2025 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: James Gladden, DE, University of Findlay
Discover why James Gladden is a top prospect for the 2025 NFL Draft. His game IQ and explosiveness make him a force to be reckoned with on the field.
Name: James Gladden
Position: EDGE
College: University of Findlay, transferred from Ottawa University
Height: 6’1
Weight: 255lbs
Twitter: @JGWORLD_
Instagram: @jamesgladdenofficial
What makes you a top prospect at your position in the 2025 NFL Draft?
What makes me a top prospect at my position is my game IQ and my explosiveness. Both of these attributes have opened many opportunities for me to make plays against any offense. My blend of size and athleticism makes it hard for tackles to block me by making it easier for me to gain leverage at the point of attack.
What is one thing that NFL teams should know about you?
NFL teams should know that I am a student of the game first and that I’ve played for many different schemes so I am versatile and learn fast. My mental capacity allows me the privilege to learn the ins and outs of an NFL defense and excel in my role.
If you could donate to one cause in the world, what would it be?
If I could donate to one cause in the world it would be to help homelessness and mental health within the veteran community. Seeing that my father is a Captain in the U.S. Army, I cannot forsake those who fought for our country and are going through a tough break in their life. I would love to help combat this cause.
Who was your role model?
Interestingly enough, my role model was Cam Newton. He has a confidence about himself that I believe is synonymous with being a high-level athlete. I grew up believing in myself in a similar fashion, just not as flashy.
Who is your favorite NFL team?
My favorite NFL team is the Atlanta Falcons! I grew up watching guys like John Abraham and Julio Jones. I also loved Michael Vick’s playing style and it was a little bit before my time but his impact was felt for sure.
Who is the most underrated teammate at your school?
I believe that the most underrated player on my team was Elijah Shankle! He’s a younger guy but he was an absolute dawg. Very heavy handed and very smart.
What is your biggest pet peeve?
My biggest pet peeve is being treated differently than others based on perception of who I am rather than who I actually am. I’ve gotten much better at this but I keep it because it drives me to be the greatest version of myself.
Who is your favorite teacher ever?
My favorite teacher was Mr. O’Brien at Platte County High School. He taught me so many things to help me along my journey of life that I wouldn’t have known prior to meeting him.
Overcoming adversity is what defines character, what was the hardest moment in your life to overcome?
The hardest moment of my life was the first semester of my sophomore year in high school. I relocated prior to that season so I had to play for a whole new team and I wasn’t able to play as much, just as things were getting better I had an injury that ruined my momentum. I kept working and as I was getting back on my feet, I lost my grandmother and was forced to go back to my hometown. This ended the season for me because I was gone for the last few weeks. Then I had to transfer again just a few weeks after this and start all over again with a new school and team.
If you could have any franchise restaurant in your house what would it be?
If I could have a restaurant in my house I think it would be either Culver’s or Chipotle. I love their ingredients and wouldn’t feel necessarily unhealthy eating them all the time.
What is your favorite snack food?
I love to eat Reese’s Cups. They are my all time favorite.
What is your degree in?
In 2024 I earned a Bachelor’s of Science in Finance and a Bachelor’s of Arts in Accounting. I am currently pursuing my MBA with a CPA concentration.
If you could have dinner with three people dead or alive, who would it be and why?
John F. Kennedy because he arguably was the best president with only 2 years under his belt, Mark Cuban because he is business savvy. My third person would have to be Reggie White, we are from the same hometown, he used to live right down the street from my family when my grandma was a teenager.
What is your biggest weakness?
My biggest weakness is my ambition. I have found myself going to extremes to chase my goals and dreams. This can allow people to take advantage of me and steer me towards a destiny that only suits their best interests.
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 [email protected]
