2025 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Isaiah Couser, DE, Ithaca College

• Name: Isaiah Couser
• Position: Defensive End (Edge Rusher)
• College: Ithaca College
• Height: 6”3 1/2
• Weight: 235
• Twitter: IsaiahCouser94
• Instagram: xayyxo

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

I am a top prospect at the defensive end because I am a coachable player who brings an everyday mentality that includes having a Positive Attitude, Urgency, and Attention to detail. My work ethic both on and off the field reflects my dedication to improving every day and helping my team as well as my teammates win. My quickness and ability to maneuver around and through offensive linemen is what truly sets me apart from others in my position.

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

NFL teams should know that I thrive in a team environment. My experience as a student-athlete has helped me balance hard work, dedication, and teamwork. I’m always striving to lead by example. My personality embraces challenges with a positive mindset, and I work hard to bring a lot of energy and focus to every situation, whether that is on or off the field.

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

If I could donate to one cause in the world I would donate to an organization that takes care of NICU babies. This cause is very personal to my family, and I want to contribute to helping those families during difficult times.

Who was your role model?

I grew up with a lot of role models who guided and shaped me, but as I’ve matured, I’ve come to realize that my greatest motivation comes from within. At this point in my life, I’m mostly self-motivated. I believe that striving to be the best version of myself motivates me more than anything else. I constantly push myself to reach new heights, knowing that every day is an opportunity to improve, learn, and grow no matter what my circumstances may be during that time.

Who is your favorite NFL team?

My Favorite NFL team is the Buffalo Bills, I grew up in a BillsMafia home with my dad’s family being from Buffalo and my mom being a Bills fan as well. I didn’t start off as a big fan, but I became one after attending my first NFL game where the Buffalo Bills played the New England Patriots in December of 2023. I would say this experience sealed it for me.

Who is the most underrated teammate at your school?

I don’t have any specific names but there are a lot of guys who go unnoticed on the team who consistently work hard but might not always get the recognition they deserve. These are guys who embody determination and will push through and show up day in and day out for their teammates.

What is your biggest pet peeve?

One of my biggest pet peeves is complaining without doing anything to solve the problem. If there’s an issue, I prefer to take steps to fix it rather than dwell on it. I respect dedication and hard work, and it’s frustrating when people don’t put in the effort to be their best. I also cannot tolerate disrespect towards others, whether it’s through rude behavior or dismissive attitudes. Other than that, I can have fun and let a lot of things slide, but these are my main pet peeves.

Who is your favorite teacher ever?

My Parents are the ones who truly believed in me early in my career, helping me improve my confidence on the field and in the classroom by helping me step up my academic performance. This made a lasting impact on me throughout my college career helping me become more focused and driven.

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

I would say I’ve been through a lot of adversity throughout my life that built me to who I am today ready to smile in the face of diversity at any given moment. The hardest moment in my life was balancing academics, football, and personal growth during my sophomore year of college. It was a pivotal time, but it pushed me to become more confident in my abilities and who I am as a person for myself and for others.

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

One franchise restaurant I would choose in my house would be Chipotle because not only is it my go-to restaurant right now but my two favorite foods have to be rice and steak but the queso tops everything off.

What is your favorite snack food?

I love snacking on fruit and trail mix, but if you put some Nerds Clusters in front of me, then we’re talking!

What is your degree in?

I’m pursuing a degree in Advertising, Public Relations, Marketing, and Communications at Ithaca College.

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

Mark Cuban, Bill Belichek, and Muhammad Ali are all great representations of bringing a wealth of knowledge and experience in business, leadership, and sports. Mark Cuban is a self-made billionaire known for his entrepreneurial spirit, innovation, and sharp entrepreneurship. Bill Belichick, one of the most successful coaches in NFL history, is a master of leadership, strategy, and team-building. His disciplined approach, attention to detail, and ability to create winning cultures would offer deep insights into what it takes to consistently perform at the highest level in any field. Muhammed Ali was a symbol of confidence, resilience, and standing up for what he believed in. His approach to mental toughness, personal conviction, and overcoming adversity is inspiring and thought-provoking to this day.

What is your biggest weakness?

My biggest weakness is that I can be overly self-critical, whether it’s in football, academics, or life. I’ve seen a lot of people struggle, especially where I come from, and I constantly reflect on that. I tend to focus on what I could have done better, which can sometimes make me dwell on mistakes longer than necessary. While this pushes me to improve I am learning to balance it by acknowledging my progress and keeping that ‘Next Play Mentality’ off the field as well as on.