Shaquem Griffin is headed to the NFL combine.
The former Central Florida linebacker is continuing his magical two-year run, earning a spot among college football's elite 300-plus athletes working out for NFL officials in Indianapolis next month, first reported by the Orlando Sentinel.
Griffin's invitation comes just days after an impressive showing at the Senior Bowl, where he competed with fellow UCF players Tre'Quan Smith and Jordan Akins. Griffin recorded four tackles and was selected as the top overall practice player of the week leading up to the contest.
Griffin captivated the college football nation with his story of overcoming the odds playing football with one hand. He had his left hand amputated when he was just 4 years old due to a rare birth defect.
Hundreds of college standouts were invited to the combine, but Griffin was told he had not yet received an invitation when he first called the NFL about it.
He was told he could call back at a later date. Griffin placed the big call Tuesday and got confirmation he was invited to Indianapolis.
In addition to his strong performances on the field, Griffin earned the support of NFL coaches and front office staff who watched him during the week leading up the Senior Bowl, national columnists who argued the NFL was foolish for choosing not to showcase Griffin's infectious optimism in the face of adversity at the combine and fans who demanded Griffin receive a spot during frequent posts on social media.
The linebacker who can play various roles on defense and special teams had more than just UCF fans on his side, with players and fans from other teams showing their support online.
Griffin posted a video on Twitter Tuesday after learning he got the elusive combine invitation.
"Thank you all for your support. The entire nation was behind me and I couldn't do it without you," he said. "... They invited the right one to the NFL combine. I'm going to show you. I've got a lot to prove. Against all odds."
Griffin helped lead one of the most impressive turnarounds in college football, playing a key role in the Knights going from 0-12 in 2015 to 13-0 in 2018 with a signature win over Auburn in the Peach Bowl.
Griffin was named the American Athletic Conference Defensive Player of the Year after his junior season in 2016 when Scott Frost's coaching staff moved him from safety to linebacker.
He faced numerous double teams his senior season, but he displayed relentless energy and often set up teammates for key tackles. NFL Network analysts noted Griffin played every snap of the Peach Bowl and displayed the most energy late in the game, putting critical pressure on the Tigers' offense.
