2026 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Drake Johnson, DB, Alabama State University

• Name: Drake Johnson
• Position: DB
• College: Alabama State University
• Height: 5112
• Weight: 198 lbs
• X: @jdrakee_
• Instagram: @jdrakee_

What made you decide you wanted to be a football player?

I grew up in Houston, where football is a big part of the culture from a young age. The level of competition is extremely high, which required constant practice and training to succeed in games. Over time, I truly fell in love with the grind and the process of getting better.

What are your favorite moments from your football life?

My favorite moments include starting my first college game as a freshman, winning my first conference championship on the road, and playing against a No. 1 draft pick quarterback, where I recorded two forced fumbles, two pass deflections, and six tackles.

What are you looking to achieve as a football player going forward?

I’m working toward achieving my dream of playing football professionally. I’ve put in countless hours to master my craft, and I feel blessed to have the opportunity to continue my career.

If you could hang out with any football player, past or present, who would it be and why?

I would choose Ed Reed. He brought elite intensity to the game and was extremely cerebral in his film study, which allowed him to make a lot of plays and come up with interceptions.

Which family member inspires you the most and why?

I have a strong support system. Both my immediate and extended family have always supported me. Over the past two years, I’ve lost my brother and both of my grandfathers, and their memory continues to motivate me every day.

What is your favorite defensive scheme and why?

My favorite defensive scheme is a 4-2-5, middle-closed Cover 1 base. I enjoy playing man coverage from the slot because of the competitiveness it brings. I also like playing middle-of-the-field safety, where I can use my range to cover ground and create turnovers.

What should we know about Drake Johnson as a person?

In addition to playing college football, I earned my master’s degree in business with a focus on supply chain management. After my football career, I plan to pursue a career in the supply chain field.

What stands out most about your film?

My versatility stands out the most. I have experience playing every position in the secondary, and this past season I started at safety before transitioning to corner around Week 3. My speed and ability to fly around the field are evident on tape, especially at safety and nickel. I also excel in the middle of the field, where I can intercept, deflect, and make plays on the ball. Lastly, I take pride in my man-to-man coverage ability, both in the slot and on the outside.

How do you handle challenges both in life and on the football field?

I always find a way to overcome challenges. I keep my faith in Jesus and trust in His power, knowing He can make a way out of no way. That mindset helps me push through and overcome setbacks in both life and football.

What would a team get in a player like you?

A team would get a versatile player who can contribute at multiple positions in the secondary and on special teams. I’m a fast learner who takes pride in becoming great and puts in the work daily. I also take preparation seriously to ensure I’m as ready as possible for every game.

What do you love most about the game of football?

I love the competitiveness of the game and how it comes down to preparation, my preparation versus yours. I enjoy the process of improving and what it takes to become great. I also embrace the challenge of learning new positions, even on short notice, because that’s been a constant throughout my career.

Who is the most underrated player you’ve played with and why?

I’ve played with so many talented players that it’s hard to single out just one. However, I would say the Mary Hardin-Baylor teams from 2019 to 2021 were highly underrated. After transferring to a Division I program, I realized that team had the talent to compete with any conference I played in