UCF playmaker Nyjalik Kelly, a force with game-changing fumbles, takes his talents to the NFL Draft and the East-West Shrine Bowl.
All-Big 12 Honorable Mention edge rusher Nyjalik Kelly had an impressive senior season for UCF, tallying three sacks and 46 tackles.
Kelly was a playmaker, forcing a team-high two fumbles and hauling in his only career interception. Both fumbles Kelly forced (vs N.C. A&T and West Virginia) were returned for touchdowns.
Kelly was previously seeking a possible medical redshirt from missed time earlier in his career, but made the decision to enter the NFL draft Friday afternoon. Kelly penned a heartfelt message to his family and Knight Nation on his Instagram.
"I have been blessed and fortunate over the past two seasons, to have played for Coach Frost and the entire Knights Coaching Staff. Thank you for the amazing opportunity to be a part of Knight's Nation," Kelly wrote.
Kelly racked up 12.5 sacks during his career, while accumulating over 100 tackles. Kelly also led the squad this past season with eight quarterback hurries.
Kelly will have one more opportunity to showcase his talent before NFL preparations begin as he accepted an invite to the East-West Shrine Bowl.
According to the Bowl's website, "The East-West Shrine Bowl brings together the nation’s top college football players, providing them with a platform to showcase their talents before NFL scouts, coaches, and executives from all 32 teams."
This is a great opportunity for Kelly. Many NFL legends have played in the bowl, including Tom Brady, Walter Payton, and John Elway. According to the website, younger talent like Brock Purdy, Zay Flowers, and Isiah Pacheco also played in the game.
Kelly is a former four star recruit, according to 247 Sports. He played his high school ball at Dillard in Fort Lauderdale, FL.
Back in 2021, 247 Sports Director of Scouting, Andrew Ivins predicted that Kelly had the ability to make it to the NFL.
"Should emerge as a multi-year starter and potentially an all-conference type of a player for a Top 25 program. NFL upside if everything comes together," Ivins wrote.
Ivins saw Kelly's youth and upside that he could bring to a program as a huge benefit, as well as his abiltities.
"Quick first step allows him to fire off the ball and get vertical. Flexibility allows him to bend and run the corner. Does a nice job of getting home and making the play more times than not," Ivins wrote.
With a strong showing at the East-West Shrine Bowl, Kelly will gain traction on NFL Draft boards before the combine in late February.