INDIANAPOLIS, IND. (CHARLOTTE SPORTS LIVE) – If only the best make it to the NFL Combine, then perhaps the Carolinas should give themselves a nice pat on the back.
That’s because here in Indianapolis, both the Tar Heels as well as the Palmetto State are well represented by teams, towns, and in some cases both.
“I love Drake (Maye). If you guys don’t know, me and (UNC star) Drake are both Charlotte guys,” said former Ardrey Kell linebacker Cedric Gray.
Oh, we know!
From the Queen City to Chapel Hill, Gray and Maye, the former Myers Park QB are now ready to take their skills to the next level. Doing so will be tough, but the fact they’re here with fellow UNC teammates wide receiver Devontez Walker, formerly of West Charlotte and defense lineman Myles Muphy makes the Combine process a little easier.
“It’s definitely good to see some familiar faces,” Gray added.
We can agree. Later this week, we’ll be sure to catch up with former Davidson high school turned Wake Forest turned Notre Dame star Sam Hartman as well as fellow QB Spencer Rattler of South Carolina. There’ll be plenty more Gamecocks too but there also will be several Clemson Tigers on hand as well. Guys like Xavier Thomas have been waiting their whole lives for this moment.
“I’m very blessed to be here,” The Clemson defensive lineman said. “And I’m very excited to put my athletic abilities on display.”
Everyone from fellow Tiger and former Weddington Star running back Will Shipley to NC State offensive lineman Dylan McMahon has questions to answer about their games.
But as Charlotte’s Eyabi Okie-Anoma put it, it’s about putting your best foot forward and hoping for the best.
“In college, I felt like everything is in your control,” the Charlotte defensive lineman said. “I feel like here, everything here is out of your control.”
Ah, their first experience with the real world. It’s tough but these Carolinians are ready for it.