INDIANAPOLIS – On Jan. 2, Ryan Smith's cell phone inbox received an email he'd been hoping for – an invitation to the 2016 NFL Scouting Combine.
 
"I was shocked," said the North Carolina Central University cornerback and recent graduate. "I am blessed and thankful for the opportunity."
 
Smith is coming off a senior season that included all-conference recognition as both a defensive back and a return specialist. He ranked third in MEAC with team-best 11 passes defended (two interceptions and nine pass break-ups), while adding 52 tackles (38 solo). Smith also led conference and ranked 10th in the nation with an average of 28.1 yards per kickoff return (14 for 394 yards, 1 TD).
 
During his standout NCCU career from 2012-15, Smith broke the school record for solo tackles with 168, while finishing sixth in career tackles with 263 and 11th in passes defended with 31 (seven interceptions and 24 pass break-ups).
 
NCCU head football coach Jerry Mack noticed Smith's unique skillset when he arrived at NCCU prior to the 2014 season. "What stands out about Ryan is his size, flexibility and change of direction skills," Mack said. "He is natural and fluid with his hip movement, which is critical at the cornerback position."
 
Mack is not the only one who is singing Smith's praises. Dane Brugler, senior NFL Draft analyst for NFLDraftScout.com and CBS Sports, posted on Twitter that Smith "is one of my favorite sleepers in this class. Has NFL traits worth developing."
 
After helping to lead the Eagles to their second straight Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference championship, Smith graduated from NCCU on Dec. 12, 2015, with a degree in criminal justice and headed home to Upper Marlboro, Maryland to relax for a little while before starting to train for his professional football pursuit.
 
Motivated by his combine invitation, Smith left for Fort Lauderdale, Florida on Jan. 4 to begin his training.
 
Smith is slated to depart Florida on Feb. 26 heading to Indianapolis, where his portion of the NFL Scouting Combine will begin on Feb. 27 with media interviews for defensive backs. His chance to shine on the gridiron will be on Feb. 29 with on-field workouts for defensive backs.
 
"I am pretty confident," Smith said. "I am going into the combine like it's another football game. I think I'm ready.
 
"It's a big opportunity, especially coming from an HBCU. I am just going to take full advantage of it. I am going to put on a show."
 
Smith's appearance at the 2016 NFL Scouting Combine is not only a unique individual accomplishment for the Eagles, but will place the NCCU football program in the national spotlight.
 
"It says a lot about where this football program is heading," said Mack, who is preparing for his third season as head coach. "It's proof that you can come to NCCU to make all of your hopes and dreams come true."
 
And while the moment will provide a boost for Eagles football, Mack is particularly excited for Smith. "Ryan is the classic example of a student-athlete," Mack said. "He excelled on the field, earned his degree and is prepared for a professional career. I am proud of Ryan, and truly happy for him and his family."
 
The NFL Network will provide broadcast coverage of the 2016 NFL Scouting Combine, featuring 332 of the top prospects in the 2016 NFL Draft field. For more information, visit www.nfl.com/combine.