2026 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Matthew Bowen, WR, Curry College

• Name: Matthew Bowen
• Position: WR
• College: Curry College
• Height: 6’1
• Weight: 185
• Twitter: Matt_bowen56
• Instagram: Matt.bowen11

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

As a small school player, my ability to contribute in a multitude of ways, from special teams (long snapper), to my primary position at receiver, shows my versatility and my ability to adapt and perform to benefit the team in any way that I can. I also possess the ability to be a crafty route runner that can find the open spots in a defense.

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

NFL teams should know that I am a team-first player that is willing to do anything for the betterment of the team. Also, I didn’t start playing receiver until my freshman year of college, which wasn’t an easy transition, but through hard work and dedication I have been able to make the most of my opportunities, and I’m still not even close to my full potential. 

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

If I could donate to one cause in the world, it would be to an organization that can help kids from single-parent households pay for college. Education is so important, and there is too many times in today’s society where kids are being held back from pursuing ing schools based on not having the required funding. 

Who was your role model? 

My mom, LaurieBeth, is definitely someone that I look up to. Growing up with a single mother wasn’t always the easiest, but she always found ways to make sure that there was food on the table and a roof over my head, which I will forever be indebted to her for. Even when times were tough, she,  without fail, would still find a way to pay for my sports and travel expenses to games growing up because she has always wanted to see me succeeding and happy no matter what. 

Who is your favorite NFL team?

New England Patriots 

Who is the most underrated teammate at your school? 

Patrick Leary. I’ve been playing with him going on 4 years now, and that guy is a flat-out grinder. His ability to know the playbook like the back of his hand, along with finding crafty ways to get open, separates him from the rest. He is a team-first player, and even when he’s not getting targeted with the ball, he is constantly running across the field to make blocks for his teammates to set them up for success. 

What is your biggest pet peeve? 

When people are cutting food, and their knife scratches the plate and makes that loud screeching noise.

Who is your favorite teacher ever?

I have had many amazing teachers over the years, but if I had to choose one, it would be Michael Patz. He was not only a great teacher but also a great mentor for me growing up. He always expected the most out of me and would push me to be the best version of myself in any facet of life, whether that was family, sports, or school-oriented. 

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

The hardest moment in my life was when my grandmother passed away suddenly during covid. This was a huge turning point in my life because she was like a second mother to me. From that moment forward, I learned to not take time with friends or family for granted because you don’t know when your last time seeing them will be. 

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

Chipotle easily! Good protein and it fills you up.

What is your favorite snack food? 

Sour patch kids watermelons 

What is your degree in? 

I got my degree with a double major in Sports & Recreational Management and Finance with a minor in Marketing. I am currently pursuing my MBA (Masters of Business Administration)

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

If I could have dinner with three people dead or alive, it would be my grandmother, Tom Brady, and Ray Lewis. My grandmother was my biggest supporter by far and ever since she passed, back in 2021, I have had her on my mind constantly. In addition, Tom Brady and Ray Lewis would be great guys to pick there brain about the mental side of the game. Both of those guys overcame a lot and played the game with a different type of mentality that just can’t be taught. 

What is your biggest weakness? 

I would say that my biggest weakness is getting in and out of breaks consistently. I have good linear speed but once I have to break down and get in and out of breaks quickly, I tend to four step some breaks rather than getting three quick steps at the top of a break. This is something that I have worked on continuously to get better at and its something that is getting better by the day.