FARGO — It was a job interview, really, for eight former North Dakota State football players Wednesday at the team's annual Pro Day. With one philosophical difference: it was conducted in front of 28 teams, friends, family, former coaches and teammates and media.
It wasn't the CEO and the student in a corner room. The office, in this case, was the Nodak Mutual Football Performance Complex.
"We were prepared for it," said former NDSU guard Nash Jensen. "Whatever was thrown at us, we were going to be ready for it."
Jensen is already a USFL draft pick, selected in the sixth round by the Pittsburgh Maulers, but is hoping to hear his name in late April at the NFL Draft. He was happy with his performance on Wednesday.
"It was exactly or better at what I've been training at," he said. "I feel like it was a really good day. I feel like I made some money."
ADVERTISEMENT
Former Bison offensive tackle Cody Mauch appeared to solidify his status as a potential high draft pick. Mauch did most of his work at the NFL Combine, but participated in a couple of short agility drills as well as one-on-one work.
Former Bison cornerback Destin Talbert was impressive in turning in a 40-inch vertical jump. Defensive backs like Talbert, Michael Tutsie and Dawson Weber will most likely be hoping for a free agent tryout.
#NDSUProDay vertical jump
— Ryan Perreault (@ndsuryan) March 29, 2023
FB Hunter Luepke 36.5
OL Nash Jensen 27
DB Destin Talbert 40 👀
DB Michael Tutsie 33.5
DE Spencer Waege 32
DB Dawson Weber 30.5
pic.twitter.com/1m131hVsVZ
Meanwhile, defensive end Spencer Waege was put to the test as the only defensive lineman going through individual drills. Waege is hoping he can attract NFL interest at either an inside or outside defensive line spot now that he's north of 290 pounds.
Mauch will get drafted. Jensen is hoping to hear his name, possibly being helped that offensive guard pool isn't that strong. Waege appears to be gaining steam. Fullback Hunter Luepke certainly boosted his stock on Wednesday.
Spencer Waege, now about 290 pounds, with his 40. pic.twitter.com/53A5n4mphf
— Jeff Kolpack (@KolpackInForum) March 29, 2023
Hunter Luepke shuttle run at Bison pro day. pic.twitter.com/yOrrkQZ2OF
— Jeff Kolpack (@KolpackInForum) March 29, 2023
Former Bison tight end Noah Gindorff, recovering from ankle surgery, was only able to do the bench press. He'll be part of his own pro day on April 13.
#NDSUProDay bench press
— Ryan Perreault (@ndsuryan) March 29, 2023
TE Noah Gindorff 20
OL Nash Jensen 33
DB Destin Talbert 20
DE Spencer Waege 23
DB Dawson Weber 13
The Trust Project
