NFL DraftProspect Interviews

2023 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Somto Anyadike, RB, Simon Fraser University

Somto Anyadike the standout running back from Simon Fraser University recently sat down with NFL Draft Diamonds owner Damond Talbot.
Somto Anyadike the standout running back from Simon Fraser University recently sat down with NFL Draft Diamonds owner Damond Talbot.
  • Name: Somto Anyadike
  • Position: RB
  • College: Simon Fraser University 
  • Height: 6’0
  • Weight: 215
  • Twitter: anyadike_
  • Instagram: anyadike_

What makes you a top prospect at your position  in the 2023 NFL Draft

I believe I have what it takes to compete as a RB at the NFL level. I am competent in my skills and abilities such as my vision, speed and agility in and out of cuts. My will power to run forward, whether carrying players to get extra yardage or running whoever over for it, I believe is what separates me from most backs.  

At what age were you first interested in the sport of football?

Ever since the age of 12 years old was when I first fell in love with the game of football. Football was the only sport I would play during recess time. My love for the game grew, because at the time I found it to be something I finally was good at, which in turn garnered respect from my peers. One of my friends later told me to join his community football team called the St. Vital Mustangs football club. My parents were hesitant at first, due to the violent nature of the game, but finally agreed because my overwhelming interest to play. After signing up I became a member of the 2010 Pee Wee Black football team, which was ran by my head coach at the time Brent Kaneski. I appreciate and respect Coach Kaneski because he took a liking to me. When other coaches passed me up on joining their team. He bought me my first football equipments, a Madden video game and two posters of Nigerian NFL football players; Osi Omenyeria  and Christian Okoye. Seeing two fellow Igbo Nigerians like myself be great at a sport I loved was what motivated me and grew my love further for the game of football. 

What is one thing that NFL teams should know about you?

I take pride on being a hard-working individual, a go getter, a stubborn ambition to be great, and most importantly the ability to learn. All in conclusion as the belief in myself.    

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

I would donate to organizations that work with less fortunate children in need. Working at group homes as a teen, helped me see what it was like for children growing up in broken homes. I saw how children with lack of resources and self loathing thoughts dimmed the light they had towards their dreams and aspirations based on their conditions. I realized how children should be given a fair chance at life no matter where they come from. Seeing that made me want to help out as much as I can, especially if I’m in a position financially to do so.    

What is the best advice you have ever received?

The best advice I’ve received so far would be from my mother. She always told me to believe in myself no matter what. That as long as another human being can do it, so can I, if I put my mind to it. And I’ve carried that with me ever since. 

Who was your childhood hero?

My childhood heroes would be my Mom and Dad. They brought me into this world and took care of me the best they could. They made me the person I am today and taught me lessons that directed me into being responsible and respectful as an adult.

Who is the most underrated teammate in your locker room at your school?

I would say Damon Lynch, he’s a teammate of mine who plays Defensive Back. Very athletic, fast and could play any coverage. He is also a well-mannered personality and a great friend. He’s an upstanding individual and a friend that keeps his word. I would vouch for him any day due to his good moral character.      

What is your biggest pet peeve?

It’s a funny one, but probably people in-front of me that take up space and walk slow with zero awareness of others behind them trying to get by. 

Overcoming adversity is what defines character, what was the hardest moment in your life to overcome?

I have faced plenty adversities in life chasing my NFL dreams. But my biggest one would be, the years of not being on a football team for 2 years, in 2019 and in 2020, wondering if I  would even get the chance to put on a football helmet again. Fortunately I didn’t give up and was able to attend Simon Fraser University and play College football at the American level.

Tell me something about your school and why it is so special to you?

Simon Fraser is special to me, because the chance I  was given to still be able to pursue  my football dreams. Playing at SFU taught me more about the game than ever before. I  got the chance to play against American talent which I  always wanted to do growing up as a Canadian. I will forever be thankful and appreciative of SFU for the friendships and relationships that I’ve formed, and especially the opportunity to play football once again.

What is your favorite snack food?

My favorite snack food would probably be Dole’s diced canned pineapples. I  eat them about every day

What is the best part of football?

For me the best part of football is watching film. I can spend hours watching film on myself and figuring out what I  can do better and how I can improve. After I  would come back just to track my progress from previous games and practices. Film never lies, so for me it is the best tool to use to improve ones techniques. 

If you could sell yourself in one sentence what would you say?

My sentence would be: “I am a choice you’ll never regret.

If you could compare your play to one player in the NFL who would it be?

I would compare my playing style to 2016 Ezekiel Elliot. A North-South runner, a bruising back and a unit to take down.  

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

I would love to have dinner with Jim Brown, Walter Payton and Barry Sanders. Those guys are complete legends in my eyes. I’ve watched all their documentaries and highlights. I would love to take in their knowledge of the game and techniques on how they approached every Sunday. It would be a great privilege.   

Damond Talbot

NFL Draft Diamonds was created to assist the underdogs playing the sport. We call them diamonds in the rough. My name is Damond Talbot, I have worked extremely hard to help hundreds of small school players over the past several years, and will continue my mission. We have several contributors on this site, and if they contribute their name and contact will be in the piece above. You can email me at nfldraftdiamonds@gmail.com

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