The UCF Knights' Pro Day turned heads as their players showcased standout athleticism, potentially boosting their prospects in upcoming NFL drafts. Held at the Nicholson Fieldhouse, this event was a pivotal moment for several former Knights eager to make their mark.
Among those participating were linebackers Cole Kozlowski and Keli Lawson, running backs Myles Montgomery and Jaden Nixon, defensive back Phillip Dunnam, EDGE Nyjalik Kelly, kicker Noe Ruelas, wide receiver Marcus Burke, tight end Dallan "Deebo" Coleman, and offensive linemen Cameron Kinnie, Jabari Brooks, and Paul Rubelt. Notably, Malachi Lawrence was present but did not participate. Scouts from nearly every NFL team, except the Jaguars, Rams, and Falcons, were on hand to assess the talent.
Keli Lawson, a 6-foot-4 linebacker from Virginia, dazzled with a 41-inch vertical jump and an 11' 3" broad jump, ranking him among the best even compared to those at the NFL Scouting Combine. Lawson emphasized the significance of this performance for himself and his family, aiming to prove he's ready to compete at the highest level.
Paul Rubelt, a towering 6-foot-10 offensive lineman, also impressed. His 4.99-second 40-yard dash, 26 bench press reps, and 9' 8" jump showcased his athletic prowess. Rubelt, who consistently anchored the offensive line last season, highlighted his strength and explosiveness, particularly in agility drills.
Jabari Brooks made waves with his strength, benching 34 reps-surpassing the NFL Scouting Combine record for offensive linemen. His performance underscored his power and potential as a formidable force on the line.
Running back Myles Montgomery, known for his workhorse mentality, delivered an eye-catching 4.39-second 40-yard dash and excelled in other drills. His dedication paid off, and his excitement was palpable as he reflected on his journey to mastering the sprint.
These performances by Lawson, Rubelt, and Brooks underline the importance of Pro Day for players seeking to catch the eyes of NFL scouts, especially those who didn't attend the Combine. The UCF Knights have certainly set the stage for their players to make a splash in the professional arena.