2027 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Ryan Russo, LB, Monmouth University

• Name: Ryan Russo
• Position: Linebacker
• College: Monmouth University
• Height: 6’2”
• Weight: 230
• Twitter: @ryanmrusso
• Instagram: @ryanmrusso

What makes you a top prospect at your position in the 2027 NFL Draft?

I think it starts with consistency, I’m a fast and physical player every down. I see myself as a productive player that can do whatever my teammates and coaches need from me.

Tell me about a time you faced adversity and how you responded?

Every player deals with adversity at some point, whether it’s injuries, losing snaps, or tough losses. For me what comes to mind is my time as a PWO and my time playing JUCO ball, two of the most adverse situations a college athlete can find themselves in. I responded by leaning into preparation instead of making excuses. Despite what was in front of me, I knew that at some point I would be on the field and be able to show what I can do.

What are your hobbies outside of football?

I like training and learning about the game every way I can. Outside of that, I like to hangout with friends and family and stay competitive in anything we do.

What role do you see yourself playing at the next level?

I see myself as a complete linebacker who can contribute early on special teams and grow into a leader on defense. I want to be someone coaches trust and rely on in any situation whether it be running down on kickoff or a big third down.

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

I would like to find an impactful way to give back to my hometown of Harrisburg Pennsylvania. Make sure the next generation has everything I had and more. Leave it better than I found it.

How do you handle coaching, especially criticism or being corrected repeatedly?

I would say I welcome it, I’m thankful to have coaches who have invested in helping me improve by having hard conversations rather than let me stay comfortable and not grow. I try to respond by fixing it immediately and earning that trust.

Who is the most underrated teammate at your school?

There are a lot of guys who deserve more recognition, I feel like I would be doing my teammates an injustice to single out just one.

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

I would have to go with my two parents and my older brother. I grew up eating dinner with them and now that we’re older it doesn’t happen as often, but family is important to me.

If you were benched tomorrow, what would be the most likely reason?

I would say hopefully it’s because one of my teammates was really on fire that game. We have some talented guys here at Monmouth.

Walk me through your typical pre-game routine?

To be honest I’m not a superstitious person at all. I don’t feel like there’s any specific routine I need to do before I go out there. I warm up my body and listen to music like most people. Closer to game time I turn the music off and just make sure I’m calm, maybe do some breathing exercises.

What is your favorite snack food?

I’d say something light and quick like fruit, but all my teammates would tell you it’s the massive protein shake I make every night.

What scheme do you feel you fit the best in?

I’ve played in 3 different systems now, going on 4 with our new DC here at Monmouth, I would just say I feel like I’m at my best when I’m in a system that allows me to play fast.

What is your degree in?

I’m a communication major.

What would be the first thing you buy with your first NFL check?

Anything my family needs is first and foremost. I’d also like to get my trainer back home some type of gift because he’s had a huge role in my career and life.

Describe a time in a game where you feel you made a mistake, and explain how you bounced back?

I’ve had plays where I could’ve definitely got a ball punch, plays I dropped a pick, took a bad angle, or just wasn’t clean reading something. The biggest thing is not wavering mentally, don’t let one play turn into two.

Name three songs, we can expect on your playlist?

My playlist is kinda all over the place to be honest, you could expect to see We Die Young by Alice in Chains, Starboy by The Weeknd and Daft Punk, and Cloud 9 by Megan Moroney