LAWRENCE, Kan. (KCTV) – Twenty-three Kansas University football players took part in KU’s pro day, running through drills in front of representatives from all 32 NFL teams, including the Kansas City Chiefs.
Players completed the same drills used at the NFL Combine — the vertical jump, broad jump, three-cone drill, shuttle drill, 40-yard dash and bench press — with scouts closely tracking every result.
Daniels, receivers draw attention from scouts
Quarterback Jalon Daniels worked out at pro day after also participating in the NFL Combine in Indianapolis.
“It was great. I got a chance to meet with a lot of different people — a lot of the top prospects,” Daniels said.
Daniels connected on pass after pass during his session with his receivers.
“I just came out here, didn’t think too much about it. I looked at it as an opportunity to have one more chance with the guys and when you think about it this way, you’re just having fun with the guys,” Daniels said.
On the pressure that comes with NFL scouts evaluating every throw, Daniels said, “I’ve always said that ‘pressure’s a privilege’ — pressure’s what you make of it.”
Working out in front of dozens of scouts is nothing new for receiver Emmanuel Henderson, who was one of four KU players invited to last month’s NFL Combine.
“It wasn’t nerve-racking. I got my nerves out at the combine, so I was ready to go here,” Henderson said.
Henderson said Daniels delivered during the workout. “It was amazing. Jalon Daniels came out here and put on a great performance,” he said.
Other standouts on pro day
Kicker Laith Marjan, who previously kicked at the Special Teams Combine, converted 50- and 55-yard field goals during the workout.
Running back Daniel Hishaw was not invited to the NFL Combine, making pro day his primary opportunity to perform in front of scouts.
Tight end DeShawn Hanika, a Topeka native, spent the past six months rehabbing to be able to participate. “I’ve been dreaming of coming here and doing this since I was 5 years old. No way I was going to miss this,” Hanika said.
Leipold on hand to support players
KU head coach Lance Leipold attended pro day to support his players.
“Absolutely, it’s a great day for our program and for these departing seniors, to have the opportunity to continue their football careers at the highest level,” Leipold said.
The players now wait to see where they land when the NFL Draft takes place.
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