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BOCA RATON – FAU entered the 2019 NFL Draft well positioned to set a new program record.
Only once in program history has more than one Owl been selected in the same draft, that coming in 2014 when San Francisco chose Keith Reaser and Buffalo jumped on Randell Johnson.
Running back Devin Singletary is all but certain to be selected. That may happen as early as tonight, when the draft continues with rounds two and three. Five other players could join Singletary when the draft concludes with its final four rounds on Saturday.
And another handful of Owls will have an opportunity to pursue their NFL dreams as unrestricted free agents.
FAU’s 2019 class produced the most prospects in program history. Here are the players hoping that, by the end of the weekend, they’ll be professional football players.
FAU 2019 Draft Class
SECOND DAY PROSPECTS
RB Devin Singletary: The back known as “Motor” needed only three seasons to smash nearly every meaningful rushing record at FAU. A poor showing at the NFL Scouting Combine left many questioning whether Singletary’s college success will transfer to the pros. Who’s not shying away? Nike, who already signed Singletary to an endorsement deal.
FINAL DAY PROSPECTS
RB Kerrith Whyte: He met with the Rams and Steelers, worked out for the Bills and Bears, and attended Miami’s regional workout. Whyte, who declared for the NFL Draft despite having one year of eligibility remaining, took the last classroom exam of his college career on Thursday and will graduate during the first week of May.
WR Jovon Durante: The West Virginia transfer played only one season at FAU before declaring early for the NFL draft. The speedy Durante led FAU last season with 65 catches and 873 receiving yards. Scouts like his 4.49 speed and precise routes. If Durant isn’t selected in one of the final two rounds, he’ll certainly sign as a free agent.
LB Azeez Al-Shaair: FAU’s all-time leading tackler may have been a second day selection had knee surgery not ended his senior season early. Some team will likely take a chance on Al-Shaair on Saturday, but the injury, along with his lack of size, may cause him to go undrafted. Working in Al-Shaair’s favor is that his rehab has him on target to be a full go for the start of fall camps.
S Jalen Young: After tying for second nationally with seven interceptions in 2017, Young did little to improve his draft stock as a senior. Limited by injuries, Young’s 59 tackles as a senior were second most among Owls. He only managed one interception, though. Teams discussed moving him to nickel at the next level. The Broncos, Raiders and Dolphins have shown interest. The talent is there. But injury concerns may cause Young to fall into the free agent realm.
DE Hunter Snyder: The 6-foot-6, 254-pound Snyder has the size and athleticism to tantalize scouts. Snyder’s biggest drawback is his inability to stay healthy. He only recorded 29 tackles as a senior, with two of those being sacks. Miami, Tampa Bay, San Francisco and the Los Angeles Chargers have shown interest. Some NFL team may see the physical tools and choose Snyder, but he may be destined to free agency.
LIKELY FREE AGENT SIGNEES
CB Shelton Lewis: Like many of FAU’s defensive players, Lewis didn’t have the senior season he hoped for. He’ll likely play slot corner at the next level. The Miami Dolphins keep checking in on Lewis. “I’m 100 percent eager,” Lewis said of the weekend. “I want to get that next step and that opportunity to show my talents a the next level.”
S Andrew Soroh: After starting his career as a safety, Soroh moved forward to play linebacker during his junior season and stayed there for his final year. Soroh says NFL teams are interested in moving him back to safety. “I’m pretty confident, just staying patient,” Soroh said. “I know something will come up.”
CB Herb Miller: At 6-foot-1, Miller has good size and length. His move to nickel showed Miller isn’t afraid to deliver a hit. Miller’s 4.56 40 time may be what keeps him from getting drafted. His other physical tools, however, should land Miller in someone’s camp.
OL Reggie Bain: FAU has never produced an NFL offensive lineman. Bain is trying to change that, but he’s going to have to find the right set of circumstances. A left tackle his entire FAU career, Bain participated in snapping drills during Pro Day and is being marketed by his agent as either a center or a guard. Bain worked out for Cleveland. The Jets, Redskins, Giants and Dolphins all expressed interest.
S Ocie Rose: Always around the ball, Rose never repeated the production from his freshman season. During his final two years at FAU Rose struggled to find playing time. An extremely slow 4.74 40 time didn’t help Rose’s cause. He may have a future in the CFL.
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