Tampa, FLA – Adams State's very own Michael Cirino was invited to showcase his defensive talent this past Saturday, March 24 at the NFL Regional Combine hosted in the brand new Tampa Bay Buccaneers practice facility. In this invite-only setting, Cirino impressed multiple NFL scouts, increasing his draft stock and furthering his path to professional football.
 
The early morning began with the 40-yard dash highlighted in all NFL combines across the nation. As each individual scout hand timed the athletes, Cirino clocked an impressive 4.3-4.4 second average from many teams. Next came defensive back position drills for Cirino, similar to the ones performed at the televised NFL combine in Indianapolis. With smooth transitions, quick feet, and great hands, Cirino impressed various scouts, not dropping a single ball.
 
Once all testing and drills had concluded for the day, Cirino's skill was confirmed and praised by over 15 NFL teams as they crowded around, attempting to talk to the former Grizzly. When asked about this experience, Cirino shared, "It was very exciting. Although it felt surreal, I knew this was going to happen because of all the hard work I have been putting in over the past few months." He added, "It feels good to finally have all of my training with U48 Fitness pay off, this is what I've been dreaming of since I was a little kid."
 
Further recognition continued post-combine as Barry Barnes, creator and publisher for Locker-Report, the leader in NFL regional combine news, applauded Cirino's talent. He wrote, "Mike Cirino (Adams State) . . . was the cream of the crop for defensive backs. Cirino's stop, start and go is insane." In addition, he added, "not once did Cirino's speed drop while he was engaged in his drills. He burst out of breaks and cut on a dime . . . at that level, Cirino will not lose track of any receiver."
 
Since the completion of the NFL combine, Cirino has been in contact with several NFL teams including the Seattle Seahawks, Indianapolis Colts, Buffalo Bills, Denver Broncos, and the 2018 Super Bowl Champions, the Philadelphia Eagles, just to name a few. Leading up to the NFL draft, Cirino will continue to train in Atlanta, GA with U48 Fitness and Manny Rodriguez. 
 
This Regional Combine is a two-day event is hosted by the National Football League in attempt to allow draft prospect players a venue to showcase their talents to pro scouts from all 32 teams in one location. The official NFL draft will kick off next month on April 26, 2018 at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas.