In Stillwater, the Oklahoma State Pro Day was a showcase of talent and determination, especially for two standout athletes, Terrill Davis and Brandon Rawls, who are just a year removed from playing Division II football. Both players seized the opportunity to perform in front of NFL scouts, making a strong case for their future in the league.
Terrill Davis, a receiver with an unconventional path, didn’t start playing football until his senior year of high school. Fast forward five years, and he's now catching passes at OSU's Pro Day.
Davis, who transferred from Central Oklahoma, was eager to demonstrate his skills. "I feel like I came out here and proved myself," he said.
His performance was highlighted by catching every pass from OSU quarterback Drew Mestemaker and showcasing impressive athleticism with a 39-inch vertical and a 10-foot, 4-inch broad jump.
Brandon Rawls, a linebacker from Saginaw Valley State, also turned heads with his athletic prowess. His 41-inch vertical leap was the best of the day and would have ranked second among linebackers at the NFL Combine.
Rawls, standing 5-foot-11 ½ and weighing 229 pounds, expressed gratitude for the chance to shine on a bigger stage. "Being here, you get to really showcase your talents," he noted, adding that he was pleased with his performance, especially his jumping ability.
Safety Parker Robertson, who bulked up to 193 pounds since last season, didn’t let the extra weight slow him down. Known for his speed, Robertson clocked a 4.47-second 40-yard dash, the fastest at the event. His dedication to maintaining speed while adding muscle was evident, and his performance was rounded out by a 35-inch vertical and a 9-10 broad jump.
Other athletes also made their mark. Defensive back Kenneth Harris posted some of the day's top numbers, including a 4.48-second 40-yard dash, a 39.5-inch vertical, and a 10-9 broad jump, along with 22 bench press reps. Running back Trent Howland, weighing in at 262 pounds, impressed with a 4.75-second 40-yard dash and showcased his smooth running style and pass-catching skills.
Receiver Sam Jackson V, who played quarterback during the season, demonstrated versatility with a 36.5-inch vertical and a 10-7 broad jump, while his 4.55-second 40-yard dash was notable. Meanwhile, cornerback Chase Whitebear from Oklahoma Baptist, participating alongside his brother Charles, recorded a 36.5-inch vertical and a 10-6 broad jump, showing promising potential.
Overall, the Pro Day was a testament to the hard work and dedication of these athletes, each striving to make their NFL dreams a reality.