2027 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Jacoby Boykins, WR, Northern State University

• Name: Jacoby Boykins
• Position: Wide Receiver
• College: Northern State University
• Height: 6’2
• Weight: 195
• Twitter: @jacobyboykinss
• Instagram: @jacobyboykins

What makes you a top prospect at your position in the 2027 NFL Draft?

My biggest advantage as a prospect in the 2027 NFL Draft is my mental approach to the game. Being a student of film, I don’t just run routes, I understand a defense better than the guy lined up across from me. I use that knowledge to find the zone and attack the DB every time. Combine all that with my focus you getting a player who always physically and mentally prepared to produce on the field.

Tell me about a time you faced adversity and how you responded?

A time I faced adversity, transferring schools for sure and recently dealing with the NCAA eligibility process was a major step of patience and nervousness. It’s easy to lose focus when your future is in the hands of a committee, but I used that time to sit and talk to God where he answers all prayers and resolved the problem. 

What are your hobbies outside of football?

Outside of football I love to go Fishing or play the game, College Football of course, NBA 2K, and Call of Duty sometimes. I love to play NCAA because it gives me a way to find something new dealing with football concepts, etc.

What role do you see yourself playing at the next level?

I see myself at the next level as a versatile X, Z or Slot receiver we I am how who can also help a team on special teams. I will be that guy the quarterback and coach trusts on 3rd and long because they know I’ve done the work to be exactly where I need to be. Leader! no question about it my father Christopher Boykins who also played in the NFL always prepared me to be a leader in class room, field, locker room, bringing the same mentorship mentality every where I go not just the field.

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

If I could donate it would be to youth development and mentorship programs. I believe sports should be used to develop character and life skills, so providing resources for kids to grow both as students and as athletes is something I’m very passionate about and I feel the world should stand on.

How do you handle coaching, especially criticism or being corrected repeatedly?

I handle coaching with passion, I understand it. I grew up around a lot of coaching and sports development because of my father Christopher Boykins, so I know that if a coach is being tough on me, it’s because they expect greatness. I’m a Communication/Journalism major, so I understand the learning process where I take the correction, visualize before, and make sure it doesn’t happen again that’s all I know.

Who is the most underrated teammate at your school?

Javonnee Szymanski.

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

1.  God: To gain perspective on my true purpose and the ultimate goal beyond the game of football.
2.  Randy Moss: I want to talk about his high football IQ and how he attacked different coverages.
3.  Nick Saban: He’s the blueprint for a successful coaching career wouldn’t be a doubt in mind to have dinner with him and talk football.

If you were benched tomorrow, what would be the most likely reason?

Overthinking. Sometimes my desire to be perfect in my technique or to analyze the scheme can lead to a hesitation. I’m constantly working on balancing my high-level film study with the need to just trust my instincts see ball, attack ball mindset.

Walk me through your typical pre-game routine?

I start with a Prayers, make a big breakfast, I feel like that keeps me energized. I do mobility to get my hips and ankles fluid, then I listen to NBA YoungBoy all day and visualize me scoring literally before game.

What is your favorite snack food?

I like Oreos, or a Beach Bum smoothie from Tropical smoothie.

What scheme do you feel you fit the best in?

I fit in any scheme because my high football IQ allows me to adapt to any. Whether it’s a high-tempo Spread, a timing system, or a physical Power Run scheme that requires receivers to be elite blockers, I have the versatility and the mind to thrive where I can produce in any environment on any team.

What is your degree in?

Communication/Journalism.

What would be the first thing you buy with your first NFL check?

First thing I’m doing with my NFL check is making sure my family have what they need/want and then get personal belongings.

Describe a time in a game where you feel you made a mistake, and explain how you bounced back?

I once rounded off a Dig route in 1on1s which let the DB get a hand on the ball for a PBU. I didn’t let it kill my confidence; I went to the sideline, shook it off, and realized I was being too casual with my footwork. On the next big drive in team, I ran another Dig route off with zero wasted movement and picked up a first down.

Name three songs we can expect on your playlist?

1.  Ballin- NBA YoungBoy
2.  Top Off- NBA YoungBoy
3.  Life is Good- Future ft. Drake