2026 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Rashad Raymond, RB, William & Mary

• Name: Rashad Raymond
• Position: Running Back
• College: William & Mary
• Height: 5’11
• Weight: 210 lbs.
• Twitter: @rashad_raymond
• Instagram: @Yaboyshad

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

What makes me a top prospect at my position in the 2026 NFL Draft is my ability to impact the game in multiple ways. I can make plays when they’re needed most, whether that’s running the ball, catching out of the backfield, or stepping up in pass protection. I take pride in blocking, understanding situations, and doing the little things that help the team win. I also bring value on special teams, where effort, toughness, and reliability matter. My versatility and willingness to contribute in any role set me apart.

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

One thing NFL teams should know about me is my resilience and my constant desire to be a better version of myself. I’ve faced adversity at every stage of my journey, and instead of letting it define me, I’ve used it as motivation to grow. I take coaching seriously, learn from mistakes, and consistently look for ways to improve my game and myself as a professional. No matter the situation, I stay focused, push through challenges, and continue working toward my goals.

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

Action Against Hunger

Who was your role model?

My Father

Who is your favorite NFL team?

New Orleans Saints

Who is the most underrated teammate at your school?

Austin White

What is your biggest pet peeve?

When people talk with their mouth open

Who is your favorite teacher ever?

Mr. Kershaw Civil Engineering teacher

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

Overcoming adversity is what defines character, and one of the hardest moments of my life was attending a military school at VMI. The transition was extremely challenging—physically, mentally, and emotionally. The strict discipline, demanding academic workload, and constant pressure to perform left little room for comfort. At the same time, I was competing at a high level in football, where nothing was given and everything had to be earned. There were moments of doubt and exhaustion, but quitting was never an option. Being pushed every day in that environment forced me to grow up fast, build mental toughness, and learn how to push through discomfort. That experience shaped who I am today and taught me how to compete through adversity, no matter the circumstances.

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

Chipotle

What is your favorite snack food?

Peanut butter crackers

What is your degree in?

• Bachelor of Science in Civil Engineering
• Master of Science in Business AnalyticsIf you could have dinner with three people dead or alive, who would it be and why?

If I could have dinner with three people, dead or alive, it would be?

Muhammad Ali, Alexander the Great, and Kobe Bryant. Each of them represents the mentality of a warrior and the refusal to be defeated. Muhammad Ali showed confidence, resilience, and belief in oneself against all odds. Alexander the Great embodied leadership, fearlessness, and the drive to conquer challenges head-on. Kobe Bryant represents relentless work ethic, mental toughness, and the constant pursuit of greatness. Learning from their mindsets and how they approached adversity would be invaluable to me.

What is your biggest weakness?

My biggest weakness is that at times I can get in my own head. I’m very self-driven and hold myself to a high standard, which can lead to overthinking in certain moments. I’ve earned to manage this by staying present, trusting my preparation, and using it as motivation to stay focused and disciplined