2027 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: David Nies, DE, Winona State University

• Name: David Nies
• Position: DE
• College: Winona State University
• Height: 6’05”
• Weight: 252 lbs
• Twitter: DavidNies9
• Instagram: davidnies2022

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

My high football IQ, strong work ethic and length put me in positions to make plays while diagnosing schemes and formations both pre and post-snap.

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

I sustained a fourth metatarsal stress fracture during fall camp of my Junior season. I played the entire 11-game season on it afterwards despite an increase in pain as the year wore on. That injury really helped put into perspective how much playing each game with my teammates meant to me, as missing even one of those moments felt unacceptable at the time.

What are your hobbies outside of football? 

I love to hunt, play guitar, and spend time on the family dairy farm.

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

If blessed with the opportunity, I see myself as a multi-down defensive end that can contribute in both the run and pass game. I am also able to long-snap, and would welcome the opportunity to add value on special teams as well.

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

If I were to donate right now it would be to nursing homes. I currently work in one and see firsthand how donations could help those individuals who are in some of the most uncomfortable stages of their lives.

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

I was raised to believe that “Yes Coach” is the only response to criticism in the heat of the moment. As for responding to that coaching, I find myself to be my toughest critic and take any criticism or suggestions to heart in order to improve.

Who is the most underrated teammate at your school? 

The most underrated teammate I’ve had is Carson Thompson. His playing career ended because of injury but he was still able to contribute in ways that made him invaluable to the team.

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

My grandpa, JJ Watt, and Teddy Roosevelt. I’d love to spend just a little more time with my grandpa. I’ve always looked up to JJ Watt and his work ethic and I feel Teddy Roosevelt would have both wisdom and great stories to share.

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

If I were to be benched, I would hope that it was because one of my teammates had been playing better than me that week. If that were the case, I would do everything in my power to win that spot back.

Walk me through your typical pre-game routine?

I wake up and go for a walk with the rest of the defensive line before eating breakfast. I like to go out on the field around an hour before warmups and stretch. I listen to slower and more thought provoking music around then before ramping into heavier genres near gametime. From the time I wake up to gametime I am relatively silent and don’t like to say much.

What is your favorite snack food? 

Cookie dough ice cream.

What scheme do you feel you fit the best in?

I feel a 4-3 fits my size and skillset most effectively. Throughout my college career I have played mainly as a 5 technique as well as a 6i where I’ve been able to use my length while effectively diagnosing plays and formations from those alignments.

What is your degree in? 

My undergraduate degree is in Exercise Science. I plan to pursue PA school.

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

Depending on the size I would love to help pay down the remaining debt on my Dad’s farm. It played a huge role in who I am today, so it would mean a lot to give back.

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

Early in one of our conference games last season I made a move and had just missed the quarterback, who ended up throwing for a critical first down. Near the end of the game on the final drive I finally went back to that same move on the same Tackle and was able to bring the quarterback down for a game-ending play.

Name three songs, we can expect on your playlist?

Midnight Rider-Hank Williams Jr., I Walk Alone (Batista)-Saliva, Welcome Home (Sanitarium)-Metallica