2026 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Joseph Obeto, DB, University of St. Thomas (MN)

Name: Joseph Obeto
Position: DB
College: University of Saint Thomas (Minnesota)
Height: 5′ 11″
Weight: 185 lbs
X: @obeii22
Instagram: @pay.obie1

What made you decide you wanted to be a football player?

I fell in love with football because of how much it demands from you—not just physically, but mentally and emotionally. I loved the discipline, the competition, and the brotherhood that came with it. Football pushed me to become stronger, more focused, and more responsible, and that challenge is what drew me in from the beginning.

What are your favorite moments from your football life?

My favorite moments aren’t just big plays—they’re the tough practices, late nights, and moments of growth with my teammates. Some of the best memories come from earning a starting role, battling through adversity, and celebrating wins as a team after putting in the work when no one was watching.

What are you looking to achieve as a football player going forward?

I’m focused on developing into the best version of myself on and off the field. I want to compete at the highest level possible, continue growing as a leader, and leave a positive impact everywhere I play. My ultimate goal is to maximize my potential and put myself in a position to play football at the next level.

If you could hang out with any football player past or present for a day, who and why?

I would choose Deion Sanders, Coach Prime, because he’s one of the greatest to ever play the game and an even better leader and mentor. I’d want to learn how he handled pressure, stayed confident, and transitioned from being an elite player to an elite coach.

Which one of your family members inspires you the most and why?

My dad inspires me the most because of how hard he works every day—balancing his job while being there for his kids. He’s shown me what consistency, sacrifice, and responsibility really look like, and that motivates me to push myself harder in everything I do.

What is your favorite defensive scheme and why?

My favorite scheme is man coverage because it’s about pride and confidence. It’s you versus the receiver—no hiding. It forces you to compete every snap and perfect your technique. I take pride in that responsibility.

What should we know about Joseph Obeto the person?

I’m a driven individual who takes pride in consistency, effort, and growth. I’m someone who leads by actions just as much as words. Off the field, I value family, accountability, and setting a good example. Football is what I do—not who I am—but I approach it with everything I’ve got.

What stands out about your film the most?

What stands out is my versatility, physicality, and play recognition. I’m a disciplined defender who understands concepts, communicates well, and plays with confidence and effort every snap.

How do you handle challenges both in life and on the football field?

I face challenges head-on. I don’t run from adversity—I learn from it. Whether it’s a bad game or a tough situation off the field, I stay focused on improving and moving forward.

What would a team get in a player like you?

A team is getting a competitor, a dependable player, and a leader. I bring toughness, accountability, and a team-first mentality. I’m going to show up and give everything I have every day.

What do you love the most about the game of football?

I love the discipline, the structure, and the brotherhood. Football teaches you life lessons like perseverance, accountability, and resilience that carry over into everything you do.

Who is the most underrated player you’ve played with and why?

The most underrated player I’ve played with is Freddie Roberson he played with me at Eastern Washington University before I transferred, because he was an extremely fast and twitchy wide receiver who never got the recognition he deserved. Competing against someone like him made me better every day, and he’s one of those players whose impact doesn’t always show on paper but shows up on the field.