2026 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: James Faminu, OT, UNLV

• Name: James Faminu
• Position: OT
• College: UNLV
• Height: 6’6
• Weight: 315
• Twitter: @FMNU__
• Instagram: FMNU__

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

What makes me a top prospect at my position in the 2026 NFL Draft is the combination of physicality, intelligence, and relentless work ethic that I bring to the game which has been nurtured by my Rugby background. I take pride in protecting the quarterback and setting the tone in the run game with relentless effort and the wants to finish my opponent. My footwork, hand placement, and ability to mirror elite pass rushers have been developed through countless hours of film study, reps, and overcoming mistakes and failures on the field.  I have been blessed with both size and length but my strengths aren’t solely defined by my physical gifts. I understand defensive schemes,  and have the ability to adjust quickly and efficiently. I bring bring a mindset that puts team success above everything. I believe I’m just scratching the surface of my potential as an international player who has only played competitive football for a short period of time, and any team that invests in me is getting a competitor who’s all-in on every play, every week.

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

One thing NFL teams should know about me is that my football IQ is one of my biggest strengths. I take pride in how I study the game, from  defensive tendencies, pass rush moves, alignments, and anything I can use to gain an edge pre-snap. Because I started playing football really late, I had to learn almost everything from scratch especially when I go to the U.S. and the speed of the game multiplied by 10, but because of my meticulous personality, it made me very detailed in how I view the sport, needing to know every detail for me to be at my best.  

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 be the Children’s Cancer Research Fund. No child should have to fight cancer, and CCRF does an incredible job funding research to improve treatments and outcomes while also supporting families through some of the toughest moments of their lives.

Who was your role model? 

My biggest role model in my life is my father. He taught me what true strength is from a young age. Everything in me that is wise and hard working comes from him.

Who is your favorite NFL team?

Ravens.

Who is the most underrated teammate at your school? 

Dylan Drummond.

What is your biggest pet peeve? 

I really dislike unnecessary disrespect or bullying. 

Who is your favorite teacher ever?

My favorite teacher would Mr. Lee, my old Sociology teacher that I had at Houston. 

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

The hardest moment of my life would be my mother passing away in 2023 along with sustaining an injury that caused me to miss the 2023 season. It made me have to really dig deep and figure out a new reason to continue playing football because she was always my motivation for coming to America . This event strengthened my relationship with God and instilled a certain level of strength that isn’t easily shaken. I also found my love for football again after some time.

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

Not a restaurant but Aunty Anne’s or Texas Roadhouse.

What is your favorite snack?

I’m always able to chow down on some red velvet. 

What is your degree in? 

Undergrad in Psychology, Masters in Business and a Master Certificate in Sports, Leadership & Management.

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

Cliffe Knechtle, David Goggins, Jordan Peterson.  

What is your biggest weakness? 

My own lack of full confidence in the things I’ve consistently proven that I am able to do. I’m aware of my capabilities but at times I can doubt them. It’s a daily practice of believing in yourself, NO OFF DAYS.