It turns out that one of the most intriguing draft prospects for 2017 isn't a draft prospect at all.
Virginia Commonwealth basketball player Mo Alie-Cox, who is transitioning to football as a tight end, is actually not draft eligible.
An NFL spokesman confirmed that Alie-Cox was "eligible for the 2016 NFL Draft and has remained a free agent since the conclusion of that draft." Therefore, he won't be in the 2017 draft -- and can sign immediately.
All of which makes Alie-Cox's noon workout Tuesday at Sports Reality Performance in Richmond, Virginia, more intriguing.
In a letter to teams, Alie-Cox's agent, Joe Flanagan of BTI Sports, said his client will perform standard pro day drills, then will allow time for teams to have him do other drills they prefer even if it's in another position.
A 6-foot-6 forward, Alie-Cox was once told by Cowboys tight end Jason Witten that he had a football body and should give the sport a try. Can he follow in the footsteps of Antonio Gates, Julius Thomas or Jimmy Graham?
Anything is possible. BTI and agent Ron Slavin had success in similar fashion with Darren Fells, who recently signed with the Detroit Lions.
As free agency has wound down, and fewer quality players become available, this workout has generated real buzz.
"The interest is widespread," Flanagan said. "Twenty clubs are already confirmed to be sending reps, with multiple tight end coaches."
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