The Chattanooga Mocs had a 7-man contingent go through their paces in front of NFL scouts at the annual Pro Day. It started in the Wolford Family Strength & Conditioning Center before shifting to Scrappy Moore Field as the group was put through its steps.
"It's a big day for our seniors," Coach Rusty Wright explained. "It's great to see them compete and live their dreams. The tape they get to produce here with the number of snaps and those opportunities are vital, but these days round that out for the scouts, position coaches and team personnel that visit each year.
"We're happy to be able to organize a day for them that makes it easy for scouts to see our guys and get to the next level."
The group included:
DE Jay Person
DE Ben Brewton
RB Gino Appleberry
OL Griffin McDowell
P Clayton Crile
DB Clay Fields III
DE Shamar Jones
It started with dimensions then strength numbers and leaping ability.
The shift to Scrappy brought the broad jump, 40-yard dash, 3-cone drill and 20-yard shuttle into play. It culminated with positional drills with an assist from quarterback Luke Schomburg throwing to Appleberry and Tennessee Tech wide receiver Metrius Fleming.
There were special guests as well. Former Southern Conference Defensive Player of the Year and Mocs defensive lineman Isaiah Mack was in attendance to support the crew. He recently signed with the Miami Dolphins.
Former Chattanooga tight end Chris James also was part of the day. Not only was he back at his alma mater, but he has been training McDowell who has had an impressive draft run up with two pro days including today and recent work at his other alma mater, Florida.
"It's great to see alums back supporting this group like Isaiah and Chris," Wright added. "Chris helped Griffin train this spring which was great in raising his profile. To see them back here means the world to our program."
The NFL Draft is April 25-27 in Detroit, Mich. The Mocs currently have five alums on NFL rosters including Mack, for first round pick Cole Strange (New England), McClendon Curtis (Seattle), Corey Levin (Tennessee) and Tae Davis (Carolina).
Season tickets are now available to the general public. The deadline to renew last year's seats is May 31. Prices start at $60 for general admission. Mocs Club members have the option for reserved seats beginning at the $250 donation level which includes a season parking pass to go with the season ticket. The purchase of season tickets is the lowest per game price for fans.