Former Buffs try to impress NFL scouts

For the past couple of months, Brady Russell has taken some time to get away from Colorado.

The former CU tight end has been in Florida avoiding distractions, working out and doing a lot of reading.

“I read like six books when I was down there,” he said. “I just had time to focus on myself and kind of take a deep dive into my Bible and stuff like that, but not have any distractions along with it.”

Returning to the CU campus on Wednesday, Russell was in top-notch shape as he and some former teammates worked out for NFL scouts at the Buffaloes’ annual Pro Day, with hopes of getting their names called during the NFL Draft from April 27-29.

Receiver Daniel Arias, linebackers Robert Barnes, Josh Chandler- Semedo and Quinn Perry, defensive lineman Terrance Lang, safety Isaiah Lewis and outside linebackers Jamar Montgomery and Guy Thomas also worked out for scouts.

A 32-game starter who caught 78 passes for 799 yards during his career with the Buffs, the 6-foot3, 247-pound Russell had a good day in front of the scouts, including looking sharp as he caught passes thrown by current CU backup Drew Carter.

Russell had 21 reps on the 225-pound bench press and ran a 4.69- second 40-yard dash, numbers that stack up favorably with the top tight end prospects who were at the NFL Combine earlier this month.

“I was really happy with my performance,” Russell said. “I came out with numbers I was happy with.”

Among the scouts on hand was a pair of familiar faces in former CU All-american linebackers Jordon Dizon and Matt Russell, both with the Philadelphia Eagles.

Matt Russell is Brady’s uncle and he has guided him throughout his career, particularly in the process this offseason.

As Russell looks ahead to the NFL, he isn’t likely to be a traditional tight end. Scouts are intrigued by his ability to play fullback, on special teams and even work as a long snapper.

“That’s probably my biggest selling point I tell (teams) is I think I’m the most versatile guy in the draft, the most versatile football player,” Russell said.

Arias is also turning heads with his versatility and athleticism. Although he struggled at times in his career as a receiver, he is loaded with physical gifts and was an excellent special teams player for the Buffs.

T he 6 - foot - 3 ½, 208-pound Arias said he’s been meeting with scouts throughout the week. On Wednesday, he led the group in the 40-yard dash (4.5 seconds), vertical leap (38 inches) and broad jump (10 feet, 7 inches).