Measured Leap

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BOCA RATON – Kerrith Whyte finds himself in almost the exact opposite position of former backfield mate Devin Singletary.

Where Singletary’s highlight videos could fill a blimp hanger but his NFL combine results raised questions, Whyte doesn’t have nearly as many highlights but his Pro Day measurements created an NFL draft buzz.

“It was very satisfying just to know that all the hard work and effort that I put in, it paid off,” Whyte said of his Pro Day performance.

Whyte ran a 4.36 40 yard dash at FAU’s combine, showed a 42-inch vertical leap, bench pressed 225 pounds 21 times and flew 11 feet in the broad jump – elite results that placed him among the best testing running backs this year.

But as Singletary’s backup last year Whyte didn’t have as many opportunities shine. Still, he rushed for 916 yards, averaging 6.5 per carry, and caught 10 passes for 160 yards

Whyte averaged 5.9 yards per carry during his three seasons and owns the only two kickoff returns for touchdown in FAU program history. That’s another reason teams like him.

“Any special teams play is a asset to your resume,” Whyte said. “That has been talked about. I’m thankful to say that is a part of my package.”

Whyte stunned many by electing to forego his final year of eligibility and enter the NFL Draft, which begins later today. The emotions of his impending lifestyle change have yet to affect Whyte.

“Right now I don’t think it’s kind of hit me yet,” Whyte said earlier this week. “Maybe Thursday when the first round starts.”

Whyte met with the Rams and Steelers, and worked out for the Bills and Bears in recent weeks. Buffalo and Chicago are among the teams showing strong interest in Singletary, too.

The NFL Draft continues on Friday with rounds two and three. The final four rounds come on Saturday.

Most analysts predict Singletary as a third or fourth round selection, though some have him in the second round. Whyte is expected to be chosen either in the later rounds or to sign as a free agent shortly after the draft’s conclusion.

Assuming Whyte and Singletary come to terms with teams, they will become the second and third running backs from the Owls’ 2017 Conference USA championship team to achieve their NFL goals. Buddy Howell, Singletary’s backup that year, is currently a member of the Houston Texans.