2023 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Parker McKinney, QB, Eastern Kentucky University

• Name: Parker McKinney
• Position: QB
• College: Eastern Kentucky University
• Height: 6’3″
• Weight: 215 lbs
• Twitter: @Parker_Mckinney
• Instagram: @parker_mckinney

What are your favorite things about playing football for Eastern Kentucky?

I love the coaching staff here and the bonds I have made over the years with my teammates. It is a family atmosphere at EKU.

Who is the most underrated player you’ve played with and why?

I would say Dakota Allen simply because he is extremely athletic and could play any position on the field. He’s 6’4 240lbs and played quarterback, moved to tight end, and even played some receiver last year. He is now starting to get some recognition that he has deserved for a while.

If you could hang out with any football player past or present for a day who and why?

I would say Tom Brady just simply because the knowledge he has of the game of football and advice he would be able to give me.

What are your favorite moments from your football life?

My freshman year at EKU playing in my first game and coming behind to win and also last year winning our last game versus Jacksonville State in double overtime.

What is your favorite pass play?

My favorite pass play is the smash concept.

What type of energy do you bring onto the football field?

I feel like I bring a sense of staying calm and composed and also knowing when to take charge and get people going if we are having a slow start or not performing like we should.

What should we know about Parker McKinney the person?

One thing to know about me is that I am a really hard worker and use my work ethic to try and set an example people can follow. I am a team player and will do anything to help my team win.

What do you think are the keys to success on the football field?

Keys to success are being mentally prepared before the game starts, having a close bond with your teammates and playing for one another as opposed to yourself, and trusting the person next to you and your coaches.

How do you handle challenges both in life and on the football field?

I handle challenges by trying to be positive in all the situations. I feel like so much of football and life is how you handle situations when adversity hits. I always keep my faith first and keep going through the hard times.

What would a team get in a player like you?

A team would get a team player who tries to bring the people around him up and works extremely hard on and off the field.

What are you looking forward to in your upcoming season?

I am looking forward to making the playoffs and going as far as we can in the playoffs. We have a veteran led team this year and players who want to win.

What is a moment that improved you as a football player?

I would say my redshirt freshman season. I had a mediocre season and worked so hard to never have a season like that again. Also, my coaches now have helped me tremendously.