With the 2022 NFL Draft not too far away, prospects are doing all they can to impress one last time before they potentially hear their names called on draft weekend. Draft-eligible prospects like Armani Rogers and Alec Pierce are two names who are using their top-30 visits and pro days to try and solidify their draft stock. Here are the latest NFL Draft news and rumors I am hearing surrounding Rogers and Pierce.
NFL Draft News and Rumors: Tight end Armani Rogers building buzz
Quarterback-turned-tight end Armani Rogers is starting to build a buzz in draft rooms around the league. The former UNLV signal-caller, who was a backup for Ohio last season, followed up three terrific days of practice at the Shrine Bowl with an outstanding pro day workout in the middle of March.
Rogers participated in the UCLA Pro Day and measured 6’5 3/8″ and 233 pounds. He timed as fast as 4.56 in the 40-yard dash, had a short shuttle of 4.31, and posted a 7.20 three-cone. His vertical jump was 34 inches, and Rogers reached 10’10” in the broad jump.
Not invited to the Combine, Rogers has been on official top-30 visits with the Seattle Seahawks and Miami Dolphins. He also had private workouts with the Dallas Cowboys, Las Vegas Raiders, and Los Angeles Chargers.
Where could Alec Pierce land?
Cincinnati wideout Pierce, presently graded as a third-round prospect on my 2022 NFL Draft Big Board, has been a busy man since January. After playing in the national semi-final game against Alabama, Pierce participated in the Senior Bowl and NFL Combine.
Pierce had official top-30 visits with the Cincinnati Bengals and Chicago Bears. He also has a private workout upcoming with the Cowboys.
The tall, sure-handed receiver measured a tick over 6’3″ and 211 pounds at the Combine. Pierce’s arms reached 33 inches. He timed 4.41 in the 40 with a quick 10-yard split of 1.58, touched 40.5 inches in the vertical jump, and managed 10’10” in the broad.
Pierce is a real good athlete who made a living winning out for the contested throw in college. Sources tell me to keep an eye on the Bears with their first selection of the draft (No. 71 in Round 3).