For the first time in three years, Florida’s Pro Day will be a huge event.
The Gators had 10 players invited to the NFL scouting combine and could produce their largest draft class since nine players were picked in 2010. The program had just six draftees over the past two years.
The NFL hopefuls will work out at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium on Tuesday morning with representatives from every team expected to attend. In addition to the prominent players entering the draft this year, several seniors will try to earn consideration.
The top UF draft prospect, defensive tackle Sharrif Floyd, will not participate. Floyd, who is projected to go in the top five picks, has a minor ankle injury and plans to work out privately for teams later this month.
ESPN analysts Mel Kiper and Todd McShay see him going No. 1 and No. 3, respectively.
The last Gator selected in the top five was defensive tackle Gerard Warren at No. 3 in 2001. UF has never produced a No. 1 pick.
It also is unclear how much linebacker Jelani Jenkins, a junior who left early, will be able to do as he continues recovering from a broken bone in his foot.
Dwyer High School product Matt Elam, a safety, is hoping to prove he belongs in the first round after a strong performance at the combine. Jon Bostic, a linebacker from Palm Beach Central, also was solid at the combine and could establish himself as a mid-round pick.
Kicker Caleb Sturgis, offensive lineman Xavier Nixon, receiver Frankie Hammond and defensive tackle Omar Hunter are among the players looking to convince teams they are worth choosing.
Following Pro Day, the Gators will launch spring practices Wednesday. The spring session lasts four weeks and culminates in the Orange & Blue Game on April 6.
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