From Overlooked to Unstoppable: Joey Corcoran’s NFL Case is Heating Up

Joey Corcoran, a standout wide receiver from New Hampshire, is making a name for himself in the 2025 NFL Draft class. Known for his toughness, strong hands, and ability to get open in multiple ways, Corcoran has consistently produced for the Wildcats throughout his career. From big-time catches to a relentless work ethic rooted in family and faith, he’s a player NFL teams should have firmly on their radar. I caught up with Joey to talk about his journey, the chip he’s always played with, and why he’s ready to make an impact at the next level.

What separates you from other wide receivers in this year’s draft class?

I truly believe I’m the most physical receiver in this class, and my ability to catch anything in my radius is what I pride myself in. I’ve continuously worked on my game and strive to be the best player I can possibly be. My route running is also what I believe separates me—my ability to get open in so many different ways.

You’ve built a reputation for being a precise route-runner with strong hands — how have those traits evolved over your career, and how do you use them to create separation on the field?

There’s no secret I’m not a 4.4 guy. So my route running and hands are something I pride myself on. I worked on them daily, but it all started from playing catch with my father. It was almost like routine—catching from all sorts of angles every day with tennis balls, footballs, honestly anything we could get our hands on. It just felt normal, it was fun, and it elevated my game without me even realizing it.

When I made the switch from safety to WR, I would spend hours watching tape of receivers I admired. I stopped watching movies and shows—I was locked in on clips of my favorite WRs working. Then I’d take those moves out to the field and start practicing them. Over time, I started trying them in games.

Looking back on your time at New Hampshire, what games or moments define your career there?

My senior year vs Stonehill showed my ability to be a true playmaker and be the star wide receiver I know I am. My redshirt freshman year (2022) against Towson helped me build the confidence I needed to go from inexperienced to feeling like a legit Division 1 starter.

But maybe my favorite moment of all was senior year against Stony Brook. I caught the game-winning touchdown and broke my collarbone on the play. Nothing else mattered in that moment—not the pain, not the fact that my season was over—just that I helped my team win and my parents got to see it happen.

When you line up against a lockdown corner, what’s your mindset? How do you approach that 1-on-1 battle?

I believe it all starts before the game—film prep and getting to know your opponent like the back of your hand. The more you study, the easier the game comes to you. But sometimes, all of that prep goes out the window and it’s just your skill set vs his. I approach it with physicality and as much finesse as I can. I trust the work I’ve put in. At the end of the day, it’s a dog-eat-dog world out here.

Who’s been instrumental in shaping your football IQ and work ethic — was there a coach, teammate, or mentor who played a big role?

My football IQ came from experience at first. But once I got to college, my wide receivers coach Stephen Barnette helped me with everything. I was young and raw—he turned me into a real college wideout. Most importantly, he believed in me. Sometimes that’s all a kid needs.

Charles Watkins also helped me understand coverages and break down film. The mental part of the game—what you can do before the snap—is everything.

And in terms of work ethic, it’s my dad. He was the one who pushed me. He made sure I always played with a chip on my shoulder. He told me we all bleed the same and convinced me I was a high-level athlete—even before I was. I’ll always credit him for that.

Describe the feeling of making a big-time catch — a third-down conversion, a red-zone TD. What goes through your mind in those moments?

Honestly, in the moment, you’re not really thinking. For a crucial third-down catch, all I’m thinking is: don’t celebrate too hard and draw a flag. That’s really what goes through my head after every catch.

But after a touchdown? There’s nothing better than celebrating with your team. You might’ve scored, but 10 other players helped make that happen.

You’re viewed as a reliable and consistent presence on the field — how do you lead by example, and what kind of tone do you try to set for your teammates?

I’ve always tried to practice what I preach. Be the hardest worker in practice. Never take days off. Get extra work in. If you set the example, others follow—that’s how championships are won.

I’m a physical player. I try to set that tone early and show my guys that no matter who we’re playing, I’ll leave everything out there. And if we all do that, we’re winning.

If NFL scouts pulled up your film, what’s one play or game you’d want them to watch closely — and why?

Elon game (2024). It showed my ability to catch fades, break tackles, return punts, and block physically. I might not have had 100 yards receiving, but it showed I could do it all. A lot of those Elon guys transferred from FBS schools—and I went out and dominated in every aspect.

What’s your process when it comes to studying film? Are there certain tendencies or matchups you always focus on?

Film is a gift. It’s free information, so why not use it?

I start by watching full games. I study how DBs act after giving up a big play versus when they get a TFL or a PBU. I look at how they play 1st through 3rd down, how they press, if they two-hand jam, if they mirror. Body language matters—do they get tired? Are they physical? Are they relentless? I write everything down.

Is there an NFL receiver — past or present — you model your game after or see similarities with?

Davante Adams. I studied him ever since I made the switch from safety. His releases and how he separates without needing 4.3 speed is something I try to model.

Another one is Jordy Nelson. Hands like glue. Just so reliable. I’ve looked up to him for years—one of the most underrated receivers ever.

Off the field, what’s something about you that fans or teams might not know — but that you take pride in?

Over the past few years, I’ve done a lot of community service—volunteering at a teen center, reading to kids, playing pickup football with them. That’s something I want to keep doing. I want to inspire as many kids as possible to chase their dreams.

How have you handled adversity throughout your career — whether it was injuries, setbacks, or proving yourself as an underdog?

Adversity became normal. I’ve always been doubted and overlooked. I’m from Canada—it was already tough to get people to believe I could compete in the U.S. 

But that just made me work harder. Beating guys who were ranked, outworking guys with offers—it made me appreciate the grind. Every setback became part of the story. Why stop working? That’s never the answer. Work harder. Keep going. It’s your journey—nobody’s gonna complete it but you.

What’s one goal you’ve set for yourself at the next level, beyond just getting drafted or making a team?

I want a long, healthy career. Starting is the main goal, and winning a championship is on my list too. But if I can play this game at a high level for a long time—that’s what I’m chasing.

When you’re not training or grinding through film, how do you reset mentally and physically?

Anything not football. Movies, TV shows, late-night drives. Playing spades on the porch—IYKYK.

What message would you send to NFL teams considering drafting you — why are you the guy they want in their receiver room?

I’ve won at every level. I know how to win. I’ll be the hardest worker on the field—and if someone outworks me, I’ll make it my mission to outwork them the next day. Football is my passion. I’ll do whatever it takes to make the team better. No matter the circumstance.

Joey Corcoran has shown that he’s more than just a dependable target — he’s a competitor, a technician, and a leader who plays with heart and purpose. With his physicality, football IQ, and relentless mindset, Corcoran is ready to bring his full skill set to the next level. NFL teams looking for a battle-tested wide receiver with a complete game and a chip on his shoulder should have Joey Corcoran on their radar.