The excitement is loud and undeniable for the 14 football players who participated in Pro Day on March 18. But underneath the surface at Central Michigan University football’s indoor facility, there’s something quieter unfolding—months of preparation, uncertainty and personal growth, all compressed into one day in front of NFL scouts. ⁠ ⁠ “For the past three months, I’ve really just been training… speed stuff, strength stuff… working on flexibility, mobility,” defensive back Elijah Rikard said. “Just coming out here trying to put on the best performance I can.” ⁠ ⁠ As they now await the first round of the draft on April 23, many players reflect on the journey that got them here.⁠ ⁠ “It gives me the motivation every time I come out here … knowing I’m doing it for something bigger than just myself,” Rikard said about the support from his family.⁠ ⁠ ✍️Sydney Neal 📸Jasmine Brookins⁠ ⁠ Click the link in our bio to read more.⁠ ⁠ #lifeatcentral #cmufootball #nfldraft