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Rogers, Lovett, other Spartan players to workout for NFL coaches, scouts

March 18, 2003

While it's almost etched in stone that wide receiver Charles Rogers will be a top-five pick in next month's NFL Draft, other Spartans' fates remain uncertain.

For some players with dreams of playing on Sundays, today's MSU Pro Day at the Duffy Daugherty Football Building will give them a chance to showcase their skills to many pro teams for the April 26 draft.

Scouts will be in attendance to watch Rogers and other Spartans while they run the 40-yard dash and perform other drills.

"I just want a little exposure," wide receiver BJ Lovett said. "I'm just trying to go out there and show them what I can do."

Lovett said he spoke with safety Thomas Wright - who took part in the NFL combine in Indianapolis - about what to expect and what the scouts will be looking for. He also said while other prospective draftees have gone to workout with personal trainers, he's been doing everything on his own.

The Detroit Lions, Cincinnati Bengals and Jacksonville Jaguars, who have the No. 1, 2 and 8 picks, respectively, in April's draft, are among the franchises expected to be represented.

Lions spokesman Craig Vandermuse said new head coach Steve Mariucci will be in attendance along with other scouts within the organization.

Rogers' 40-yard dash will probably draw the most interest from scouts today. Prior to his junior season, the 6-foot-3 wide receiver was clocked at 4.25 seconds. And ESPN NFL Draft analyst Mel Kiper Jr. has Rogers as the second overall pick in his latest mock draft.

While there is a consensus most organizations will be salivating at the chance to see Rogers, other players are hoping to raise their stock with today's events.

"I can't control what happens," defensive back DeMario Suggs said, "but all it takes is for one team to see you and recognize your talents. Hopefully that's what happens."

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