2026 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Zakvil Smith, WR, Barton College
- Name: Zakvil Smith
- Position: Wide Receiver
- College: Barton College
- Height: 6’6
- Weight: 210 lbs
- Twitter: @ZakvilSmith14
- Instagram: @14problems
What makes you a top prospect at your position in the 2026 NFL Draft?
At 6’6”, I’m a matchup problem for any defender. I use my size, hands, and route-running to dominate one-on-one situations. I’m physical, I block hard, and I can high-point the ball in tight coverage. I’m constantly studying film to elevate my game and bring intensity to every rep.
What is one thing that NFL teams should know about you?
I’m a competitor to the core. I don’t back down, I don’t make excuses, and I’ll outwork anyone. I take pride in representing my team, my school, and my family the right way.
If you could donate to one cause in the world, what would it be?
I’d donate to sports youth groups and support my community back home. Helping kids get involved in sports and providing opportunities in my hometown means a lot to me.
Who was your role model?
Calvin (Megatron) Johnson. The way he played the game with power, precision, and quiet dominance is exactly how I want to carry myself. He set the standard for big receivers like me.
Who is your favorite NFL team?
The Carolina Panthers always admired the way they played with toughness and passion also that’s the only team stadium that i’ve been to.
Who is the most underrated teammate at your school?
All of them. Every guy on our roster plays a role and puts in work behind the scenes that most people don’t see. I’ve got nothing but respect for all my teammates.
What is your biggest pet peeve?
People who talk more than they work. I respect action, not just words.
Who is your favorite teacher ever?
Coach Jason Wilson believed in me on and off the field and always pushed me to be my best.
Overcoming adversity is what defines character, what was the hardest moment in your life to overcome?
Coming up financially unstable was tough, there were times we struggled. On top of that, I became the first in my family to go to college, play college football, and now I’m working toward finishing my degree while raising my 3-year-old daughter. Balancing all of that hasn’t been easy, but it’s what’s built my drive and character.
If you could have any franchise restaurant in your house what would it be?
Chipotle because it’s quick, healthy, and always hits after a long practice or workout.
What is your favorite snack food?
Gushers and skittles always clutch before or after a game or workout.
What is your degree in?
Sports Management
If you could have dinner with three people dead or alive, who would it be and why?
- Ivory Lee Huggins III – My first cousin. He passed too soon, and I’d give anything to share one more moment with him.
- My great-grandmother Alice – She meant so much to our family and shaped who I am today.
- My baby brother Bam Bam – He passed early in life, and I carry his memory with me every day. That dinner would be everything.
What is your biggest weakness?
Sometimes I overthink situations because I want everything to be perfect. I’m learning to relax, trust my work, and just let the game come to me.
NFL Draft Diamonds was created to assist the underdogs playing the sport. We call them diamonds in the rough. My name is Damond Talbot, I have worked extremely hard to help hundreds of small school players over the past several years, and will continue my mission. We have several contributors on this site, and if they contribute their name and contact will be in the piece above. You can email me at nfldraftdiamonds@gmail.com