Former Oregon Cornerback Dior Mathis Impresses in Chicago Bears Tryout

Credit: Ahsan Awan (American Presswire)

"One-time US Army All American Cass Tech (MI) two-way starter WR/DB Dior Mathis,a graduate of Cass Tech High School in Detroit, chose Oregon over Michigan in 2010 after impressing coaches and scouts around the country and in Eugene.More from Autzen ZooOregon football: Ducks and Coach Prime playing it cordial leading up to SaturdayOregon Basketball: Non-conference slate features Michigan coming to EugeneOregon football: Ducks find complete game effort in win vs HawaiiOregon Ducks must get run game going against Hawaii8 Pac-12 teams represented in Associated Press Top 25 after Week 2Playing behind Terrance Mitchell (NFL: Chicago Bears / Drafted: Round 7-254 by the Dallas Cowboys) for much of his Oregon career, he was a backup DB and special teams player. He also ran track. His phenomenal speed led to numerous outstanding plays including a blocked field goal against Nicholls, and outstanding punt return coverage in the 2015 national championship game.Although Mathis’ bulk of playing time in 2014 came in blowouts, his quickness and strength are built to succeed at the next level. His 5’9″ frame is believed by some to be less than ideal; however, he could prove to be a major resource for special teams coaches around the league.Mathis was invited to train at the prestigious Michael Johnson Peformance Institute in order to prepare for the 2015 NFL draft. He signed with agent Brad Berkowitz who represents a number of other former Ducks. Many of his Oregon clients have received NFL, CFL, and AFL roster opportunities.Although he was not drafted, Mathis was a free agent selection of the NFL’s Pittsburgh Steelers. However, after assessing team needs versus his position strengths, he opted for the Chicago Bears and went to rookie camp last weekend.Should a preseason opportunity present itself, Mathis will jump on it regardless of the team; finding a way to separate himself will be crucial. The coaches in Chicago were very impressed with his performance, and although they have not offered him a spot on their roster yet, he remains focused on landing with an NFL team soon.Mathis has the athleticism and talent to make an impact in the NFL. His 4.29 second 40-yard dash at Oregon’s Pro Day opened the eyes of many scouts, and it surely factored into his tryout invites."