Virginia Tech football: Several former Hokies stand out at pro day

Friday was a big day in Blacksburg as Virginia Tech held its annual pro day. With several players scheduled to be drafted in the 2021 NFL draft, 31 NFL teams were represented on Friday morning in the New River Valley.

The headliners were cornerback Caleb Farley and offensive tackle Christian Darrisaw. Farley is considered by many to be the top cornerback in the draft and could go in the top 10. However, a recent back procedure kept Farley from participating in the event, although he did speak to the media.

Darrisaw went through positional drills with Virginia Tech offensive line coach Vance Vice. Darrisaw, who some rank as high as the No. 2 offensive tackle, weighed in at 322 pounds.

Even with Farley’s current predicament, he should still be selected among the top 15 picks, or someone is getting a steal. Cornerbacks with Farley’s size and (6-foot-2, 197) athleticism are rare.

Darrisaw should not make it out of the first 20 picks, with Washington being his floor at No. 19.

Speaking of Washington, new general manager Martin Mayhew was in Blacksburg to watch the pro day and spoke with the voice of the Hokies, Jon Laaser.

Two players who really helped themselves on Friday were safety Divine Deablo and running back Khalil Herbert. Both players were outstanding on tape, but the NFL wanted to see what Herbert ran in the 40 and measure some of Deablo’s physical traits.

Both passed with flying colors. Deablo, who at 6-foot-3, 226 pounds, has outstanding size to play a hybrid safety/linebacker role at the next level. However, his 40-yard dash time had many buzzing, running a 4.42 40 in his best effort.

Herbert, who runs with great vision and anticipation, ran the 40 in 4.46 seconds. Another great time. Anyone who watched Virginia Tech in 2020 knows Herbert is fast, but that is a perfect time for him. He does everything well, and his 40 times backed up his playing speed.

Friday was a good day for several former Hokies. While all were winners getting to be in front of NFL scouts, coaches and decision-makers, Herbert and Deablo really stood out the most.

The NFL draft begins on Thursday, April 29.