2025 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Conner O’Farrell, LB, Eastern Washington University

• Name: Conner O’Farrell
• Position: LB
• College: Eastern Washington University
• Height: 5’ 11”
• Weight: 215 lbs
• X (Twitter): @connerofarrell1
• Instagram: @conner.ofarrell

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

Growing up in Alaska, my family was always active — hunting, fishing, wrestling — we stayed moving. I was first pushed toward wrestling because my uncle and grandpa were standouts in the sport, but one of my coaches saw something in me and suggested I try football. I started as a stocky lineman, but as I grew and leaned out, I found my natural position at linebacker. I’ll never forget the feeling of right before the opening kick off getting ready to go to war — that raw, warrior energy stuck with me. It became more than a sport. It became something I looked forward to just as much as winning the game.

What are your favorite moments from your football life?

A: My senior year state championship in high school — we came up short, and it hurt. But what stuck with me wasn’t the loss, it was the brotherhood we built that year. That team taught me how meaningful the journey is when you’re surrounded by the right people. In college, my favorite moments weren’t just wins, but the celebration after making a big play or putting together a tough team win. Those moments, when everyone is enjoying each other’s accomplishments that we worked together for, that’s what I will remember. 

What are you looking to achieve as a football player going forward?

I want to keep chasing the highest version of myself. I don’t believe I’ve peaked yet — not physically, not mentally, and definitely not as a football player. I want to grow, compete, and prove that I belong at the highest level. I owe it to myself.

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

Patrick Willis, without a doubt. He was the first jersey I ever got, and from the moment I started watching football, I saw a version of the game I wanted to embody—tough, relentless, and smart. I’d love to hear his mindset, his approach, and what drove him to be great.

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

My dad. He laid the blueprint for how to work hard, how to be accountable, and how to carry yourself with pride. He taught me that nothing is out of reach if you’re willing to outwork everyone else. A lot of who I am today is because of, and I carry that with me on and off the field.

What is your favorite defensive scheme and why?

I love playing in a 4-3 or 3-3, especially when I’m lined up as a Rover or Sam. I thrive when I can play in space, use my speed to force the ball inside or shut down screens. I love disguising coverages, giving the offense something they’re not expecting. Letting me roam lets me play instinctual, and that’s when I’m at my best.

What should we know about Conner O’Farrell the person?

I’m someone who grew up in Alaska where the outdoors were part of daily life. I was introduced at a very young age to fishing, hunting, snow machining, dirt biking and camping, really anything active and outdoors. I was always wanting to do something active. I’m a multi-sport athlete who loves competing, lifting, and being active. I’m a family guy, and I’m about to marry the love of my life. Whether I’m in pads or not, I’m always working to become a better version of myself.

What stands out about your film the most?

Speed and versatility. As an outside linebacker, I can close ground fast and disrupt plays in space. On special teams, I was a mainstay throughout college, kickoff, punt, return units, I made my presence known. Coaches trusted me to be wherever they needed someone dependable.

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

I don’t shy away. If it’s a big challenge, I break it down and tackle it step by step. I stay level-headed, focused, and I don’t let the moment get too big. I’ve learned that your attitude in adversity says more than your reaction to success.

What would a team get in a player like you?

A guy who doesn’t do things halfway. I give 100% in everything I do. I’m a worker, I care deeply about my craft, and I’m constantly striving to be better than yesterday, not just good, not just reliable, the best I can be. If I’m in your building, I’m there to raise the standard.

What do you love the most about the game of football?

The brotherhood. The shared goal, the shared suffering, the highs and lows, it brings people together in a way nothing else does. Football reveals character, and when you’re surrounded by guys who all want the same thing and are willing to put in the work for it, that’s where I feel I belong. 

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

Two guys come to mind, Efton Chism III and Eric Barriere. Both were game-changers on the field. They got some recognition, sure, but they deserve even more. Watching them compete every day, I saw firsthand what NFL-level talent looks like. I truly believe they belong at the next level.