2026 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Owen Meister, P, Lincoln University (CA)

• Name: Owen Meister
• Position: Punter/Holder
• College: Lincoln University (CA)
• Height: 5’11
• Weight: 180
• Twitter: @owenmeister1
• Instagram: @omeister1k 

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

What makes me a top punting prospect in the 2026 NFL Draft is my consistency, leadership, and ability to flip the field. I don’t just shift field position; I shift momentum. I stay composed under pressure, lead by example, and make sure my teammates feed off my confidence. Every punt is an opportunity to make an impact, and I approach it that way. I’m not afraid to tackle or get physical when a play breaks down. I bring toughness, precision, and a competitive edge, qualities every NFL locker room needs.

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

One thing NFL teams should know about me is that I’m all in. Every rep, every practice, every game, I give 100%. I take pride in doing the little things right, holding myself to a high standard, and holding myself accountable every day. I’m hardworking, competitive, coachable, and never satisfied with ‘good enough.’ My versatility sets me apart from other punters. Whether it’s flipping the field, holding for field goals, or executing fake punts through throwing or running, I can adapt to whatever the team needs. Whatever role I’m given, I’m going to attack it with focus, consistency, and a team-first mindset.

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

If I could donate to one cause, it would be The Black Poster Project. Addiction and overdose is a huge, issue in the U.S., and putting faces to those we’ve lost reminds us that each number is a person, and a story. In 2024, the U.S. saw about 80,391 drug overdose deaths, which though it’s a drop of nearly 27% from 2023’s 110,000 deaths, is still one of the highest tolls ever. Supporting The Black Poster Project sends a message of awareness, compassion, and hope, so those beautiful souls aren’t forgotten, and so we can help prevent others from being lost.

Who was your role model? 

My brother Zack has always been my role model. I used to watch him play and dream of following in his footsteps. He’s the one who inspired me to chase my goals with the same determination I have today.

Who is your favorite NFL team?

My favorite NFL team is the New York Giants. I grew up just down the road from MetLife Stadium and even had the opportunity to play there a few times, which made it even more special. It’s the team I’ve always followed growing up, and playing for them one day next to my hometown would be a dream come true.

Who is the most underrated teammate at your school? 

Jalen Henderson is one of the most underrated players, not just on our team, but in all of college football. He contributes in all three phases of the game offense, defense, and special teams and makes a major impact every time he’s on the field. I wouldn’t be surprised to see his name start popping up on teams’ radars after this season.

What is your biggest pet peeve? 

My biggest pet peeve is being late. I believe punctuality shows respect, discipline, and accountabilits, qualities that are essential on and off the field. Whether it’s practice, meetings, or game day, I take pride in showing up prepared, focused, and ready to give my best every time.

Who is your favorite teacher ever?

I don’t have one specific favorite teacher because I’ve been lucky to have so many great ones over the years. Each of them has taught me something valuable, both in and out of the classroom, and I’m really grateful for all they’ve done to help me grow.

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

The hardest moment in my life to overcome was losing my mom during my senior year of high school. It was an incredibly painful time, but it taught me strength, faith, and perspective. I learned how to channel that pain into motivation to keep pushing forward and make her proud in everything I do, both on and off the field.

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

If I could have any franchise restaurant in my house, it would definitely be Chipotle. You can’t beat the freshness, the variety, and how you can make it exactly how you want every time. Plus, having unlimited burritos and bowls on standby would be a game-changer.

What is your favorite snack food? 

My favorite snack food has to be Goldfish they’ve been my go-to this season. Simple, quick, and perfect whether I’m watching film, traveling, or just relaxing.

What is your degree in? 

I hold a Bachelor’s Degree in Business Administration with a concentration in Entrepreneurship, where I graduated as valedictorian. I’m currently pursuing my Master’s Degree in Business Administration to continue building on that foundation.

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

If I could have dinner with three people, it would be Ray Guy, Mark Cuban, and Martin Luther King Jr.

Ray Guy: to learn from one of the greatest to ever do it at my position and hear how he approached the game mentally and physically.
Mark Cuban: because of his business mindset and willingness to take risks.I’d love to hear his perspective on leadership and innovation.
Martin Luther King Jr.: to gain wisdom from one of the most powerful voices in history and understand how he led with courage, faith, and purpose.

What is your biggest weakness? 

I’d say my biggest weakness is that I can sometimes be too detail-oriented. I naturally want everything to be perfect, and in the past, that’s slowed me down. Over time, I’ve learned to balance that by focusing on what’s most important, which has helped me maintain high standards while working more efficiently.