Courtesy of Pitt Athletics
INDIANAPOLIS, IN — Four University of Pittsburgh football players are preparing to showcase their talents at the 2025 NFL Scouting Combine, hoping to make a lasting impression on NFL scouts ahead of the upcoming draft.
Tight end Gavin Bartholomew, wide receiver Konata Mumpfield, placekicker Ben Sauls, and offensive lineman Branson Taylor will travel to Indianapolis later this month to participate in the combine, which takes place from Feb. 24 through March 3.
Bartholomew, a 6-foot-4, 255-pound tight end, has been one of the most reliable targets in the Panthers’ passing game. Known for his combination of size, strength, and athleticism, Bartholomew will look to prove his versatility as both a blocker and a pass catcher. Scouts will be watching closely to evaluate his ability to separate from defenders and make plays in space.
Mumpfield, a 5-foot-11 wide receiver, was a standout transfer for Pitt this season after an impressive stint at Akron. His quickness, route-running ability, and reliable hands have made him a key part of the Panthers’ offense. Mumpfield will look to elevate his draft stock at the combine with his speed and ability to perform in various drills.
Sauls, who has been a steady presence on special teams, enters the combine as one of the top place kicking prospects in the country. Known for his consistency and accuracy, Sauls will aim to impress scouts with his leg strength and field goal accuracy in front of NFL coaches and special teams coordinators.
Taylor, a 6-foot-6, 315-pound offensive lineman, has been a cornerstone of Pitt’s offensive line, providing protection for the team’s quarterbacks and opening lanes in the running game. Taylor’s size and athleticism have drawn attention from scouts, and his performance in the combine drills will be crucial to his draft prospects.
The NFL Scouting Combine provides athletes with an opportunity to showcase their skills and physical attributes to scouts and coaches from all 32 NFL teams. The event is a critical step in the evaluation process for many draft hopefuls, as it includes a variety of drills, interviews, and psychological tests designed to assess a player’s readiness for the next level.
With a rich history of producing NFL talent, Pitt’s program will once again be well-represented at the combine, where Bartholomew, Mumpfield, Sauls, and Taylor hope to take the next step in their football careers.