From Hampton to the Big Leagues: Darius Gooden’s Pro Day at UMass

When Darius Gooden’s Pro Day at UMass came around, I didn’t wait to be asked — I volunteered my camera, my time, and my best angles. Because when someone you believe in is chasing a dream, you show up. Period.

Darius, a standout cornerback from Hampton University, has the kind of speed that makes your autofocus nervous. I spent the day dodging cones and praying my shutter speed could keep up with the blur that was him running drills like a man on a mission — because he was.

It was an absolute honor to lend my talents to help memorialize such a huge milestone in his journey. The energy was electric. The determination? Unshakable. And let’s be honest — the man looked like he was already shooting his Gatorade commercial.

Pro Day isn’t just about stats — it’s about capturing a moment when grit, grind, and big dreams come together. Darius showed up with all of that and more. I just made sure the photos showed what we all already knew: he’s built for this.

Whether it’s the NFL or beyond, this is just the beginning for him. And I’m grateful I got to witness it, camera in hand, knees slightly sore, and heart full.

– Burnell Branch