Ahmed Hassanein’s journey from Boise State standout to NFL hopeful is a testament to his dedication and passion for the game
While his draft stock may not place him among the elite prospects, his resilience, work ethic, and on-field production suggest he has what it takes to compete at the professional level.
As he awaits the 2025 NFL Draft, the football world will watch closely to see where this talented edge defender lands.
Whether he starts as a practice squad player or fights for a roster spot, one thing is certain—Hassanein will bring the same relentless energy and determination that made him a star at Boise State.
His story is far from over, and the next chapter promises to be an exciting one.
Ahmed Hassanein’s story is one of perseverance, adaptability, and hard work. From his early years in Cairo to his emergence as a football talent in California, his journey highlights the power of dedication and the impact of strong mentorship.
As he continues to develop his skills, the sports world will be watching to see what the future holds for this promising athlete.
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Table of Contents
Ahmed Hassanein: Who Is He?
Early Years and College Recruitment
Ahmed Hassanein’s journey to Boise State University started long before his breakout performances on the field.1
Born with a passion for football, he honed his skills throughout high school, becoming a sought-after defensive recruit.
His explosive speed, technique, and relentless motor on the edge caught the attention of multiple Division I programs. Ultimately, he chose Boise State, a school known for its competitive football culture and strong defensive traditions.
Establishing Himself at Boise State
Upon joining the Broncos in 2021, Hassanein had to work his way up the depth chart. In his freshman year, he played sparingly, appearing in a few games as a rotational piece.
However, his sophomore year saw increased playing time, and he quickly proved himself as a force on the edge.
By his junior year, he had become a key contributor, showcasing his ability to disrupt offenses with his quick first step and power at the point of attack.
His stats began to reflect his growth—racking up tackles for loss and sacks, cementing his status as a defensive cornerstone for Boise State.
Ahmed Hassanein: Career
Breakout 2023 Season: A Star Emerges
The 2023 season was a defining moment in Hassanein’s collegiate career. With a remarkable 12.5 sacks, he ranked sixth in Boise State’s single-season records.2
This performance earned him First-Team All-Mountain West honors, solidifying his reputation as one of the best edge rushers in the conference.
Beyond his statistical dominance, Hassanein’s leadership qualities shone through. He set the tone for the defense with his high-energy play, inspiring teammates with his work ethic and relentless pursuit of excellence.
His ability to read offenses and make impactful plays in crucial moments further increased his stock as a future NFL prospect.
Leadership and Accolades in 2024
Entering the 2024 season, Hassanein was named team captain—an acknowledgment of his leadership and commitment to the program.
He delivered yet another stellar performance, earning First-Team All-Mountain West honors again. Additionally, he received an Honorable Mention All-America nod from the College Football Network, further cementing his legacy at Boise State.
Declaring for the 2025 NFL Draft
On January 6, 2024, Hassanein made a pivotal career decision—announcing his intent to enter the 2025 NFL Draft.
Taking to Instagram (@ahmedhassanein91), he shared his gratitude towards Boise State, his coaches, teammates, and fans. This announcement marked the beginning of his transition from college football standout to professional football prospect.
NFL Scouting Combine: The Next Test
Hassanein’s next challenge came at the NFL Scouting Combine, where he sought to showcase his athleticism and skills to scouts and front-office personnel. His results were solid but not eye-popping:
- 40-Yard Dash: 4.77 seconds
- Vertical Jump: 32.5 inches
- 10-Yard Split: 1.7 seconds
His performance earned him a prospect grade of 5.69, categorizing him as a bottom-of-the-roster or practice squad candidate.
His Next Gen Stats score of 6 placed him in the “average” category, indicating that while he has potential, he may need further development at the professional level.
Ahmed Hassanein: Strengths and Weaknesses
As with any NFL prospect, Hassanein brings a mix of strengths and areas for improvement:
Strengths:
- High Motor: Plays with relentless energy and effort, rarely taking a play off.
- Explosive First Step: Quick off the line, allowing him to gain an advantage against offensive linemen.
- Tackling Ability: Solid technique in bringing down ball carriers and generating tackles for loss.
- Leadership Qualities: Respected by teammates and coaches, a strong locker-room presence.
Weaknesses:
- Lateral Agility: Needs improvement in changing direction quickly to track mobile quarterbacks.
- Pass-Rush Moves: Relies heavily on speed; needs to diversify his arsenal with more counter moves.
- Size and Strength: While athletic, could benefit from adding more strength to compete with NFL-caliber linemen.
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NFL Draft Projection and Potential Fit
With his draft projection hovering in the later rounds, Hassanein may face an uphill battle to secure a roster spot.
