2026 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Nathan Kibambe, DB, Saginaw Valley State

• Name: Nathan Ejiba Kibambe
• Position: Star / Nickel / Safety / Slot CB
• College: Saginaw Valley State University (SVSU)
• Height: 5’11
• Weight: 210
• Twitter: @Nathan1Kibambe
• Instagram: @Nathan1Kibambe

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

My path through college football started with something most players will never experience. On August 1st, 2018 my first day of fall camp at Garden City Community College one of my teammates, Braeden Bradford, passed away during an extreme conditioning test that later gained national attention. I was the one who found him. That moment changed the way I looked at life and the game. It forced me to grow up fast and taught me a level of mental toughness I’ve carried ever since.

I went on to play the full 2019 season at Georgia Military College, and my second season there in 2020 got canceled because of COVID-19. Losing a year of development was tough, but I stayed with it. A lot happened after JUCO as well more adversity, more uncertainty, and more moments where it would’ve been easy to quit but I kept going because I genuinely love this game. Since then, I’ve played at every level: JUCO, FBS, FCS, and now D2, earning everything the long way. Those experiences gave me maturity, resilience, and a deep understanding of the game.

At 5’11, 210, I bring versatility and physicality. I can play Nickel, Safety, Slot CB, match tight ends, fit the run like a linebacker, or play deep. I also take pride in special teams kickoff, punt, punt return, wherever I’m needed. I prepare the right way 40-inch vertical, 700-pound squat, 375 bench and I try to play fast, physical, and with real intent every snap.

When I arrived at SVSU late in the year after fall camp, I didn’t expect anything. I just worked. Eventually I earned playing time and started the last stretch of the season on the #1 total defense in the conference. Teams began scheming around me double-teaming screens, attacking away from me so I focused on staying disciplined and doing my job.

I’m 25 now and have been in college football for eight years with no major injuries. With everything I’ve been through losing a teammate, the COVID shutdown, multiple transfers, and always having to climb  I feel like I’ve had one of the most unique journeys in college football. But I’m grateful for it. It made me mentally tougher, more grounded, and more mature as both a player and a man.

Any team that gives me an opportunity is getting someone who works hard, listens, contributes on special teams, stays healthy, and doesn’t take the game for granted. I’m confident in what I bring, and I’m ready to prove myself at the next level.

What is one thing NFL teams should know about you?

I’m an extremely hard worker, and I’m consistent. No matter the situation starter, rotation, scout team, or special teams  I show up, work, and find a way to add value. I’m coachable, reliable, and I don’t run from adversity.

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

I’d donate to programs that support children with special needs. They deserve every resource and opportunity possible.

Who was your role model growing up?

My mother. She’s made countless sacrifices for me and my siblings, and everything I am today is because of her strength and the way she raised us.

Who is your favorite NFL team?

The Dallas Cowboys.

Who is the most underrated teammate at your school?

Christian Boivin. He doesn’t get the attention he deserves, He’s DUDE.

What is your biggest pet peeve?

People chewing really loud.

Who is your favorite teacher ever?

Dr. Holley Fling from Georgia Military College.

Overcoming adversity defines character what was the hardest moment of your life to overcome?

The hardest moment was finding my teammate, Braeden Bradford, unresponsive on August 1, 2018, during my first day of college football. It’s something that stays with you forever. It changed me as a person, but it also gave me a stronger appreciation for life and the game.

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

Dave’s Hot Chicken.

What is your favorite snack food?

Apple pie.

What is your degree in?

Communications with a focus in Advertising.

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

Jesus, Brian Dawkins, and LeBron James. I’d want to talk to them about mindset, discipline, leadership, and becoming a better man on and off the field.

What is your biggest weakness?

Funnel cake I can’t lie, that’s my cheat food.