2026 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Gabriel Bookman, OL, University of Pikeville

• Name: Gabriel Bookman 
• Position: Offensive Tackle
• College: UPike, transferred from Defiance College
• Height: 6’6
• Weight: 320
• Twitter: @BookmanGabriel
• Instagram: @gabe.77__

What makes you a top prospect at your position in the 2026 NFL Draft? 

I believe I was overlooked in highschool and I have proven myself over the past 3 years. I move very well for my size and learn quickly. I took the starting spot my freshman year and plan to start immediately after transferring as well.

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

NFL teams should know I chase competition. I know how good these pro players are and I want to line up against them. I want to go against the very best because that’s the only way to get better.

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

As a social worker I would donate to a mental health organization. Specifically I want to donate to one that supports school social workers because kids don’t know how to get the help they need, and I was one of those kids.

Who was your role model? 

My role model is my father Bernard Bookman. He has been through hell and he is still successful and caring. He has shown me how to be strong both physically and mentally, and that you don’t have to be nasty or hateful to do so.

Who is your favorite NFL team?

I love the Steelers, they haven’t had a losing season since I’ve been alive, I would love to join them and keep it that way.

Who is the most underrated teammate at your school? 

The most underrated player at DC is Asa Moledor. He has dealt with injuries, he has been that next man at OT, OG, and even TE/FB. He works hard and moves very well, look out for him next year at DC.

What is your biggest pet peeve?  

My biggest pet peeve is people on their phone when you are talking to them. Especially if it’s something important.

Who is your favorite teacher ever? 

Tess Salisbury is my favorite teacher ever. She taught me a lot about social work, and she will tell you the truth not just what she’s told to teach.

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

Last year I sprained my MCL week 1. I had put in so much work and I was very depressed following that injury. I did all my treatment and got back on the field only 4 weeks later. I feel as though I still had a good year with a lot of growth even with that setback.

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

I would love to have a Popeyes, their chicken sandwiches are the absolute best out there.

What is your favorite snack food?

I am a fiend for Parmesan cheese cubes. They’re pretty good for you and they fill you up for a while.

What is your degree in? 

My degree is in social work, I’m going for my master’s staring in the fall.

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

• Travis Scott: I love his music, he’s the only person who I’ve seen live
• My Grandpa: I never got to meet him and he was a massive football fan
• Jesus: my faith means a lot to me, it’s the only reason I’m here

What is your biggest weakness? 

My biggest weakness is definitely my confidence, I have way more on the field than I do anywhere else. But I have come a long way and I’m trying to be more of a leader this season.