Former Cowboy Wyett Ekeler Ready to Make His NFL Dream a Reality
- Jeff Bugher
- 11 hours ago
- 3 min read
Former University of Wyoming safety Wyett Ekeler remains calm, focused, and optimistic about his future as the NFL draft continues.
Ekeler is from Windsor, Colorado, and had a very successful collegiate career with the Cowboys. Following his last college game, he has been preparing for his shot at the NFL. On January 2nd, he moved to Centennial, Colorado, where he began an intense training regimen at Landow Performance, working out six days a week while dialing in nutrition, technique, and conditioning.
How was UW Pro Day?
"It was an all-around great day," Ekeler said of his Wyoming Pro Day performance. "I don't think I could have done better in a few things. It was definitely better than expected."
Have any Teams Reached Out?
Ekeler confirmed that he has received interest from NFL teams and remains confident that his chance will come — if not during the final rounds of the draft, then soon after as a undrafted free agent.
"I'm probably going to have to wait until Saturday," he said earlier this week, "but it's looking very good."
Brother in the NFL and Preparation
A key part of Ekeler's preparation has been leaning on the experience of his older brother, NFL veteran running back Austin Ekeler who has been in the league since 2017 and currently plays for the Washington Commanders. Austin was an undrafted free agent out of Western Colorado and has worked his way up to a household name. Together, they've been studying rookie minicamp film, practicing defensive back drills, and especially focusing on special teams — an area where Wyett believes he can immediately make an impact for any team.
"If I do make a team, special teams will be my main contributor start," Wyett said.
"Effort is my biggest strength. I'm going to give you 100% every time, no matter what."
Ekeler describes his play style as that of one of the NFL's most fearless defenders, safety Tyrann Mathieu of the New Orleans Saints. "He's a smaller guy, but he doesn't play like it," Wyett said. "I want to be known as that physical guy too."
Business Side of Things – Plans to Give Back
Off the field, Wyett finds balance through simple joys — such as playing computer games with his brother — and already envisions ways to utilize his platform to give back.
"I definitely want to start my own foundation someday," he said. "I also want to get into the business side, like real estate — buying rental properties, running my own business."
Career at Wyoming
Ekeler played five seasons at Wyoming. After limited action as a freshman in 2020, he moved to safety. By 2022, he totaled 67 tackles, an interception, and seven pass breakups. In 2023, he posted a career-best 77 tackles, six tackles for loss, two sacks, two interceptions (one returned for a touchdown), and two forced fumbles. As a senior in 2024, he added 46 tackles and another interception. Over 48 career games, Ekeler recorded 197 tackles, eight tackles for loss, four interceptions, 15 pass breakups, three forced fumbles, and two fumble recoveries. Ekeler was nominated for several awards and won the "Never Flinch" award given in remembrance of former Cowboy Weston Johnson, who passed away from cancer.
The term "Cowboy Tough" comes to mind when thinking about Ekeler's career. He played with two "club" casts on his hands simultaneously during parts of the 2024 season.
Wyoming Football Memories
Reflecting on his time at Wyoming, Ekeler points to two games that stand out: the thrilling overtime victory against Texas Tech and earning his first Border War win as a starter against rival Colorado State.
Those memories — and the work ethic they represent — are now fueling him through the final stretch of his journey to professional football.
Wherever Wyett Ekeler lands… He’s ready to bring heart, hustle, and leadership to the next level.