2026 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Isaiah Smith, RB, University of Guelph

• Name: Isaiah Smith
• Position: RB
• College: University of Guelph
• Height: 6’1
• Weight: 230
• Twitter: I_Smith24
• Instagram: ismith._

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

I bring versatility to the running back position. I can run the ball, catch out of the backfield, and block in both pass protection and as a lead blocker. I take pride in excelling at every aspect of the position because I want to be a three-down back who never has to come off the field. My combination of size, speed, football IQ, and technique makes me a complete back capable of handling any down and distance. I continually push myself to earn the trust of my coaches and teammates, knowing they can rely on me to get the job done in any situation. That is why I consider myself a top prospect in the 2026 NFL Draft.

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

Teams should know that they are getting a perfectionist. On the field and in the film room, I am a coachable player who is always willing to learn and grow, both as an athlete and as a man. Everything I do is focused on becoming the best player I can be in order to help achieve the team’s goals. I am the type of player who strives to outwork the man beside me and set an example for those who look up to me. I take pride in being a leader, someone who can motivate and hold others accountable while also earning their trust through my own effort and consistency. I am willing to do whatever it takes to win, from being a supportive teammate to being a fierce competitor.

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

If I could donate to any cause in the world, it would be Big Brothers Big Sisters. This organization is dedicated to fostering mentoring relationships and empowering youth by helping them realize their potential. What many people don’t know is that Big Brothers Big Sisters has had a profound impact on my own life. I joined the program at age 10, and as an only child, it gave me the confidence I needed to grow while encouraging me to pursue my goals and passions. Through the program, I met Adam and Heather, who were my “Big Brother” and “Big Sister,” but who I now consider family. Big Brothers Big Sisters also sparked my passion for mentoring, which is why I serve as a Student-Athlete Mentor (SAM) at Guelph today. I believe it’s essential to support and uplift youth, as they are the future, and I’m grateful to be a shoulder for those who need it.

Who was your role model?

The biggest role model in my life is my mother. She has taught me countless life lessons, instilled confidence in me, and always pushed me to pursue my goals and passions. She introduced me to football and shaped me into the man I am today. She is my biggest supporter, the best leader, and the most intelligent person I know. Everything I do is for her, and I couldn’t ask for a better role model—without her, I don’t know where I would be today.

Who is your favorite NFL team?

The Las Vegas Raiders.

Who is the most underrated teammate at your school?

Underrated on our team isn’t one singular guy; it’s units. For me, it’s the O-line and our H-backs. They set angles and protection IDs, and they bring a physical tone that travels to any stadium. In the run game they win combos to second-level defenders, seal the C-gap or kick out on power. In pass protection they sort calls and pick up add-ons so I can release or help. Because their communication is so disciplined, my picture is clean: press the double, cram it, or bend it backside. That turns into efficient first downs and real fourth-quarter yards. My name might show up, but my success stems from those groups.

What is your biggest pet peeve?

My biggest pet peeve is loud eating. I care about shared-space etiquette, and that sound is obnoxious.

Who is your favorite teacher ever?

My favorite teacher is my chemistry teacher, Mr. Pitt. He took complex ideas and made them practical with quick demos and clear steps. He also gave direct feedback and expected us to prepare, which taught me accountability. That approach helped me in school and in sport because it rewards consistent habits.

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

After a Rookie of the Year season in 2022, I entered the next year with big goals. In the first game I tore my ACL. The hardest part was not just the pain, it was the identity hit. I dealt with imposter syndrome and did not know what was next. I built a simple plan to stay grounded: win rehab every day, study film, keep a goal notebook, and serve the team in meetings and on the sideline. Little by little the strength returned, my confidence followed, and so did my love for the sport. That stretch defined my character more than any stat line over the last four years.

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

I would skip a franchise and choose an unlimited pantry. I love cooking, and my roommates and I have cooked together since our second year. The best part is learning and sharing. With a stocked pantry we can recreate our comfort meals, try new recipes, and host friends and teammates. It is more fun than ordering out, and it is what brought us together. We have made some core memories in the process.

What is your favorite snack food?

My favorite snack is a yogurt parfait bowl. It’s light, packed with nutrients, and easy to make.

What is your degree in?

My degree is a bachelor of science, studying Human Kinetics.

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

I would choose my immediate family. They have been there since day one, through highs and lows, and they are the reason I handle pressure the way I do. I would want that dinner to be about listening and saying thank you. The lessons they taught me about consistency, faith, and humility are the foundation for everything I do.

What is your biggest weakness?

My biggest weakness is perfectionism. I want to be the best in whatever I do, and sometimes I overanalyze small details or get frustrated when things are not perfect. I have learned to channel it. For film and assignments, I set a clear definition of done, limit my review to a set window, and choose the top three changes that will move results. I also get quick feedback from a coach or peer, then lock it and move forward. That keeps my standard high without slowing the team. The goal is progress that helps the team.