2025 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Willie Rice, DB, University of Central Oklahoma

• Name: Willie Rice 
• Position: Cornerback/Nickel 
• College: University of Central Oklahoma 
• Height: 5’10
• Weight: 185
• Twitter: WillieRice02
• Instagram: Yk555_

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

My relentless work ethic and genuine love for the game set me apart as a top prospect for the NFL Draft. I thrive in clutch moments and high-pressure environments, consistently delivering when it matters most. As a natural leader, I inspire those around me to elevate their game, and my obsession with mastering technique and studying film ensures that I’m always one step ahead. My dedication to improvement and passion for football make me ready to excel 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’m resilient and thrive under pressure, no matter the circumstances. I embrace challenges head-on, staying calm, focused, and determined even in the toughest situations. Whether it’s making a critical defensive stop or overcoming setbacks I have the mental toughness and grit to rise to the occasion. Adversity only fuels my drive to succeed, and I take pride in being the kind of player teammates and coaches can depend on when the stakes are at their highest.

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 the homeless. I want to be part of the solution. By donating, I could help break the cycle of poverty, giving people the tools and resources they need to regain stability through shelter, job training, and education. I hope to inspire others to act with generosity and compassion. Even small contributions can have an immediate impact providing meals, clothing, or shelter and offer people hope and a path towards a brighter future.

Who was your role model? 

My role model growing up was my mother, seeing how hard she worked night and day to provide the best environment and circumstances for me and my brother. She always told me “nothing is never given to you in  life you have to go work hard and earn it” 

Who is your favorite NFL team?

My favorite NFL team is the Ravens I always been a huge Ray Lewis supporter 

Who is the most underrated teammate at your school? 

The most underrated teammate at my school is Terrill Davis, He consistently puts in the work, does the little things that don’t always show up on the stat sheet, and stays ready to make big plays when it counts.

What is your biggest pet peeve? 

My biggest pet peeve is dishonesty. I value trust in all relationships, whether on or off the field. Being upfront and truthful builds strong connections and shows respect, so dishonesty is something I find hard to overlook.

Who is your favorite teacher ever?

My favorite teacher ever is Mrs. Ratcliff, my 9th-grade Spanish teacher. Her positive energy and genuine care for her students left a lasting impact on me.

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

The hardest moment in my life was losing my brother. It tore me apart emotionally, leaving me feeling lost and heartbroken. But through the unwavering support of my family and coaches, who reminded me of what he would have wanted for me, I found the strength to keep going.

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

If I could have any franchise restaurant in my house or would be Texas Roadhouse 

What is your favorite snack food? 

Pringles

What is your degree in? 

General studies / safety 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, it would be Kobe Bryant, Gervonta Davis, and Kenny Moore. Kobe inspires me with his unmatched work ethic, ‘Mamba Mentality,’ and dedication to greatness. Gervonta Davis represents resilience and determination, showing how to rise above challenges and succeed at the highest level. Kenny Moore, with his leadership and impact as a player and person, embodies the kind of well-rounded greatness I strive for both on and off the field.

What is your biggest weakness?

My biggest weakness is trying to do everybody else’s job. I care so deeply about the success of the team that I sometimes overextend myself trying to cover for others