Former Packers, Panthers receiver lands college coaching job

Murray State has hired former NFL receiver Jarrett Boykin as its next receivers coach, per On3’s Matt Zenitz. A Virginia Tech alumnus, Boykin spent five years in the league with several teams, including the Green Bay Packers and Carolina Panthers.

The move to Murray State is a step up for Jarrett Boykin, who spent the past two seasons as receivers coach for Division II Wingate University. The 32-year-old will now get a chance to show off his coaching prowess in Division I, albeit at an FCS level.

Boykin was a member of the Hokies’ ACC Championship teams in 2008 and 2010. His 184 career receptions and 2,884 career receiving yards with Virginia Tech both rank third all-time in program history. He played his final college season in 2011 before going undrafted in the 2012 NFL Draft.

The receiver ultimately made the Packers roster that season, signing a three-year deal worth $1.44 million. With Green Bay dealing with several injuries at the position in 2013, Boykin delivered his best season to finish with 49 catches, 681 yards and three touchdowns. However, he was unable to keep that momentum going into the next season and played mostly on special teams.

After his NFL career ended in 2016, Boykin kept himself busy by joining the CFL’s Calgary Stampeders. He also participated in the American Flag Football League in 2018, playing on the same team as former Falcons quarterback Michael Vick.

Boykin is set to join a Murray State squad that is coming off of a 6-5 season in 2021. The Racers ended the year with three consecutive wins and were also 4-1 at home. The Racers are set to return leading receiver LaMartez Brooks, who ended the year with 33 catches for 447 yards and a touchdown.

The receivers coach will get his first opportunity to make an impact with his new team when Murray State opens the 2022 season on Sept. 3 against Texas Tech.