2027 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Geoffrey Mckelton, S, Alcorn State University

• Name: Geoffrey Mckelton
• Position: Safety
• College: Alcorn State University 
• Height: 6’1
• Weight: 185
• Twitter: GmckeltonJr5
• Instagram: Chos3n._

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

I believe I am a top prospect at my position in the 2027 NFL Draft because I bring versatility to the secondary that allows me to impact both the run game and the pass game. I feel like I am the type of player a defense can rely on to be moved around and trusted in multiple roles, which makes me valuable at the next level.

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

A time I faced adversity was in 2024 when I tore my knee and had to sit out for the rest of the season. It was a difficult period because I dealt with a lot of doubt and lost focus at times. However, I took it day by day and committed myself to working and grinding through my recovery so I could get back healthy. My focus stayed on returning to the game I love, and I used that setback as motivation to come back stronger.

What are your hobbies outside of football? 

Outside of football, I enjoy playing video games, listening to music, and spending time with my family and friends.

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

At the next level, I see myself being a player that a defense can move around all over the field depending on the situation. I believe my versatility allows me to fit the role of a hybrid defensive back who can contribute in coverage, support the run, and make plays wherever I am needed.

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

If I could donate to one cause, I would help kids who love sports but are no longer able to play because of life-changing situations. I would want to do whatever it takes to keep them motivated, uplift their spirits, and remind them not to be down on themselves despite the challenges they face.

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

I handle coaching by listening, learning, and applying the corrections that are given to me. I believe there is always room for improvement in my game, so I take criticism as an opportunity to get better. I also view coaching as a sign that the coaches want to see me succeed and reach my full potential.

Who is the most underrated teammate at your school? 

I believe Timothy Jasper is the most underrated teammate at my school. He is another safety who plays alongside me, and he is a very fast and physical player. I feel like he can be used anywhere on the field because of his versatility and ability to make plays in different situations.

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

If I could have dinner with three people, I would choose Tupac Shakur because I feel like he helped set the foundation for the music in my generation and inspired a lot of artists today. I would also choose Lil Poppa because he is my favorite artist and his music is very relatable to me. Lastly, I would choose Sean Taylor because he has always been my favorite football player, and I admired the passion and intensity he played the game with.

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

I have not really been in that situation before, so it is difficult for me to think of a reason why I would be benched. I take pride in staying prepared, working hard, and doing what is asked of me to help my team succeed.

Walk me through your typical pre-game routine?

My typical pre-game routine starts with reading my daily Bible scripture to get mentally focused and grounded. After that, I turn on my music and walk around the field one time to take everything in and lock in mentally for the game. Then, I spend about 10 minutes stretching and working through footwork drills to get my body prepared. Before kickoff, I take some time to cool down, relax, and get fully focused before it is time to compete.

What is your favorite snack food? 

 My favorite snack food is Airhead Extremes with a blue Gatorade.

What scheme do you feel you fit the best in? 

I believe I fit well in all defensive schemes because my versatility allows me to adapt and make plays in different situations.

What is your degree in? 

I earned my degree in Sports Management, which has helped me better understand the business side of athletics and prepared me for opportunities beyond football.

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

The first thing I would buy with my first NFL check would be a house for my mom because she deserves it for everything she has done for me throughout my journey and career.

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

One time during a game, we were playing against a fast-tempo offense, and I made a mistake by overrunning a curl route in coverage, which resulted in a first down. Instead of letting the mistake affect me, I settled down on the next play, stayed focused, and came away with an interception that I returned for about 20 yards.

Name three songs, we can expect on your playlist?

Three songs you can expect to hear on my playlist are “Can’t Say” by Lil Poppa, “The Realest” by FCG Heem, and “Better Man” by NBA YoungBoy.