2023 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Khristian Boyd, DL, University of Northern Iowa
- Name: Khristian Boyd
- Height: 6’3”
- Weight: 295 lbs
- Position: DT
- College: University of Northern Iowa
- Twitter: KhristianBoyd99
- Instagram: kdub.9
Talk about your experience as a student. What is your major/minor? Did you participate in any other activities or campus organizations other than football?
I am majoring in Exercise Science with a minor in Sports Administration. I plan on doing my internship this season with the strength coach where I will be assisting some of the other sports programs on campus. One of the events that I have enjoyed volunteering for is the Special Olympics.
What do you think your teammates would say is your best quality?
They would say that I have good positive energy and a passion for the game. I enjoy the game of football and like having fun with it.
What kind of role do you see yourself in on the team? What scheme and/or position suits your skill set?
I’ve shown versatility during my time at UNI, playing from Nose Guard to Defensive End. I’m quick enough to play on the edge, yet I feel the position that best suits my skill set is a 3-Tech or 2i I’ve displayed effectiveness stopping the run and taking on double teams. We have played a lot of 4-man front, yet I see us utilizing a lot of 3-4 schemes this season. In addition to my time on defense, I have played the shield on punts and also play field goal block on special teams. Going back a couple years, I also had a few snaps at fullback. I enjoy being on the field as much as possible and helping the team succeed.
Who is the best player you have ever played against in college?
NDSU has been a challenging opponent. I’ve studied a lot of their players on offense. They run a very effective FB counter and also have some very athletic players playing QB. Trey Lance was a monster during his time there.
Which one of your teammates impresses you the most?
I’ve had so many impressive teammates that I couldn’t list them all. Some of the more obvious ones include Jared Brinkman, Elerson Smith, Trevor Penning and Spencer Brown. Brinkman was a beast on the field and taught me a lot about how to play at my position. Elerson Smith was a freak of an athlete with amazing size, strength and speed. Trevor Penning and Spencer Brown really stood out as dominant players on our offensive line. It’s because of players like them that I have been able to grow into who I am.
Describe a time in your life when you were able to overcome a struggle.
After the Spring season in 2021, I was hoping for a breakout season in the fall. I injured my foot early in the season which the doctors indicated was just a sprain. I continued to play throughout the season, but wasn’t able to produce because of the state of things. My foot didn’t feel right, so I decided to see a foot specialist in Minnesota after the season. It turns out that I was playing on a broken foot the whole season. So, I got immediate surgery to take care of the issue.
It was great that I was able to take care of my foot, but unfortunately that meant that I couldn’t participate fully in the Spring. I spent 4 weeks in a boot and 6 weeks in rehab. It killed me not being able to produce with the rest of the team. Yet, I learned how much I appreciated the game while sitting out. I also practiced what it meant to be a leader by showing up and supporting my teammates, being an extra coach for the team. That time helped me become a better teammate and person.
If you didn’t play football, what other sport would you play?
Basketball. I participated in basketball and track & field in high school in addition to football. Basketball was actually my first love, playing pick-up games with my dad and brother growing up.
What is something that you are most proud of? What would you say is your biggest achievement so far?
My biggest achievement is being a role model for my family. I was the first to get a scholarship to play sports at a D1 school, and I will be the first in my family to graduate at a D1 program. Seeing my younger siblings look up to me is a amazing feeling.
Describe one of the most memorable plays of your collegiate career.
I had a breakout game during the Spring 2021 season against Youngstown State. I had 7 total tackles and 2 sacks. I definitely played with a lot of passion in that game. Previously, I didn’t have many opportunities as a starter, and I wanted to go out there and prove myself. My first sack of the game came on the first drive on a 3rd down play. I was one-on-one against a guard, and I used a push-pull technique to get around him and sack the QB. We ended up shutting them out in that game 21-0.
Do you have a favorite athlete or professional team? Is there a player that you model your game after?
My favorite athlete growing up was Ndamukong Suh. His mentality and ability to be a monster on the field really motivated me to play DT. I’ve also heard that he’s very business savvy outside of football and hope to be the same way some day.
Who is your favorite music artist? What gets you pumped before a game?
My favorite artist is G Herbo. Before games, I like to listen to some hype music and feel the beat. “Sessions” is one of my go-to songs by G Herbo.
What is your favorite comfort food?
Strawberry Ice Cream.
Do you have a favorite movie, TV show or actor?
My favorite movie is Scarface. Denzel Washington is my favorite actor. Power is a TV show that I really like.
What do you do in your spare time? Do you have any hobbies? Any secret talents?
I like playing video games and basketball.
Why do you play football? Who or what motivates you the most?
I play football because I love the game. I play for my family and myself. I feel like I have a lot to prove. Playing at a smaller D1 will always put a chip on my shoulder.
Content Creator & Senior Writer for NFL Draft Diamonds. Independent Scouting Consultant.