From Five-Star to Forever Locked In: Dontae Manning’s NFL Journey
We’re less than 10 days away from the 2025 NFL Draft, a pivotal moment for prospects nationwide who have dedicated their lives to reaching this stage. Amid the whirlwind of final evaluations, pro days, and last-minute team visits, we had the opportunity to sit down with one of the more compelling defensive back prospects in this year’s class: Oregon Ducks cornerback Dontae Manning.
The 5’10”, 190-pound Kansas City native entered college as a consensus five-star recruit and spent five years honing his craft in Eugene. Known for his elite speed—clocking an eye-popping 4.26-second 40-yard dash at Oregon’s Pro Day—Manning has also shown significant growth as a leader and carries a chip on his shoulder as he aims to prove doubters wrong. His speed, versatility, and late-season flashes make him a prospect to watch as draft day approaches.
Legacy, Loss, and Leadership
When asked about the moment that defines his time at Oregon, Manning’s response was deeply personal and reflective of the bonds he formed with his teammates.
“A moment that really sticks out to me is at the end of fall camp when we take the hike up Spencer’s Butte to remember our teammates Khyree Jackson and Spencer Webb. Showing the world that we will never forget about them and they are always living through us,” he shared.
Khyree Jackson, a former Oregon cornerback, was tragically killed in a DUI accident in 2024, just months after being selected by the Minnesota Vikings in the fourth round of the NFL Draft. Spencer Webb, a tight end for the Ducks, passed away in 2022 following a cliff-diving accident, leaving behind a legacy that became even more poignant when it was revealed that his girlfriend was pregnant with their son, Spider, born in March 2023.
For Manning, honoring their memory isn’t just a ritual—it’s a driving force, reminding the team of the fragility of life and the importance of brotherhood.
Manning’s growth as a leader also shines through in his role on the team. Despite battling injuries, including a knee and arm issue during his college career, he became a vocal presence in the secondary. His leadership was particularly evident in 2024, when he helped guide Oregon to the Big Ten Championship game—a stage where he made a crucial interception against Penn State that showcased his speed and instincts.
Team Interest and Hometown Dreams
Hailing from Kansas City, Missouri, Manning has deep ties to his hometown and a lifelong dream of playing for the Kansas City Chiefs. Recently, he participated in the Chiefs’ local prospect day, an event that allowed him to showcase his skills in front of the team he grew up rooting for. He also worked out with the Seattle Seahawks. Additionally, Manning revealed he’s had conversations with several other NFL teams in need of cornerback depth, including the Atlanta Falcons, Chicago Bears, Las Vegas Raiders, San Francisco 49ers, and Minnesota Vikings.
“The experience was amazing. Being able to showcase your God-given abilities in front of a team you’ve grown up on, really can’t put the feeling into words. Really blessed that I got the opportunity to,” Manning said of his Chiefs workout.
For Manning, the idea of returning to Kansas City as a professional athlete carries profound significance.
“You only know Kansas City if you’re from Kansas City, and not too many people make it out. Playing for the Chiefs, I would hope to inspire young kids that their dreams are obtainable if I can do it,” he explained. He sees himself as a potential role model for the next generation—someone who can show that hard work and perseverance can lead to success, even from a city where opportunities can be scarce.
“I’d bring my God-given talent and be a student to the game and to the vets around me,” he added, emphasizing his eagerness to learn from established players such as Chiefs corner Trent McDuffie, who has become a cornerstone of their defense. Manning’s hometown pride is evident in everything he does.
Mindset of a Corner
In today’s NFL, rookie cornerbacks face immense pressure from the moment they step onto the field. Quarterbacks often target them, viewing them as potential weak links to exploit—much like a lion preying on its next meal. To survive, corners must earn every rep, fight for every play, and mask any vulnerabilities.
We asked Manning how he handles that relentless scrutiny.
