2025 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Donté Reed, DE, Mississippi Valley State University

• Name: Donté Reed
• Position: Edge/LB
• College: Mississippi Valley State University 
• Height: 6’1
• Weight: 245lbs
• Twitter: Donny_4x
• Instagram: donte_.44

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

My God-given combination of elite speed, explosiveness, and relentless motor sets me apart. I take pride in my preparation, from intense film study to perfecting my technique, and I approach every snap with purpose. I believe what truly separates me is my mindset: I’m never satisfied, and I’ll outwork anyone to ensure I’m consistently making an impact on the field. 

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

I’m a relentless competitor on and off the field and refuse to be outworked. I constantly find a way and don’t let my circumstances dictate my outcome. I enjoy leading by example on and off the field and helping wherever I’m needed. 

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

I would donate to programs who specialize in mentorship as well as athletic opportunities for underserved/underrepresented areas who don’t have the privilege of efficient resources, helping them to see that they can achieve their dreams and goals with the proper support. 

Who was your role model?

My mother because I watched her raise three kids with little to nothing and didn’t allow her circumstances dictate our outcome. She instilled in me resiliency and immense faith in God 

Who is your favorite NFL team?

My favorite NFL team is the Chicago Bears because of their intense defensive standard. Players like Charles “Peanut” Tillman, Julius Peppers, Brian Urlacher, Lance Briggs, and Khalil Mack stood out to me because of their relentless pursuit to the ball and consistency of causing turnovers. 

What is your biggest pet peeve?

People who are unappreciative, make excuses on instead of working to find solutions and people who enjoy complacency. Life is about being grateful for the little things and pushing yourself to be better despite what the world thinks or says. 

Who is your favorite teacher ever?

Mr. Lagger my 7th grade Gym teacher, because he always taught me to have an optimistic outlook on life no matter what happens. 

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

The hardest moment in my life was being told by multiple doctors that I’d never play football again. After jumping into the Gulf of Mexico to save two people from drowning, I swam for two exhausting hours through an aggressive tide with 10-12 foot waves. The physical toll on my body was overwhelming, and I ended up in critical condition, spending four days in the ICU and one day in the CVU.

The most painful part wasn’t just the physical strain but it was witnessing the man who came to rescue me suffer a heart attack in the water and pass away in front of me. Despite my fatigue and heartbreak, I refused to leave him behind. With the help of local firefighters, I carried his lifeless body back to shore, ensuring he was brought home with dignity.

In the aftermath, doctors doubted my ability to return to the game I love. But I refused to accept that as my ending. I leaned heavily on God, trusting that His strength would carry me through. With immense prayer, determination, and unwavering faith, I pushed my body and mind every day. What seemed impossible became reality. I returned to football stronger than ever. That experience showed me that no matter how impossible the situation may seem, with resilience, hard work, and God’s guidance, there’s always a way forward.

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

Chipotle because it’s healthy and has flexible food options for me to fuel my body efficiently. 

What is your favorite snack food? 

Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups

What is your degree in?

General Studies

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

Jesus because he is the TRUTH and the WAY! I want to learn as much as I can from meeting him face to face. John Randle to understand his resilient mindset from coming from a small town, James Harrison to understand his work ethic in sharpening skills on the field and dominating the weight room. 

What is your biggest weakness?

I’m my biggest critic which can be good for wanting to be the best version of myself but destructive if I let my thoughts consume me.