Anna 
A dozen former Samford football players took the field at UAB’s Legacy Pavilion on Thursday, showcasing their skills in front of scouts from over 20 NFL teams at the annual Pro Day.
NFL Teams Evaluate Prospects Ahead of Draft
Scouts closely observed players from Samford and other regional schools as they participated in various drills and physical tests in preparation for the 2024 NFL Draft, set for April 24-26 in Green Bay, Wisconsin.
The former Samford standouts taking part included:
Donovan Hawkins, Noah Martin, Jordan Russell, D.J. Rias, Kamron Smith, Damonta Witherspoon, Iaan Cousin, Xavier Lanier, Xavier Nurse, Nazir Sy, Edwin Dearman, and Jaylon Barden.
Players Showcase Athleticism in Key Drills
The athletes were tested in a range of NFL Combine-style drills, including:
- Bench Press
- Vertical Jump
- 40-Yard Dash
- Pro Agility Drill
- 3-Cone Drill
- Broad Jump
- Position Drills
Martin Confident in His Performance
Linebacker Noah Martin, who led Samford with 114 tackles in 2024, felt good about his showing.
“I know a few of my numbers,” Martin said. “I felt good as far as those go, just seeing my verts and my broad jump and my bench with some of those numbers I hadn’t hit before. Some of the numbers we don’t know, so we’re just waiting to see, but overall, I feel pretty good.”
Special Teams Value a Key Selling Point
Martin hopes his performance will convince NFL scouts that he can contribute on special teams, a crucial pathway for rookies looking to earn a roster spot.
“It’s the same thing as in college, you come in and special teams is where you make your money at first,” Martin said. “I want to show them I can run down, and I can hit. I’ve got the speed and the athleticism to go down there. On special teams, I can do what they need me to do, so I hope that is what they see out here today.”
With the NFL Draft fast approaching, the former Samford players will now await feedback from teams as they hope to take the next step in their football careers.
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