UCF Knights defensive end Malachi Lawrence could be a second-rounder in next month's NFL Draft
Ex-UCF Knights defensive end Malachi Lawrence should be filled with loads of excitement.
He is but refuses to get overly-excited because this is only the beginning. Next month, Lawrence will hear his name called after being drafted by one of the 30 NFL teams.
"It's a blessing just seeing all the work that I put in," Lawrence said. "Just seeing it actually come to life. I started playing football when I was five."
Lawrence could be chosen high as the second round. He's worked out or met with most of the teams. He is expected to meet with the New England Patriots, Las Vegas Raiders, New York Jets and Tennessee Titans.
He recently was projected as the No. 43 pick by the Miami Dolphins according to ESPN.
Here's what ESPN wrote: "Needs exist all over the Dolphins' roster, including opposite of Chop Robinson, to boost a pass rush that tied for 23rd in pass rush win rate last season. Lawrence would do exactly that, with some of the best closing ability in the class (19.5 sacks in the past three seasons). He has been a riser during the predraft process."
Lawrence said he is trying to stay level-headed as possible while continuing to study the likes of Chandler Jones (Arizona Cardinals) and Max Crosby (Raiders). Both are two of the top defensive lineman in the league.
"I try to put it to the side," Lawrence said. "I know to not let my head get too big. Once I get there, that's just the start. I'm probably going to be the worst player on the team when I get there. I don't know how the NFL is."
Lawrence is just ready to prove he can compete at the next level. He feels he can help any team if given the opportunity.
"They're going to receive a dog, a great player, somebody that's going to come in a work from Day One, great motor," Lawrence said of his potential teams.
Despite the whirlwind, Lawrence still found time to attend UCF's Pro Day Wednesday. It gave him one more chance to visit with friends and former teammates before becoming a professional.
"Just out there supporting my brothers, seeing how they did," Lawrence said. "They did really good. Great performances out there."
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Shandel Richardson is the publisher of UCFRoundtable. He can be reached at shandelrich@gmail.com