2026 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Marko Rajkovic, TE, Wisconsin La-Crosse

• Name: Marko Rajkovic
• Position: Tight End
• College: University of Wisconsin-La Crosse
• Height: 6’4”
• Weight: 245
• Twitter: rajkovic_marko
• Instagram: markorajkovicc

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

I’m a physical, reliable tight end who takes pride in blocking just as much as catching. I bring versatility — I can play in-line, split out, or on special teams. I’m a leader on and off the field, a team captain, and I’ve committed myself fully to developing as a complete football player

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

I’m someone who’s always looking to learn, grow, and get better every single day. Coming from a smaller school, I know I’ll always have that chip on my shoulder 

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

Making people happy.

Who was your role model? 

My dad. The strongest, smartest, most caring man I know who I hope to be half as good as. 

Who is your favorite NFL team?

Being from Wisconsin I got to say Packers. But to be honest, I don’t have one specific favorite team. 

Who is the most underrated teammate at your school? 

Tate Pitcher. Insanely skilled DB. 

What is your biggest pet peeve? 

Messy people.

Who is your favorite teacher ever?

Mrs. Alcorn. 3rd and 4th grade teacher. 

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

My freshman year when I walked on at Illinois. I had a dream of playing Big-10 football, and I gave everything I had. But after that year, I ended up transferring. It was a tough pill to swallow — I questioned myself, and for a moment, I even thought about giving up football altogether. But deep down, I knew I wasn’t done. I still loved the game, and I wasn’t going to let one chapter define my whole story. Transferring to UWL gave me a fresh start, and I poured everything into becoming the best version of myself. That experience made me tougher, hungrier, and more grateful. It’s a big part of why I’m the player and person I am today.”

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

Panda Express. First off, the variety is unbeatable  whether I’m craving something sweet like orange chicken or something more savory like Beijing beef, they’ve got it. Plus, it’s the perfect balance of comfort food and quick energy, which is fire after a workout or practice. Honestly, having unlimited access to those noodles and fried rice might be dangerous.

What is your favorite snack food? 

Suvo Meso (dry meat in Serbian). It refers to a traditional style of cured and smoked meat that is popular in Serbia and throughout the Balkans.

What is your degree in? 

Double Major: Business Management and Marketing

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

I’d pick Rob Gronkowski, Kevin Hart, and Kobe Bryant. Gronk because as a tight end, I’d love to hear firsthand what it takes to dominate at that position and just his mindset on and off the field — he’s a guy who brings so much energy and passion, on and off the field. Kevin Hart because I think we all know why. And Kobe Bryant — he’s an inspiration to me in terms of relentless work ethic, leadership, and the Mamba Mentality. Having a dinner like that would be a chance to learn from some of the best in sports and entertainment.

What is your biggest weakness?

Coming from a smaller school, I’ve always felt like I needed to prove myself. That chip on my shoulder drives me, but there were times it made me try to do too much or press too hard. I’ve learned to play within myself, stick to my fundamentals, and let my work speak for itself.