2027 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Kemari Ward, LB, Lake Erie College

• Name: Kemari Ward
• Position: Linebacker 
• College: Lake Erie College
• Height: 6’1
• Weight: 225
• Twitter: Wardkemari
• Instagram: K.Ward1

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

What separates me from other linebackers in the 2027 NFL Draft is my physicality, instincts, football IQ, leadership, and the mentality I bring every time I step on the field. I’ve been quarterbacking defenses since I was young, so understanding the game, making calls, recognizing formations, and getting everyone lined up has always been a natural part of who I am as a linebacker. I take pride in being more than just a physical player. I want to understand what an offense is trying to do before the ball is even snapped. I’m a downhill, physical linebacker who plays with aggression, trusts his instincts, and has a nose for the football. Being a team captain has only strengthened my ability to lead, communicate, and hold myself and my teammates accountable. I’ve battled injuries, faced adversity, and continued to produce because I’ve never allowed circumstances to determine my ceiling. Coming from Division II doesn’t change the standard I hold myself to or the level I believe I can compete at. I’ve always believed that if you can play football, you can play football, regardless of the name on your jersey. I bring experience, toughness, discipline, and a genuine understanding of the linebacker position. I know there’s always more to learn, and I take coaching seriously because I want to continue improving every part of my game. At the end of the day, I want my film, preparation, and the way I carry myself as a player and teammate to speak for themselves.

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

One of the biggest challenges I faced was tearing my ACL. Going from competing every day to having to rebuild myself physically and mentally tested my discipline and patience. But I never looked at it as a reason to feel sorry for myself. I treated rehab like another part of training and attacked it with the same mentality I bring to the field. Every day was about making progress, whether it was big or small. That experience taught me how to stay disciplined when nobody is watching and how to trust the work even when results aren’t immediate. I came out of that process with a different level of maturity, toughness, and appreciation for the game. It didn’t change who I was as a player, it strengthened who I became.

What are your hobbies outside of football?

Outside of football, I enjoy listening to music, working out, and playing video games. Music has always been a big part of my life because it helps me relax, clear my mind, and stay motivated. Working out is another way for me to clear my head while also improving things that translate to the field. I also play video games in my free time when I want to kick back and take my mind off things.

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

At the next level, I see myself as a MIKE linebacker, contributing on special teams, or however I’m utilized. I’ve been quarterbacking defenses since I was young, so I take pride in reading offenses, making calls and adjustments, and making sure the defense is set before the snap. I understand the responsibility that comes with playing MIKE, from recognizing formations and identifying offensive tendencies to being physical in the run game and disciplined in coverage. I bring instincts, physicality, and leadership to the position, but I also understand that every level comes with new challenges. I’m willing to learn, adapt to whatever system I’m in, and do whatever is asked of me. My goal is to be a dependable player that coaches can trust to know his assignment, play fast, and execute whenever my number is called.

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

If I could donate to one cause, it would be helping underprivileged youth in communities with limited opportunities and resources. I would want to give kids better access to sports, education, and mentorship because having the right guidance and opportunities can make a real difference in someone’s life. To me, it’s about giving the next generation a chance to succeed.

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

I want the coaching. I’m always looking to learn more about the game and constantly develop as a player. I don’t take criticism personally because I understand there’s always room for improvement, no matter how much experience I have. When I’m corrected, I listen, make the adjustment, and focus on getting it right. I take pride in being coachable because I never want to get comfortable with where I’m at. There’s always something I can add to my game.

Who is the most underrated teammate at your school?

I would say Quinterrius Jemison. He’s a physical, explosive linebacker who consistently makes plays and disrupts offenses. I see the work he puts in every day, and I believe he deserves more recognition for what he brings to the team.

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

I would choose Kobe Bryant, Mike Tyson, and Muhammad Ali. Kobe for his mentality and discipline, Tyson for his intensity and resilience, and Ali for his confidence and willingness to stand on what he believed in. All three have mindsets I respect and could learn from.

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

Most likely because I wasn’t executing my assignment the way I should. I’d take accountability, make the necessary adjustments, and get back to playing at the standard I hold myself to.

Walk me through your typical pre-game routine?

My pre-game routine is pretty simple. I listen to music to get in the zone, stretch and get my body warmed up, and say a prayer before I take the field. I like to stay focused and locked in.

What is your favorite snack food?

My favorite snack is Sour Patch Kids.

What scheme do you feel you fit the best in?

I’ve played in multiple defensive schemes throughout my college career, including 4-3, 3-4, and 4-2-5 defenses. I’m comfortable playing in different systems, making adjustments, and doing whatever is asked of me.

What is your degree in?

My bachelor’s degree is in Criminal Justice, and I’m currently pursuing my MBA.

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

The first thing I’d buy is a home. I’d want to make sure my family is taken care of before anything else.

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

There was a game where I took a bad angle and missed a tackle I know I should’ve made. I recognized the mistake right away, corrected it, and moved on. I don’t let one play affect the next. I came back the following series, trusted my instincts, and made plays.

Name three songs, we can expect on your playlist?

1. Say what’s real- Drake
2. 4 the betta – Lucki
3. Zero iq freestyle – NBA Youngboy