Deerfield Academy’s Elic Ayomanor Eyes NFL Draft After Stellar Career

GREEN BAY, Wis. — Elic Ayomanor, a former Deerfield Academy standout, is poised to make his mark in the NFL Draft, which begins Thursday and runs through the weekend. This marks the second time in four years that an alum from the Deerfield Academy football program has a chance to be selected for a professional football career.

Ayomanor, who graduated from Deerfield in 2022, has made a name for himself playing as a wide receiver at Stanford University. His predecessor, Hunter Long, was drafted in the third round in 2021. This year, scouts expect Ayomanor’s name to be called before the end of the weekend.

“It’s always so cool to be part of their journeys,” said Brian Barbato, head coach of the Deerfield Academy football program. “Whether they end up in the NFL or the Ivy League, it’s just great to see kids from DA reach the highest levels.”

Ayomanor’s football path started in Medicine Hat, Alberta, Canada, where he began playing at age 13. He excelled with Team Alberta in the U16 Western Regional Challenge, which led him to the United States and The Peddie School in New Jersey. Ayomanor quickly proved his talent under the guidance of trainer Kwame Osei.

“I saw right away that he was a baller,” Osei told ESPN. “He was faster than the other kids, he had soft hands, jumped out of the gym. He just looked the part.”

After a season-ending injury, Ayomanor joined Deerfield Academy to continue his high school career. Unfortunately, his junior season was affected by COVID-19, limiting his opportunities on the field.

Despite the challenges, Ayomanor showcased his talent during his time at Deerfield. He played in just nine games over three seasons but made significant contributions when healthy. Barbato recognized Ayomanor’s potential early on.

“We knew he was going to be special,” Barbato said. “He worked hard to improve. This didn’t happen by accident. He wants to be great.”

Ayomanor, a highly sought-after recruit, received 26 offers from top colleges, including Stanford, Cal, and Notre Dame. He impressed coaches when he attended Stanford’s camp, ultimately earning a scholarship offer that he accepted.

In 2023, Ayomanor made a significant impact in college football, catching 62 passes for 1,013 yards and six touchdowns. His standout performance against the Colorado Buffaloes brought him national attention, further solidifying his status as a top prospect.

“It really was unbelievable but believable,” Barbato remarked on Ayomanor’s rise to fame. “There was no doubt in our minds that he had greatness in him.”

As a redshirt sophomore in 2024, Ayomanor recorded 62 receptions for 831 yards and six touchdowns before declaring for the NFL Draft. At the NFL Scouting Combine, he measured 6-foot-2 and ran a 4.44-second 40-yard dash, demonstrating his impressive athleticism.

“He always overdelivers,” Barbato emphasized. “He says he’s going to run a 4.5 and he runs a 4.44.”

Ayomanor’s professionalism and work ethic have left a lasting impression on his Deerfield coaches. “He impacted this community and my family,” Barbato said. “He set a high bar here.”

With draft projections placing him in the third or fourth round, Ayomanor is expected to be a sought-after selection. “I’d love to see him here with the Patriots,” Barbato added, expressing confidence in Ayomanor’s future success, no matter where he lands.