Akins makes most of moment in spotlight
MOBILE, Ala, — Jordan Akins has been raising eyebrows at practices ahead of Saturday’s Senior Bowl. The UCF tight end is here to make a positive impression on NFL scouts and so far, he’s accomplished just that.
During Thursday’s practice session, the 6-foot-3, 246-pound converted wide receiver made the catch of the day, wowing those in attendance with a one-handed snag on a short crossing pattern at the goal line for a touchdown.
Akins kept his defender on his hip and showed his athleticism by getting his body in place to make the catch on a perfect throw to the pylon by Western Kentucky quarterback Mike White, a former USF player.
“It feels great,” Akins said of being invited to the Senior Bowl. “I feel very honored and I feel like I finally got some respect that I’ve really worked hard for.
“It’s just a blessing to be here with some of the best players in the country and to compete and showcase my talent.”
His athleticism has surprised many scouts in attendance, but Akins already knew that would be something he had going for him heading into the week. Not many players can run routes the way Akins can while carrying a 246-pound frame. He came to UCF as a wide receiver, but put on the pounds necessary to be successful at tight end.
His ability to adapt shows why he was also able to entertain a brief professional baseball career. Akins, a Georgia product, also played quarterback in high school.
He was a member of the 2010 UCF recruiting class, but he chose baseball over football at the time. Akins was drafted by the Texas Rangers in 2010 and he signed a contract. He played four years in the Rangers’ minor-league system as a centerfielder, hitting .218 overall. He also had 24 home runs and 42 stolen bases in 321 games before being cut after the 2013 season.
So Akins refocused on football, joining the UCF program in 2014. He spent most of his freshman season as the Knights’ main kickoff returner. His sophomore season was derailed after the second game by a torn ACL, but since his recovery he’s been on the fast track to the NFL as a tight end.
He graduated early from UCF, allowing him to play in the Senior Bowl despite leaving with a year of eligibility remaining.
Akins points to his time playing professional baseball as something that will eventually help with his transition to the NFL.
“It will help me in a big way, professional-wise, the business behind the game,” said Akins, who, at 25 years old, is a bit older than most players coming out of college. He turns 26 on April 19, which is a week before the NFL draft.
“I feel like I’m more mature and that I have experiences in life … [more] than some of these other guys.”
He’s also playing for much more than himself. He has a daughter who will turn 1 on March 3.
“I wouldn’t say it’s really difficult,” Akins said of being a father. “It motivates me. I have something to push for and to grind for and to drive for. It really motivates me to do what I can and showcase my talent for my daughter.”