NDSU Stars Tuszka, Ellefson Hope to Hear Their Names Called in NFL Draft

Both Played in East-West Shrine Game; Tuszka participated at NFL Combine

FARGO, N.D. — The NFL Draft is underway with the first round. There are two former North Dakota State football players likely to be drafted this weekend.
The first is All-American defensive end Derrek Tuszka who had two different opportunities to show what he’s made of to NFL scouts.

With no NDSU Pro Day due to COVID-19, Tuszka was the only Bison player to get to compete at the NFL Combine in February and had the chance to play in the East-West Shrine game, the week after winning the latest FCS National Championship.

Tuszka said both events really showed him that he’s ready for the next level.

“Being able to show teams I can dominate at any level,” Tuszka said.” “I knew coming into this process everyone views NDSU as this smaller less competition type school and I don’t think that’s necessarily the case.” Combine same thing. I showed off with my numbers. Proving my athleticism and I have plenty of film to back that up so I got enough evaluation on me between game film and those two.”

The other Bison player to look out for this weekend is tight end Ben Ellefson. Ellefson did not have an invite to the Combine, however, did get a chance alongside his teammate Tuszka to play in the Shrine game as well.

There Ellefson proved to himself he could compete with some of the best tight end prospects in the college game. The Hawley native is more than just a one dimensional tight end, other than the usually responsibility to block, he racked in 16 touchdowns in college.

An attribute to his game he’s been selling to NFL teams to get put on notice.

“I’m a good point of attack blocker but I’m also consistent in catching the ball and getting in pass game,” Ellefson said. “I’m not just one dimensional, I have the versatility and then off the field things. I’ve never had any trouble with the law or anything like that. Those intangibles, the starts and all the things that come in the classroom on the football side have always benefited me because I think I ask good questions and I’m always trying to learn and get better.”

Day two of the Draft begins Friday night at 6 with rounds 2 and 3.

Rounds 4-7 will start Saturday at 11 A.M.