Utah Utes football: Former players ready to work out for NFL scouts

SALT LAKE CITY — Utah's Pro Day is here. Scouts from every team in the National Football League are expected to get a closer look at several former Utes today at the Smith Center and Spence Eccles Field House.

Confirmed participants include Utah's representatives at the recent NFL Scouting Combine — defensive lineman Koa Misi, wide receiver David Reed, offensive lineman Zane Beadles and linebacker Stevenson Sylvester.

All four are projected to be selected in next month's draft.

Misi headlines the cast and could go as early as the second round. His stock is rising after a strong showing at the Combine. Misi placed first in the vertical jump (38.0 inches), fifth in the 20-yard shuttle (4.27 seconds) and sixth in the three-cone drill (7.07 seconds) among the defensive line group. He'll likely be a linebacker, though, in the NFL.

Reed also earned top performer recognition in Indianapolis. He posted the eighth-best vertical jump (37.0 inches) in the receiver group.

Beadles and Sylvester are also drawing strong interest after showcasing their talents at the Combine.

"It looks like those scouts have taken an interest in several of our guys," said Utah coach Kyle Whittingham. "You never know for sure until draft day comes what their status is going to be."

Such is the case with several other Utes. Pro Day is their chance to shine.

"It's a big day," Whittingham said. "Particularly for those that didn't have the opportunity to go to the Combine to show what their capabilities are."

It'll serve as a barometer of sorts, he added.

Safety Robert Johnson tops the hopefuls. He's expected to be drafted despite not being invited to the Combine. A strong Pro Day showing would certainly enhance his chances.

Others expected to audition for the pro scouts include linebacker Kepa Gaison, tight end Chris Joppru, wide receiver Aiona Key, cornerback R.J. Stanford, kicker Ben Vroman, offensive lineman Tyler Williams and linebacker Mike Wright.

Three alumni — wide receiver Brent Casteel, running back Darrell Mack and safety DeShawn Richard — are also expected to participate. Former Southern Utah standout quarterback Cade Cooper is also on the list.

Possible additions include defensive lineman Kenape Eliapo, cornerback Justin Jones, lineman Viliamu Nau and running back Ray Stowers.

Pro Day opens a busy week for the Utah football program. Spring ball begins Tuesday.

e-mail: dirk@desnews.com