Teams in need of depth at edge rusher—especially those employing aggressive defensive schemes—could see value in him as a rotational piece or special teams contributor.
Possible landing spots include:
- Seattle Seahawks: A team that values high-motor pass rushers with developmental upside.
- Baltimore Ravens: Known for turning late-round defensive players into key contributors.
- Houston Texans: A team looking for young, explosive pass rushers to complement their rebuilding efforts.
The Mental and Physical Preparation for the NFL
The transition from college to the NFL is demanding, requiring both physical and mental fortitude. Hassanein has already demonstrated the discipline and work ethic necessary to take this next step.
His focus on refining his technique, increasing his football IQ, and continuing to improve his strength will be key factors in determining his success at the next level.
In addition, working with NFL trainers and former pros during the pre-draft process will help address his weaknesses and maximize his potential.
If he lands in the right system with strong coaching, he could exceed expectations and carve out a role in the league.
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Ahmed Hassanein: From Orange County to the Gridiron
Ahmed Hassanein was born in Orange County, California, before moving to Cairo, Egypt, at the age of six.3
Raised in a new cultural environment, Hassanein adapted to life in Egypt, where he developed a strong work ethic and a passion for sports.
Growing up, he was heavily involved in various physical activities, which laid the foundation for his later athletic pursuits.
The Move to Cairo and Life in Egypt
In Cairo, Hassanein lived with his father and integrated into the local community. The transition from the United States to Egypt exposed him to a different lifestyle and athletic opportunities.
His early years in Egypt played a significant role in shaping his personality and discipline, qualities that would later help him excel in football.
While in Egypt, Hassanein explored multiple sports, but it was his involvement in CrossFit competitions that initially showcased his physical prowess.
Competing in national-level CrossFit events, he developed strength, agility, and endurance—qualities that would prove invaluable when he later transitioned to football. His ability to push himself beyond his limits became evident through his competitive performances in Egypt.
Returning to the United States
- In 2018, Hassanein relocated to Anaheim, California, to live with his half-brother, Cory Besch, who was a football coach.
- This move marked a significant turning point in his life, as he was introduced to American football for the first time.
- Besch saw potential in Hassanein’s athletic ability and encouraged him to try out for the sport.
- Ahmed Hassanein attended Loara High School in Anaheim, where he embarked on his football journey.
- Despite being relatively new to the sport, his natural athleticism and discipline allowed him to develop rapidly.
- Through hard work and dedication, he became a standout player at Loara High School, earning recognition as a three-star recruit.
- Unlike many of his peers who had played football since childhood, Hassanein had to learn the nuances of the game quickly.
- His CrossFit background provided him with a solid physical foundation, but understanding football strategies, techniques, and teamwork required time and effort.
- His ability to absorb coaching and refine his skills helped him make significant strides in a short period.
Ahmed Hassanein: Influence of Cory Besch
Having a football coach as a half-brother proved to be a significant advantage for Hassanein.
Cory Besch guided him through the complexities of the sport, offering mentorship and training opportunities that accelerated his development.
Besch’s encouragement and expertise helped Hassanein transition smoothly into competitive football.
As Hassanein’s performance on the field improved, he began attracting attention from recruiters. His combination of size, speed, and work ethic made him a valuable prospect.
His journey from being a newcomer to earning a three-star recruit rating showcased his rapid progression and determination.
Switching from CrossFit to football was not without its challenges. Learning playbooks, developing game instincts, and adjusting to the physicality of football required perseverance.
However, Hassanein embraced the challenge, proving his adaptability and resilience. His story serves as an inspiration for aspiring athletes who may feel they are starting late in a sport.
Recognition and Media Attention
As his football career gained momentum, media outlets began to take notice. The Orange County Register featured Hassanein, highlighting his unique journey from Egypt to American football.
His story also reached a broader audience through his interview on The Rich Eisen Show, where he discussed his experiences and the role his half-brother played in introducing him to football.
Hassanein’s football journey is still unfolding, but his trajectory suggests a promising future. His rapid development, combined with his strong work ethic, positions him as a player to watch.
If he continues to progress, opportunities at the collegiate level and beyond may become available to him.
Lessons from Ahmed Hassanein’s Story
Ahmed Hassanein’s journey teaches several important lessons:
- Adaptability: Moving between countries and switching sports demonstrates the importance of being open to change.
- Hard Work Pays Off: Despite starting football later than many of his peers, his dedication allowed him to succeed.
- Mentorship Matters: The guidance of his half-brother played a crucial role in his development.
- Never Too Late to Start: His story proves that with determination, athletes can excel even if they start later than others.
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