NFL Draft: Ryan van Denmark Gets Chance with Indianapolis Colts
After a long football journey hindered by injuries and a snub at the NFL Combine, former UConn tackle, Ryan van Denmark, has the opportunity to bring his skills to the Indianapolis Colts.
Van Denmark was a major asset to the Connecticut football team for the four years he was a starter. His athleticism earned him the opportunity at the East-West Shrine Bowl, where he impressed many.
In 2019, van Denmark helped UConn's offense by averaging over 300 and 400 yards of offense in a season. His success in the four years with the team propelled him to the success he had at the Shrine Bowl, from the first practice to the final game.
In 2021, along with new Ravens defensive lineman, Travis Jones, van Demark was named to the Reese’s Senior Bowl, where they had stellar performances.
Regardless of van Denmark's success, he was not offered to participate in the NFL Combine due to injury and COVID-19.
“Between the tweaked ankle after the fourth game, Army I think, and the toe issue and being out with COVID, he didn’t play as well as he could have,” said Van Demark’s mother, Marianne Van Demark, in a previous interview.
Van Denmark not participating in the NFL Combine did not hinder his future, however, as he was signed to the Indianapolis Colts. He will bring his incredible athleticism to the NFL next season.
