NFL draft prospect smacked in the face during Scouting Combine 'gauntlet drill'

close

Video

Fox News Flash top headlines for Feb 28

Fox News Flash top headlines are here. Check out what's clicking on Foxnews.com.

The NFL Scouting Combine kicked off in Indianapolis this week, giving prospects across the country a chance to showcase their skills and, for lesser-known players, a chance to make a name for themselves.

But one prospect, unfortunately, drew attention for all the wrong reasons when he was smacked in the face during the "gauntlet drill."

Mitchell Wilcox, a tight end from the University of South Florida, likely didn't do his draft stock any favors when he took a spiral in his left eye.

NFL DRAFT PROSPECT JUSTIN JEFFERSON: ODELL BECKHAM JR'S CASH WAS DONATED TO CHURCH

To his credit, he was able to shake off the hit and catch the next two passes, completing the drill.

After he was hit, he reportedly almost fell during his second attempt, and then actually fell on the next drill.

NFL DRAFT PROSPECT JERRY JEUDY EXPLAINS WHY HE WEARS STAR OF DAVID NECKLACE

South Florida tight end Mitchell Wilcox runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Thursday, Feb. 27, 2020.  (AP)

The 6-foot-3, 247-pound player also recorded a 4.88-second time in the 40-yard dash, which ranked 15th among the 17 tight ends to run, according to the NFL.com results tracker.

Despite the tough outing Thursday, Wilcox stayed positive.

"Rough day at the office for sure," he tweeted. "Couldn't see well out of my left eye and was disoriented after that ball.. I'll bounce back."

CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM

More than 300 prospects participate in the NFL Scouting Combine. On Thursday, tight ends, receivers and quarterbacks are put through their paces, while kickers, special teams, offensive line and running backs work out on Friday.

The NFL Draft is April 23-25.