March 11, 2009

LEXINGTON, Ky. – The 2008 and 2009 Kentucky football seniors put their physical abilities on display Wednesday morning at the annual “Pro Day” workout for professional scouts.

Representatives of 18 National Football League teams, along with the Kentucky Horsemen arena team, put the Wildcats through their paces. The seniors from UK’s AutoZone Liberty Bowl championship team were tested in the 40-yard dash, vertical jump, agility drills, various position-specific drills and weightlifting. The upcoming seniors for the 2009 season were tested in the 40-yard dash.

Cornerback David Jones posted the best 40 time among the ’08 seniors, clocked as fast as 4.34 seconds. Among the ’09 seniors, fleet-feet tailback Alfonso Smith ran the 40 as fast as 4.27 seconds, staying consistent with his previous times in the 4.2 range.

“Overall, it was a very productive day,” Coach Rich Brooks said. “It’s part of the (evaluation) process. For some guys, this day is very important. If a guy is not on the scouts’ radar, he can really help himself (with a good showing).

“I think a lot of people will be impressed with how many of our players will be in the picture on draft day and the free agent signings.”

Three of the Wildcat seniors, punter/kicker Tim Masthay, safety Marcus McClinton and defensive tackle Myron Pryor, had been worked out already by the scouts in February at the official NFL combine. Those players were on hand today for additional evaluation.

The NFL Draft is scheduled for April 25-26. Brooks is hopeful that the ’08 seniors will add to the success of the UK senior class of 2007. Seven Wildcats from the ’07 team were drafted or signed as free agents, six of whom made it onto a roster in the NFL.