2027 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Nathan Stafford, WR, Ouachita Baptist University

Name: Nathan Stafford
Position: Wide Receiver / Return Specialist
College: Ouachita Baptist University
Height: 5’7
Weight: 160
Twitter: nathanstafford_
Instagram: nate__stafford

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

I believe my versatility separates me from other receivers. I can make plays as both a wide receiver and a return specialist, and I pride myself on being dependable in every phase of the game. I bring speed, strong hands, and the ability to create explosive plays while also being a willing blocker and a great teammate. I’m always looking for ways to improve, and I know my best football is still ahead of me.

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

One of the biggest challenges I’ve faced was dealing with concussion my sophomore year  while trying to earn playing time. Instead of getting discouraged, I focused on my rehab, stayed mentally engaged, and continued supporting my teammates. That experience taught me patience, discipline, and how to control what I can control.

What are your hobbies outside of football?

Working out, spending time with family and friends, being involved at church, watching sports, and spending time outdoors playing golf. 

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

I see myself being a reliable special teams returner and then playmaker on the offensive side being a receiver  and earn the trust of coaches through consistency and hard work.

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

I would support organizations that provide opportunities for underprivileged youth through education, sports, and mentorship because having positive role models can completely change a child’s future.

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

I welcome coaching because I know it’s meant to help me improve. I don’t take criticism personally. I listen, make the correction, and work to make sure I don’t repeat the same mistake.

Who is the most underrated teammate at your school?

There are a lot of guys who deserve recognition, but I’d rather highlight someone who consistently does the little things without looking for attention. Which is our QB Tre Nichols he a great competitor. 

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

• Jesus Christ – To learn directly from the greatest teacher and leader.
• Kobe Bryant – To hear more about his mindset, discipline, and commitment to excellence.
• My grandfather – To learn more about my family’s history and hear his life experiences firsthand.

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

If it happened, it would probably be because I wasn’t performing up to the standard I expect from myself. I would accept responsibility, work harder, and earn my way back onto the field.

Walk me through your typical pre-game routine.

Eating a pre game breakfast at McDonald’s, then a pregame nap, then drink some fluids before I go to the feildhouse and walk the field and then pray and then its go put on the pads and its time to play. 

What is your favorite snack food?

Trolli Sour Gummy Worms 

What scheme do you feel you fit the best in?

A spread offense that allows receivers to create space and attack vertically while giving me opportunities to make plays in open space.

What is your degree in?

Kinesiology.

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

I’d make sure my family is taken care of first, then I’d invest the rest to set myself up for long-term success.

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

I fumbled in the first game of the season on a punt return and then for the rest of the season I made it emphasis on squeezing the ball because you never know where the defender is coming from. I ended the season one in the conference in punt return yards and top 5 in D2 football.  

Name three songs we can expect on your playlist.

1. So Much – Life Church Worship

2. Role Model – NBA Youngboy 

3. Painted You Pretty – Hudson Westbrook