Watch: 1-handed football star blazes in combine feat not seen in 15 years
The NFL Scouting Combine is all about teams looking for the perfect prospect.
So it’s only fitting that the guy making the most noise this week in Indianapolis is the one born with the most noticeable imperfection.
Saturday, The Wildcard told readers about University of Central Florida linebacker Shaquem Griffin, who wowed scouts by putting up 20 225 reps in the bench press drill.
Oh yeah, we should probably mention that Griffin had his left hand amputated when he was just 4 years old due to a congenital disease.
Against all odds, Griffin recorded three interceptions and 18.5 sacks during his college career, and became the 2016 American Athletic Conference Defensive Player of the Year.
Now, he’s in a hurry to join his twin brother, Shaquill, in the NFL.
Like a real hurry.
There’s a good chance that Shaquem just rushed himself into the first round of this April’s NFL Draft.
The six-foot, 227-pound prospect ran a 4.38 in the 40-yard dash Sunday — the fastest linebacker time at the combine since 2003.
Shaquill made sure to let the doubters know they picked on the wrong guy.
Shaquem Griffin just clocked a 4.38.
His brother Shaquill called out the doubters. pic.twitter.com/oBl1mpNL3Z
— ESPN (@espn) March 4, 2018
The fact that Shaquem could play high-level Division I football with one hand — let alone dominate it — was impressive enough.
Now, it’s a foregone conclusion that he’s going to get drafted, the only question is how high.
Just in case anyone doubted whether his 40-yard time was legit, Shaquem followed it up with a 4.58 in his second run.
He’s impressing another guy who knows a thing or two about fighting huge odds — injured Steelers linebacker Ryan Shazier.
Shaquem Griffin was flying 😳😳 he 4.38 lol he not messing around!!!
— Ryan Shazier (@RyanShazier) March 4, 2018
Incidentally, Pittsburgh scout Mark Gorscak, wearing a T-shirt honoring Shazier, helped organize the 40-yard dash drill, according to ESPN.
Watching Griffin begin his NFL career should be one of the more fun and inspirational stories to keep track of next season.
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