NFL DraftProspect Interviews

2021 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Keyion Dixon, WR, Eastern Kentucky

Keyion Dixon is a rangy playmaker for Eastern Kentucky. He recently sat down with NFL Draft Diamonds writer Jimmy Williams.

Talk about your experience as a student. What is your major/minor? Did you participate in any other activities or campus organizations other than football?
I spent my first few years of college at UConn before transferring to Eastern Kentucky. I recently graduated in December with a major in General Studies and minored in Political Science, Communication and Sociology. I have participated in the LEAS Program which is a community outreach program that helps drug addicts in their rehabilitation as well as community clean up. I’m also active in the Black and African American Cultural Society.

What do your teammates say is your best quality?
They would say that I am hardworking, outgoing and passionate about the sport. I always put the team first, and I am someone both players and coaches can trust.

What kind of role do you see yourself in on the team? What scheme and/or position suits your skill set?
I definitely see myself as a leader on the team. I was part of the Leadership Council at both UConn and Eastern Kentucky. I’m a WR and have primarily been used on the outside. Although, I have had opportunities to work in the slot and I’ve had some snaps at RB. I pride myself on being a good run blocker on the perimeter as well as being a good route runner. I was also used on special teams as a kick returner and gunner during my time at UConn.

Who is the best player you have ever played against in college?
Back in 2018, I remember having to play against Mike Hughes at UCF. He has a good understanding of the game and great overall athleticism that allows him to be in the right place at the right time.

Which one of your teammates impresses you the most?
Hergy Mayala was a veteran leader of the receiving core during  my time at UConn. He has a great work ethic and always strives to get better. Hergy was one of the first college players to help me understand the kind of hard work you have to do in order to succeed at this level.

Describe a time in your life when you were able to overcome a struggle.
The transfer process definitely wasn’t a walk in the park. I remember that I had just put my name in the portal with only a few weeks before training camp. It was a time crunch, and I had to make a decision about where I was going to play next. One of the former coaches at UConn was on the Eastern Kentucky staff and that helped make my transition seamless. I was glad that I ended up at Eastern Kentucky because that meant that I didn’t have to surrender my eligibility, and I could immediately play.

If you didn’t play football, what other sport would you play?
I was a very successful track runner in high school winning regionals 2 years in a row in the 300m hurdles. Some of my personal bests include 36.08 in the 300m hurdles, 10.75 in the 100m, and 6 foot 4.5 inch in the high jump.

What is something that you are most proud of? What would you say is your biggest achievement?
I’m most proud that I’m the first person in my family to graduate with a 4 year college degree. As a football player, I’m blessed to say that I played for 2 great institutions. In 2020, I was able to set a program record for longest TD pass (90), and I was also named the STATS Perform FCS Co-Player of the Week for that game against Troy.

Describe one of the most memorable plays of your collegiate career.
One of my most memorable moments came in 2019 against Presbyterian when I had my first 100 yard game receiving. That game finally solidified me as a receiver. I had mainly played special teams at UConn. The game against Troy this past season was very memorable as well being my best overall game. I finished with 8 catches, 196 yards and 2 touchdowns in that game.

Do you have a favorite athlete or professional team? Is there a player that you model your game after?
My favorite athlete in Lebron James. The Minnesota Vikings are my favorite team. I try to model my game after players like Randy Moss and Devonte Adams. I can be a big physical receiver with a good release like Adams, and I definitely strive to have the ability to stretch the field like Randy Moss.

Who is your favorite music artist? What gets you pumped before a game?
One of my favorite artists is Roddy Rich. Before games, I like to listen to “Crank Ain’t Dead” by Duke Deuce.

What is your favorite comfort food?
Anything my mom makes is always great because she’s a sous chef. One of my favorite places to go back home in Hartford, CT is called the Golden Krust. They have a Jamaican Beef Patty that’s great.

Do you have a favorite movie, TV show or actor?
My favorite movie is “Water for Elephants” with Leonardo Dicaprio. One of my favorite TV shows right now is “On My Block” which is on Netflix. Denzel Washington is one of my favorite actors.

What do you do in your spare time? Do you have any hobbies? Any secret talents?
In my spare time, I like to play video games. I also enjoy poetry, singing and making my own music. Some of my hobbies include cooking and playing golf. One of my talents is dancing and gymnastics. I have done some backflips after games.

Who or what motivates you the most?
My mom. She’s always been there through everything that I’ve been through, and she’s shown me how to persevere through life’s struggles. She showed me how to be the best provider for the family and how hard work and determination can breed success.

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