2023 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Beau Kelly, WR, Portland State

• Name: Beau Kelly
• Position: Wide Receiver
• Height: 5’9″
• Weight: 175 lbs
• School: Portland State University
• Level: Division I FCS – Big Sky Conference
• Twitter: beaukells
• Instagram: beaukells

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 graduated with a degree in Business Marketing. 

I have been involved with some Portland State football camps – occasionally I work with the youth 

What do your teammates say is your best quality?

I am a consistent person in the weight room and I know the playbook inside and out. Consistently making plays. 

What kind of role do you see yourself in on the team? What scheme and/or position suits your skill set?

I am definitely a leader – I have been at Portland State for 5 years and it feels like home. I love being in the slot but scheme doesn’t matter as much to me. 

Who is the best player you have ever played against in college?

Justin Hollins, LB, Oregon – currently plays for the Philadelphia Eagles 

Which one of your teammates impresses you the most?

Nate Bennett, WR – he is going into his second year and was on the Walter Payton award list last year. 

Anthony Adams, DB – great instincts around the ball 

What makes you different from others at your position?

I have never been the biggest or strongest guy but I’m always going to show up and put myself in a position to succeed. 

Describe a time in your life when you were able to overcome a struggle.

My dad passed away three years ago, ever since then I strive to make him proud each and every day. 

I have a foundation in his name to help coach underprivileged kids in their respective sports 

If you didn’t play football, what other sport would you play?

Golf – seems like a great way to travel.

What is something that you are most proud of? What would you say is your biggest achievement?

Biggest achievement would be leading the Big Sky in all major receiving categories at the end of the regular season (last year).

I am most proud of continuing to play football at a high level. 

Describe one of the most memorable plays of your collegiate career.

The season after my dad died I had a 61-yard touchdown against Idaho State – that’s where he went to school and I knew he would have been proud. 

Do you have a favorite athlete or professional team? Is there a player that you model your game after?

I model my game after Braxton Berrios and Julian Edelman. 

My favorite team is the San Francisco 49ers. 

What gets you “pumped up” before a game?

Proving everybody wrong and wanting to win. Losing is a terrible feeling for me. 

What do you do in your spare time? Do you have any hobbies? Any secret talents?

I like to golf when I’m away from football. 

Why do you play football? Who or what motivates you the most?

I have played football since I was four years old and I don’t know where I would be without the game. My biggest motivator is keeping my legacy alive and maintaining a good image with the family name. 

What do you want NFL teams to know about you? 

I have been doubted my whole life and all I really need is a chance. It would mean everything to me but I will also come and outwork everyone else in the building. 

Other notes: 

I played JV until my senior year – occasionally was a returner on varsity my junior year. I was really all over the field on offense and defense, got a lot of playing time but not recruited as much since I was a bit of a “late bloomer.” Had walk-on opportunities at Arizona State and Washington State but took a scholarship at Portland State. Worked my way up from the bottom of the depth chart and eventually got the triple crown last year.