Gators Work Out for Pro Scouts and Coaches
Wednesday, March 17, 2010 | Football
Over 15 of the Florida football team's draft-eligible players worked out for 75 NFL scouts and coaches on Wednesday in Ben Hill Griffin Stadium during Florida's annual Pro Scout Day. All 32 NFL teams were represented among the numerous scouts and coaches, including five head coaches and two general managers.
The magnitude of this year's Pro Day was made evident by the many fans throughout the stands despite occasional rain throughout the workout.
“It was unique,” Jacksonville Jaguars general manager and senior vice president of player personnel Gene Smith said. “You don't see this a lot where you have the passionate fans in the stadium observing the workout. Certainly, there are some players that they have strong affection for here. … I enjoyed the environment myself.”
The athletes began in the weight room, where they had measurements taken and did the bench press, vertical jump and broad jump. They moved out to Florida Field to record times in the 40-yard dash and various shuttle runs. Players also worked out in position groups.
“Well, when you come down here, there are a lot of athletes,” said Cleveland Browns president Mike Holmgren. “It is pretty impressive. They have great speed, and after the workouts today, they have really good strength in there. Of course they are well coached, so you always come away from this place with the feeling you think you have seen a couple of guys that could really help your football team.”
The NFL Draft will be held April 22-24.
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