On December 15th, football players from around the country gathered at Southwestern College in Chula Vista, California, to perform a variety of NFL-style workouts based on position. The event, known as Futures Camp by HUB Football, is designed to be a unique experience for free agents hoping to find another team. There were several scouts and journalists watching from the sidelines, which included myself.
After a few hours, I compiled a list of the best performers from the day. Although everyone in attendance had talent, the players mentioned here demonstrated great athleticism and/or ability to make big plays. This article is designed to give them recognition, recognition that they continue to work hard for.
Ceejhay French-Love, TE, Northern Arizona
Tight end is a very interesting position, and one that requires the incorporation of several skills. French-Love showed all of his abilities at the HUB camp, and is really the best package a team could ask for. Thanks to his near perfect size, French-Love has no problem blocking like a lineman, but can also break away on routes of any length. Many offenses at the professional level would value French-Love simply due to his versatility, something that’s becoming a more important asset to have as the sport develops. He should especially be viewed as a threat in redzone situations. French-Love originally played at Arizona State for two seasons (2017-2018) before transferring to Northern Arizona in 2019. Through his collegiate career, he’s caught 5 passes for 72 yards and 2 touchdowns.
Victor Bolden Jr, WR, Oregon State
Bolden was one of the more experienced players at the HUB camp, as he’s been with three NFL teams in the past (49ers, Bills, Lions). When Bolden did suit up as a pro, it mostly came as a return specialist, although his potential at both positions (WR/KR) is through the roof. Bolden has some serious speed, which is made even better by quick and precise footwork. In an offense, Bolden is well on his way to becoming the deep-ball or catch-and-run threat most cornerbacks fear, some of which can be traced back to his days at Oregon State. Bolden would be a steal for any team in any league, and if used correctly, can be the most dynamic player on the field.
Justin Hill, WR, Mount Union
Hill is the type of player that screams “hidden gem.” He played college football at Mount Union, a Division III program in Ohio. During his senior year in 2019, Hill put up some eye-popping numbers, catching 80 passes for 1,681 yards and 23 touchdowns. He had two games with over 200 receiving yards, and another two with four receiving touchdowns. Hill gained some popularity on Twitter after one of his routes from the HUB camp was posted, which is a great way for a small-school product to be recognized for his work. DIII schools often struggle to get media attention, but every once and a while, there’s enough pure athleticism and talent to turn heads. Just a few months ago, a DIII offensive lineman by the name of Quinn Meinerz was taken on day two of the NFL draft. Meinerz, who played for the Wisconsin-Whitewater Warhawks, was discovered simply due to his outstanding size and strength. If Hill can continue to demonstrate advanced route-running abilities, then he should be able to sign a pro contract with ease in the near future.
