Representatives from 17 NFL teams and at least 20 pro scouts were on hand in Jonesboro on Wednesday to evaluate 20 former Arkansas State football players during ASU's annual Pro Day at the Student Activities Center located on the north end of Centennial Bank Stadium.
The players participated in a number of drills and testing, similar to what prospects go through at the NFL Combine each year, including bench press, vertical jump, broad jump, 40-yard dash, along with on-field workouts and individual testing.
Of the prospects that were evaluated, center Jacob Bayer is believed to have the best chance of being picked in the NFL Draft in April. Bayer was a standout performer at the Senior Bowl in January at Mobile, Ala. Bayer was the only ASU player invited to the showcase event and he took full advantage of the opportunity.
"He separated himself with his mindset and mentality," ASU Coach Butch Jones said of Bayer's week at the Senior Bowl. "He was kind of the talk of that all-star game just by his intangibles. Now today, he gets a chance to prove himself again."
With most of the players who competed Wednesday are likely long shots to be drafted, having the ability to play special teams is a way the prospects can enhance their value with the hopes of landing an invitation to a rookie minicamp.
Punter Ryan Heicher, long snapper Jack Bullard and punt returner Courtney Jackson were among the specialists that participated Wednesday. Trevian Thomas was a "Group of 5" All-American safety for ASU in 2024, but his past success on special teams has drawn the attention of several pro teams.
"We may have more special teams personnel here today then probably three-quarters of every pro day in college football," Jones said. "You look at how successful we've been in (special teams). People respect what our players have done. Trevian Thomas was an All-American safety. He's coming in and an organization like the Minnesota Vikings, they're looking to see if he can be the gunner on their punt."
Pro scouts outside of the NFL were also present, including representatives from the Calgary Stampeders and the Saskatchewan Roughriders of the Canadian Football League. Saskatchewan drafted former Red Wolves linebacker Melique Straker in the fourth round of the 2024 CFL Draft.
"This is probably the most talent to date that we've had at an NFL Pro Day and I think that's evident by the number of participating teams that are here," Jones said. "The value of our current team seeing our older players test. Seeing the NFL representatives around the building. You can't put a price tag on that. It's invaluable."