Name: Markez Boykin
School: Fort Lewis College
Position: WR/S
Height: 6’4”
Weight: 180
What goals did you set and/or accomplish in your final collegiate season?
The goal I set for myself in my final collegiate season was to perform at a level that was efficient and acted as a contributor to my team in many positions. This included balance between outside work, academics and athletics as well as remaining coachable and training hard in the face of adversity.
Q: How do you think you took advantage of the extra year of eligibility to increase your chances of going pro?
During the extra year of eligibility, I took advantage of the opportunity to show that I can play both offensively as a wide receiver and defensively as a defensive back. This not only helped me to showcase versatility but also to work under different coaches as experts in the fields and grow in methods of communication and gameplay. This is a benefit as I pursue further opportunities.
Q: What would your coaches and teammates say about the type of player you are?
My coaches have become mentors that I respect, and my teammates have become brothers through both the COVID pandemic as well as social unrest. My teammates would tell you that there are times that I am relaxed and have a lot of fun during practice, there are also times that I challenge myself and others to hold each other to a high standard, no matter the score. Just don’t give up until the game is over. My coaches would tell you that I am hardworking, on time and prepared for practice or film, will study film beyond what is expected, and not only remain moldable but work to mentor younger athletes.
Q: When you are studying film, what are the things you focus on to improve your game?
When I study film, I look at strengths, weaknesses, and rhythm of game play. This may be in a player that I will face man-on-man or holes in a zone that I am playing in. This helps me to understand how I can improve on weaknesses or prevent errors but also understand how to use my strengths to challenge the other team. I feel that it is important to know the tempo of the opposing team as well. If they play quickly with little huddle time, then I want to make sure that I can match that tempo defensively.
Q: What separates you from the other pro prospects at your position?
I feel that my perseverance and versatility set me apart from other players. In my life, there have been few to demonstrate a path to take so I have forged my own, making me more comfortable being uncomfortable if it means that I will learn something new, add to my team and perfect my skills on a higher level.
Q: What is your offseason plan to train and prepare for professional opportunities?
My off-season plan as of now to prepare for my professional opportunities is to stay in shape, weight room in the morning and field work in the afternoon but also try to learn more about the game and improve my nutrition to maintain weight gain.
Q: What kind of strengths and abilities will you bring to a team that will stand out both on and off the field?
I am a very motivated person that does not give up when things get tough. It is more important for me to stay humble and calm so that I can continue to grow and help my team. In addition, I continue to grow in professionalism and leadership to keep goals in mind and seek a career of respect and positive reputation.
Q: What is your final pitch to the NFL and any other pro leagues?
I’m a hard-working kid that loves the game of football and will give my all on and off the field and I just need a chance to show I can be a huge contributor to a professional team. This game saved me from a life that would have lead me to many poor choices and it is my goal to use my athletic platform as a means to show others that you can change the stigma that you have been born into.
