For the 2015 NFL Draft, Optimum Scouting will host a series of “Draft Journals”, written by some of the most intriguing prospects in the draft. The hope is that these journals can give some insight not only on these players’ backgrounds, but their interaction with training, events, NFL teams and more. So whether you’re an NFL Draft follower, a current college player or an evaluator of these players, these “Draft Journals” will hopefully be a resource for you. Enjoy!
My first pro day took place at the University of Minnesota on March 2nd. This was an additional opportunity for me to perform in front of NFL representatives before my North Dakota State (NDSU) pro day later this month. At this event, rather than participate in the workouts, I decided to focus on position drills. I felt confident in my Combine numbers, and wanted to use this event to showcase my on-field abilities.
The Minnesota pro day was also an opportunity to work out alongside players from a larger program. Former Minnesota tight end Maxx Williams was getting a lot of attention that day, but David Cobb, the Minnesota running back, ended up not working out due to an injury he suffered at the Combine. I was really hoping that David would perform because he’s a great player, and I wanted teams to see us side-by-side.
After position drills, I was once again able to meet with several teams. This included more interviews and film study. The film study is really interesting because teams are trying to figure out your football IQ. Teams will put film up and make you tell them what is going on during certain plays. And trust me when I say they don’t always put up good film! They put up a couple of plays of me missing blocking assignments and not making the right cut. I took it on the chin and owned up to my mistakes. I know part of what they want to do is see if a player is an excuse maker, and that’s definitely not what I am.
Even though I was not timed or measured at Minnesota, I got a lot of positive feedback on my versatility and pass-catching abilities. This pro day, the East Shrine game, and the Combine have given me the opportunity to prove that I have the skills necessary to be a successful NFL running back even though I played at an FCS school.
But there is no time to relax as I have to get ready for my NDSU pro day on March 26th. Fargo is an extremely tight-knit community. The people here love the Bisons and many of them follow us as closely as they would a professional team. I have received support from all around the area. I’m looking forward to going back and spending some time there.
I am particularly looking forward to working and spending time with my coaches and teammates who helped me get to this point. I also hope to see how my younger teammates are developing this spring. The NDSU championship teams had a major impact on my life, and knowing the younger guys and the strength of this program, I am sure that success will continue.
All of this preparation will hopefully result in a successful second pro day so that I can secure a spot in the upcoming draft. At NDSU I will participate in the position workouts, including the 60-yard shuttle which I did not run at the Combine. I am in a good position with my exposure and solid performances so far, but I need to finish strong. And that’s what I plan to do.
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