DELL COMMENTARY: Brian Poole makes up for lost time at Florida's Pro Day

For Brian Poole, it was his personal do-or-die day.

The defensive back had missed out on the NFL Combine and Senior Bowl because of an injury, and last week's Pro Day at the University of Florida was his last chance to impress NFL scouts on a big stage.

When he chose Florida after his storied career at Southeast High, Poole never thought playing in Gainesville would bring an extra benefit, such as all 32 NFL teams sending reps to the Gators' Pro Day.

Poole took advantage of the opportunity. He ran a 4.49 second 40-yard dash, which would've been the 14th best time at this year's NFL Combine.

"I feel like it went well. Now I am just waiting patiently to see where I get drafted," Poole said. "I've had meetings with a few teams, and I have a visit set up with the Arizona Cardinals on the 5th (of April). I wanted to do a 4.3, but I am happy with my time."

Poole's best shot appears to be playing nickel and covering the slot receiver, which he did so well at Florida. But his ability to play multiple positions in the secondary is a huge plus.

He gave scouts something to think about when he returned an interception 99 yards for a touchdown in the East-West Shrine Game, but unfortunately he injured his collarbone in the game and wasn't able to lift weights

for awhile, which hurt his conditioning.

The lesson Poole has learned from all of this is to control what you can control and don't worry about the peripheral stuff. At 209 pounds and with a reputation for physical play, he could be in a good position.

"They (NFL teams) really like my versatility and that I can do anything in the secondary," Poole said. "Not being at the combine was extra motivation for me. I was expecting an invitation, but I was hurt and I can't control that. I can do it all, anything, everywhere, special teams. I've done it all since I've been here (Florida)."

Quenton Bundrage also had a good Pro Day at Iowa State, and there is talk the former Manatee High receiver will get drafted.

The 6-foot-2, 196-pound receiver ran a 4.46 40-yard dash in front of scouts, but perhaps most importantly showed no lingering effects of the ACL he tore in 2014. He posted a 37-inch vertical and 10-3 broad jump.

Before the injury as a sophomore in 2013, he led the Cyclones in receptions (46), receiving yards (676) and TD catches (9). During the day he talked with representatives from Kansas City, Denver and San Diego.

Kudos to New York Giants cornerback Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie

of Lakewood Ranch. He came into the NFL in 2008, but you know you've really arrived when you are the measuring stick.

Vernon Hargreaves III, who was lauded by multiple scouts at Florida's Pro Day, was called the best DB since DRC.

"He is so sweet. Maybe the best DB (Pro Day) workout I've seen since DRC," the scout reportedly said.

Hargreaves is projected to be selected by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, who have the ninth-overall pick in this year's NFL draft.

With the Bucs needing so much help in the secondary, you can't help but wonder if the they would consider pairing Hargreaves with Poole.

DRC, who had only one major college scholarship offer, launched himself into the 16th overall pick in the 2008 draft with a 4.29 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine and stellar performance in the Senior Bowl, where was named MVP.

What people may forget is that one recruiting service named him the most underrated college prospect in the state when he finished his senior season at Lakewood Ranch.

Alan Dell, Herald sports columnist/writer, can be reached at 941-745-7056. Follow him on Twitter @ADellSports.

This story was originally published March 26, 2016 at 12:00 AM with the headline "DELL COMMENTARY: Brian Poole makes up for lost time at Florida's Pro Day ."