Shaquem Griffin is a high-energy, productive linebacker who starred at Central Florida for two seasons, yet he hasn’t received an invitation to the NFL Scouting Combine. San Francisco 49ers general manager John Lynch believes that should change.
Per Michael Gehlken of the Las Vegas Review-Journal, Lynch said the one-handed Griffin deserves to join the other draft participants headed to Indianapolis in March.
“I think he’s earned it. Hopefully that happens. … You talk to the people at UCF, and they talk about a program changer, a guy who’s obviously inspiring but not just inspiring. He was a big-time contributor. If you keep checking the boxes, and this is another box for him, I think he’s accounted for himself quite well.”
Griffin, who secured a place at the Senior Bowl, has a limb difference, not a disability. He offered a clear and lasting reminder of that while at UCF, especially in 2017 as the team recorded a perfect 13-0 record.
Over the last two seasons, Griffin amassed 168 total tackles and registered 33.5 stops behind the line of scrimmage. He notched 18.5 sacks, forced four fumbles and picked off two passes.
Griffin absolutely, unequivocally merits an invite to the combine.
And hopefully, the combination of pressure from media and positive reviews from Lynch and other NFL personnel will send Griffin to the showcase he deserves.