University of Toledo's Barry Church off to good start

INDIANAPOLIS - University of Toledo safety Barry Church dreamed of playing in the National Football League as a child. He's one step closer to making it a reality.

The 6-foot-1, 221-pound Church did not disappoint with his workout yesterday at the NFL Combine, banging out 19 reps of 225 pounds on the bench press. He placed in the top 10 among the group.

Church is expected to take part in the 40-yard dash and other drills today. He could elevate his draft status with a good time in the 40.

A four-year All-Mid-American Conference performer, Church trained in California with former Los Angeles Rams defensive back Leroy Irvin in preparation for the combine.The thing that sets Church apart from the other safeties - aside from his physical attributes - is ball skills.

"Where Barry is going to impress teams is in the position drills," agent Chase Callahan said. "They will be blown away with how quick his feet are for a guy his size. I think he impressed scouts at the East-West game with his quick feet and smooth transition into coverage."

Church met with 28 teams after arriving in Indy, a good indication that his dream could come true.

Granted, the road to the NFL will be no easy task for the hard-hitting safety. The draft process can be a humbling experience. Church learned that firsthand when he was left off the Senior Bowl roster.

Instead, he showcased his skills in the East-West Shrine game.

"Visiting the Shriners Hospital for Children and helping the less fortunate was a humbling experience for me," Church said. "My heart went out to each and every one them. On the football side, it was good to practice against some of the top talent in the country. I looked forward to that coming from a small conference like the MAC. Those practices were beneficial to me."

Although the Shrine game was good experience for the safety, he entered the combine with something to prove.

"I am definitely out there with a chip on my shoulder," Church said. "I'm trying to prove that coming from the MAC shouldn't make a difference. I want to show teams that I can play with the big boys as well. I'm definitely looking forward to proving that during workout drills."