2026 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Jason Briones, LB, Presbyterian College

• Name: Jason Briones
• Position: Linebacker
• College: Presbyterian College
• Height: 6’0
• Weight: 235
• Twitter: Jasonbriones_1
• Instagram: Jasonabriones

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

As a draft prospect, my versatility and athleticism are what I truly think separates me. In my college career, I have lined up as a three technique with my hand in the dirt, a stand up five technique and played middle linebacker, weakside linebacker and strongside linebacker. My athleticism has allowed me to do this throughout college, with these experiences I’ve been able to learn the game from different perspectives and be more cerebral with understanding defensive concepts as a whole.

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

I want teams to know that I bring toughness to everything I do, on and off the field I try to exemplify Christian values, and that I’m a team first guy, the success of the team comes first before any personal goals I may have. I’m also diligent in my work and make sure that I uphold a standard of excellence in all areas of my life.

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

I would donate to services that help support awareness and professional services for mental health in under-served communities. Mental Health support is something very important to me and I think it’s important for people in all communities to have access to. 

Who was your role model?

I’d say my role model is my Uncle Ronnie, he set the standard of what a man should be both as a man of faith and service. He taught me the importance of mentorship, fatherhood and perseverance. 

Who is your favorite NFL team?

I grew up in a house split between raider and niner fans. I’m repping the Black and Silver for life! Raiders!

Who is the most underrated teammate at your school?

I’d say Chris Ohagwu, he’s a defensive lineman, a great football player, made my life easy as an inside linebacker and has the athleticism and technical proficiency to cause havoc in the backfield. More than that, he’s a great teammate, a man of faith and someone who I think is a great addition to any NFL team!

What is your biggest pet peeve?

Laziness

Who is your favorite teacher ever?

Dr. Drew Brandel, he’s a professor here at Presbyterian College. He gave me great direction for my pursuits in psychology and instilled a level of excellence that he expects out of all his students. 

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

I was raised by a single mother and to pay rent we had to shovel snow in the winter, sweep up buildings and clean up garbage throughout the years we lived at that building. It instilled toughness and gratitude. I think adversity is something we should lean into to get the most out of it.

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

Ono Hawaiian BBQ, love their plates!

What is your favorite snack food?

Popcorn, especially for watching sports.

What is your degree in?

Psychology

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

The first would be Junior Seau, as a mental health advocate, I’d love to tell him about the impact he has had on both the mental health scene and also on me. The second would be my grandfather from my dad’s side, because I never got to meet him. Lastly it would be my cousin, Alexis McLaughlin, because she was the best!

What is your biggest weakness?

I’d say I’m a perfectionist, this can hurt me sorry as I end up obsessing over small details instead of worrying about the bigger picture.