2026 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Muhammad-Ali Kobo, DE, Cornell
- Name: Muhammad-Ali Kobo
- Height: 6’3”
- Weight: 261 lbs.
- Position: Defensive End/Edge
- College: Cornell University
- Twitter: D1kobo
- Instagram: _kobo
Talk about your experience as a student. What is your major/minor? Did you participate in any other activities or campus organizations other than football?
As a student, I put a tremendous amount of energy into football while still performing well academically. I majored in Psychology, and some of my favorite courses were Sports Psychology, Cognitive Psychology, and Developmental Psychology — they helped me better understand myself and others. While I wasn’t heavily involved in other organizations, I participated in community service through the football program — youth camps, fun days, and blood drives. I was also featured in a motivational video aimed at incoming freshmen about the Cornell experience — which made it all the more disappointing when I felt left behind by the same institution.
What do you think your teammates would say is your best quality?
My teammates would say I bring an unmatched edge and tenacity. I never take “no” as a final answer. I fight through adversity, play with passion, and care deeply for my brothers on and off the field. I’m someone they can trust — in the locker room and in life.
What kind of role do you see yourself in on the team? What scheme and/or position suits your skill set?
I’m a plug-and-play guy — wherever you put me, I’ll thrive. I bring focus, toughness, and leadership. I excel in 4-2-5 systems as an outside linebacker or edge rusher, and in 4-3 defenses at the weakside linebacker or 4th rusher spot. My mindset is simple: dominate, communicate, elevate. Being persistent in those allows me to mesh with any defense I play in.
Who is the best player you have ever played against in college?
Malachi Hosley from Penn — he’s a tough, downhill runner. He turned losses into gains and never went down easy. That relentlessness reminded me of myself and challenged me to elevate my game every snap.
Which one of your teammates impresses you the most?
Luke Banbury — without question. He lit up the field every Saturday, constantly diagnosing plays and leading from the front. His film preparation and football IQ were next level. Luke was the kind of guy who made the entire defense right when everything else broke down. I learned a lot from watching how seriously he approached the game.
Describe a time in your life when you were able to overcome a struggle.
Honestly, I’m living it right now. After being denied a final year of eligibility — despite limited freshman-year action and no redshirt option — I could’ve walked away. But I didn’t. I’ve kept training, taking summer classes, and exploring every path to get back to the game I love. I’ve been told “no” by institutions, but I’m still saying “yes” to myself. That persistence — through injury, miscommunication, and injustice — is what sets me apart. I’m not bitter about the struggle. I’m blessed by it. Because the struggle built me.
If you didn’t play football, what other sport would you play?
Wrestling. The intensity and one-on-one nature of it remind me of what I love most about football — grit, discipline, and battling until the final whistle. It’s a sport that rewards resilience.
What is something that you are most proud of? What would you say is your biggest achievement so far?
I’m most proud of my adaptability. Football has always been the platform where I express myself, but the thing I’m truly proud of happened off the field. In 2023, I served as a lead speaker for Cornell’s Mental Health Lunch-on. That experience pushed me out of my comfort zone — sharing my story as a student-athlete, talking about the struggles, the pressure, and the mental side of performance. What hit me the most wasn’t just telling my truth, but hearing others respond. Their feedback made me realize that what I’d been through had the power to help others. That moment showed me my purpose goes beyond football. It’s about using my platform to create space for the next generation — so one day, someone who heard my story might feel seen, or even inspired to share their own.
Describe one of the most memorable plays of your collegiate career.
One of the most memorable moments of my college career was a double-spin sack I had against Princeton during my sophomore year. It was one of the first times I really got meaningful reps, and I came into that game locked in — just focused on doing my job and trusting that the plays would come to me. And they did.
It was 3rd and 12, a critical down against one of the most explosive offenses in the Ivy League. I keyed in on the tackle’s stance and knew he’d try to get outside quick to counter my speed. So I hit him with a tight spin inside. As I came around, I saw the quarterback stepping up to escape the pocket to my left. I dropped my hips, spun back the other way, and cut off his exit. Tracked him down for a 12-yard sack — textbook execution.
That play was a product of everything: film study, instinct, grit, and trusting the work I put in. It was my first big statement — showing I belonged, that I could rise to the moment, and that I’d never stop hunting my opportunity, even if it came late.
Do you have a favorite athlete or professional team? Is there a player that you model your game after?
Muhammad Ali — not just the boxer, but the man. His grace, honesty, and leadership inspired millions. I try to carry that same duality: relentless competitor and thoughtful leader. On the field, I model my play after guys like Max Crosby and K’lavon Chaisson— complete edge/Outside Linebacker guys who can run, hit, and make plays.
Who is your favorite music artist? What gets you pumped before a game?
Lil Baby and Rod Wave — both of them speak to different sides of who I am. Before a game, I usually start off with Rod Wave. His music hits deep — it’s emotional, reflective, and reminds me of everything I’ve been through just to get to that moment. One of my go-to songs is “Ribbon in the Sky.” It sets the tone — calm, focused, but full of heart. Then I turn to Lil Baby to get hyped. Songs like “I Promise” or “Catch the Sun” light a fire in me. His confidence, hunger, and self-made mentality mirror mine. Together, that playlist brings out the emotion and the edge — the perfect balance before I step on the field.
What is your favorite comfort food?
Definitely my mom’s homemade mac and cheese. That dish takes me right back to family, warmth, and everything I’m fighting for. It’s become more than a comfort food. Every bite brings me back to the roots that keep me grounded, no matter how far I go.
Do you have a favorite movie, TV show or actor?
Creed III hit home for me. I watched it very recently and the theme of being counted out, facing your past, and finding strength in adversity mirrors my story. Every scar is a badge of growth, and I try to emulate that mindset as much as possible.
What do you do in your spare time? Do you have any hobbies? Any secret talents?
I’m deeply invested in mental skills training. My goal is to become a clinical sports psychologist after football. I spend time reading, journaling, and studying how the mind affects performance. That’s the next level of impact I want to have — helping athletes perform and heal mentally. To that I must start with myself first.
Why do you play football? Who or what motivates you the most?
I play for my family — for my mom, who first signed me up, and my older brother, who always believed in me. I play for my community back that supports me back home, and for the kids who never had the same shot I did. I’ve been told I’m done, but I know I’m not. I’ve got more to give. All I ask for is one more opportunity, not to do it for myself but to do it for them.
Content Creator & Senior Writer for NFL Draft Diamonds. Independent Scouting Consultant.