2026 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Ryan Speight, TE/FB, Wilfrid Laurier University

• Name: Ryan Speight
• Position: TE/FB
• College: Wilfrid Laurier University
• Height: 6’3”
• Weight: 230
• Twitter: @_RyanSpeight
• Instagram: ryan.speight

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What makes you a top prospect at your position in the 2026 NFL Draft?
⁃ I think I’m a big glue guy—I’m a Swiss Army knife. I can long snap, be a receiving threat from my wide receiver background, and block up front whether it’s from tight end or fullback. I can also cover downfield on punt or kickoff. You can put me anywhere on the field, and for a defensive coordinator, that’s their worst nightmare.

What is one thing that NFL teams should know about you?
⁃ I don’t cut corners. I trust the process and buy in right away. The process is the best part—it’s what makes the big plays happen and the wins that much better.

If you could donate to one cause in the world, what would it be?
⁃ I’d donate to House of Friendship. They help over 40,000 individuals each year with food, housing, and community resources. Being able to give people access to things I’ve never had to worry about is the least I could do.

Who was your role model?
⁃ Both of my parents. They’ve worked so hard to put me in the position I’m in. My mother was always there, making sure there was food on the table and picking me up from school every day. My father worked tirelessly, traveling for work so I could succeed. They made it to every football game they could, so being able to continue playing in front of them is a dream come true.

Who is your favorite NFL team?
⁃ I’ve grown up a Dallas Cowboys fan because of my dad, but I’m also a partial Packers fan since my college quarterback, Taylor Elgersma, is currently on the team.

Who is the most underrated teammate at your school?
⁃ Jake Bennett—my roommate for almost five years. He’s battled tough injuries but still dominates on special teams, even with his shoulder popping out nearly every other game. When he gets meaningful snaps on offense, he’s going to be lethal at receiver.

What is your biggest pet peeve?
⁃ My biggest pet peeve is when people aren’t polite. People don’t realize how far simple acts of kindness can go, whether someone’s having a bad day or not. For example, not holding the door or not saying thank you when someone does—it’s the little things, but they matter.

Who is your favorite teacher ever?
⁃ My favorite teacher was my late gym teacher, Jeff DeProsperis, who passed away in October. He was my gym teacher and football coach, and he molded me into the person I needed to be to succeed at the university level. He taught me the value of hard work and discipline.

Overcoming adversity is what defines character. What was the hardest moment in your life to overcome?
⁃ The hardest moment was during my last year of high school when I was trying to get recruited. I had major back issues—to the point where I could barely walk at halftime. It was a constant battle to stay healthy for the next game, but I wanted to play for my team and myself. It taught me that some moments are bigger than others, and not being the number one guy on my team didn’t define me as a player.

If you could have any franchise restaurant in your house, what would it be?
⁃ Chipotle, by far. It’s a great carb- and protein-packed meal—and with the guacamole, I’m sold.

What is your favorite snack food?
⁃ Crackers and hummus—or a nice charcuterie board with some salami and what not.

What is your degree in?
⁃ Bachelor of Business Administration with a concentration in Finance and a Co-op option.

If you could have dinner with three people dead or alive, who would it be and why?
⁃ Billy Connolly—one of the best Scottish comedians out there. My parents love him, and I’ve watched so much of his work. I’d love to hear about his life from his perspective.
⁃ Jesus Christ—he’s a significant figure across many religions. I’d love to talk to him about his life and how accurately it’s depicted today.
⁃ Kobe Bryant—he’s the perfect example of work ethic. His motivational speeches and his on-court performances

 are incredibly inspiring.

What is your biggest weakness?
⁃ I’m someone who wants to get everything done at once. Sometimes I make things feel more urgent than they actually are. I’ll never be late on anything, but it can occasionally distract me from being present in the moment.