Q&A with 2017 NFL draft prospect Eli Ankou
- Updated: January 22, 2017
Carson, Calif- It’s a little different now being out of college but the former UCLA Bruins defensive lineman Eli Ankou had himself a solid four-year career by finishing in the team’s top 10 in tackles the last two seasons. His numbers weren’t anything overpowering, but the six three 290 pound frame he possesses could make him an asset in this year’s draft.
With a name that translates to death in French, Welsh and Cornish folklore, Ankou who is from Ottawa, Canada hopes to carry his country’s roots and make a name for himself at the 2017 NFLPA Bowl this Saturday.
EH: What has been the biggest difference between the coaching you received at UCLA to the pro level coaching being received this week?
EA: It’s definitely been an adjustment. I’m so used to playing with a big base. Now it’s more of attack the gap. Just take off, attack the gap and just make a play. So it’s more big play driven more than completely big base more fundamental.
EH: What are you most looking forward to this Saturday?
EA: I’m really excited, there’s a great group of guys here and a lot I got to meet from all over the place. I’m really just here taking in the experience. A lot of guys, a lot of people and the atmosphere here is super great.
EH: Who was the one former NFL player this week that you met how has been influential.
EA: Jackie Slater. He’s awesome. I kind of met him very briefly but I wasn’t sure who he was at first. And then he asked “Do you know my son Matt Slater from the Patriots?” I said yeah he’s a former Bruin. But a lot of experience that man has and it was an honor to meet him.
EH: What do you think is the thing you have improved in your game from your time at UCLA up to now?
EA: For me it was taking off vertically and slowing the game down for myself. A lot of film study, studying a lot of people and schemes. It’s something I have been doing a lot of which is burying myself into the book and just figure out the game a lot.
EH: Considering the solid defensive players that have come from UCLA that include Ken Norton and Rahim Moore, how do you plan on carrying that Bruin legacy?
EA: Man, the only thing I can do is work my hardest and control what I can control. Work my hardest and make a name for myself.
EH: Last season there were only 12 Canadian players in the entire NFL on an active roster in week 1. How much pride do you carry for your country when you step onto the football field?
EA: To me it’s everything. I wear my heart on my sleeve about it. It was definitely a challenge from Canada because you have to do everything for yourself. But right now I think that exposure to big college football in Canada is only getting better for the younger generation and that will be huge for them. I’m really proud to be a part of that culture that is changing.
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