2026 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: DeJuan Hughes, S, Allen University

• Name: DeJuan Hughes
• Position: Safety
• College: Allen University
• Height: 6’2
• Weight: 185
• Twitter: DeJuan_Hughes
• Instagram: D.1uan

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

What makes me a top prospect at my position is my consistency, work ethic, and ability to perform whether it’s under pressure or not. I take pride in being someone my team can rely on no matter where I am on the field. I study the game, I stay disciplined, and I’m always working to improve the small details that separate good players from great ones. I believe my heart, leadership, and willingness to do whatever the team needs make me stand out.

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

One thing NFL teams should know about me is that they’re getting someone who is going to work and someone who will get the job done.. I don’t take plays off, I don’t make excuses, and I’m always looking for ways to improve myself to get better. I can definitely bring energy every day, in practice and in games, and I care about winning more than anything. Whatever role a team needs me to play, I’m ready to do it and give everything I have 110%.

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

If I could donate to one cause in the world, it would probably be to have programs that help kids have access to sports and mentorship. Growing up, having the chance to play sports and be around certain coaches and teammates taught me discipline, hard work, and how to stay focused on my goals. Not every kid gets that opportunity, and I think sports can keep a lot of young people on the right path.

Who is your role model?

I wouldn’t necessarily say I have a role model. I just look up to the man above and keep my head up knowing I have the same opportunity as the next man.

Who is your favorite NFL team?

I don’t have a favorite team but I like the Chiefs, Eagles, and Jaguars.

Who is the most underrated teammate at your school?

The most underrated teammate at my school is the TE #5 Michael Bowman or the WR #1 Marcus Fleming

What is your biggest pet peeve?

When I see things out of my control that I could fix if it were.

Who is your favorite teacher ever?

My favorite teacher would have to be my elementary teacher. I can’t say I have a favorite teacher

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

The most hardest moment in my life I’ve had to overcome was between breaking my ankle before my first college game or not knowing if I’d play football after 2022-23.

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

Chipotle or Chick Fil A

What is your favorite snack food?

Lifesavers or Welch Fruit Snacks

What is your degree in?

Sports Management

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

My Aunt Pete because she was such an angel. My grandma Parker because she was also an angel. And my Grandfather.

What is your biggest weakness?

My biggest weakness I could say would be being a quiet leader. Knowing that I have the ability and have led by example it’s also just as if not more important to communicate. I want to be able to communicate and talk to show that I’m just as good as I play.