FAYETTEVILLE — Arkansas tight end AJ Derby has been invited to the NFL's scouting combine after playing the position just one season.
Despite missing the final two games of the season with a knee injury, the senior received an invitation Tuesday, according to a team spokesperson. The combine will take place Feb. 17-23 in Indianapolis.
Derby played a key role in the Razorbacks' passing game after an off-season position change from quarterback. He caught 22 passes for 303 yards and three touchdowns before suffering what would ultimately be a season-ending injury in the second quarter of the Ole Miss game on Nov. 22.
The Iowa City, Iowa, native was also invited to play in the East-West Shrine Game next month.
Defensive end Trey Flowers has also been invited to the combine and linebacker Martrell Spaight is expected to receive an invitation.
Defensive tackle Darius Philon likely would be invited to the combine if he opts to forgo his final two seasons of eligibility. Philon, a redshirt sophomore, submitted paperwork to the NFL's underclassmen advisory committee prior to the Razorbacks' bowl game and has until Jan. 15 to decide whether or not to enter the draft.