Marquess Wilson's career at Washington State ended
unceremoniously, that much is for certain.
Now, the close relationship that many athletes share with
their former college teams, appears to be in peril, too. How that will play out
for the former record-setting Cougar receiver, no one knows. What is known,
though, is Washington State does not want Wilson around the football
facilities.
When Wilson asked to participate in Washington State's pro
day on Thursday, his request was denied.
"Marquess would love to work out at their pro day, but
they've said that he's not allowed on campus," said Cameron Foster,
Wilson's agent. "Well, maybe not campus. He's not allowed to work out
there.
"It's very unfortunate how his career ended and it's
very unfortunate what's going on currently between Marquess and WSU. Marquess
still considers himself a Cougar. The regime does not."
Foster declined to comment on who he was in contact with at
Washington State, but said he "talked to a person over there."
Wilson left the Cougar program in November and alleged abuse
by the coaching staff. The program was cleared of any wrongdoings by both the
university and the Pac-12 after investigations.
Instead of participating in Pullman, Wilson was planning on
participating at Eastern Washington's pro day on Wednesday. Former Cougar
quarterback Jeff Tuel was also going partake, but both an NFL rule prohibits
players from a larger school participating in pro days at smaller schools.
"It's not really a disappointment," said Wilson
while he watched Eastern players workout in front of scouts in the Eagles
weight room. "I just feel like it would have just helped me out a little
more. All in all, I was happy with what I was able to do at the combine. It's
not really a disappointment with this decision."
Wilson ran a 4.51 second 40-yard dash at the combine in
February, but really impressed with the three cone drill. His time of 6.65
seconds was second for all receivers at the combine, which is a measure of
quickness and agility.
He also owns impressive numbers from his days at Washington
State, where his 3,207 career receiving yards in three seasons ranks first
all-time at the school.
Foster said Wilson has private workouts and team visits set
up, which will give the 6-foot-3 receiver an opportunity to showcase both his
talents and personality before the April 25 NFL draft.
