make a big impact on defense and all special teams units. I can also be utilized on the offensive side of the ball if needed. I am someone that will always be a great locker room guy and always represent my team in a positive way. I also bring the ability to lead a group of men and help build/uphold the standard of an organization.

What are your favorite things about playing football for the University of Delaware?

There are many reasons why I love playing here at the University of Delaware. First off, I love representing the rich tradition of Delaware football and upholding the standard. Delaware has had football for 131 seasons and has won 23 championships, 6 of those being national titles. I love the pursuit of the next championship. I also love being a part of this aggressive and relentless defense. We pride ourselves on attacking offenses and I have so much fun playing in this system. Finally, I love playing for our fans. We have a great fan base. There are no pro teams in Delaware. The University of Delaware is the football team in the State of Delaware and it is such a privilege and an honor to suit up in the blue and gold for our fans.

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

I’d say Noah Plack and Liam Trainer are underrated players. Noah is one of the best players in the country. He is an aggressive run stopper and is great in coverage. Liam is a very tough player that has great leadership qualities. He is also a very productive linebacker.