2024 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Josiah Ezirim, OL, Eastern Kentucky University

• Name: Josiah Ezirim
• Position: OL
• College: Eastern Kentucky University
• Height: 6’6”
• Weight: 315 lbs
• Twitter: @josiah_ezirim
• Instagram: @ezirimjosiah

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

My dad was the one that got me into football when I was in like kindergarten starting with flag football and eventually moving on to putting on the pads. As the years went on my love for the game grew more and more.

What are your favorite moments from your football life?

I would say my two favorite moments in my football life would probably be my sophomore year in 2020 when we beat Central Arkansas. We were 1-4 going into that game and they were the number 10 team in the country and they were competing very well against FBS teams and pulling off that upset win I felt was huge for our team. I remember the guys were really happy that we won that game. The other game I would say was when we beat Bowling Green last season in 7 overtime. One of the things I was always wanting to do was to get a win over an FBS team in my collegiate career and to be a part of a win especially one in that fashion is something that I will never forget.

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

I would definitely say, my mom and my dad. Seeing how hard they work at what they do and doing everything they can to make sure that I and my siblings have everything we need is something that I will always appreciate.

What are you looking forward to in your upcoming season?

I’m really looking forward to going out and trying to win every game next season. Our goal as a team is to win the conference title and the national title and we are making sure to do everything in our power to pull that off. I’m also looking forward to having my best season yet to give myself a shot of making it to the pros.

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

I would choose Lane Johnson. He’s one of the best right tackles in the league and with right tackle being the position I play I feel I could learn a lot about the position from him.

What are your favorite things about playing football for Eastern Kentucky?

I would say my favorite thing about playing for EKU is the camaraderie that’s on the team. In the past four-five years I have been here at EKU I will say that I have met many guys that I will say will be brothers for the rest of my life. I always know that if I ever have an issue I always got a bunch of guys that will look out for me. Another thing I love about playing here is the fans. We have a very passionate fan base, especially for an FCS team and it’s always fun when on game day you see all the people that are tailgating and seeing 10,000 plus people in the stands. To me, I love that.

What should we know about Josiah Ezirim the person?

I’m a really chill and laid-back guy. I love being around my friends and family. If you ask anyone they will tell you I’m a good guy and I always have their back and I love helping people in any way I can.

What is your favorite offensive scheme and why?

Definitely inside the zone. I like coming downhill and smacking someone mano a mano. I feel like run blocking is really my biggest strength so I love when our coaches call inside the zone. It’s also fun when you drive someone 5 years downfield or get a pancake block.

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

My dad has always been there for me whenever I need him to help guide me through whatever issues I’ve ever had no matter how big or small. I have been very fortunate to have had a lot of different mentors who have helped guide me through different trials and tribulations whether it be a teacher, coach, aunty, or uncle. I also find it best that when tough times come you relax, take a deep breath, and then focus on the task at hand.

What would a team get in a player like you?

They would get a guy that loves and cares about the game of football and is all about the team and doing things that are for the betterment of the team. They would also be getting a guy that works hard at his craft and wants to get better each and every day.

What stands out about your film the most?

I would say my athleticism and strength. Sometimes if my technique isn’t the best at times just off of raw ability I’m still able to get the job done at a high level.

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

I’ve played with my fair share of players that I have felt have gone under the radar when it comes to going pro but for me, it would have to be Daryl McCleskey. He was our starting running back from my freshman year. If you even gave him the slightest hole he was gonna get a big run. Quinton Floyd was another guy that I played with that was underrated. He was a defensive tackle here at EKU for the first three years I was here. He was strong and had a quick punch while still having cat-like quickness in the pass rush.