2026 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Alvin Gulley Jr., DT, Northern Illinois
- Name: Alvin Gulley Jr.
- Position: Defensive Tackle
- College: Yale/Northern Illinois
- Height: 6’0
- Weight: 295
- Twitter: Alvin75_
- Instagram: ag_wrld
What makes you a top prospect at your position in the 2026 NFL Draft?
My technique and football IQ separate me. I take a lot of pride in understanding blocking schemes, leverage, and hand placement, and that allows me to consistently win my reps. I’m also someone who plays with a high motor and does my job every snap.
What is one thing that NFL teams should know about you?
I’m a player who takes pride in doing his job and doing it the right way. I focus on my assignment and making sure I execute it every snap, whether that shows up on the stat sheet or not.
If you could donate to one cause in the world, what would it be?
Renewable energy and sustainable infrastructure. My degree is in Environmental Studies, and I’m passionate about the long-term impact of energy and climate solutions.
Who was your role model?
My parents. They taught me discipline, accountability, and how to work for what you want.
Who is your favorite NFL team?
The Seattle Seahawks.
Who is the most underrated teammate at your school?
At Yale, Tamatoa McDonough. At Northern Illinois, Jayshon Thomas.
What is your biggest pet peeve?
People with no spatial awareness.
Who is your favorite teacher ever?
My 9th grade social studies teacher, Mr. Koeneman.
Overcoming adversity is what defines character. What was the hardest moment in your life to overcome?
This past season dealing with injury was difficult. I’m someone who takes pride in being healthy throughout the season and not being able to help my team the way I knew I could was tough mentally. It taught me patience and how to stay locked in even when you can’t control the situation.
If you could have any franchise restaurant in your house, what would it be?
Texas Roadhouse.
What is your favorite snack food?
Dates.
What is your degree in?
Environmental Studies.
If you could have dinner with three people, dead or alive, who would it be and why?
- Kawhi Leonard would be one. He’s my favorite player because of how he carries himself. He’s not very loud or flashy, he just keeps his head down and works, and I feel like I relate to that approach.
- I’d also choose Nelson Mandela. His leadership, resilience, and ability to stay focused on a bigger purpose through adversity is something I really respect.
- The third would be Nikola Tesla. I studied environmental issues in college, and I’m really interested in energy and innovation, so hearing how he thought about the future of energy would be fascinating.
What is your biggest weakness?
Continuing to improve my power rush.
NFL Draft Diamonds was created to assist the underdogs playing the sport. We call them diamonds in the rough. My name is Damond Talbot, I have worked extremely hard to help hundreds of small school players over the past several years, and will continue my mission. We have several contributors on this site, and if they contribute their name and contact will be in the piece above. You can email me at nfldraftdiamonds@gmail.com