In a significant development for college football, several players from Kentucky-based universities are set to participate in the prestigious NFL Combine. This event offers these athletes a platform to showcase their skills and potentially boost their draft prospects. Among them are Ashton Gillotte and Quincy Riley, who opted to return to Louisville for another year of development. Despite facing some statistical challenges this season, both players remain optimistic about their future in professional football. The combine will take place in Indianapolis, with live coverage available on NFL Network and NFL+. The event will span four days, featuring various positional groups, culminating with offensive linemen on the final day.
Returning Cardinals Prepare for NFL Combine
In the crisp, early spring air of Indianapolis, two standout players from the University of Louisville, Ashton Gillotte and Quincy Riley, are preparing for the NFL Combine. Both athletes decided to stay an additional year with the Cardinals in 2024, aiming to enhance their draft stock through further growth and development. Although their performance metrics dipped slightly this past season, they still hold strong chances of being selected in the upcoming draft.
Gillotte, a defensive lineman, has been diligently studying his former teammate Yaya Diaby's techniques to prepare for the NFL. He recently had an informal meeting with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Diaby's current team. If chosen, Gillotte would be the first U of L defensive lineman drafted since Diaby in 2023. Meanwhile, Riley, a cornerback, stands a chance to become the third consecutive Louisville player at his position to enter the league, following Kei'Trel Clark (2023) and Jarvis Brownlee (2024).
The NFL Combine schedule is as follows: Linebackers and defensive linemen will kick off the event on Thursday at 3 p.m., followed by defensive backs and tight ends on Friday at the same time. Quarterbacks, wide receivers, and running backs will take the stage on Saturday starting at 1 p.m., while offensive linemen will wrap up the proceedings on Sunday at 1 p.m. Live coverage will be provided by NFL Network and NFL+.
Among other participants from Kentucky-based universities, notable players include a 6-1 receiver with impressive receiving stats and a 6-7 offensive lineman who excelled in tackles and sacks. These athletes bring diverse skills and potential to the table, making the combine a highly anticipated event for scouts and fans alike.
The 2025 NFL Draft is scheduled for April 24-26 in Green Bay, Wisconsin, where these athletes hope to realize their dreams of playing professional football.
From a journalist's perspective, the decision by Gillotte and Riley to return to Louisville for another year underscores the importance of long-term development in collegiate sports. Their dedication to improving not only benefits their personal careers but also enriches the university's athletic program. This story serves as a reminder that success in sports often requires patience, perseverance, and strategic planning. As these young athletes prepare for the next chapter of their lives, their journey exemplifies the value of continuous improvement and the pursuit of excellence.