On March 30, Bison offensive lineman Geoff Gray hosted eight NFL scouts and two CFL scouts for his pro day. Gray’s day started in the weight room at Investors Group Field where his measurements (height, weight, wingspan, flexibility) were taken.
The six-foot-six 315-pound lineman recorded a 31-inch vertical and threw up 25 reps at 225 pounds on the bench press. His vertical jump would have been one of the top results at the NFL combine had he been there.
The day then moved to the campus soccer fields where he was tested with a variety of drills, including the broad jump, 40-yard dash, 20-yard shuttle, and 3-cone. Seemingly every single local media outlet was in attendance, as well as a large majority of his teammates. Gray’s 114-inch broad jump would’ve had him tied for second at the combine.
“I think it went well,” Gray said afterwards. “[The scouts] didn’t leave halfway through so I think that’s a good sign.”
The Winnipeg native wrapped up his day with a tour on his unicycle, much to the amusement of all in attendance.
“I started [riding the unicycle] in grade nine,” Gray said. “I mentioned it in passing at one point and I guess I thought it would be something that would distinguish me from anyone else.”
Gray wants to play in the NFL next season, but is not opposed to potentially playing in the CFL with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers.
“I definitely want to be playing football somewhere, and I am lucky enough to have two leagues where I can play football,” he said. “There would be some advantages in playing for the Bombers, I know a couple guys on [the team] and I’ve heard good things.”
Head coach Brian Dobie was beaming with pride afterwards, not only for Gray, but the entire Bison football program.
“Since 2000 we’ve been the number three pro producer in the nation, just behind Laval and Calgary,” he said. “It’s a real credit to our coaching staff. It’s also a real credit to the culture of our kids.”
The electrical engineering student finished his fourth season with Manitoba, playing in all eight conference games. He was also selected as one of the only two U Sports players to play at the 92nd annual East-West Shrine game in January. Gray has never missed a game in his time as a Bison, and has played almost every position on the offensive line.
Unfortunately, he will not be watching the NFL draft which takes place April 27-29 in Philadelphia, as he will be busy studying for an exam.
“I actually have an exam on the 28th, so up until the 28th I will be in my basement studying for my machine design exam,” he said. “If I get a phone call that will brighten up my day but I still have to do good on the exam.”
