WSSU Linebacker Headed To Oakland As UDFA

After an impressive pro day and a couple of NFL workouts, it looked like Carlos Fields would sneak into the NFL Draft. That never happened, but the Winston-Salem State linebacker will get his shot to play in the NFL as an undrafted free agent.

Fields put together a solid four year-career at WSSU, twice earning All-American and CIAA Defensive Player of The Year honors while helping his team make the playoffs three straight years and losing just seven games in his college career. Despite all of that, Fields was not invited to the NFL combine, nor was he selected to any postseason all-star game.

He opened eyes at Wake Forest Pro Day, when he ran a 4.47 40 Yard Dash. Fields flew to Kansas City and Seattle, and had teams like New England and Tampa Bay come see him work out at WSSU. Here’s what the scouting report says:

“Very fast for his size, posting a 4.50-second 40-yard dash at his March 17 pro day to go along with a 38-inch vertical, a 10’8″ broad jump and a 4.22-second 20-yard shuttle. Strong in pursuit. Clear level of competition concerns. Dominated the Division II level, but is a wild card in terms of preparation to make the jump to the NFL. Versatile playmaker who made an impact as a pass rusher and in coverage for Winston-Salem.”

Fields was hoping to become first Winston-Salem State player drafted since defensive end William Hayes was selected by the Tennessee Titans in 2008. He becomes the first player from the school to sign as a UDFA since running back Nic Cooper signed with the Packers in 2012.