2025 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Mali Harris-Strayhorn, WR, Fayetteville State University

• Name: Mali Harris-Strayhorn 
• Position: WR
• College: Fayetteville St University
• Height: 6”4
• Weight: 192lb
• Twitter: Mj_no10
• Instagram: Mj.no23

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

What makes me a unique value 2025 NFL Draft prospect comes from a combination of adaptability, intelligence, and versatility. My size, strength, and speed make me a rare combination in terms of raw athletic potential. I’m built to handle the physicality of the NFL while maintaining agility and flexibility that allows me to excel in multiple fazes of the game. Unlimited Ceiling and Consistent Growth within the game I didn’t start playing till my Senior year of highschool. Improving my mental toughness, leadership, and ability to elevate teammates. I take pride in being someone who can inspire those around me, helping to create a winning environment on and off the field. These qualities make me a top prospect because NFL teams are looking for players who cannot only produce now but who also have the potential to grow into stars at the next level.

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

One thing NFL teams should know about me is that I am relentlessly committed to continuous improvement, both on and off the field. I’m not satisfied with just being good; I’m driven to be great. Whether it’s refining my technique, enhancing my mental game, or studying the finer details of the opposition, I put in the work to make sure I’m always evolving. This mindset allows me to consistently raise my level of play and be an asset to my team in any situation. NFL teams can trust that I will not only bring my best every day but will also always strive to be better than I was yesterday.

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

If I could donate to one cause, it would be education, particularly in underserved communities. Access to quality education is a powerful tool for breaking the cycle of poverty and creating opportunities for future generations. It empowers individuals to realize their potential and make lasting, positive changes in their lives and communities. By investing in education, I believe we can provide people with the skills, knowledge, and confidence to tackle the challenges they face and ultimately create a more equitable world.

Who was your role model? 

My Role model has been my Mother watching her countless days and nights grind with 6 children including myself always food on the table place to sleep.

Who is your favorite NFL team?

I don’t really have one I’ve been a big fan of just the sport and watching particular players l

Who is the most underrated teammate at your school? 

AJ Moss DB

What is your biggest pet peeve? 

My biggest pet peeve is being told that something will happen but it doesn’t fall through 

Who is your favorite teacher ever?

My favorite teacher is Ms. Docken High School

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

Having home troubles to move back to NC from OH having to learn football post highschool an being an advocate for myself to get a scholarship at a school 

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 probably be Chick-fil-A. Their consistent quality, variety of options, and reputation for excellent customer service make it a standout. Plus, having access to their chicken sandwiches, waffle fries, and sauces on demand would be a game-changer! It’s comfort food at its best, and the convenience of having it available whenever I want would be hard to beat.

What is your favorite snack food? 

My favorite snack is chips and guacamole 

What is your degree in? 

My degree is in sports management 

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

If I could have dinner with three people, dead or alive, I’d choose Dr.Sebi, As a renowned herbalist and holistic healer, Dr. Sebi’s approach to health and wellness has fascinated me for years. His deep understanding of the body’s natural ability to heal itself through nutrition and his advocacy for plant-based diets could provide invaluable insight into how we can optimize our health, both physically and mentally. Muhammad Ali, The greatest boxer of all time, but also a cultural and social icon, Ali was a master at blending athleticism with activism. I would love to hear him share stories about his career, his battles outside the ring for civil rights, and his mindset in overcoming personal struggles. His perspective on resilience, purpose, and leadership would be truly inspiring. Maya Angelou, Her wisdom, grace, and powerful words have had a profound impact on society. Maya Angelou’s ability to express the complexities of human emotion and social justice through her poetry and writing would make for a rich and meaningful conversation. Her views on overcoming adversity, embracing self-love, and finding one’s voice would be invaluable. This dinner would be an incredible mix of learning about personal growth, resilience, health, and the pursuit of justice.

What is your biggest weakness?

My biggest weakness I’d say is that I can be overly self-critical at times. I set high standards for myself and can be hard on myself when I don’t meet them. While this drives me to constantly improve, it can also lead to moments of frustration or self-doubt. I’ve learned to embrace mistakes as part of the growth process, but it’s something I continually work on—finding the balance between striving for excellence and practicing self-compassion.