Family, friends and observers gathered at Valley Children’s Stadium as 10 Bulldog prospects showcased their game to NFL scouts on March 30. One observer in attendance was David Perales’ 9-month-old daughter.

Perales, a former Bulldog defensive end, shared what it’s like having his daughter with him during this process. 

“It means a lot to me to have my daughter out here. She means everything to me. She always puts a smile on my face when I’m down or anything like that. I just look to her, and she gives me all the motivation I need,” he said. 

Perales participated in four drills. He benched for 22 reps, the second best number of the day. He also ran the 40-yard dash in 5 seconds, 4.40 in the shuttle and a 7.10 in the 3-cone. 

Jalen Moreno-Cropper, a former receiver for the ‘Dogs, also participated in four drills, using his NFL combine scores for the broad jump and 40-yard dash. Moreno-Cropper caught the last pass from former quarterback Jake Haener during his throwing drills. 

“I kind of had to take it in a little bit, knowing that we might not be able to throw [and] catch passes with him. But hopefully we get drafted to the same team,” Moreno-Cropper said. 

Defensive back L.J Early ran the fastest 40-yard dash of the day with 4.45 seconds. He took on all the main drills, recording 34” on the vertical jump and 10’1” in the broad jump. 

Early had the opportunity to work out with Rick Manny, a Fresno native and New York Jets defensive assistant. 

“Just knowing that he was homegrown, it felt kind of great actually,” Early said. 

Former Bulldog receiver Zane Pope also worked out with a couple of NFL professionals during the off-season, such as Odell Beckham Jr. and other receivers in his agency. He shared how it prepared him for Pro Day. 

“[Beckham Jr.] puts on display what it takes to be in the league. All these guys are four great receivers in the league right now. So they definitely showed what it takes,” Pope said. 

Other prospects that participated included Dontae Bull, Elijah Gates, Haener, Jordan Mims, Raymond Pauwels Jr. and Nikko Remigio. 

Remigio had the best vertical at 36” and ran 4.56 seconds in the 40-yard dash. In the bench press, Pauwels repped the most with 23 reps. Haener only showcased his throwing skills in the individual drills, using his NFL combine scores for the main drills.

The full list of results can be found here.