Q&A with Cincinnati OT Phillip Wilder

One of the main storylines surrounding the upcoming 2025 NFL Draft centers around just how deep the offensive line class is this year. The talent level is deep, making it a prime position to keep an eye on ahead of April’s big day. I was blessed enough to chat with draft prospect Phillip Wilder of the Cincinnati Bearcats, who’s gone from JUCO stud to Power 5 starter on his road to the NFL.

So what can NFL teams expect from Phillip Wilder?

A three-star recruit coming out of high school according to 247sports, you ultimately chose to take the JUCO route, and commit to Southeast Missouri State in 2020. What were some of the challenges you had to overcome, to get the opportunity to play at a Power 5 program?

A: One obstacle I had to overcome was just grow up. That was one of the biggest obstacles I had to face around the time. Knowing I could play P5 football was my driving force, seeing that I had what it takes to make it happen.

You were a key piece on the offensive line at SEMO in 2021, helping your offense go 31-of-31 in the red zone, and rank second in the Ohio Valley Conference in rushing yards per game(195.1). What was it about that offensive scheme in 2021 that you believe brought out the best in your play style?

A: We had one of the best running backs in the country, it was an honor to block for him. When I’m on the field, I have a nasty tone that helps everything I do. Kinda like a swagger about myself. I’m a very physical run blocker and that year we knew we would line up and run right down your throat. I took a lot of pride in run blocking.

Transferring to Cincinnati in January of 2023, what was the hardest part about transitioning to a Power 5 school, playing in such a high-powered conference like the BIG12?

A: The hardest part about transitioning from a lower level to P5 was the trenches and knowledge you had to know. It was more than just lining up and block. You need to know the scheme, fronts, looks that you were getting every play. Taking over 200+ snaps in 2023 prepared me for what it’s going to be like next year and the next level.

You started in 7 games at right tackle this past season, helping lead the Bearcats to the 6th-ranked offense in the Big 12. Surrendering just 2 sacks on 256 pressure attempts this year, where did you find your success, and how will you look to continue it at the next level?

A: Every day is a day to get better. Working your butt off helps you in the long run. Extra film, mental reps, and everything helped me this past year. I was more confident in what i was doing all year. One of them sacks are a QB draw, but when he gets tackled behind the line, it’s a sack.

What can you bring to an NFL franchise?

A: Things I can bring to an NFL team is hardship. Knowing what it takes to make that jump and keep going. Seeing from past mistakes and being coachable. I know playing at a little school don’t count like that, but I bring experience and nasty to the table. It’s been a dream forever, why not ball out the best way I can?

A huge thank you to Phillip Wilder for taking time to chat with me. Best of luck to him during the draft process.

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Source: https://russellstreetreport.com/2025/02/04/ravens-draft-central/offensive-line-prospects/phillip-wilder/