Feb. 21, 2008

PITTSBURGH - Four former Pitt football players will be working out for scouts at this years NFL combine. The four players that will be participating are offensive linemen Mike McGlynn and Jeff Otah, tight end Darrell Strong, and defensive end Joe Clermond.

The combine will take place from Thursday, February 21 through Tuesday, February 26 in Indianapolis at the RCA dome. Events that will take place over that span will include the 40-yard dash, bench press, 20-yard shuttle, and position specific drills. Not only will the players have to perform physically, they will also go through mental tests. The players will be meeting with NFL coaches throughout the week.

McGlynn played in the Jan. 26 Senior Bowl, held in Mobile, Ala. McGlynn finished his career as a four-year starter. He played in every single game (47) from 2004-07, making 42 starts. In addition to tackle, McGlynn also saw duty at offensive guard and contributed as a long snapper.

Otah also played in the Senior Bowl. Otah, a junior-college transfer from Valley Forge Military Academy, started every single game the last two seasons (24 consecutive starts) and was named the team's offensive captain as a senior. His 2007 postseason honors included being named first team All-Big East and to Pro Football Weekly's All-America Team.

A two-time All-Big East defensive end, played in the East-West Shrine Game on Jan. 19 in Houston, Texas. Pitt's defensive captain, Clermond finished the season as the Panthers' leader in sacks (10.5) and tackles for loss (13). His 53 total tackles tied for fourth. An outstanding pass rusher, Clermond's .88 sacks per game ranked 11th nationally (tied) and third in the Big East.

Strong played in the Jan. 12 Hula Bowl. Strong was a four-year contributor to Pitt's offense, appearing in 45 career games. As a senior he had 29 catches for 328 yards (11.3 avg.) and three TDs.