2026 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Joshua Tate, LB, Davenport University

• Name: Joshua Tate
• Position: Linebacker 
• College: Davenport University 
• Height: 6’2
• Weight: 215
• Twitter: joshua_tate1
• Instagram: 1joshua_tate

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

What makes me stand out is my versatility, play making, motor and willing to do the dirty work. I can play downhill, cover, blitz, and contribute on special teams. I’m coachable and committed to maximizing my potential. I’m a player who brings value in multiple roles.

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

NFL teams should know that I’m reliable and a team first guy. I prepare the right way, I’m accountable, and I take coaching seriously. Whatever role I’m given, I’ll embrace it and bring consistent effort every day.

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

I would donate to causes that supports you’ve development and mentorship especially programs that give young athletes structure, guidance, and positive role models.

Who was your role model? 

My role model in football was Seun Taylor my role model in life have been my family members and coaches who taught me discipline, work ethic, and how to handle adversity. Seeing their sacrifices motivates me to keep pushing forward still to this day.

Who is your favorite NFL team? 

I don’t have a single favorite team really. I’m a fan of good  physical football and great defensive play. I focus more on studying players and systems than rooting for one organization to be honest.

Who is the most underrated teammate at your school? 

There were several teammates who didn’t always get recognition but showed up every day, worked hard, and played the game the right way. Those guys helped shape the culture and made everyone better sometimes going unnoticed.

What is your biggest pet peeve? 

My biggest pet peeve is lack of effort or accountability. I believe if you’re on the field, you owe it to your teammates to give full effort and take accountability of what you did.

Who is your favorite teacher ever? 

My favorite teacher was my coach Damien Weims the one who held me to a high standard and didn’t let me take shortcuts both in the classroom and in life.

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

One of the hardest challenges was navigating in my football journey. Learning how to stay focused, trust the process, and keep working when things weren’t guaranteed taught me discipline, faith, resilience and mental toughness.

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

A restaurant in my hometown called fresh treats it’s organic clean gives you the right nutrients to perform and live healthier.

What is your favorite snack food? 

I would say my favorite snack is peanut butter, jelly sandwich, or maybe trail mix.

What is your degree in? 

My degree is in Sociology from the Southern University.

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

Martin Luther, LeBron James, and Adam Sandler. I say this because I would like to get there prospective on life and their journey to how they became where they are today I feel like it would be a great time while gaining knowledge at the same time.

What is your biggest weakness?

I feel like my biggest weakness is explosiveness. I have attacked it and tried to get better through nutrition, training, and stretching, but I feel like this could be my biggest weakness and I always be honest with myself so I can improve and do better.