Seydou Traore's introduction to football came through watching Jason Bell and Osi Umenyiora's NFL show on British television. Now, he's poised to become the subject of their analysis as he enters the 2026 NFL Draft. Born in France but raised in the UK, Traore will proudly represent South London, embodying the international reach of football.
With a calm demeanor and laser-like focus, he's ready for the next chapter in his remarkable journey. His path to this point has been unconventional, having started as a goalkeeper and later transitioning to tight end.
From the fields of South London to those in Florida, Arkansas, and Mississippi, Traore has navigated a winding road in college football. 'I picked up American football late in my teenage years,' he recalled, 'starting with the London Warriors, just 10 minutes from my house.' Traore's journey has taken him from playing soccer, rugby, and basketball to becoming a standout tight end. He spent a year at the NFL Academy before moving to Clearwater Academy in Florida, where he managed 26 catches for 433 yards and three touchdowns in one season.
Ranked as a three-star prospect, he committed to Arkansas State University, leading the conference in tight end catches in his first year. Traore then transferred to the University of Colorado before re-entering the transfer portal and landing with Mississippi State. His family, who had limited understanding of American football, trusted his determination and belief in himself. 'It was just me telling them this is what I'm going to do, and they had trust in me,' he said.
Traore's college journey has been marked by milestones, including being named First-Team All-Sun Belt and amassing 62 receptions for 752 yards and four touchdowns across two seasons. He also had to overcome the hurdle of sitting out the 2023 season due to NCAA transfer rules. 'It reinforced everything I knew about myself – I'm always going to chase an opportunity and grab it with two hands,' he reflected. As he heads into the Draft, Traore is a product of the inaugural NFL Academy cohort.
His story is one of diversions, exposing him to contrasting environments and teaching him a more peaceful way of life. 'I'm still the same person, but being in the South for five years has taught me tranquillity,' he said.
With 126 catches for 1,402 yards and 10 touchdowns in college, Traore is ready to take the next step. He leaves college with a message of inspiration: '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.'