Colorado State University-Pueblo hosted its annual pro day for the NFL hopeful seniors from last year’s national championship season March 30. Although none of the Pack seniors were invited to the NFL Scouting Combine held in Indianapolis, every one of them made their presence known as they showcased their skills for NFL scouts in various tests and drills.
The road to the NFL is an extremely tough one. Statistically, some would say it’s almost impossible. Factor in going to a Division II school and the odds tilt against CSU-Pueblo players even more. However, a national championship tends to open people’s eyes a little bit more and force NFL scouts to take notice.
Boasting a near perfect season last year, the Thunderwolves had eight of their star seniors present at the pro day along with representation from other schools in the Rocky Mountain Athletic Conference. Scouts from the Denver Broncos and Oakland Raiders were among those in attendance along with a handful of other teams.
Players were put through the system just like the NFL combine, showcasing their talents through the bench press, broad jump, vertical jump, 40 yard dash, three cone drill and pro shuttle.
For most of the Thunderwolves who were present, this wasn’t their first showing in front of the NFL scouts. A lot of the players had been to pro days at Boulder, Fort Collins, Air Force and the Super Regional NFL Combine in Arizona.
Many of the Pack players continue to gain awareness through impressive numbers and performances in front of NFL scouts. Whether it’s defensive lineman Josh “Yeti” Bredl, who clocked in the second fastest 40 yard dash of all defensive linemen in the draft this year, or Chris Bonner’s pinpoint accuracy and arm strength, coaches are becoming more aware of the playmakers coming out of Pueblo this year.
“Boulder was a great day throwing up there with Paul (Browning) and some of the guys. Heard back from some teams and got some private workouts so it’s looking real good,” said quarterback Chris Bonner.
Bonner will go on to have private workouts with the San Diego Chargers and Atlanta Falcons in his home state of California while senior defensive back CJ Roberts travels back to Florida to have a private session with the Miami Dolphins.
For more information on the Thunderwolves’ road to the NFL, tune into the NFL Draft from April 30 to May 2.
