2022 NFL Prospect Interview: Josh Wilkes, WR, Arkansas Pine Bluff
- Name: Josh Wilkes
- Height: 6’3”
- Weight: 190 lbs
- Position: WR
- College: University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff
- Twitter: Joshwilkes8
- Instagram: jdub_803
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?
Starting off at Butler CC as a freshman, I would say was very helpful. It made me realize how important the classroom was. I had to overcome a few obstacles that came along the way, although it wasn’t hard to adjust. I had to realize that you have to work as hard as you do on the football field. After two years there, I managed to earn my first AA degree. After transferring to the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, everything was much easier because I knew what it took to be successful in the classroom. I ended up graduating again after another 2 years with my Bachelors degree in Physical Education. I’m now enrolled in graduate school at the university and currently working on my masters.
What do your teammates say is your best quality?
My teammates would say my best qualities are my speed, route running, catching the ball, and also the dedication I have for the game. I’m a big time competitor always wanting to compete on the field, just everything you would expect from a good wideout.
What kind of role do you see yourself in on the team? What scheme and/or position suits your skill set?
Just talking to my coaches and teammates, on the team I see myself playing a big role in helping my team win games by scoring the football and just simply make big plays as a wideout.
Who is the best player you have ever played against in college?
So far, the best defensive of the group I have played against in college would have to be the DBs from Southern University. They are a competitive group. Physical and fast.
Which one of your teammates impresses you the most?
I would say I’m impressed with each of the 11 guys that play on defense and offense. They have really worked hard to win games and make school history.
Describe a time in your life when you were able to overcome a struggle.
I feel like every year I step on the field is a struggle I have to overcome. I have to be consistent every year to prove to my coaches and teammates that I’m someone that they can count on, and that I can overcome any negative thoughts that could go through my head.
If you didn’t play football, what other sport would you play?
I would easily say baseball. That’s my second love. I never got to play in high school because of other sports activities.I felt like it would have helped me get ready for the next football season. I had to think about my future at the time, and the sport I was mainly focused on was football
What is something that you are most proud of? What would you say is your biggest achievement?
I am most proud of being a father to my one-year old son and being a full-time student athlete while finding a way to earn two degrees and now working on getting a third one.
Describe one of the most memorable plays of your collegiate career.
My favorite college game was my first year and first game at the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff in 2018. I broke the school record for the most receiving yards in a game (244) with 2 touchdowns with only 7 catches.
Do you have a favorite athlete or professional team? Is there a player that you model your game after?
I really don’t have a favorite athlete, but my favorite pro team is the Pittsburgh Steelers. I have been a Steelers fan since I first learned the game of football and have not switched since.
Who is your favorite music artist? What gets you pumped before a game?
I don’t have a favorite artist. I listen to all genres of music. If it sounds good and gets me hype, I’m gonna listen to it.
What is your favorite comfort food?
I’m a seafood type guy. Any seafood would keep me happy.
Do you have a favorite movie, TV show or actor?
I would say my favorite actor is Chris Tucker just because he is a wild and funny dude. He keeps me interested in any movie he acts in.
What do you do in your spare time? Do you have any hobbies? Any secret talents?
In my spare time, I like to work out a lot. I work on my craft and just always look for things I could improve on.
Why do you play football? Who or what motivates you the most?
The reason I play football is because I always had a passion for it. It’s my happy place. My one-year old son keeps me going. He is the reason I get out of bed everyday. I just want the best for both of us in the future. When he gets older and realizes what’s going on, I want him to be able to say I want to be just like my dad.
Assistant Director of Scouting for the Hula Bowl and long-time writer for NFL Draft Diamonds.