Keli Lawson leaps past NFL combine competitors. His electrifying broad jump signals a powerful future for the Knights' standout linebacker.
Fifth-year senior linebacker Keli Lawson had an impressive showing at UCF's Pro Day on Wednesday, shining in the broad jump drill.
Lawson posted an 11 foot 3 inch broad jump, further than any NFL Combine linebacker tested.
This distance is just four inches shorter than the furthest broad jump ever recorded at the combine, set by Jamie Collins in 2013.
Lawson played just one year in the Black and Gold after four seasons (one redshirt) at Virginia Tech.
The 6-foot-4 linebacker recorded 34 total tackles and two sacks for the Knights, providing reliable tackling and coverage in the middle of the field.
Lawson talked about his impressive pro day, while saying he still feels there is room for growth.
"It's really a blessing to be out here. I think I had a real productive day," Lawson said. "Ain't hit all the marks I really wanted to. Left a little meat on on the bone, but I mean, overall, I think it was a real productive day. Good day."
Lawson says he is working out almost every day locally in Orlando. He also participated in the American Bowl earlier this offseason.
He says he has spoken to "a fair amount" of NFL teams throughout the pre-draft process while adding that hearing his name called at the draft would be "the ultimate dream" come true.
As of now, Lawson has not appeared on many mock draft boards, but says he continues to keep a good approach.
"I truly feel like it's not another person with my stature at my size doing or moving the way I am," Lawson said. "I let them know like I have a good mindset, got a good mentality. I've been surrounded by good people. mother, father, brothers, and all that. So, that's really been my sales point today."
Lawson ended with telling the media about what he sees for the future of UCF football, endorsing head coach Scott Frost and the players who he was able to play with last season.
"I see a good imprint on some of the older guys that's passed down, like really that next generation..." Lawson said. "I see great potential. I seen them taking some of the lessons, you know, instilled in them and sharing it, spreading it around the team and hopefully it's going to be a more positive environment for them boys."
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