2027 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Emmanuel Archibong, WR, Cyprus International University

• Name: Emmanuel Archibong
• Position: Slot Wide Receiver
• College: Cyprus International University
• Height: 5’11
• Weight: 181
• Twitter: @emazarchieee
• Instagram: @emaxarchieee

What makes you a top prospect at your position in the 2027 NFL Draft?

I’m a very versatile player, explosive off the line of scrimmage. I can create separation to get myself open. I do the unglamorous work of blocking in the run and pass game to create opportunities for my teammates to score. I am also a huge contributor in the return game on special teams.

Tell me about a time you faced adversity and how you responded.

There was a time in my career when I was having random drops in a game and in practice due to a lack of focus. I started by telling my subconscious mind that I would never drop a pass again. I had to push myself hard so I could get the best possible results from myself. I responded by putting in extra hours catching the ball on days I had no training, every day. Also, after my gym workout sessions, I use three tennis balls

 I hold two in my left and right hand, throw one off a wall, and catch it, forcing me to track the ball, adjust, be super reactive and alert, and look the ball in as I tuck the tennis ball in.

What are your hobbies outside of football?

I love sleeping I take that as recovery. I also love cooking, spending time with my family, and listening to music.

What role do you see yourself playing at the next level?

I see myself playing as a slot receiver, kick returner, and gunner.

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

I would donate to improving education and sports development systems in Nigeria and similar countries

How do you handle coaching, especially criticism or being corrected repeatedly?

I value coaching and focus on the message more than the delivery. My goal is to take corrections, apply them quickly, and improve consistently, no matter how the feedback is given.

Who is the most underrated teammate at your school?

Hafiz Bashir  he has a lot of talent and potential.

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

I would have dinner with my college head coach, my agent, and my flag football head coach because each of them plays an important role in my development. They give me the best advice and all know what it takes for me to be successful at the next level.

If you were benched tomorrow, what would be the most likely reason?

Sickness or injury.

Walk me through your typical pre-game routine.

1. I wake up in the morning, give thanks and talk to my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
2. Toast some bread with eggs and drink a bottle of water.
3. Prepare and head straight to the field.
4. Stretch  while I listen to music for 10 mins  
5. Warm up with my tennis ball to sharpen my reaction time and make sure I am focused on my ball to hand coordination and tracking then go straight into route rehearsal, releases (press) attacking and catching the ball

What is your favorite snack food?

Bread and eggs.

What scheme do you feel you fit the best in?

I fit best in a scheme that values physical, versatile receivers who are willing to block in the run and pass game. I take pride in being trusted by my teammates in those moments whether it’s sealing the edge in the run game or picking up a defender in pass protection so my teammate can make a play. I see blocking as an important part of creating explosive plays and helping the offense succeed.

What is your degree in?

Civil Engineering.

What would be the first thing you buy with your first NFL check?

1. I would buy a car to take me to and from practice, games, team meetings, etc.
2. Describe a time in a game where you feel you made a mistake, and explain how you bounced back.
3. I ran the wrong route, which still got me open. After that, I reflected on it and advised myself to also run the exact route on the play. Even though I got open, I could have run into my teammate’s route and brought in my defender.

Name three songs we can expect on your playlist.

1. West District – PARTYNEXTDOOR
2. Icon – Jaden Smith
3. She Will – Drake and Lil Wayne