Tennessee’s Pro Day on Wednesday will be more about guys getting opportunities to show that they can play at the next level, not necessarily solidifying any kind of elite draft positioning.
Offensive lineman Kyler Kerbyson is a great example of that type of player – a guy looking to earn his way late into April’s NFL Draft or perhaps just getting the opportunity to get in an NFL camp.
The Knoxville native and two-year starter for the Vols is confident that if he gets that opportunity, he will capitalize on it.
“I wouldn’t say specifics,” Kerbyson said on Tuesday afternoon went he was asked about what goals he had in terms of the upcoming draft. “I want a team to give me a chance, and I feel like if I do, I’m going to make it. I’m just confident in myself and see it as a great opportunity for me.”
That’s why he says he’ll participate in every drill on Wednesday when the Vols hold their annual Pro Day event in front of dozens of NFL reps, and he hopes his training from the past couple months – and truly the past few years – pay off.
Versatility could be the key to future. That’s something he was known for a UT. Often viewed as the Swiss-Army Knife of the offensive line, Kerbyson, who said he views himself as more of a natural interior offensive lineman, played virtually every spot along the offensive front during his UT career. For roster-spot strapped NFL franchises, that versatility can pay off.
“I think it’s huge,” Kerbyson said. “You know, a lot of guys only take seven or eight guys on the O-line to a game, so they really have to play multiple positions across the board, and I can do that. I’m really hoping that that does put me above the rest.”
He’s hoping for 30 reps on the 225-pound bench press (update: he got 32), a 5.2 40-yard dash and other impressive-for-his position numbers, but also remembers that the scouts are looking for how they play the position. That’s why the individual drills might be the most important part of the day.
“I don’t think I’m going to blow anybody out of the water with the numbers I do have, but I think some of my position drills are what will put me above some of the rest,” he said. “It’s been just a lot of training, almost everyday I’m coming in here working on speed and agility and lifting and just creating my body the way I want it. It is a huge opportunity for me and I want to take advantage.”
