FSU Pro Day 2018 showcased elite college talent as prospects from Florida State prepared for the NFL Draft in front of scouts, media, and fans. This event highlighted measurable drills, on-field leadership, and character evaluations that shaped draft discussions for months.
The following overview organizes key outcomes, performances, and metrics from FSU Pro Day 2018, emphasizing the most relevant data for scouts, analysts, and draft followers.
| Prospect Name | Position | Vertical Jump | Forty Time (3-Point) | Bench Press (225 lbs) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| DeMarcus Walker | Edge Rusher | 34.5 in | 4.52 sec | 18 reps |
| Rashard Robinson | Cornerback | 39.0 in | 4.35 sec | 12 reps |
| Tre' McKitty | Tight End | 35.0 in | 4.62 sec | 20 reps |
| Dorian O'Daniel | Linebacker | 38.0 in | 4.58 sec | 19 reps |
| Nyqwan Murray | Wide Receiver | 38.5 in | 4.39 sec | 13 reps |
Physical And Athletic Testing Results
At FSU Pro Day 2018, prospects demonstrated elite athletic traits through a carefully measured series of combine-style drills. These results directly influenced how teams graded overall explosiveness and positional versatility.
Key Athletic Measurements
Height, weight, arm length, and hand size offered scouts a baseline for positional fit, while broad jump and short shuttle drills revealed lateral mobility and acceleration capabilities.
Forty-yard dash splits were closely watched, with particular attention to the three-point start, as this correlated strongly to burst off the line for both offensive skill players and defenders.
On Field Performance And Drills
The on-field component of FSU Pro Day 2018 featured positional group work, route combinations, and coverage drills that mirrored NFL evaluation standards. Coaches scrutinized footwork, ball tracking, and the ability to adjust to live reads.
Route Running And Technique
Wide receivers and tight ends showcased crisp stem mechanics, smooth releases, and precise cutbacks, with several reps filmed for later analysis by professional scouting departments.
Coverage And Tackling Drills
Defensive backs engaged in backpedal-to-break drills, while linebacker groups worked gap discipline and shed techniques, emphasizing transition speed and pad level under contact.
Scout Reactions And Draft Impact
After FSU Pro Day 2018, draft analysts adjusted boards based on performance trends, noting which prospects either exceeded expectations or revealed limitations under higher-level scrutiny.
Position Group Analysis
Edge rushers who displayed pass-rush moves and burst were projected as early-day picks, while safety prospects with reliable closing speed and tackle ability drew interest from multiple organizations.
Medical Evaluations And Durability
Each prospect completed a full medical screening at FSU Pro Day 2018, including musculoskeletal assessments and injury history reviews that could affect contract negotiations and roster decisions.
Physical Therapy And Recovery Notes
Some prospects presented updated clearance documentation or ongoing rehab status, which teams factored into risk assessments for both immediate roster needs and long-term health outlooks.
Overall Takeaways And Evaluation Process
- Focus on measurable athletic traits such as vertical jump, forty time, and bench press results.
- Analyze on-field technique, including route precision, footwork, and coverage fundamentals under live conditions.
- Consider medical and durability data alongside athletic performance to assess true draft risk.
- Track how scout feedback and projected draft rounds shifted in response to Pro Day results.
- Use position-specific benchmarks to compare prospects and identify breakout performers.
FAQ
Reader questions
Which FSU prospects turned the most heads during Pro Day drills?
DeMarcus Walker and Rashard Robinson generated the most buzz, with exceptional speed, power, and coverage ability that aligned directly with current NFL valuation metrics.
How did Pro Day performances change pre-draft rankings for tight ends?
Strong showing from Tre' McKitty reinforced his status as a high-end tight end prospect, improving his draft stock and broadening interest from offenses seeking versatile receiving threats.
Were any linebackers projected as first-round talents after their Pro Day drills?
Dorian O'Daniel demonstrated zone discipline and fluid movement, positioning him as a potential mid-to-late first-round choice for teams prioritizing linebacker athleticism and coverage skills.
What role did medical screenings play in final evaluations at FSU Pro Day 2018?
Medical clearances and durability reports helped teams mitigate risk, ensuring that athletic upside was balanced against health history and recovery timelines before making draft commitments.