North Allegheny wide receiver Khiryn Boyd took over in the first half of the 6A WPIAL Championship game, catching three passes for 107 yards and a pair of touchdowns in the Tigers’ nail-biting 44-41 victory and showing why he’s a Division 1 prospect.
The senior also plays defensive back and returns kicks and punts, pulling in offers from Duquesne, Robert Morris and Howard. Boyd said that the collegiate coaches he’s talked with are split on which side of the ball they want him to play at at the next level.
In making his decision, Boyd said he prefers offers from smaller schools, like those at the Division 1 FCS level. That’s because he prioritizes playing time above all else: he doesn’t want to have to vie for elbow room on a loaded depth chart.
“I’m looking for a place that I know I’m going to play as soon as I get there, a smaller school,” Boyd said. “I’m gonna be honest, it’s really stressful. Trying to find a home, a different home. I’m just trying to get on the field as soon as possible, so it’s really stressful. Honestly I always grew up saying ‘once I get to college, I want to play as soon as I can. It’s always been like that.’”
North Allegheny’s Standout Personality
Just as he’s trying to find the perfect fit in college, Boyd went on to describe how he likes to do things his way. Rather than citing a physical talent as what sets him apart — like most prospects do — Boyd described his personality.
“I feel like it’s just me, my personality. I feel like I’m very different from others, how I carry myself and my swag on the field,” Boyd said. “Being from California, man, I’m just born different. Shout out to my family right here.”
Fellow North Allegheny senior Daniel Sellers plays with Boyd on both sides of the ball, lining up at tight end and defensive end. Sellers described Boyd’s presence as palpable.
“He’s a big personality. You’re gonna notice him around,” Sellers said. “Walk into a room, you’ll notice him. You’re definitely gonna know he’s there.”
Elaborating on his personality, Khiryn Boyd said he loves trash talk. Perhaps it runs in the family: he’s the nephew of legendary Steelers’ linebacker Joey Porter, who was never afraid to mix it up on or off the field.
“Man, imma trash talk any game. I don’t care who you are, I’m gonna get in your head regardless,” Boyd said. “I do it whenever I’m on the field at all times. Punt return, kick return, it don’t matter. I’m gonna talk my stuff.”
At the same time, Boyd said he works on locking in and getting serious, whether it’s swearing off social media distractions as he prepares for big games or maintaining a positive attitude if things aren’t going his way.
