2026 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Emeric Boutin, TE, Université Laval

• Name: Emeric Boutin
• Position: TE
• College: Université Laval
• Height: 6’3
• Weight: 230 lbs
• Twitter: @boutin_emeric
• Instagram: @emericboutin

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

I believe what sets me apart is my complete versatility as a tight end. I can block physically, but I also have the ability to create separation with great speed and catch passes like an elite receiver. My football IQ, my discipline in training, and my consistent effort allow me to contribute to every phase of the game, on offense, on special teams, and even in the locker room. I still have room to grow, and my ability to learn quickly makes me a real asset for any team. I transitioned to the tight end position just last year. After one year at this position, I was selected to the RSEQ All-Star Team and the U Sports First All-Canadian Team, and I also contributed to our Vanier Cup championship victory, so I know there’s still a lot of untapped potential ahead of me.

I’m also the kind of guy who can step up on special teams and eliminate someone from their strategy. Whether it’s neutralizing their best cover guy or sealing an edge, I take pride in doing the dirty work that often goes unnoticed but wins games. I approach special teams with the same intensity as I do offense, because I know that in professional football, every play is a chance to shift momentum.

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

I’m obsessed with constant improvement. Every day, whether on the field, in the weight room, or in the film room, I ask myself, “What can I do today to be better than I was yesterday?” I’m not afraid to work in the shadows. I don’t need the spotlight. I just want to earn my place, contribute to a winning culture, and represent my family name with pride. What drives me is the idea that excellence is not a destination, it’s a habit. I’m fully committed to the process, grinding through the hard reps, studying the little details, and accepting coaching with humility. I believe that progress comes from being uncomfortable, from pushing past limits others avoid. That’s why I don’t just train to maintain, I train to evolve.

Whether I’m asked to play a starting role or contribute on special teams, I approach every task with the same intensity and purpose. Because in my mind, every rep matters, every meeting is a chance to learn, and every mistake is a chance to grow.

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

I would choose a cause that supports mental health in young athletes. Too often, the focus is on physical performance, but we forget the emotional impact of pressure, injury, or isolation. Helping a young athlete regain confidence can be just as powerful as helping them win a game. I’m part of a psychological support group for student-athletes at Rouge et Or, so looking out for others’ well-being is something that truly matters to me.

Who was your role model?

My parents are, and will always be, my greatest role models. My father was never in the spotlight, but he got up every morning and went to work, no matter how tired he was or what challenges he faced. He often put his own interests aside so I could chase my dreams. Even on the hardest days, he kept smiling, worn hands, and had a solid heart. He taught me that respect is earned through effort, not words. He’s the definition of loyalty and resilience.

My mother is the heartbeat of our family. She’s gentle but unbreakable. She taught me how to stay human in a world that values performance. She showed me that real strength also means knowing how to listen, to love, and to get back up after life knocks you down.

Every time I put on my helmet, I think of them, their sacrifices, their love, and the faith they’ve always had in me. I play for them. I chase my dreams to honor them. Without them, I wouldn’t be the man or the athlete I am today.

Who is your favorite NFL team?

I’ve always been a big fan of the Buffalo Bills. The culture is what I admire most about the team goes beyond football. A culture of hard work, unity, and resilience. The Bills embody everything I strive to bring as a player: all-out effort on every play, a team-first mentality, and a will to perform no matter the challenge.

But what touches me the most is their special connection with their fans. In Buffalo, the fans are truly part of the team. There’s a genuine bond, incredible loyalty, and real passion. Even during tough seasons, they stand by their team. That kind of connection is rare and valuable. I play in a program where our fans also have a real impact on our success. That’s why I like this organization. They don’t just play to win, they play to proudly represent the people who believe in them.

Who is the most underrated teammate at your school?

I couldn’t name just one. Two guys come to mind, both are under the radar, but have exceptional talent.
First, our starting center, Étienne Cloutier. He’s not only a rock on the offensive line, but also a leader for the entire team. He always puts others before himself, excels academically, and is a complete lineman.
Then there’s Benoit Beaulieu, a receiver who’s had a tough start to his college career due to injuries, but he never stops working. He’s kept his head high through all the setbacks. He’s extremely talented, and I’m really excited to see him shine this year.

What is your biggest pet peeve?

Football is a team sport, not a sport for superstars. What gets to me is when someone always wants to stand out at the expense of the team. A great stat means nothing if the team loses. I was raised with the mindset that the team wins, not the individual.

Who is your favorite teacher ever?

My favorite teacher is Raymond Veillette. He’s the man who built the strength and conditioning program for Rouge et Or Football and helped shape the winning mentality here. He also trains NHL athletes and is an outstanding teacher. When you think of his classes, you remember his energy, his passion, and his incredible knowledge. It’s been a privilege to learn from him.

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

During my time in CEGEP, we didn’t win many games. And honestly, that was one of the hardest challenges of my football career so far. Putting in so much effort week after week, committing fully to training, studying the playbook, getting back up after every loss, yet still not seeing results as a team, it’s mentally draining.

But those years taught me a lot. They forced me to focus on the process over the outcome, to stay committed even when it doesn’t pay off right away, to keep believing in the team, and most importantly, to build inner strength.

Today, I see those seasons not as failures, but as stepping stones. They gave me a stronger, more resilient mindset. When you go through that at a young age, you learn to lead quietly, to trust long-term growth, and to stay true to your values.

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

Without hesitation, I’d choose a steakhouse. Nothing beats a good steak after a hard training day or a tough game. It’s both a reward and an excellent protein source for recovery. And let’s be honest, there’s something comforting about the atmosphere in a steakhouse. It’s warm, simple, and always satisfying.

What is your favorite snack food?

When I need a snack, I usually go for Greek yogurt with fresh berries. It’s high in protein, refreshing, and honestly feels like I’m having dessert, except it’s actually good for me.

What is your degree in?

I’m currently studying kinesiology, with the goal of becoming a strength and conditioning coach. As an athlete, I’ve always been fascinated by human performance, movement optimization, injury prevention, and recovery. This program not only helps me better understand my own body, but it also prepares me to help other athletes reach their full potential.

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

Honestly, I’d choose my sister, my dad, and my mom. They’re my pillars. They’ve always supported me through everything, the highs and the lows. A dinner with them would be a chance to slow down, reconnect with what matters most, and thank the people who’ve always believed in me.

Moments like that, just sitting around a table with your family, are what keep you grounded, no matter how high you climb.

What is your biggest weakness?

I’d say my biggest weakness is that I’m rarely satisfied with my own performance. Even after a good game, I tend to focus more on what I could’ve done better than what I actually did well. I replay every snap in my head, every block, every route, always looking for ways to improve.

That mindset pushes me to grow, but I’m also learning that sometimes, you have to take a moment to appreciate your wins, recognize progress, and build confidence from it. I’m working on that balance, being demanding, but also fair with myself.