This past weekend was a dream come true for several college football players, who attempted proving their skillsets to professional teams at the NFL Scouting Combine.
Most notably, players participated in drills like the 40-yard dash, vertical jump and bench press. There’s plenty more sessions, but these seem to be the areas NFL scouts look into the most.
There’s a few former UNC players who participated in the NFL Combine, such as star linebacker Cedric Gray. The in-state product reached 100 tackles in each of his three years as a starter, plus he nabbed first team All-ACC honors in the 2022 and 2023 campaigns.
Gray was often a bright spot on a historically struggling defensive unit. He showcased a rare ability to wrap up the ballcarrier, while also acting as a main cog in the passing game.
With how productive he was as a Tar Heel, Gray is almost certain to be selected in the 2024 NFL Draft. NFL Mock Draft Database has Gray as a fourth-round pick, though his play could easily get him a third or second-round selection.
Will Gray’s 4.66 40-yard dash help his case to rise up the boards? Will teams take a chance on Gray?
Whoever chooses Gray is not only getting a talented linebacker, but a proven leader who’s a great team player. Let’s check out a couple of Gray’s Combine photos: