Seydou Traore's introduction to football came through watching Jason Bell and Osi Umenyiora's NFL show on British television. Now, he's on the cusp of becoming the latest NFL player to emerge from the UK. Born in France but raised in South London, Traore will proudly represent his hometown when he enters the 2026 NFL Draft.

With a calm and focused demeanor, he's ready for the opportunity of a lifetime. "It's going to be a special moment," Traore says, reflecting on the possibility of hearing his name called during the Draft.

His journey to this point has been anything but conventional. From playing soccer and rugby in his youth to discovering American football through the London Warriors, Traore's passion for the sport has only grown stronger. He attended the NFL Academy and later played at Clearwater Academy in Florida, where he caught 26 passes for 433 yards and three touchdowns in one season.

Traore's college career took him to Arkansas State University, where he was named First-Team All-Sun Belt after leading the conference in tight end catches. He then transferred to the University of Colorado before ultimately landing at Mississippi State.

Throughout his journey, Traore has remained committed to his goal of playing in the NFL. Despite facing setbacks, including being forced to sit out the 2023 season due to NCAA transfer rules, he's persevered and is now poised to realize his dream. "It just reinforced everything I knew about myself," Traore says of the experience.

"I'm always going to chase an opportunity and grab it with two hands." As he prepares to enter the NFL, Traore is mindful of his roots and the journey that has brought him to this point. "I always remember where I grew up and how I grew up," he says.

"I feel like it's essential for people back home to feel inspired and know that it's possible to achieve their goals." With 126 catches for 1,402 yards and 10 touchdowns in his college career, Traore is ready to take the next step. His message to aspiring athletes is simple: "If you care for something deep enough, go chase it.

Don't listen to the ifs, buts, and maybes. If you feel it deep in your heart, then it's possible."