2024 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Theo Benedet, OT, University of British Columbia

• Name: Theo Benedet
• Position: OT
• College: University of British Columbia
• Height: 6’7
• Weight: 305
• Twitter: @theobenedet71
• Instagram: @theobenedet

What makes you a top prospect at your position in the 2024 NFL Draft? 

I feel my athleticism and passion for the position of offensive line are what separates me from the rest. I relish the opportunity to physically punish my opponent and my ability to be functional in body positions others cannot allows me to do so. Additionally, I feel I am able to accept coaching and not only identify my weaknesses but find ways to solve and improve upon them. This will project well into my development at the next level.

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

I have been passionate about the game of football for as long as I can remember. My first memories involve watching the Packers play with my Uncle John, and later attending my first game and watching the BC Lions play in Vancouver.

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

That coming from Canada does not mean I cannot compete with and beat up on the boys down south.

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

I would donate to the Special Olympics. I have volunteered with them previously and saw firsthand the positive impact that the organization and sport has had on the intellectually disabled community. 

What is the best advice you have ever received? 

My mom and grandma have always told me “Don’t bring shame on the family”. While that may sometimes be in jest, underlying that point is a guiding belief on doing right by those closest to me.

Who was your childhood hero?

As much as I wish I could say it was an offensive lineman, my childhood hero was Aaron Rodgers. Watching the incredible plays he made week in and week out helped me fall in love with the game of football. Plus I loved seeing him on Jeopardy!

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

I would say either Matthew Kingsley or Natale Frangione. Matt has been instrumental both on and off the field. He has helped bring the locker room closer and has been an example of hard work, both in terms of diet and training. While Natale may not have yet received the buzz of awards or all-star selections, he is very underrated as a player on the field, and it shows up on tape. While some may consider him undersized, I am sure he will be a bonafide high-level prospect come the 2025 draft and scouts should keep an eye out for him.

What is your biggest pet peeve? 

My biggest pet peeve has to be people who don’t pull out ahead into the intersection when making a left turn. Shoutout to Will Compton. 

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

Not being selected as a Can-West all-star in 2021 was a huge disappointment in my football career. I used that setback as motivation and it helped propel me to my success during the 2022 season. 

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

UBC has a proud history as the top pro-producing program in Canada. With a huge number of CFL draft selections and NFL players such as Dakoda Shepley, and a coach known for developing pros (Blake Nill), I am very proud to follow in that lineage.

What is your favorite snack food?

I’m a big popcorn guy.

What is the best part of football?

Hitting people, the physicality of the sport is incomparable. Also the camaraderie of being part of a football team, which includes so many different types of athletes, and all struggling towards the same goal brings such happiness after a big win. 

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

I am bad news for defensive linemen.

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

Either Laremy Tunsil or Alijah Vera-Tucker. I have so much respect for their ability and versatility and try to emulate them both.

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

First would definitely have to be John Madden, I can’t imagine there would be anyone with whom it would be more fun to talk football. Next would be Action Bronson, I love his music and he’s an all-around fascinating guy, he would also be in the know when it came to which food to order. Lastly I’d have to go with Rickey Henderson, I’ve heard he loves football and he’s definitely a one of a kind person.