2026 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Jonathan Denis, OL, Louisiana Tech

• Name: Jonathan Denis 
• Position: Offensive lineman 
• College: Louisiana Tech 
• Height: 6’3
• Weight: 310
• Twitter: jdenis658
• Instagram: Grind.jojo 

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

I bring a combination of high level experience, versatility, and toughness. I’ve played and started at multiple Power Five and Division I programs, at both center and guard, and I’ve seen almost every defensive look you can imagine. My football IQ, physicality in the run game, and ability to anchor in pass protection allow me to impact the game immediately. I’ve been tested at every level, and I’ve continued to grow because of it.

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

I’m built for adversity. I don’t flinch when things get hard, and I don’t need things to be perfect to perform. I’ve had setbacks that could’ve ended my career, but instead they sharpened my discipline, my work ethic, and my appreciation for the opportunity. You’re getting someone who’s grateful, hungry, and fully invested every day.

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

I would donate to organizations that support athletes with career-ending or life altering injuries. I’ve experienced how quickly the game can be taken away, and I believe in helping athletes transition mentally, physically, and financially when the game stops.

Who was your role model? 

My Family. My Grandma,parents 

All work extremely hard and when things got hard we would never know. They never complained and just kept working and showing up every single day. 

Who is your favorite NFL team?

Whichever one picks me up 

Who is the most underrated teammate at your school? 

I have a lot to name. But I can say with confident that our 2s Oline at Louisiana Tech. They’re going to cause hell next season 

What is your biggest pet peeve? 

Lack of accountability. I can’t stand when people avoid responsibility or make excuses instead of fixing the problem. Mistakes vs lack of accountability is different. Everyone makes mistakes but own up to them and get better 

Who is your favorite teacher ever?

Ms Jessica, she over sees academics at the University of Miami and ms Molly 

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

Repeated knee injuries. Tearing my ACLs, going through multiple surgeries, and having to relearn trust in my body was mentally tougher than anything I’ve faced. There were moments where my future felt uncertain, but I chose to recommit instead of walk away. That process changed me as a man and as a player.

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

Chick-fil-A. Consistent, reliable, and it never disappoints

What is your favorite snack food? 

Sour patch kids (watermelon) or lifesavers (gummies)

What is your degree in? 

Sociology and minor in sports Administration 

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

• My Grandma, so she could see how far I’ve came and so I can hear her voice again 
• My Mom, to thank her for everything she’s sacrificed and to let her know it was all worth it.
• My Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Just to talk about everything 

What is your biggest weakness?

I’m hard on myself. I hold myself to a very high standard, and sometimes I expect perfection. I’ve learned to channel that intensity productively, but it’s something I stay conscious of as I continue to grow.