2026 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Damon Barnes, DB, Cornell University

• Name: Damon Barnes
• Position: Defensive Back
• College: Cornell University
• Height: 5’10”
• Weight: 200
• Twitter: DamonB_9
• Instagram: dame.ix

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

• My versatility, my consistency as a tackler, and my passion for the game make me a top Defensive Back prospect. My ability to play multiple positions in a defense and on special teams, cover different personnel like tight ends, slot, and bigger receivers as well as fill the alleys and into the box elevates my game to another level. I’ve played the high safety, the nickel, linebacker, and cornerback in some packages, which shows my ability to adapt on the fly and the amount of time I put into studying the game. I take pride in film study, getting the most intel on our opponent, and seeing how I can be an impact on special teams to gain an edge.

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

• One thing NFL teams should know about me is that I bring an insane work ethic in any role on the field as well as a contagious, intense energy and focus that allows immediate adapting to any environment and situation.

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

• I would donate to the education and daily resources of urban underprivileged and homeless children because everyone deserves a chance to earn an education and find their way to be a light in our society.

Who was your role model? 

• My role models are my mother and brother because they have paved the way and showed me the true meaning of hard work and executing no matter what the circumstances are. They have taught me the ability to overcome obstacles while not losing focus of the vision and staying together.

Who is your favorite NFL team?

• Growing up I became a Green Bay Packers fan because of Clay Matthews.

Who is the most underrated teammate at your school? 

• I would say Doryn Smith because going against him in practice and seeing him on gameday is a show to see. He is constantly on your toes and doing the right thing at all times and he can affect the game in so many ways: blocking, short pass game, deep pass game, and the return game.

What is your biggest pet peeve?

• I would say my biggest pet peeve is being late.

Who is your favorite teacher ever?

• I have two favorite teachers, my high school math teacher Ms. Scherer and my Sports Communication professor from Cornell, Professor Byrne.

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

• In high school, my family became homeless and we were placed in a different state from where I went to high school. I woke up around 3:30- 4:00 a.m to get to school every morning while balancing honors and AP classes as well as football.

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

• I would choose Chipotle or Chick-fil-a.

What is your favorite snack food? 

• I would either say a bowl of different types of fruit or fruit snacks.

What is your degree in? 

• My degree is in Communication.

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

• I would say Usain Bolt, Michael Jordan, and Muhammad Ali.

What is your biggest weakness?

• My biggest weakness is being overly critical of myself.