2026 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Michael Mack II, DB, Ohio University

• Name: Michael Mack II 
• Position: DB 
• College: United States Air Force Academy, Wisconsin, Ohio University 
• Height:6’1 
• Weight: 195 lbs 
• Instagram: @mikemack.ii

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

My versatility and physicality separate my game from many traditional cornerbacks in this era. I am a Swiss Army Knife in the backend as I am able to play cornerback, safety, and nickel. I have years of starting experience at the FBS level with a background in military training and decorum from my time at the United States Air Force Academy. This, along with my ability to play special teams, opens up the doorway for me to be as much of a team player as possible and contribute towards the overall success of an organization. There are not too many military veterans in this year’s Draft Class, and I am one of the few hidden gems that can bring value on Day 1.

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

In every room I have been in, I have notably been one of the most coachable and hardworking players in the program. Organizations can trust me and my dedication to improvement as I apply everything I learned from the military into my football regimen and preparation. Football is not just a sport, it is a lifestyle. 

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

One big cause I would like to donate to is funding scholarships for underprivileged and minority students. Personally, I feel that environments and exposure are priority factors in how people bring value to the world. The gift of education is often taken for granted, and I was fortunate enough to be exposed to things while in school that have built the framework for my life and where I envision myself going with my degree.

Who was your role model?

 Stephon Morris and Jordan Smith. They were elite Penn State corners from the DMV area that turned me from a receiver into a defensive back. I worked with them during the offseasons in high school, and they set the standard of what it truly took to be alone on the island as a technical and fundamentally sound player. I am forever grateful for them and the PrimeXample family.

Who is your favorite NFL team? 

The Washington Commanders. I still have my signed Donovan McNabb Redskins jersey along with Sean Taylor, Santana Moss, and Clinton Portis merchandise at home.

Who is the most underrated teammate at your school? 

Xavier “Sauce” Williams. With the proper discipline and development, he has the ability to be one of the best defensive backs to come out of Ohio. His natural athletic ability and speed give him the tools to be a complete defender and truly be a problem for offenses.

What is your biggest pet peeve? 

People who are not willing to sacrifice something about themselves for growth.

Who is your favorite teacher ever? 

Rest in peace to Coach Ray Butler. At the Bullis School, he was a symbol of community and was respected in every room he stepped in. He was someone who gave me guidance in football, relationships, business, networking, and so much more. He was a model of what I feel is a complete man in this world.

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

One of the biggest hurdles in my journey was a two year hiatus from not being in the starting role after coming off an all conference caliber season in 2022 at Air Force. During that first year at Wisconsin when I was ruled ineligible, I used my redshirt season to prepare my body for the league, going from 184 pounds to 202 pounds. I used this opportunity to learn how to properly take care of my body and eating habits as the environment demanded more. In my first year at Ohio, I mainly played on special teams units and served as more of a player coach type of role from the sidelines because the team is significantly more important than myself. From being a key starter in the Mountain West to running scout team in the Big Ten, I had to make a decision on how much further I would walk into the fire. It ultimately forged who I am and where I am currently at. I am grateful for it all because there is no growth without discomfort. I never gave up on myself and my dream.

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

Olive Garden.

What is your favorite snack food? 

MuscleMilk.

What is your degree in? 

Business and Sociology with a minor in Coaching Education.

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

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., John D. Rockefeller, and Leonidas I. All of these men were pioneers in their respective fields and serve as a foundation to how we operate in today’s world.

What is your biggest weakness? 

My biggest weakness has been over -analyzing while on the field. Because I have spent time in that player coach role and have that military attention to detail, I naturally want to diagnose the entire formation and know what all eleven guys are doing. Early on, that meant I was sometimes thinking instead of just reacting. I have had to really work on trusting my preparation during the week. By trusting the film study, my technique, and the reps, I ensure that when the ball is actually snapped, my mind is quiet, I can play fast, and let my instincts take over.