Pre-Combine Player Profile: Miami University of Ohio TE Ken Bruton

For NFL prospects who have finished up their college careers, there are no more games to add to their statistics, no more opportunities to shine in front of the cameras, and no more chances to make an impact on the field.  Next week, some will travel to Indianapolis to perform drills at what amounts to the biggest stage prior to the NFL draft.  Others will be waiting in the wings for the pro day at their respective alma mater.

That’s why tight end Ken Bruton from Miami University of Ohio and 30 other NFL hopefuls selected to work with Loren Landow, Director of Sports Performance at the Steadman Hawkins Clinic in Denver.

“I got word that he’s a good strength coach and he can really help with speed.  He’s helped a lot of people reach their full potential and make it to the next level,” Bruton said.  “I’m getting better at my arm swings and my hip work; and really being out here in Denver, dealing with the altitude, is going to help me.  I’m going to be in better shape when I go back to Ohio for my pro day.”

Until then, the days are full of repetitious strength and speed training and a whole lot of waiting for their time to get back into the spotlight of NFL scouts.   For players used to busy schedules of practices, weight lifting, classes, and Saturday games with their teammates, the switch to preparing for a single day prior to the draft has to be challenging; part of why working on skills as a group was so appealing to Bruton.

“It’s like a family,” he said.  “Everybody’s rooting for each other.”

If Ken’s last name sounds familiar to Denver Broncos fans it’s because his brother, David Bruton, is one of the safeties on the team.  David not only has three years of experience in professional football, but also had an commanding performance at the 2009 Combine finishing 2nd among safeties in the 40-yard dash (4.46 seconds) and 1st in the broad jump (11′).  Based on this pedigree, has David been able to offer any words of wisdom to his younger brother?

“He said the ’40’ is really the biggest thing.  Treat that as more important than anything else.”

Sound advice for the stout tight end who will probably look to begin his career by proving he can contribute to an NFL team on special teams.

Ken Bruton Bio:

6’4″, 258 lbs.

College: Miami University of Ohio

19 Receptions, 174 Yards, 1 Touchdown

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