2023 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Hakeem Johnson, DB, Samford University

• Name: Hakeem Johnson
• Position: DB
• College: Samford University
• Height: 6’2”
• Weight: 205 lbs.
• Twitter: @yourboydream_3
• Instagram: @yourboydream_2

What made you decide wanted to be a football player?

When I was a kid I used to watch my older brother’s youth football games and wanted to play but was too young at the time. Whenever I was old enough I started playing and have been playing since.

What are your favorite moments from your football life?

Favorite moments would have to be making it to the state playoff semifinals my junior year of high school and last season winning the SoCon at Samford.

What are you looking to achieve as a football player going forward?

I want to become the best football player I can possibly be and maximize my talents wherever that opportunity falls.

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

Deion Sanders. He is the greatest cornerback to play the game. I would like to pick his brain about all the aspects, little and big that goes into becoming as successful of a player as he was.

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

I would have to say my mom and dad. They have taught me and my two brothers how to work hard for what you want. I wouldn’t be where I am today without them both.

What is your favorite defensive scheme and why?

4-2-5. It allows for more secondary guys to be on the field at once and features a lot of speed.

What should we know about Hakeem Johnson the person?

I am a hard worker who doesn’t take any shortcuts. I am a leader by example both on and off the field and believe in earning everything you get.

What stands out about your film the most?

My man coverage is something that I pride myself on. Being my size at the position allows me to cover more space and get handsy with receivers. I would also say my ability to get off of blocks.

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

I always live in the present. Looking to the future will only cause you to slip up what’s in front of you and there is nothing you can do about your past but learn from your mistakes and move on.

What would a team get in a player like you?

They would get a hard worker who will give their all from day one. A person willing to learn who is coachable. An athletic player who who has great cover skills, speed, and instincts.

What do you love the most about the game of football?

The competition. The goal in football is to win and to win you have to compete at a high level.

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

Nathan East linebacker at Samford. He’s a smart player with elite speed and strength at his position and just flies to the ball every rep.