Indiana football tight end Riley Nowakowski quickly became a fan favorite in Bloomington with his play last fall. He performed so well he earned an invite to the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis. Despite the long season and late end for the Hoosiers, Nowakowski announced Thursday that he would work out at the combine.
“I’ll be doing everything but bench tomorrow, just on season, you know, physical position, so my shoulder dress a little bit, and then get back in the bench. Hopefully I do that at Pro Day.” Nowakowski said to the gathered media.
Nowakowski Embraces the Physicality of Football, But Versatility Sells
Nowakowski became a key cog in the IU offense with his physicality and versatility. He played all over the field on offense lining up out wide, inside and in the backfield. His tools make him a valuable prospect at the next level.
“I would say just being versatile. I just enjoy moving a man against his will. That’s something that I’ve always enjoyed whether it’s carrying the rock and blowing somebody up or getting to block him out. So that’s definitely what I enjoy.” Nowakowski said.
Nowakowski has had an interesting, winding road to the NFL Combine. The Wisconsin native started his college career with the Wisconsin Badgers and on the defensive side of the ball before being moved to tight end. That experience on both sides of the ball has NFL brass liking what they see.
“I tell them I started out in college as a defensive player. And they love that.” Nowakowski said. “I can play special teams, and I can make tackles. I feel comfortable out there. Through my time playing running back and Marquette HS definitely helped me with my field vision, run after catch. So I definitely appreciate just everything that I’ve been through all the different steps. It hasn’t been a linear path, but every single stop that I’ve made has taught me a lot and just helped me out.”