Cowboys UDFA 2018: An interview with defensive back Donovan Olumba

A few days have gone by since the end of the 2018 NFL Draft. And while the Dallas Cowboys did a good job of adding talent at the right areas in the draft, they were also able to add some talented players in the undrafted free agency process. One of those players was Donovan Olumba, a cornerback and safety out of Portland State.

The Cowboys did not draft one defensive back in the draft, a true testament to how defensive backs coach Kris Richard feels about the current group of starters they already have. However, Dallas has an affinity for adding players who not only make a difference on defense, but also can contribute on special teams.

The next few months will make the difference for Olumba. Can prove his worth and stick around to be a player in Dallas in 2018? Despite his busy schedule and upcoming weeks that will be huge for his NFL prospects, Olumba was kind enough to complete an interview with the BTB staff. Read on below and get an idea of the person and player Olumba is.

You grew up in Tuscon. Were you a Cardinals fan growing up? Who is your favorite player?

I actually wasn’t a Cardinals fan growing up, everyone around me was and I wanted to root for a team that wasn’t in my face all of the time. I liked the Eagles because of Donovan McNabb. Then when I got to middle school, I started to become a Seahawks fan because of Shaun Alexander.

When did you start playing football?

I started playing football in 5th grade for the Tucson Falcons.

How early did the Cowboys express interest in you?

The first time I saw a Cowboys scout was at my game against Oregon State. A few came to my school throughout the season and my trainer actually told me that the Cowboys called my school for my medical history.

Talk about the pre-draft process. What was it like? How did it help you?

The pre-draft process was an experience that you have to go through. The testing aspect doesn’t correlate to football. It was cool knowing that NFL teams are interested in you and also knowing that you have the opportunity to accomplish your dream. One thing that helped was training with Ryan Clark and his DB precision program. Just being able to soak up everything he has told me has definitely made me a better player.

What are your strengths?

Intelligent, discipline, instinctual, tall and long arms. Press man. Ball skills. Overall solid athlete.

What are your weaknesses?

I don’t run a 4.3 40.

Talk about Coach Marinelli and Coach Richard. How have they been to you so far and what do you know about them?

I haven’t met them yet. I’m excited to learn from them more about the game of football so I can help the team win.

Which role can you play in the Cowboys’ secondary?

Whatever role Coach Richard and Coach Marinelli want me to play so I can help the team win.

Who do you model your game after?

I try to model my game after a few players. I like Richard Sherman and his intelligence and I like how Jalen Ramsey is physical and involves himself in the run game.

Are you friends with any current Cowboys?

No not yet, I’m looking forward to building close relationships with my teammates.

What do you know so far about the Cowboys’ secondary?

A bunch of young players that compete. I’ve watched film on the secondary from last season. What stands out is that they all compete for the ball and they play hard.

What are you most excited about?

I’m just excited to get to the facility and finally get to work. Show everyone that’s a part of the Cowboys organization that I was a steal in undrafted free agency and show Cowboy fans that I’ll do what it takes for the team to win.

What are your expectations for the 2018 season?

To play well enough so Coach Marinelli, Coach Richard, Coach O’Quinn can trust me and know what they’re getting out of me every single snap.

The BTB staff wants to thank Olumba for his time with this interview. We wish him nothing but the best on his journey. Follow Olumba’s journey by following him on Twitter @olumbadx.