2026 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Naythan Mulugeta, WR, College of Idaho

• Name: Naythan Mulugeta 
• Position: Wide Receiver 
• College: College of Idaho 
• Height: 6’1
• Weight: 190
• Twitter: @naythanisblack
• Instagram: @naythanisblack

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

What makes me a top prospect is my attention to detail and the way I’ve handled adversity. I take pride in being a precise route runner from my releases to the top of the route and really understanding the game. I’ve had to adapt to a lot of different systems and fight through injuries, but it’s made me tougher and more disciplined. Also more than willing to compete on any special team. 

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

One thing NFL teams should know about me is that I don’t fold. No matter what situation I’ve been in, I’ve always found a way to keep going and get better. I’m someone who shows up, competes, and earns everything

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 Athlete Mental Health Alliance. Athletes deal with a lot in their personal lives, but often have to push that aside to perform at their best. I want to help make sure they have the support and resources to handle life off the field while staying at their best on it.

Who was your role model? 

I didn’t really have a traditional role model growing up. I had to figure a lot out on my own and learn how to push through challenges by myself. That’s shaped me into being self-motivated, disciplined, and determined to make the most of every opportunity.

Who is your favorite NFL team? 

I grew up a Denver Broncos fan 

Who is the most underrated teammate at your school?

Jackson Ames and Travis Marieiro

What is your biggest pet peeve?

Lying by far 

Who is your favorite teacher ever?

My 2nd grade teacher, forgot her name but we’d have a movie on at least once a week

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

The hardest moment in my life was having to miss three seasons of football in a row due to circumstances out of my control while my mom was hospitalized and I fell into a deep depression. My mental health was at an all-time low, and I felt like everything was against me. But getting through that taught me how to fight for myself, stay disciplined, and keep moving forward no matter the obstacles. That experience shaped who I am today, both as a person and as a player.

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

Hard to go against Chipotle, although I’m not against Chick fil a either 

What is your favorite snack food? 

Built protein bars 

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, I’d choose Kobe Bryant, Michael Phelps, and Jerry Rice. Kobe for his relentless work ethic and drive to be the best. Michael Phelps for his openness about mental health and how he’s turned his struggles into a platform to help others. And Jerry Rice for his legendary career, discipline, and consistency, showing how dedication and mindset can create a lasting impact. I’d want to learn from how they approached challenges, stayed focused, and used their experiences to inspire others

What is your biggest weakness?

My biggest weakness is that I can be overly critical of myself. At the same time, it’s not entirely a weakness because it drives me to demand more of myself every day and always strive to be better than the day before. I’ve learned to channel that mindset into productive reflection and continuous improvement