Penn State Football strength coach has high expectations for pro day

Penn State Football strength and conditioning coach Dwight Galt has turned some heads with how the Nittany Lions have performed at the NFL Scouting Combine each year, and that success could continue at the program’s pro day showcase later this month.

Galt helped Penn State Football set records during the 2018 NFL Combine when Saquon Barkley ran a 4.41 in the 40-yard dash, Chris Godwin reached a 36-inch vertical leap, and Mike Gesicki put up 22 reps on the bench press before leaping 41.5 inches in the vertical.

This year, Galt’s impact is already being felt, after Jayson Oweh was timed in the 40-yard dash at 4.38 seconds in a laser-timed run, and All-American linebacker Micah Parsons was clocked at 4.44.

There won’t be a Combine for Galt’s work to be showcased in front of a national television audience for a weekend, but the explosive performances should make for an interesting pro day showcase on campus on March 25.

"“We’ve gotten a lot of calls from the NFL about Jayson and Micah. … There’s gonna be all eyes on these guys,” Galt said, via 247Sports. “I think it’s gonna be a very interesting fireworks show when they start testing.”"

With Parsons, Oweh, and potentially tight end Pat Freiermuth becoming eventual first-round picks, Happy Valley could play host to head coaches and general managers from all 32 teams during the Nittany Lions pro day.

Teams are limited to just three representatives at each pro day this year, because of the ongoing impact of COVID-19, but given Penn State’s workout prowess and three potential first-round picks, the Lasch Building should be buzzing.

"“It’s going to be a really good day for us,” Galt said. “I’ve made sure that all the NFL scouts — all 120 of the ones I’ve talked to this past year — know what’s coming. I don’t want any surprises.”"