Miles Boykin is hanging up his cleats after seven seasons in the NFL - a career that may not have unfolded the way many envisioned when he was drafted, but one that earned respect in a different, often overlooked lane.
A third-round pick in the 2019 NFL Draft out of Notre Dame, Boykin entered the league with expectations of becoming a difference-maker at wide receiver. At 6-foot-4 with speed to match, the physical tools were there. But while the breakout as a pass-catcher never materialized, Boykin found his niche - and thrived in it - as a standout special teamer.
Boykin took to Instagram to announce his retirement, expressing gratitude for the game and everyone who supported him along the way. “This sport has taught me so many lessons,” he wrote. “I don’t know where I would be without it.”
That sentiment hits home for a player who had to reinvent himself midway through his career. After three seasons with the Baltimore Ravens, where he flashed potential but never quite became a consistent offensive threat, Boykin was waived following the 2021 season. That’s when the Pittsburgh Steelers brought him in - not to catch passes, but to cover punts.
And he did that job with the kind of consistency and physicality that makes special teams coaches light up. In Pittsburgh, Boykin became a core special teamer, excelling as a gunner and earning his keep in a role that rarely makes headlines but is vital to team success.
His journey took a few more turns after that. In 2024, Boykin signed with the New York Giants but didn’t stick.
Later, he had a stint with the Seattle Seahawks before landing with the Chicago Bears this past season. After being released by the Bears on November 8 and remaining unsigned, Boykin made the decision to step away from the game at age 29.
While his offensive numbers - 38 catches for 498 yards and seven touchdowns - won’t jump off the stat sheet, they don’t tell the full story. Boykin’s career is a reminder that success in the NFL isn’t always about highlight-reel plays or fantasy points. Sometimes, it’s about adapting, finding your lane, and doing the dirty work that helps teams win.
Boykin did just that. And now, as he steps into the next chapter of his life, he does so having carved out a respectable career in one of the toughest leagues in professional sports.