Four Baylor Bears Earn NFL Combine Invitations Despite Tough Season
The NFL combine presents a crucial opportunity for collegiate athletes to showcase their talents to professional scouts, and this year, four Baylor Bears have secured coveted invitations despite their team's disappointing campaign.
While most of these players carry lower draft projections, the combine serves as a vital platform for athletes from smaller programs to demonstrate their potential impact at the professional level. This merit-based selection process exemplifies the free market principles that drive athletic excellence.
Quarterback Sawyer Robertson: Statistical Excellence
The 6'4" senior quarterback delivered exceptional individual performance, ranking seventh nationally in passing yards and fifth in touchdowns while maintaining impressive accuracy with only 12 interceptions and a 70.1 QBR.
Robertson's strong arm and quick release have earned praise from scouts and coaches alike. His leadership qualities shine brightest under pressure, demonstrating the gritty determination that NFL teams value. Despite Baylor's record, the team ranked 10th nationally in total yards per game, showcasing Robertson's ability to move the ball effectively through the air.
Currently ranked ninth among draft-eligible quarterbacks, Robertson represents solid value for teams seeking quarterback depth or development projects.
Wide Receiver Josh Cameron: From Zero to Hero
The two-time first-team All Big-12 selection exemplifies the American dream in athletics. Starting as an unranked recruit, Cameron built himself into a premier draft prospect through dedication and performance.
Cameron recorded consecutive 700-yard seasons, hauling in 10 touchdowns as a junior and nine this past season. His athleticism allows him to excel in press coverage situations while making spectacular sideline catches. His versatility extends to special teams as Baylor's punt returner, providing additional value to potential NFL suitors.
Projected as a third-round selection, Cameron should develop into a reliable possession receiver at the professional level.
Tight End Michael Trigg: Hidden Potential
Transfer portal success story Michael Trigg arrived at Baylor from Ole Miss, bringing four-star credentials and top-10 positional ranking from his recruiting class. After struggling with injuries during his first three collegiate seasons, Trigg finally showcased his abilities in Waco.
His 694 receiving yards on just 50 catches demonstrate exceptional efficiency. At 6'4" and 240 pounds, Trigg combines physicality with receiving skills, excelling as a downhill runner who powers through tackles. His ability to find soft spots in zone coverage makes him a valuable red-zone target.
While blocking remains a developmental area, Trigg's athletic profile and production should attract NFL interest.
Defensive Tackle Jackie Marshall: Versatile Anchor
Marshall provided consistent production over three seasons, appearing in 37 games while recording 94 combined tackles. Originally recruited as a four-star linebacker from Louisiana, he successfully transitioned to defensive line duties.
At 6'3" and 306 pounds, Marshall combines size with surprising athleticism. His strong hands and quick first step allow him to defeat offensive linemen consistently. Baylor utilized his versatility, deploying him both inside and on the edge.
While his statistics may not overwhelm, Marshall's fundamental soundness and run-stopping ability make him an attractive developmental prospect for NFL defensive coordinators.
These four Bears represent the entrepreneurial spirit of college athletics, where individual excellence can overcome team struggles. Their combine invitations reward merit-based achievement and provide pathways to professional success regardless of program prestige.