2026 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Ryan Whetzel II, OL, Lenoir Rhyne University

Meet Ryan Whetzel II, a top prospect in the 2026 NFL Draft. Discover his dedication to preparation and technique.

Name: Ryan Whetzel II

Position: Offensive Gaurd

College: Lenoir rhyne university 

Height: 6’5

Weight: 305

Twitter: RyanWhetzel

Instagram: Ryanwhetzel

What makes you a top prospect at your position in the 2026 NFL Draft? 

What makes me a top prospect at my position in the 2026 NFL Draft is how I approach the game every single day. I take pride in my preparation whether that’s film study, lifting, or extra reps after practice. I’m coachable, consistent, and I play with an edge. I’ve worked hard to develop my technique, my football IQ, and my leadership on and off the field. I might not always be the flashiest guy, but I bring toughness, effort, and discipline every snap and I believe that’s what separates me.

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

One thing NFL teams should know about me is that I’m all in on the field, in the locker room, and in the film room. I’m not just chasing a dream, I’m chasing greatness. I’m the kind of player who does the little things right, holds myself accountable, and pushes the guys around me to be better. No matter what role I’m asked to play, I’ll show up every day with the same mindset: outwork everybody and earn everything.

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 cancer research specifically for triple negative breast cancer. That one hits home for me because my mom battled it, and I saw firsthand how tough that fight is, not just physically but emotionally. She’s one of the strongest people I know, and going through that with her gave me a whole new perspective on what real toughness and perseverance look like. Supporting cancer research means giving more families hope, better treatments, and more time together. That’s something I’ll always stand behind.

Who was your role model? 

My role models have always been my parents. They’ve shown me what hard work, sacrifice, and unconditional support really look like. No matter what was going on, they made sure I stayed grounded, stayed focused, and kept chasing my goals. Whether it was driving me to practices, showing up to games, or pushing me to be better in school and in life, they were always there. I try to carry their values with me every day humility, work ethic, and doing things the right way.

Who is your favorite NFL team?

Carolina Panthers

Who is the most underrated teammate at your school? 

One of the most underrated players on our team is Christian Santana (DB). He’s the definition of a workhorse quiet, focused, and always about the team. He doesn’t care about the spotlight; he just shows up every day and grinds. Whether it’s on the field, in the weight room, or during film sessions, he brings intensity and consistency. A lot of people might overlook him because he’s not flashy, but the guys in our locker room know how valuable he is. He does the little things right, holds himself accountable, and sets the tone for the rest of us. He’s a key part of our success, and I truly believe his time to shine is coming.

What is your biggest pet peeve? 

My biggest pet peeve is when people don’t give full effort whether that’s in practice, in the weight room, or just in life. I respect hard work more than anything, and when I see someone just going through the motions, it bothers me. I believe if you’re going to do something, you should do it 100%. That mindset is what separates good from great.

Who is your favorite teacher ever?

My favorite teacher is Joe Smith he teaches a lot of the sports management classes I’ve taken, and he’s had a big impact on me. He doesn’t just teach out of a textbook he brings real-world experience into the classroom and connects everything back to the business side of sports. What I really appreciate is how he pushes us to think critically, be professional, and see the bigger picture beyond just being an athlete. He’s passionate about what he does, and it shows. He’s definitely helped shape the way I look at my future in and beyond football

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

The hardest moment in my life to overcome was when my mom was diagnosed with triple negative breast cancer. Watching someone you love go through something that tough, and knowing there’s nothing you can do to take the pain away, is something that changes you. It tested me emotionally and mentally, but it also gave me perspective. Seeing her fight every day with courage and faith showed me what real strength looks like. It made me grow up faster and gave me a deeper ‘why’ behind everything I do. Her battle became my motivation to never take a day for granted and to give my all, on and off the field.

If you could have any franchise restaurant in your house what would it be?

If I could have any franchise restaurant in my house, it would be Bojangles. I love their flavor those Cajun-seasoned chicken and biscuits are unbeatable. It’s the perfect mix of comfort food and something with a little kick. Plus, having Bojangles at home would mean never having to miss out on that legendary southern taste after a long day of practice or a tough workout.

What is your favorite snack food? 

Doritos 

What is your degree in? 

Sports Management 

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

If I could have dinner with three people, dead or alive, I’d pick Luke Kuechly, Ozzy Osbourne, and Muhammad Ali. Luke Kuechly because he was a leader on the field and off, someone who played the game with intelligence and heart—he’s the kind of player I really look up to. Ozzy Osbourne for his creativity and how he broke all the rules in music, showing that being yourself no matter what is powerful. And Muhammad Ali because he was more than just a boxer he stood up for what he believed in and changed the culture. Sitting down with all three would be an incredible chance to learn about leadership, resilience, and staying true to yourself.

What is your biggest weakness?

My biggest weakness is managing my body weight and keeping it consistently at 3005 plus pounds. It’s tough because my position demands both strength and agility, so I have to find the right balance between staying powerful without losing speed or endurance. 

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]