By Sunday 
When the Detroit Lions selected Ahmed Hassanein in the sixth round of the NFL Draft, it didn’t take long for fans to fall in love—not just with the pick, but with the man himself. A quick listen to his introductory press conference was enough to send chills down your spine. It’s not often a rookie steps up to the mic and says, “I will die for you, coach,” with such raw sincerity.
But according to the folks who know him best—Boise State insiders Michael Johnson and Shaun Goodwin—that’s just who he is.
From Cairo to Boise to the NFL
Hassanein’s journey is one of the most unique in this year’s draft class. Born in the U.S. but raised in Egypt, he didn’t return stateside until 2018—and didn’t start playing football until the following year. That’s right: the Lions’ newest edge rusher didn’t even know the rules of the game five years ago.
Yet in just a few short years, he’s gone from total football novice to one of the most relentless defensive linemen in college football.
“He had high boom/bust potential,” said Johnson. “But his play strength and relentlessness stood out immediately.” By 2023, he broke out with 12.5 sacks and 16.5 tackles for loss. In 2024, despite a new defensive scheme, he still put up 9.5 sacks and 15.5 TFLs. He became a team captain and one of the emotional pillars of Boise’s locker room.
Grit, Gratitude, and God
For Detroit fans wondering if he fits the Lions’ infamous grit culture, look no further than the now-viral clip of Hassanein after the Fiesta Bowl loss. Limping, injured, and emotionally drained, he leaned over the table to say, “Coach D, you changed my life,” referring to head coach Spencer Danielson’s role in his spiritual transformation. The moment now has millions of views—and it’s a window into just how real this guy is.
“He’s not fake,” said Johnson. “That loyalty, that emotion, it’s real. He’s genuinely grateful for every opportunity. One time, he couldn’t believe it when the school gave him a protein shake. He just kept saying thank you.”
Off the field, Hassanein is as inspirational as he is intense. He proposed to his longtime girlfriend, Payson, shortly after being drafted. He openly talks about how faith transformed his life. He thanks his coaches, teammates, fans—pretty much everyone—at every turn.
Goodwin adds, “He never talks bad about anyone. That’s rare in football. It’s always about his ‘brothers’ eating, even if he’s not getting the sack.”
High Ceiling, Work in Progress
Of course, like any sixth-round pick, Hassanein isn’t a finished product. He still plays with a bit of a raw edge. His stance is a little unconventional, and he occasionally over-pursues plays. But coaches aren’t worried—those are coachable things. What can’t be taught is his drive.
“He’s smart and relentless,” Johnson noted. “He just needs more reps. Once he gets them, he’ll be a serious weapon.”
And let’s not forget: this is a guy who once knocked a future first-round tight end backward four yards during a run play. His power is real, and his motor never stops.
A Culture Fit Like No Other
At the end of the day, it’s easy to see why Boise State insiders describe Hassanein as an “incredible fit” for the Lions.
He plays with heart, leads with humility, and lives with gratitude. He embodies everything Dan Campbell looks for: intensity, toughness, and a willingness to put team first. Whether it’s high-fiving fans postgame, grinding through injuries, or offering thanks for a protein shake, Ahmed Hassanein brings something you can’t teach: soul.
If Lions fans weren’t already rooting for him, they are now.
And honestly? Detroit might’ve just found the steal of the draft.