2025 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Iraken Armstead, LB, Eastern Illinois University

• Name: Iraken Armstead
• Position: OLB
• College: Eastern Illinois University 
• Height: 6’4
• Weight: 240
• Twitter: @armstead_iraken
• Instagram: @Iraken_ii

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

• I would say my versatility because of the number amount of positions that I have played in my college career. I would also say my athletic ability, I am able to do all things on the field. I would be a great asset to a team. 

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

• That my passion besides football is chess. I think I am really good at it. I take it very seriously and want to be a grandmaster

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

• It would be a cause to get more people around the world to hear the Gospel. In a world that is full of change and Chaos, the one constant is that Jesus Christ will always remain the same. 

Who was your role model?

• My role model is my Mother because no matter what circumstance we may have been in, she always found a way. That is the most hard working lady I know and she has a heart of gold.

Who is your favorite NFL team?

• I grew up a Raiders fan. What drew me to them was their uniforms and the crazy fans they always had at the games.

Who is the most underrated teammate at your school?

• Isaiah Houi. He was a freshman last season and was thrown into the fire. As the season went on he got better and I personally think he has the potential to be an All American in his time to come.

What is your biggest pet peeve?

• Dirty people. I can understand that things will be messy or unorganized at times but if you aren’t willing to clean up after yourself then I will have a problem. Not saying I am the cleanest person but everyone should hold themselves to a higher standard. 

Who is your favorite teacher ever?

• My dawg Mr. Nowicki. He was my English teacher my freshman and senior year. He would not only teach us about the required material but also about life.

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

• Growing up in poverty. Things are definitely better now but my childhood was rough due to the last of finances. 

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

• Panda Express, it is one of the healthier options out there and they actually have great food.

What is your favorite snack food?

• The Smucker PB&J’s are a staple. Easy to pack and hit every time. Strawberry and Grape are good.

What is your degree in?

• Organizational Development and a minor in Business Administration 

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

• 1. Jesus Christ because I would want to tell Him thank you. 2. Bobby Fischer so we can talk chess and he can help me improve on my weaknesses in the game. 3. Warren Buffet, just to talk about finances and how to use my money wisely.

What is your biggest weakness?

• I am my biggest critic. Nobody will ever be as hard on me than I am on myself. I expect greatness in all aspects of my life and if I am not living up to those standards then I will beat myself up for it.