AUBURN, Ala. – With representatives from all 32 NFL teams documenting every lift, leap and 40-yard dash, 18 former Tigers participated Friday in Auburn football's Pro Day presented by BBVA.
"It's always really special," Auburn coach Gus Malzahn said. "They had a dream to play in the NFL and they're out there showing what they can do. This group, it's very, very talented, but when I look at this group, it's character. High character.
"Really good-hearted young men who have represented Auburn the right way. A lot of these guys are going to play in the NFL a long time, and they'll continue to represent Auburn. They'll continue to represent their families the right way and I just couldn't be more proud."
All-America defensive linemen Derrick Brown and Marlon Davidson worked out side by side in Auburn's indoor practice facility for perhaps the final time, a four-year bond that could continue with both being selected in the NFL Draft's first round.
"It's been fun, being at the Combine together," said Brown. "We were roommates at the Combine. I love these guys like a brother to me, and I wouldn't treat them differently than anybody in my own family."
"It feels good living out your childhood dream," Davidson said. "A lot of kids have the aspiration of playing in the NFL. I have the opportunity to actually do it now. I'm fixing to be happy about it, to smile about it, and wait until be name is called."
"When I look at this group, it's character."
— Jeff Shearer (@jeff_shearer) March 6, 2020
🗣@CoachGusMalzahn on @AuburnFootball Pro Day participants
"Good-hearted young men who have represented Auburn the right way....I just couldn't be more proud." pic.twitter.com/3Nf5mdcxuP
AU x @NFL#WarEagle x #AUNextLevel pic.twitter.com/LBPpR50UXF
— Auburn Football (@AuburnFootball) March 6, 2020
Unlike Brown and Davidson, Noah Igbinoghene chose to turn pro after his junior season, a decision he did not make lightly.
"It definitely was hard," said Igbinhogene, a highly regarded cornerback who began his college career playing receiver. "I love Auburn. Auburn is the reason I'm here. Auburn let me change positions, allowed me to grow into myself playing this position. It was very hard to leave. I was really debating if I wanted to come back and be the leader of this team. Decided to leave, felt like it was the best thing for me and my family."
"There's been a lot of positive feedback," said safety Daniel Thomas, who bench pressed 225 pounds 24 times at the Combine. "A lot of them didn't know I was that athletic and could run that fast."
For Auburn players who did not participate in the NFL Scouting Combine, Pro Day provided their best opportunity to impress potential future employers.
"Show the scouts what I can do, the ability I have. I felt like I did that today," said defensive back Jeremiah Dinson.
In addition to strength, speed and agility tests, measurements and position workouts, Pro Dav gave the Auburn players a chance to meet with NFL coaches and scouts, to impart what they would bring to pro teams.
"Versatility and consistency," offensive lineman Jack Driscoll said. "I'm going to be the same every day. I'm not going up and down, and a roller coaster. Coaches know they're going to get a guy who can play different positions: tackle, inside, center. Trying to be a team player and a leader, and ultimately, I think that adds value."
"I put my life into this sport and I respect the game, and I give back to the game," tight end Jay Jay Wilson said. "Without this sport, I wouldn't be who I am today. I know that's not the end, it's only the beginning for me. I'm excited. Whatever team takes a chance on me, they're going to be happy."
Other Auburn Pro Day participants included Sal Cannella, Nick Coe, Javaris Davis, Marquel Harrell, Will Hastings, Mike Horton, Kam Martin, Spencer Nigh, Arryn Siposs, Gary Walker and Prince Tega Wanogho.
The 2020 NFL Draft takes place April 23-25 in Las Vegas, Nevada.
Jeff Shearer is a Senior Writer at AuburnTigers.com. Follow him on Twitter: @jeff_shearer