Pair of former Gators get NFL scouting combine invitations

These two former Gators will be Florida’s representatives at this year’s NFL scouting combine.

The National Football League officially announced its invitations to this year’s scouting combine on Tuesday, which included a pair of former Florida Gators in offensive lineman [autotag]Kingsley Eguakun[/autotag] and wide receiver [autotag]Ricky Pearsall[/autotag].

Eguakun is a five-year veteran of the Gainesville gridiron, having spent a fair portion of time as a Gator at center — most notably in 2021 and 2022 when he was the starter at the position over that stretch. However, he was slowed by a high ankle sprain he sustained midway through preseason camp, limiting the Jacksonville, Florida, product to just four appearances in 2023.

Despite a year of eligibility remaining, he participated in this year’s Senior Day event and is entering the draft.

Pearsall made a mark for himself in Gainesville after transferring from the Arizona State Sun Devils two seasons ago. The prolific pass-catcher hauled in 98 receptions for 1,626 yards and nine touchdowns while also 175 rushing yards and three scores on the ground.

The senior from Chandler, Arizona, snagged 65 catches for 965 yards in 2023 — both career highs — but failed in his quest to break the 1,000-yard barrier. However, his professional stock has risen considerably since his ASU days.

Florida has had a total of 269 players invited to the combine all-time, which ranks second in the SEC since 1987.

A total of 321 prospects will partake in this year’s NFL scouting combine, which is scheduled to begin Feb. 26 and run through March 4 at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, Indiana. Live drills begin on Thursday, Feb. 29 at 3 p.m. ET; coverage will be provided by the NFL Network and NFL+.

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