2026 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Ethan Stuart, DB, McMaster University
Name: Ethan Stuart
Position: DB/LB
College: McMaster University
Height: 6’1
Weight: 220lbs
Twitter: _ethanstuart
Instagram: ethan__stuart
What makes you a top prospect at your position in the 2026 NFL Draft?
What separates me as a top prospect in the 2026 Draft is the combination of my athletic profile and my unique path to football.
I didn’t play my first down of organized football until my senior year of high school. Before that, I competed in multiple sports at a high level, which helped develop my coordination, movement skills, and overall athleticism. Because I came to the game later, I’ve made significant year-over-year improvements and I’m still ascending. My ceiling is high because I haven’t come close to tapping out my development.
At 6’1”, 220lbs, I’m a big defensive back with rare versatility. I have the speed and agility to match up with receivers in space like a defensive back, but I also bring the size and power to trigger downhill and tackle like a linebacker. That combination allows me to impact the game in multiple roles, in coverage, in the box, and on special teams.
Off the field, my work ethic shows up in measurable ways. I hold the university record for the Yo-Yo/Beep Test, which speaks to my conditioning. That endurance translates directly to my play as I’m able to make impact plays late in games on both defence and special teams. In the weight room, I’m well over the 1000-pound club across the main lifts (bench, squat, clean), and that strength shows up in my physicality and finishing ability.
Those traits have translated to production. I led McMaster in solo tackles in 2024 and earned high-level recognition, including invites to the East-West bowl, College Gridiron Showcase, and the CFL National Combine. When you combine my size, athletic ability, versatility, production, and upward trajectory, I believe I offer teams a high-ceiling, scheme-versatile defender who can contribute immediately and continue to grow.
What is one thing that NFL teams should know about you?
Teams should know that I’m disciplined, consistent, and dependable in everything I do. I hold myself to a high standard in film study, lifting, nutrition, and recovery, because I believe consistency off the field translates directly to consistency on the field. I don’t take shortcuts and I’ve consistently turned small opportunities into meaningful results.
If you could donate to one cause in the world, what would it be?
I’d put my energy into youth sports access. Sports taught me discipline, and teamwork and not every kid has the resources or opportunity to play. I’d like to make sure financial barriers don’t stop kids from discovering their potential through athletics.
Who was your role model?
My parents. Growing up they taught me that resilience isn’t just a concept, it’s a daily commitment. They showed me the value of sacrifice, accountability, and consistency, and they’ve always been my biggest supporters while also holding me to a high standard.
Who is your favorite NFL team?
The Seattle Seahawks. I’ve followed them since the Legion of Boom era and admired how their defence set the standard for physical, disciplined football. My high school team’s jerseys were also Seahawks colors, which made that connection even stronger.
Who is the most underrated teammate at your school?
I would say the most underrated teammate at my McMaster is our middle linebacker, Aaron Lavers.
What is your biggest pet peeve?
Lack of effort. Talent only takes you so far, and the only thing that you can fully control is your level of effort, whether it is in the game, practice, academics or in any aspect of your life. I believe you should always give 110% effort.
Who is your favorite teacher ever?
My favorite teacher in football has been Scott Brady, the defensive coordinator at Mac for most of my time here. Starting football in my last year of high school and then jumping straight into university was a huge adjustment mentally, and he played a big role in helping me make that transition. He taught me how to slow the game down and really understand the details behind each scheme. He also showed me how proper preparation in the film room can elevate my play.
Overcoming adversity is what defines character, what was the hardest moment in your life to overcome?
The hardest moment I’ve had to overcome in football was separating my AC joint in the second quarter of a playoff game. Watching from the sideline while our defence struggled was tough, and the injury carried directly into my training window for the East West Bowl, the biggest opportunity of my career at the time. Instead of letting it derail me, I locked in on rehab and adjusted my preparation so I could still show up ready to compete. That experience taught me resilience, patience, and how to adapt under adversity. It reinforced the importance of controlling what I can control, and performing at a high level even when circumstances are not ideal.
If you could have any franchise restaurant in your house what would it be?
If I could have any franchise restaurant in my house, I’d choose The Keg. I love steak, and they consistently serve great steaks with solid sides and a quality experience. It’s also a place I associate with celebrating wins and big moments, so having that at home would be tough to beat.
What is your favorite snack food?
My favorite snack is guacamole and chips. I usually make the guacamole myself, and it’s simple, filling, and a good balance between something that feels like a treat and something that still has some nutritional value.
What is your degree in?
My degree is in Civil Engineering. This area of study utilizes my mental agility, problem-solving skills and pattern recognition, which I apply directly to football and the rest of my life.
If you could have dinner with three people dead or alive, who would it be and why?
Muhammed Ali – The greatest, both inside and outside the ring. His confidence, courage, and ability to speak his truth would be inspiring to learn from directly.
Late Grandfather – He passed before I could really share my athletic journey with him. He was also a high-level athlete, so I’d love the opportunity for us to share our experiences, get his advice, and feel that connection as both a family member and a fellow competitor.
Brian Dawkins – His passion, and intensity were unmatched. I’d like to learn how he mentally prepared to become “Weapon X” on game day and how he inspired everyone around him to rise to that level.
What is your biggest weakness?
One weakness I’ve worked on is patience. I’m naturally competitive and want immediate results, whether that’s in training or on the field. Over time, I’ve learned that development is about stacking consistent days and trusting the process. That shift in mindset has helped me become more steady, more focused, and more prepared week to week.
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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