“I have to have a short memory. Good or bad, the next play is way more important. Can’t ever let your highs get too high or your lows too low. Just have to be neutral to play my best game,” he said, echoing a mantra often heard from veteran defensive backs.
This mental resilience is something Manning has worked to cultivate over the years, especially after facing criticism for inconsistent play early in his college career.
Manning’s approach to the game starts well before the ball is snapped.
“I look at the alignment—how close or far they are from the numbers. Splits will tell you everything. Then I read body language. Eyes. Feet. Hips. Hands,” he explained, detailing his pre-snap process.
“It’s just knowing when to utilize your speed and when not to. You don’t want to be running full speed and have too much momentum to stop. It’s learning how to utilize your speed when necessary. Being able to undercut routes or beat them to the spot,” he said.
Manning’s 4.26-second 40-yard dash isn’t just a number—it’s a weapon he uses strategically. He broke down his interception against Penn State in the Big Ten Championship game—a play that highlighted his instincts and athleticism.
“Against a slower receiver, sometimes you let him cross your face so you can undercut the route. That’s the advantage of speed.”
Special Teams and Giving Back
One area where Manning could make an immediate impact in the NFL is on special teams—a role he embraces fully. Scouts have long praised his potential in this area, noting his speed and agility as assets for coverage units and as a returner.
“I see myself playing all special teams. The more I know how to play increases the chances of me making a team and staying on the team,” Manning said.
His versatility to contribute on kickoffs, punts, and even as a gunner makes him an attractive option for teams looking for a Day 3 pick or undrafted free agent who can stick on the roster through special teams production.
The Real Dontae Manning
Beyond his on-field contributions, Manning is passionate about giving back to his community, particularly in Kansas City. Manning’s commitment to his roots extends to his family as well—he often speaks about the influence of his mother and his desire to make her proud by achieving his NFL dreams.
“People think because I play football I’m just this hard rock with no emotions. In reality, I feel everything. I love giving advice or just being a positive voice in someone’s ear,” he said, dispelling the notion that he’s a one-dimensional athlete.
Off the field, he’s known for his infectious energy and his willingness to connect with others—whether it’s teammates, coaches, or fans. His emotional depth became even more apparent when he spoke about the messages that have touched him most during the draft process.
“The most unexpected DMs I get are from the little kids or their parents telling me how much they look up to me and I inspire them. It’s a different feeling.”
We went on to discuss Madden—because let’s be honest, what player hasn’t played the video game and thought about how awesome it would be to be in the game in the future? When asked about his hypothetical Madden rating as a rookie, Manning didn’t hesitate to aim high.
“88 OVR,” he declared.
While that might be optimistic for a player projected as a late-round pick or undrafted free agent, it reflects his confidence and belief in his abilities. Manning knows his journey hasn’t been perfect, but he’s determined to prove he belongs at the next level. His speed, ball skills, and late-season improvement have given him a foundation to build on as he transitions to the NFL.
Final Words
We closed our interview like always by asking Manning what he wanted to shout out as he heads into the final stretch before the draft. His response was a heartfelt tribute to those who have shaped his journey.
“A big shoutout to all my fallen soldiers. We almost there and I promise I won’t stop. I got y’all 4L. Shoutout to my real slimes—them ones from the jump, yak. Shoutout to my ma dukes for making the man I am today. Shoutout to TLG, shoutout to everybody who poured into me through my life. Last but not least, shoutout to Kansas City, Missouri. 816.”
Dontae Manning’s path hasn’t been a straight line, but it’s far from over. From the hype of a five-star recruit to the grit of a fifth-year senior, he’s faced adversity, grown as a leader, and rediscovered his love for the game.
Scouting Profile: For a full scouting breakdown on Manning’s strengths, weaknesses, and NFL projection, check out Bleacher Report’s detailed profile [here].
Editor’s Note: All player quotes were transcribed directly from our interview and lightly edited for clarity and flow, with the player’s intent and tone fully preserved.