2022 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Bernard Buhake, DE, Saint Ambrose University

• Name: Bernard Buhake
• Position: DE
• College: Saint Ambrose University 
• Height: 6’7″
• Weight: 245 lbs 
• Twitter: @BernardBuhake

1..What is a skill that you have that you think translates into the NFL well?

With my active feet and speed, I believe my ability to get off the ball and bend the edge at a high level well translates well. Plus my length always helps with the quickness. 

2.What is your mindset when you are on the football field?

My mindset is always to dominate and make my opponent uncomfortable but also to stay positive. Whether that’s the opposing tackle, quarterback, or running back. I am always trying to impose my will. Staying positive is important because there are a lot of highs and lows and those with the best composure are usually the most successful. 

3.If you could hang out with any football player past or present for a day who and why?

Chad Ochocinco, he’s a vibrant and energetic player and I believe we share the same mindset as in thinking we are the best on the field and can’t be stopped. So hanging out with him would be a lot of fun. 

4.What is your favorite workout?

As much as I love working on my hands and bending the edge on the field, I’ve learned to like the weight room, and hang clean is definitely my favorite workout. 

5.What is a moment in your football career that improved you as a football player?

My sophomore year was the last game of the season and it did not go well at all. I realized that I just had to be better and prepare myself accordingly and that moment changed me. 

6.What are your favorite things about playing football for Saint Ambrose?

From the coaches to my teammates, everyone here is family and it feels like home here. I also love the energy and fun this team has every day, plus it helps that we have the best helmets in the NAIA. 

7.What made you decide you wanted to be a football player?

Being from Texas, football is big and I wanted to be a part of the Friday Night Lights! So that whole atmosphere made me decide that I wanted to try to play football and being at Ambrose just increased my love for the game! 

8.What type of energy do you bring onto the football field?

Definitely a fun and energetic feel. I am always dancing and singing on the field and sidelines and hyping up my teammates doing whatever I can to have as much fun as possible. 

9.What sets you apart from other defensive ends?

Definitely my combination of length and speed and the ability to rush the passer and play the run. Being long and fast is always an advantage and you can’t teach length so pairing that with pass rushing and being an every-down guy is something that definitely sets me apart.

10.Rank focus, footwork, and skill based on what is most important to you as a football player and explain why?

Focus first because without it you are lost and it will help you in all aspects of the game whether it is watching the film, practice, or the weight room.

This was a tough one but next is a skill because the ability to play football is still a very important part of the game

Last but not least is footwork because footwork is very important and will help a lot.

11.What would a team get in a player like you?

You’d be getting a player with a lot of confidence and a high motor. Someone who will do anything to be able to help his team and dominate.In addition to a leader and great teammate. 

12.What do you think are the keys to success on the football field?

Communication, resiliency, and effort. If you are always talking and communicating it slows the game down and makes it easier. Being able to fight through adversity and get through low points is very important and lastly effort always goes a long way!