FAMU boasts strong NFL prospects

Three FAMU gridiron stars are generating strong buzz as potential National Football League draftees.

In a column published by ESPN.com, Philadelphia Tribune staff writer Donald Hunt said that seniors Curtis Pulley, Robert Okeafor, and LeRoy Vann are all viable candidates for the pros.

One team, the Detroit Lions, is on record about its interest in FAMU players. James Harris, a Lions scout, recently visited campus for a first-hand look at Rattler team and expressed his enormous respect for Head Coach Joe Taylor’s program.

Here’s what Hunt had to say about FAMU’s NFL-caliber talent:

Curtis Pulley, Florida A&M, 6-4, 200 pounds, senior:
Pulley has all the tools to be an NFL quarterback. First of all, he can run and throw in every sense of the words. He has rushed for 885 yards while scoring seven rushing touchdowns. He's thrown 17 TD passes while compiling 1,382 yards. He should open a lot of eyes during the pro days this spring.

Robert Okeafor, Florida A&M, 6-4, 320 pounds, senior:
Okeafor is a tremendous pass and run blocker. His pass blocking skills have allowed Curtis Pulley to have a huge year. He has the athletic ability to play offensive guard, too. His versatility should land him a spot in the league.

LeRoy Vann, Florida A&M, 5-9, 185 pounds, senior:
Vann is the most exciting player in college football. He ranks No. 1 in the Football Championship Subdivision and No. 1 in the MEAC in punt returns. He averages 20.9 yards a return. He recently scored on a 51 yard punt return against North Carolina A&T, which was his fifth return TD of the season. He is the fifth player in the NCAA FCS history to have 1,000 yards in punt and kickoff returns.