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Number 14 left no doubts about his talent in front of NFL scouts
The Colorado Buffaloes hosted their annual Pro Day this past Friday in Boulder, drawing scouts from all 32 NFL teams. While plenty of eyes were on big names like Shedeur Sanders and Travis Hunter, it was red zone specialist Will Sheppard who stole some of the spotlight.
After transferring in from Vanderbilt last offseason, Sheppard put together a solid senior campaign for the Buffs, recording 48 receptions, 621 yards and six touchdowns.
While those numbers might not pop at first glance, they become much more impressive when you consider he was working within a crowded and talent-heavy Colorado receiver room. Despite sharing targets with NFL-caliber receivers like Travis Hunter, Jimmy Horn Jr. and LaJohntay Wester, Sheppard still carved out a defined role as a reliable weapon with his big body and elite athleticism, especially in the red zone.
At 6’4”, Sheppard’s frame already fits the mold of a prototypical outside NFL receiver and his testing numbers at Pro Day only added fuel to his draft stock:
- 40-Yard Dash: 4.54 seconds
- Vertical Jump: 40.5 inches
- Broad Jump: 10 feet, 11 inches
His 40 time was respectable given his size, but it’s his explosive lower-body athleticism that really turned heads. His 40.5-inch vertical would’ve ranked top three among receivers at the NFL Combine, while his broad jump would’ve tied for fourth. Sheppard didn’t just test well—he tested like an elite-level athlete.
After his workout, Ralphie Report asked Will if the vertical jump was a point of emphasis coming into the day.
With a grin, he said, “I just kind of put my shoes on and went out and did it.”
That raw, natural explosiveness is something you can’t coach.
Our writer Ryland Scholes followed up with another question:
“What would be your message to NFL teams?”
Sheppard didn’t hesitate: “I can do it all. I'm big. I’m just a possession, go-up-and-get-it kind of receiver. I can run routes. I can run after the catch. I can do everything, play inside or outside. Come and get me.”
While many have labeled him strictly as a red zone or jump-ball receiver, Sheppard made it clear he sees himself as much more versatile. Whether it’s intermediate routes, contested catches or stretching the field—he believes he’s capable of contributing in every facet at the next level.
With elite traits and untapped potential, Sheppard’s Pro Day likely elevated his status as a late-round steal. He has the size, the confidence and the athleticism. With the 2025 NFL Draft taking place later this month, on April 24–26 in Green Bay, don’t be surprised if Sheppard hears his name called somewhere on Day 3. His stock is quietly rising and his best football may still be ahead of him.
by Jacob.Thompson
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