2026 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Elijah Howard, RB, Central Connecticut State University

• Name: Elijah Howard
• Position: Running Back 
• College: Central Connecticut State University 
• Height: 5’10
• Weight: 183
• Instagram: E_izzy2
• Twitter: e_izzy3

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

What makes me a top prospect for the 2026 at running back is my ability to change the game. Live on always making the first tackler miss and never letting my feet die through contact. I can make defenders miss in a phone booth and get up field. Also, my overall understanding of the game being able to manipulate the defensive line and linebackers to set up my blockers. I can be a threat out the back field as well, certain hands when it comes my way in the check down. 3rd and short and 4th and short 100% on the season when I’ve received the ball. 

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

If I could donate it would certainly be to help the ones that need shelter. I believe everyone deserves to have a place to lay their head at the end of the day. My role model would be both my parents. The relentless hours of working and just maneuvering through life motivates me and makes me keep going. My favorite team is the Tennessee Titans, home team and I enjoy watching Chris Johnson highlights. I would say Mike Trov, the guy is an absolute stud, can play and position on the field and thrives on special team every play he’s in.

What is your biggest pet peeve? 

Biggest pet peeve would be, watching people waste their opportunity to reach their max potential. 

Who is your favorite teacher ever?

My favorite teacher would be Mr. Brown from my high school. Real standup guy and made learning fun and also was a football fanatic. 

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

One of the biggest moments I had to overcome in my life was losing my grandmother. Being a big staple in the family that brought so many together and loved everybody the same was heartbreaking, but knowing she is my guardian angel gives me hope daily. If I could have any franchise in my house, it would definitely be 881 Grab and go a Caribbean restaurant in Hartford Connecticut that serves Elite dishes. My favorite snack would be blue Doritos for sure. 

What is your degree in? 

My current degree is in general studies. 

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

If I could have dinner with 3 people dead or alive it would be my 3 brothers, they all well and blood running warm but due to us living all across America, it makes it hard for us to all to be in one location at one time. My biggest weakness would be myself. At the end of the day if you done prepare currently or be fully engaged at where your feet are you allow others to keep a jump on you. So, I would say myself because it’s on you at the end of the day and how you go about handling your future.