Lincoln University and former Ohio State safety Amir Riep had a big season in 2023. Riep totaled 87 tackles, 5.0 sacks, five pass breakups, and four forced fumbles. Riep will return to Ohio State to perform at the program's Pro Day ahead of the 2024 NFL Draft with an opportunity to impress all 32 teams in person.
Riep recently spoke with The Draft Network about his 2023 campaign, performing at Ohio State's Pro Day, getting ready at X3 Performance, and so much more.
JM: You totaled 87 tackles, 5.0 sacks, and four forced fumbles at Lincoln University this season. What led to that production?
Amir Riep: I was just doing my job at a high level. I made sure I was in the right places at the right time. I made good decisions.
JM: You’ve been getting ready for the 2024 NFL Draft at X3 Performance. How is that process going?
Amir Riep: It’s going well at X3 so far. I’m getting my body ready to perform at Ohio State’s Pro Day. I’m getting ready to physically perform at the level I know I’m capable of. I got here [X3] a little later than everybody else, so we’re working through my numbers now.
We’re very optimistic about what the final results are going to look like at the pro day. Everything is going well. Once it comes together and this 10-week program is done, I’ll be able to showcase the full range of my capabilities.
JM: You’ll be performing at Ohio State’s Pro Day this year. It represents a huge opportunity for you. All 32 teams will undoubtedly be in attendance. What are you hoping to prove to general managers and scouts in attendance?
Amir Riep: I want to remind all the decision-makers that I’m still here. I once played at a high level at Ohio State. I made a lot of big plays in big-time moments. I’ve played on the biggest of stages. I’m just looking to remind everyone that I’m still that same player. I’m capable of showcasing my talent and athleticism.
JM: How would you write your own scouting report? What are some of your biggest strengths? Self-scout yourself for me.
Amir Riep: The biggest thing with me is versatility. I’m not just throwing out words. I actually played all three defensive back positions at Ohio State. I moved around during actual games, not just practice. I played nickel, cornerback, and as a single-high safety at Ohio State.
The coaching staff at Ohio State trusted me to play all three positions during games. I’m going to prove that I can still play all three positions throughout this pre-draft process. I can play in the box and make those physical plays. I tackle well. I can play over the top, I can play off coverage. I can play press-man versus tight ends and slot receivers. Versatility and physicality are my calling cards. I can make big-time plays in big-time games.
JM: As a safety in today’s pass-happy NFL, how important is it for you to be interchangeable with your safety partner, to complement each other’s skill sets and vice versa?
Amir Riep: It’s very important. That’s what every team needs, it’s what every team is looking for at this level. That’s why I feel like I’d fit perfectly within that system. Offenses are multiple nowadays. I can play both inside and outside. If a defensive back can’t play every position, now you have to switch personnel and that creates a problem.
With me, I can stay on the field no matter the situation or down and distance. I can play inside and outside. If I need to play single-high, I have experience doing that as well. I can play zone and man coverage.
JM: We’ve appreciated your time. Why should a team use one of their draft picks on Amir Riep?
Amir Riep: They’ll be getting a hard-working individual. Whatever team gets me is getting a versatile player. I’ve grown a lot on and off the field. I’m ready to perform. I’m not coming in as a regular rookie. I’m ready to play right now. I’ve been through the development at Ohio State. I’m ready to contribute immediately. I belong at this level.
