BOCA RATON, Fla. – Nearly a dozen former Florida Atlantic University football players sprinted, shuffled, and leapt closer to their NFL Dreams on Tuesday, when the program hosted its annual Pro Day.
Those participating included receivers Deangelo Antoine (2019), Tavaris “Pico” Harrison (2016-19), DeAndre McNeal (2017-19) and Wayne State’s Darece Roberson Jr.; running backs BJ Emmons (2019-20) and D’Anfernee McGriff (2017-18); center Junior Diaz (2018-19); defensive tackle Noah Jefferson (2018-19); quarterback De’Andre Johnson (2017-18); linebacker Leighton McCarthy (2016-20); and cornerback Chris Tooley (2016-19).
The players began in the weight room, where they performed exercises such as the bench press and vertical jump and allowed pro scouts to record their measurements. Scouts from at least 10 NFL teams attended the Owls’ Pro Day, in addition to some from the CFL.
After the weight-room session, the players made their way into FAU Stadium for the Pro Day’s on-field portion. The players performed speed and agility drills on the field they starred on as collegiate athletes, moving to position-specific drills and team interviews afterward. Notable FAU NFL football alums cheered their future pro-football counterparts on from the field and stands, while many current Owls applauded their former teammates from the stands.
An FAU player has been drafted each of the last two years, with tight end Harrison Bryant going to the Cleveland Browns in 2020 and running back Devin Singletary landing with the Buffalo Bills in 2019. 10 FAU products have been drafted all-time, and the players who competed at the Pro Day in Paradise aim to increase that number next month at the 2021 NFL Draft.
Gallery: (3-30-2021) 2021 Pro Day
PRO DAY RESULTS
hIGHLIGHTS
WHAT’S NEXT
The Pro Day in Paradise participants hope to hear their names called at the 2021 NFL Draft, which runs April 29-May 1 in Cleveland. To follow the team socially, visit @faufootball or for the most up-to-date information go to www.fausports.com.
