2026 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Eli Blakey, DB, Miami-Ohio
- Name: Eli Blakey
- Position: DB
- College: Miami (OH)
- Height: 6’2
- Weight: 208
- Twitter: @EliBlakey
Who is the NFL player you compare yourself the most to? Why is that?
I’d say I compare my game most to Derwin James. I like how he can do everything on the field. He’s physical, he can cover, he can play in the box or deep, and he sets the tone for the defense. That’s how I see myself. I take pride in being versatile and being able to impact the game in more than one way.
What aspects of playing in the NFL do you find to be intriguing?
What really intrigues me about the NFL is how important the small details are. Everybody is elite, so you can’t cheat the process at all. The details matter film, recovery, technique, all of it. I like that environment because it pushes you to be your best every day and really locks you in mentally.
In what ways have you improved since last season?
I’ve grown a lot since last season, especially mentally. I’m seeing the game way faster now and playing more confident. Physically, I’ve gotten stronger and more explosive, which helps me finish plays better. I’ve also stepped up more as a leader and started holding myself and the people around me to a higher standard.
What is your favorite memory so far as a college football player?
Honestly, it’s just those moments when you feel the work paying off. Making a big play, getting a stop when the team needs it, or bringing energy that changes the momentum. My sophomore I caught an interception versus Kentucky which is my hometown. Moments like that remind me why I put in all the work in the first place.
What is the most important thing you would like NFL scouts, coaches, and general managers to know about you?
I want them to know that I’m someone they can trust. I’m coachable, I work hard, and I take my role seriously. I’m always trying to get better and I care about winning. Whatever role I’m given, I’m going to embrace it and do my job at a high level.