Elic Ayomanor’s journey started in Medicine Hat, Canada. Today, he’s on the cusp of making his NFL dreams come true — with grit, talent, and desire as the cornerstones of his success. From a season-ending knee injury in 2021 while at Deerfield Academy, Ayomanor’s journey has been far from a clear road. Even with these disappointments, his grit, talent, and resolve have placed him on a path to professional football.
Ayomanor’s 2021 cumulative stats were jaw-dropping. He finished 2022 with 13 catches for 294 yards and three scores, flashing just enough to leave us wanting to know more. During a game against Colorado, his mother, Pam Weiterman, began preparing for bed at halftime, unaware of the record-setting performance her son was about to deliver. Ayomanor would go on to break Stanford’s single-game receiving yards record and came within 51 yards of the Pac-12 mark.
It was Ayomanor’s inquisitiveness and desire to be the best that sold his coach, Osei, on the idea that Ayomanor would be great. “Everything I taught him, he really soaked in, and just asked the next question,” Osei remarked. It has been this thirst for knowledge and desire for continuous improvement that has led Ayomanor on this journey.
By late spring 2021, Ayomanor had over 20 offers from different programs to choose from. Where he really wanted to go, his dream school, was Stanford. His mother used to tell him to finish whatever he started. This embedded a strong sense of loyalty and hard work that has made him successful ever since.
Over the last months, Ayomanor has been focused heavily on NFL draft preparation. He’s had a string of big performances. His production reflected that new role, as last season he totaled 63 receptions for 831 yards and six touchdowns—good enough for second-team All-ACC recognition.
A workout video highlighting his rare athletic ability turned the heads of scouts, even without a full game tape resume. His American football journey has spanned nine games over three years, highlighting both the challenges and achievements he has faced.
After going through a coaching change at his former school, Ayomanor decided to make an in-state move, transferring to Deerfield Academy in western Massachusetts. He developed his skills under noted coach Brian Barbato. Immediately, from the very first meeting, Barbato saw it. “He was a baller from the beginning,” recalled Barbato.
Ayomanor’s showing at the combine only bolstered his reputation as a top prospect. He posted a 4.44 second 40 Yard Dash and an impressive 38.5 inch vertical leap, proving he’s got all of the tools needed to succeed at the next level.
His accomplishments would not have been possible without the dedication and resources of his biggest advocate, his mother, Pam Weiterman. “I’ve been telling him for years to think outside the box,” she shared. Her continued encouragement has been instrumental in Ayomanor’s journey to pursue his dreams.
Reflecting on his journey, Ayomanor stated, “For me to decide to go to the NFL, it’s similar to the reason why I left my hometown in the first place.” His choice to follow football to the highest level reflects the audacious approach he has taken throughout his life and continues to take.
The importance of Ayomanor’s journey reaches farther than personal success. Justin Dillon remarked on Ayomanor’s potential influence: “Elic can be the face for football in Canada.” His story was a beautiful foundation for inspiring young athletes all over the country.
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