After recording back-to-back nine-win seasons, UConn has a number of former players vying for a chance at the NFL or other pro leagues. On Tuesday, the players had the opportunity to showcase their skills in front of 27 NFL scouts at UConn’s 2026 Pro Day.
The group included the following numbers at each position:
QB: 1
Wide Receiver: 3
Tight End: 1
Offensive Line: 1
Defensive Tackle: 2
EDGE: 3
Linebacker: 4
Cornerback: 1
Safety: 2
Kicker: 1
Punter: 1
Here are some of the standout performances:
Skyler Bell, Wide
Receiver
All eyes were on the prize in Storrs, Connecticut, as Bell delivered a spectacular pro day performance. The star receiver registered an 11’ 1” broad jump, a 41” vertical, a 4.40 second 40-yard dash, a 4.11 second shuttle, and a 6.65 second 3-cone drill.
During the positional tests, the 23-year-old showed off his crisp route-running skills from all ranges. In total, the top prospect hauled in 15 of 16 catches. With about a month away from the 2026 NFL draft, the 2025 Biletnikoff Finalist is considered to go in the late second or beginning of the third round.
Franchises to watch out for are the New York Giants and the New England Patriots. With the arrival of the Giants’ new Head Coach, John Harbaugh, the team could pair Bell up with Malik Nabers. This comes after Wan’Dale Robinson signed with the Tennessee Titans in the 2026 offseason.
As for the Patriots, the team released Stefon Diggs on March 11, 2026. Now, the franchise will need to search for a new reliable weapon for quarterback Drake Maye.
Joe Fagnano, Quarterback
Over the 2025 campaign, Fagnano turned heads as he helped UConn return to the Wasabi Fenway Bowl. In 12 games, the senior posted 3,448 passing yards, 28 touchdowns, and one interception with a QBR of 69.2.
At the combine, the Pennsylvania native only participated in the positional drills, but did not disappoint. In the pocket, the gunslinger looked flawless, throwing on target from all ranges. His chemistry with Bell truly showed, as he connected with the AP First Team All-American for a 50-yard shot to the endzone.
As of now, the former Husky is projected to go Day 3 of the NFL draft. Teams are expected to select him in the sixth or seventh round, or he may go undrafted.
Christopher Freeman, Kicker
In 2025, Freeman was nothing but stellar for Connecticut. In 13 clashes, the 2025 Lou Groza semi-finalist drilled 23 of 26 (88.5%) field goals and drained 52 of 52 extra points.
Not to mention, the former Indiana Hoosier set a program record of 12 consecutive made field goals in the 2025 run. To finish the season, the Indiana native racked up a career-high 121 points for UConn.
At the Pro Day, the senior continued to display his pinpoint accuracy. In total, Freeman nailed 13 of 14 (92.9%) field goals with his longest being a 65-yard kick. The only attempt he missed was a 63-yard field goal.
After a positive pro day, the Carolina Panthers and the Green Bay Packers met with Freeman.
Louis Hansen, Tight End
Bench: 22
Broad: 9.7
Vertical: 31.0
40-yard Dash: 4.88
10-Second Split: 1.73
Shuttle: 4.27
3-Cone: 6.99
Prognosis:
With a productive pro day performance, Hansen could find his way into the draft conversation. Alongside his lower-body power, the 240-pound tight end highlighted his ability to get down the field quickly.
D’Mon Brinson
Brinson’s pro day was cut short after suffering a left hamstring injury on his first attempt on the 40-yard dash.
