2025 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Olivier Joly, DB, University of Sherbrooke

• Name: Olivier Joly 
• Position: FS and SAM 
• College: University of Sherbrooke 
• Height: 6’0 Feet
• Weight: 195 lbs 
• Twitter: @Joly__09
• Instagram: @Joly__09

What makes you a top prospect at your position in the 2025 NFL Draft?

What makes me a top prospect for the draft is my versatility on the defensive side of the ball. I’m comfortable playing a variety of positions, whether it’s covering ground as a safety, locking down receivers in man-to-man coverage, or getting physical in the box like a linebacker. My background in hybrid linebacker positions (SAM) has equipped me with the skills to excel in multiple roles on the field. This versatility not only allows me to adapt to different game situations but also gives coaches the flexibility to utilize me wherever I’m needed most. I take pride in being a well-rounded player who can contribute effectively in various aspects of the game, and I believe that sets me apart as a top prospect in the 2025 NFL Draft. 

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

One thing NFL teams should know about me is that once I’m part of a team, I give my all on and off the field to ensure the team’s success, regardless of my role. I’m dedicated to contributing in any way possible to help the team achieve its goals. 

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

If I could donate to one cause in the world, it would be to support organ donation. This cause is incredibly important to me because of a personal experience that profoundly impacted my life. My grandmother was the recipient of a heart and kidney transplant, and she was actually the first person to have a successful heart transplant in Canada. This medical breakthrough gave her many more years of life, years in which I had the privilege to know and love her. Without that transplant, I would have never had the chance to form such a meaningful relationship with her. Supporting organ donation can give others the same chance for extended life and the opportunity to create precious memories with their loved ones.

Who was your role model?

My role model has always been my grandmother. She was often very sick, but she never stopped fighting through adversity and beating the odds, even when everyone else had given up on her. Her strength and resilience, especially as the first person in Canada to have a successful heart transplant along with a kidney transplant, deeply inspired me. Despite her health challenges, she remained positive and grateful. Her unwavering spirit and determination forged my attitude toward life and football. On the field, I channel her perseverance and never-give-up attitude, pushing through tough situations and always striving to overcome obstacles. She taught me that with courage and composure, you can face any adversity, and I bring that mindset to every game and practice.

Who is your favorite NFL team?

Seattle Seahawks

Who is the most underrated teammate at your school?

The most underrated teammate at our school is undoubtedly Justin Valiquette Dion, a relentless and tenacious lockdown corner whose contributions often fly under the radar. 

What is your biggest pet peeve?

My biggest pet peeve is when people are consistently late or fail to respect others’ time and commitments. 

Who is your favorite teacher ever?

Back in my cegep days, Mr. Latt was my favorite teacher. He was always there to support us and help us succeed.

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

One of the hardest moments in my life was when my father fell seriously ill, and I found myself far from my family. Being away from them during such a challenging time was incredibly difficult. I felt torn between pursuing my goals and responsibilities and wanting to be by my father’s side to support him. It was a time when I had to juggle academic commitments, football, and caring for my family from a distance. I learned the true meaning of resilience and perseverance during that period. Despite the emotional strain and uncertainty, I stayed focused on my goals while also providing as much support as I could to my family. It taught me the importance of adaptability, time management, and maintaining a positive mindset in the face of adversity. Ultimately, that experience strengthened my character and shaped me into the person I am today.

If you could have any franchise restaurant in your house what would it be?

If I could have any franchise restaurant in my house, it would be a Ben et Florentine, so I could enjoy the best breakfast every morning, knowing it’s the most important meal of the day. 

What is your favorite snack food?

Banana smoothie’s. 

What is your degree in?

Multidisciplinary bachelor’s degree

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

I would choose to have dinner with Sean Taylor. His incredible talent and passion for the game of football left a lasting impact on the sport and its fans. I’ve always been inspired by his dedication, intensity, and leadership on the field. It would be fascinating to hear firsthand about his experiences, his mindset as a player, and the lessons he learned throughout his career. 

I would also like to have dinner with Mark Cuban. His success as an entrepreneur, investor, and owner of the Dallas Mavericks is truly inspiring. I’m eager to learn from his experiences, insights, and lessons learned throughout his career. Dinner with Cuban would undoubtedly be an enlightening and enriching experience, offering valuable perspectives on entrepreneurship, investing, and leadership. 

I would also like to have dinner with Luke Kuechly. His reputation as a true student of the game precedes him, with his extensive knowledge and ability to read plays before they even happened. I’m fascinated by his approach to studying film, understanding opponents tendencies, and making split-second decisions during games. Dinner with Kuechly would be an incredible opportunity to learn from one of the greatest linebackers of all time. 

What is your biggest weakness?

My biggest weakness is that I tend to be a perfectionist. While striving for excellence can be a positive trait, I sometimes find myself overly critical of my own work. This can lead to unnecessary stress. However, I’m actively working on finding a balance between striving for excellence and recognizing that it’s okay to make mistakes.