2026 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: DC Pippin, K, Ball State University

• Name: DC Pippin
• Position: Kicker
• College: Ball State University
• Height: 6’1
• Weight: 185
• Twitter: @dcpippin20870
• Instagram: @dpippin__

What makes you a top prospect at your position in the 2026 NFL Draft? 

In 2024 I was a first team AP All American and made the most field goals in the country. I’ve made multiple field goals from NFL range, and have shown I perform at an elite level in the big moments. I still have a year left, and I believe I already have the raw talent and ability to compete with the best in the league. One thing that makes me stand out at my position is a consistent upwards trend. Each season in college I improved on the previous one in my statistics and performance. No awards my first year, all conference my second year, and first team all american my third year. One thing that’s tough about evaluating kickers is knowing which version is going to show up that day, due to a lot of even the top kickers showing regressions or inconsistency throughout their career. With me, teams know they’re getting a player who only gets better. 

What is one thing that NFL teams should know about you?

Teams should know that my greatest skill is my mental ability. Among the elite kickers in college, it can be challenging to differentiate in terms of ability. Every NFL prospect has the skill to go hit a 55 yard field goal. What separates kickers at the top is their mindset. How will he respond to a miss? How will he handle tough conditions and intimidating environments? What’s he going to do with the game on the line? That all comes down to how mentally talented you are, and that’s where I excel. I train the mental part of my game just as much, if not more than the physical. It’s my biggest strength, and why I believe in myself in the biggest moments. 

If you could donate to one cause in the world, what would it be? 

I would donate to something involving reading or access to books for children. My parents always read to me and made it a big part of my life growing up. I think it was the single most valuable habit I built, and something that has kind of gone away with the modern world, especially in children. I would love to support a cause that makes reading accessible to kids. 

Who was your role model? 

My role model growing up was my dad. He taught me how to be a man, and all the characteristics that came with it. I always admired his ability to go after what he wants, and not let circumstances dictate his level of success. 

Who is your favorite NFL team?

The Green Bay Packers

Who is the most underrated teammate at your school? 

Haven’t met any of my teammates yet at Ball State, but during my time at SEMO it was Brennan Remy. He has a very bright future at receiver. Great kid, great teammate. 

What is your biggest pet peeve? 

People that keep their phone on do not disturb 24/7. 

Who is your favorite teacher ever?

My 7th grade English teacher, Ms. Nefra Johnson. She was very supportive and understanding, and pushed you to be your best. I remember really looking forward to her class. 

Overcoming adversity is what defines character, what was the hardest moment in your life to overcome? 

The biggest challenge I had to overcome was having no offers out of high school. I really wanted to play at the next level, but had nothing. I loved football, I loved sports, but I had to come to terms with the fact that my career was over. It was really tough to deal with the fact that such a big part of my life was done. After 6 months as a regular college freshman, I decided I wasn’t going to accept failure. I told myself I would make it on SEMO’s roster, and I ended up earning a walk-on spot in January 2021.

If you could have any franchise restaurant in your house what would it be?

Chipotle, 100%

What is your favorite snack food? 

Dot’s Pretzels

What is your degree in? 

Finance

If you could have dinner with three people dead or alive, who would it be and why? 

Eckhart Tolle (my favorite author) , Donald Trump, Nick Saban

What is your biggest weakness? 

I would consider perfectionism my biggest weakness. I’m a very driven, high achieving individual, but can sometimes cause myself unnecessary stress from trying to keep or make things perfect. I’m not satisfied with 95%, and I always strive for more. This can be a good thing, for sure, but it comes with its downsides as well.