2025 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Ntense Obono, WR/TE, Carleton College

Get to know Ntense Obono, a talented WR/TE from Carleton College. Learn about his journey in football and his favorite moments on the field. Check out this interview with NFL Draft Diamonds Scout Justin Berendzen.

Name: Ntense Obono

Position: WR/TE

College: Carleton College (Minnesota)

Height: 6’2”

Weight: 225 lbs

X (Twitter): @ntenseo

Instagram: @ntenseo

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

I didn’t initially plan on becoming a football player, but my high school football head coach and basketball teammate saw my athletic potential and encouraged me to give football a try. Their belief in my abilities pushed me to pursue it, and I quickly fell in love with the game.

What are your favorite moments from your football life?

Beating St. Olaf in our rivalry game during college was special because of the intensity and tradition behind it. Also, playing against St. John’s, one of the top teams in the nation, was a great test of skill and grit, making it a memorable experience.

Which one of your family members inspires you the most and why?

My entire family inspires me, especially because I don’t get to see them. Their unwavering support and sacrifices push me to be the best version of myself, both on and off the field.

What is your typical training routine?

I start the day with weightlifting to build strength and power. In the afternoon, I focus on field work and agility drills to enhance my speed, footwork, and change of direction. I finish the end of the day with stretching and recovery sessions to ensure my body is in peak condition.

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

I’d choose Stefon Diggs because his route running is elite, and I admire his ability to create separation. Spending a day with him would be invaluable to learn how he perfects his craft, both physically and mentally, on and off the field.

What are your favorite things about playing football for Carleton?

The relationships I’ve built with my teammates and coaches are irreplaceable. I’m also proud to be a part of turning the program around. My teammates and I worked hard to change the culture and bring success to the field, which is something I’ll always cherish.

What should we know about Ntense Obono the person?

I’ve always been a hard worker, committed to improving myself and those around me. Something people may not know is that I didn’t watch or understand football until my junior year of high school. I grew up playing soccer my whole life, so my transition to football was unexpected but rewarding. I embraced the challenge and became fully invested in learning the game.

What is your favorite offensive scheme and why?

I love an offense that incorporates RPOs and screen plays. These schemes keep defenses on their heels and allow me to showcase my versatility. I take pride in being an aggressive and effective blocker, whether on the perimeter or in the box, helping to open lanes for the run game and providing critical support in screens. I enjoy the physicality of blocking just as much as making plays with the ball, and RPOs allow for both.

How do you handle challenges both in life and on the football field?

I tackle challenges with the same mindset, whether in life or on the field. I break them down into manageable steps, stay focused on what I can control, and keep pushing forward. I see adversity as an opportunity to grow and improve, always staying resilient no matter the situation.

What would a team get in a player like you?

A team would get a relentless competitor who never stops working. I’m coachable, versatile, and always willing to put in extra time to improve. My background in both soccer and football gives me a unique perspective on field vision and footwork, allowing me to adapt quickly. Off the field, I’m a strong locker room presence who values team chemistry and leadership. A team would get a versatile, hard-working athlete who excels both with and without the ball. I’m a great interior and exterior blocker, whether it’s on the perimeter for outside runs or in the box during power running plays. I embrace my role in all facets of the game, from making tough catches to dominating in the blocking game. On top of that, I’m coachable, relentless in my work ethic, and always putting the team first.

What stands out about your film the most?

My yards after contact stand out the most, especially in critical moments. I’m also effective in red zone situations, where I excel at using my body and positioning to win on fade routes and secure contested catches. Furthermore is my ability as a blocker, both on the perimeter and in the box. Whether it’s sealing the edge or making crucial blocks downfield, I contribute significantly to the run game. Additionally, I move fluidly and am shifty for my size, making me a difficult matchup for defenders, whether I’m running routes or setting up blocks.

Who is the most underrated player you’ve played with and why?

Chris McGee is the most underrated player I’ve played with. He was the first to start teaching me how to run routes during my senior year of high school, and his football IQ is off the charts. Tyler Dimond is another underrated player; his speed and ability to make tough catches through contact and traffic are incredible, but often go unnoticed

Hula Bowl Contributor and Writer/Scout/Interviewer for Draft Diamonds since January 2020. You can find me on X at @jrberendzen and Instagram at justinberendzen