Move over, Clowney? Mack flashes serious speed at Pro Day
For someone who was lightly recruited coming out of high school, linebacker Khalil Mack is attracting an impressive crowd leading up to the NFL draft.
And after Tuesday's performance, he may end up with quite an impressive spot in the NFL Draft.
Representatives from all 32 NFL teams were on hand for the University of Buffalo's pro day, during which Mack was the main attraction inside Buffalo Bills Fieldhouse. Among those on hand to watch the projected first-round draft pick work out were Browns rookie coach Mike Pettine (holder of the No. 4 overall pick), Raiders general manager Reggie McKenzie (No. 5) and Bills general manager Doug Whaley (No. 9).
And according to multiple reports, Mack did not disappoint.
Khalil Mack just ran a 4.54 unofficial at #UB pro day. Ran 4.65 official at #NFLCombine (4.66 and 4.62 unofficials)
— John Kryk (@JohnKryk) March 4, 2014
And according to insiders, while we are still two months from the draft, Mack likely made himself quite a bit of money.
Khalil Mack's pro day performance put him in top-pick coversation.1 of 7 players #Texans could take, imo. http://t.co/xoXWhyuFxZ
— Gil Brandt (@Gil_Brandt) March 4, 2014
Khalil Mack, a OLB who some project JAX to pick, had his Pro Day today. Here's how it went: http://t.co/txjbeqwXZ9. pic.twitter.com/wQNR8Gqsvt
— Jacksonville Jaguars (@jaguars) March 4, 2014
"@mrcarter_35: Khalil Mack just made some money 4.45 on some scouts watches today"» hand times are usually unreliable. But that's cute.
— Omar Kelly (@OmarKelly) March 4, 2014
The top-rated pass rusher for most people — the top-rated draft prospect overall in many people's eyes — is South Carolina's Jadeveon Clowney. Clowney turned heads with his 40 time at last month's combine — and officially ran a 4.53.
And nobody has openly questioned Mack's work ethic.
Surprising scouts and outperforming big-name competition is nothing new for Mack.
At 6-foot-3 and 251 pounds, Mack was last year's Jack Lambert award-winner and helped Buffalo (8-5) to its second bowl berth. He also set an FBS career record with 16 forced fumbles. The Bulls were the only FBS program to offer Mack a scholarship.