2027 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Alias Amelin, DL, University of Ottawa

• Name: Alias Amelin
• Position: Defensive Lineman / Edge
• College: University Of Ottawa
• Height: 6’3
• Weight: 250

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

I’m dominant, I cancel a side of the field by forcing the opposing team to gamble whether they want to take a shot on my side or not.  When they send the ball away from me I always make sure to punish them and have an impact on the play. I value the violence of the game and is truly what sets me apart as an athlete.

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

Two years ago I had played a season with a fractured foot. This had a major impact on me mentally, being on a new team.   Without much roster depth and high expectation  from coaches and my team, I played with heart and good faith. Not allowing injury to impact performance. I believe once adversity and struggle is given to God, all I can do from there is give my all. That core value is what let me go on to do to be able to play all of the season and help my team.

What are your hobbies outside of football? 

Outside of football I enjoy reading, cooking, and entrepreneurship. I have a passion for real estate, and enjoy spending time researching and developing skills that will improve my future entrepreneurial endeavours. Additionally I love to play other sports such as basketball and boxing. I live an active lifestyle. 

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

I see myself being an all around player, a leader and playmaker. Having an impact on and off the field.

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

I made a promise to God if I became wealthy, I would love to help build schools in the rural parts of Morocco to help build the youth of my Amazigh community.

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

I understand that correction has to do with the player and not the man and so I don’t take it personally but I care to make the change.  If a coach takes the time to let you know it’s because he knows you can go and do it, so it’s up to me to close the gap and get it done. If a coach corrects me repeatedly it’s because something is lacking on my part. Instead of finding excuses I’ll take more mental and physical reps, whether after practice or on my own to perfect it. 

Who is the most underrated teammate at your school? 

I’d have to say my other edge player on the other half of the field, Dongue. He didn’t have the chance to start last year but he’s got a good pass rush and I’ve been rooting for him. Having another edge player get to the quarterback makes both of our jobs easier and while he was sometimes only on the field for 2nd and long he made plays with the little playing time he had. I’m excited to see what this year has to give with both of us starting.

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

Jesus because he could answer all of my questions and put me on the correct path. King Solomon (from the bible) because he was highly favoured by God for his wisdom. I truly believe wisdom is worth far more than riches. Lastly, Tom Brady, his grit and want for the game is unmatched. He played every game like it was homework. He understood the game of football on a whole other level and I feel like the part of my game that could improve most is my football IQ. Understanding what an offence is doing or trying to do before the snap of the ball puts you in a winning position. Once you know what to do, all that is left…

Is To Execute!

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

I come out the gate swinging with energy and explosiveness. Which means I dominate through quarters 1-3 but my motor does sometimes run low in the fourth quarter. Which lowers my overall ability to have an impact in every play that quarter. 

Walk me through your typical pre-game routine?

Eat a proper meal, get extra activation and a light pump. Review my notes before warmup. And lastly, hit a prayer and go ball.

What is your favorite snack food? 

I’ve only ever eaten a peach cobbler twice and man it slaps.

What scheme do you feel you fit the best in? 

For a defensive scheme I’ve always played gap schemes. I perform very well in them but I love playing a little “free” where I’m unpredictable to the offence and o-line. Taking the inside of a reach block which cuts my path shorter to make a bigger tackle for loss. Playing unpredictable gets to have you play in the o-lines mind and play chess.

What is your degree in? 

Interdisciplinary studies with a focus in business

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

A home down in Florida. My family wants to live there and I’d be truly happy to be able to support them in buying them a home which in turn could also be a great investment for them.

Describe a time in a game where you feel you made a mistake, and explain how you bounced back?

During a game this past season, for the entire first half, when the offence was lined up with a tight end motion going to the boundary side, it was 100% pass. Noticing the same play in action, in the second half, my get off was the same as a pass rush but the play ended up being a run play. I did my best to transition back and played the run but I could have played it better and impacted the play far more than I did. I didn’t let the play get to me and knew I had to bounce back so I performed and killed the offensive drive.

Name three songs, we can expect on your playlist?

1. Faint Linkin Park
2. Freestyle Lil Baby
3. 2 Of Amerikaz Most Wanted 2Pac