2021 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Elijah Reed, S, South Dakota

• Name: Elijah Reed
• Height: 6’2”
• Weight: 220 lbs
• Position: Safety
• College: University of South Dakota
• Twitter: @YaBoii_Ej
• Instagram: ereed_4

What is your major/minor? Did you participate in any other activities or campus organizations other than football? 
I am a Communication major & Minoring in Sports Marketing and Media. 

What do your teammates say is your best quality?
A tough competitor

What kind of role do you see yourself in on the team?
I see myself as a leader on the team 

NFL Draft Diamonds 2021 Small School Rankings

What scheme and/or position suits your skill set?
Multiple defenses 

Who is the best player you have ever played against in college?
Ceedee Lamb 

Which one of your teammates impresses you the most?
Mark Collins 

Describe a time in your life when you were able to overcome a struggle.
Adapting to a different environment, in a different state, and adjusting to adulthood. 

If you didn’t play football, what other sport would you play?
Basketball. 

What is something that you are most proud of? What would you say is your biggest achievement?
I am really proud of my nieces and nephews, who are all doing very well in school and other extracurricular activities. 

Describe one of the most memorable plays of your collegiate career.
Late game interception in a tie game against Houston Baptist.  

Do you have a favorite athlete or professional team? Is there a player that you model your game after?
My favorite player of all time is Sean Taylor. He was my favorite safety before he passed away. I try to model my game after him with my middle of the field range and tackling. 

Who is your favorite music artist? What gets you pumped before a game?
I listen to a lot of Meek Mill, J. Cole, and Nipsey Hussle before games to get me ready for games. 

What is your favorite comfort food?
Chicken/shrimp fettuccine alfredo has been my favorite food since I was young, and has been my favorite ever since. 

Who or what motivates you the most?
My family has been my motivation since day 1, they support me in everything I do. I am blessed to have them in my corner & I do all I can to make them proud.