The 2022 Western Kentucky Pro Day will allow some of their most talented NFL Draft prospects to continue their ascension in this class. When is the Western Kentucky Pro Day, who should you watch out for, and what can we expect?
When is the Western Kentucky Pro Day in 2022?
- Date: Thursday, March 31
- Time: 9:00 AM ET
The 2022 Western Kentucky Pro Day will take place on Thursday, March 31. The Hilltoppers’ top NFL Draft prospects will begin their workout at 9:00 AM ET. Last year, the Western Kentucky Pro Day took place at Houchens-Smith Stadium in Bowling Green, the home of the Hilltoppers.
Top NFL Draft prospects working out at Western Kentucky Pro Day
Not renowned as a productive pipeline to the NFL, Western Kentucky hasn’t had a player selected in the NFL Draft since 2018 when Mike White and Joel Iyiegbuniwe were early Day 3 selections. However, the year prior to that, Forrest Lamp and Taiwan Taylor’s selection on Day 2 gave the Hilltoppers their most successful draft class in program history.
That said, all eyes will be on Bowling Green for the Western Kentucky Pro Day. With an underwhelming quarterback class, a record-setting performance and subsequent Senior Bowl appearance from Bailey Zappe will see NFL scouts flocking to Houchens-Smith Stadium. Alongside Zappe, there are several standout prospects to watch for at the Western Kentucky Pro Day.
Bailey Zappe, QB
5,967 passing yards. 62 touchdowns. Just let those numbers sink in for a second. Bailey Zappe has ripped up the record books in just one season at the FBS level. The former Houston Baptist passer was a sensation for the Hilltoppers this season. However, behind the gaudy production and record-breaking statistics, there lies a genuine NFL Draft quarterback prospect.
Zappe impressed me with his mental fortitude as much as his exceptional statistics. He’s capable of making pre- and post-snap adjustments, reading the game at a high level. He’s cool and composed in the pocket, making sensible decisions as a passer. At the Western Kentucky Pro Day, we’ll be looking to see if they dial in some deep passes for Zappe to showcase his arm strength, an area not quite at the level of some other prospects in the class.
Jerreth Sterns, WR
Jerreth Sterns has been the beneficiary of Zappe’s ascension as a record-breaking college football quarterback. The explosive WR snagged 1,902 yards and 17 touchdowns in 2021. He’s a dangerous threat who can create yardage after the catch easily with elusiveness. Sterns also showcases exemplary pass-catching and route-running ability. An inexplicable NFL Combine snub, the Western Kentucky Pro Day gives Sterns the ability to showcase his athletic acumen as well as route-running prowess.
DeAngelo Malone, EDGE
It isn’t just on the offensive side of the ball where the Hilltoppers have been exceptionally productive. During his Western Kentucky career, DeAngelo Malone has tallied 349 tackles (59 for loss), plus 32.5 sacks and 8 fumbles. The Hilltoppers edge player impressed during on-field drills at the NFL Combine. However, after putting up 23 bench reps, he didn’t complete other drills, including the 40-yard dash, which will be something to watch out for.
Other players to watch for at Western Kentucky’s 2022 Pro Day
- Mason Brooks, OT
- Antwon Kincade, S
- Cole Spencer, OT
- Boe Wilson, G