March 4th 2024.
Willie Drew, a talented cornerback from Virginia State, made a solid impression at the NFL Scouting Combine with an official 40-yard dash time of 4.46. This prestigious event is a highly sought-after opportunity for NFL scouts to assess the top college players in various aspects such as medical, mental, and physical abilities. Only about 300 players are invited to participate each year, making it a highly competitive and exclusive event.
According to HBCU Legends, Drew's impressive 10-yard-split time of 1.57 is a clear indication of his exceptional closing speed. Analysts like CBS Sports' Emory Hunt believe that Drew has the necessary coverage skills to make a significant impact at the professional level. However, Hunt also predicts that Drew's initial path to the field in the NFL will most likely be through special teams. Before the combine, Hunt was curious to see if Drew would showcase his leaping ability, but Drew ended up only running the 40-yard dash.
Drew's journey to Virginia State began with a transfer from James Madison University, a dominant force in Division II football. In an interview with HBCU Sports, Drew shared that Virginia State was the first school to give him a chance to play football again, and he eagerly accepted the opportunity. He proved his worth by being named the Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association Defensive Player of the Year, thanks to his ability to shadow receivers and impressive stats of 34 tackles, 2.5 tackles for loss, six interceptions, and 16 passes defensed. As Andscape reports, Drew also made history by becoming the first Virginia State player to receive an invite to the Senior Bowl, an all-star game for elite players from across the country. For Drew, it was a chance to compete against top-level competition and showcase his skills.
Reflecting on his experience at the Senior Bowl, Drew told Andscape that the jump in competition was not a challenge for him. However, scouts noted that his performance was uneven, something Drew attributes to the need to adjust his technique. "It was a great experience going from the Division II level to competing against some of the best players in the world," Drew shared. "Although it wasn't a challenge, I did have to make some adjustments to my technique."
Despite all the attention and pressure, Drew remained humble and level-headed, according to his head coach at Virginia State, Henry Frazier III. "We had all 32 teams come to watch him during practice. It seemed like every day there was an NFL team there," Frazier said. "But he remained consistent and didn't let it get to his head. He's not one of those prima donna-type players. He's a humble guy. It's not easy to find 6-foot corners who are as physical as Willie."
During an interview, Drew also praised players from HBCUs and other Division II schools who are currently playing in the NFL. He acknowledged the words of retired players like Michael Strahan, who have been saying for years that if you're good enough, the NFL will find you. "I believe those players who were drafted from the CIAA have laid a foundation not only for the conference but also for other Division II players," Drew said. "It's a blessing to show that you can make it from anywhere. No matter how big or small your school is, if you're a good player and a good person, the NFL will come find you."
Coach Frazier sees immense potential in Drew and believes that with the right position and a stable environment, he can excel at the next level. "He's a lockdown cornerback who can take on any receiver. He did that for us, and he loved those opportunities," Frazier said. "I truly believe that once he's in a good coaching system and gets the right training for a few years, Willie Drew can become an All-Pro cornerback. I can't wait to see that happen."
In other news related to HBCU football, Morehouse recently appointed Terance Mathis as their new head coach. With this move, Morehouse aims to continue the legacy of producing top talent and preparing them for success in the NFL and beyond.
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