Lakeland’s CJ Dippre Shines at 2025 NFL Combine, Boosting His Draft Stock
By: Brad Loff | Sportzwire | March 11, 2025 | Photo courtesy Steven Lantzy-Lantzy Photography
Lakeland’s own CJ Dippre has been making waves at the 2025 NFL Combine, showcasing his elite athleticism and strength while solidifying his place as a rising prospect in the upcoming NFL Draft. The former Alabama tight end has impressed scouts and analysts alike, but perhaps no group is prouder than his hometown of Scott Township, Pennsylvania, and the surrounding communities.
CJ Dippre's journey from Lakeland Junior/Senior High School to the national stage has been nothing short of inspiring, and his performance at the Combine is just the latest milestone in an already decorated career.
Steven Lantzy-Lantzy Photography
A Standout Performance at the NFL Combine
At the 2025 NFL Scouting Combine, CJ Dippre proved he belongs among the best of the best. His measurables stood out, ranking among the top performers at his position:
40-Yard Dash: 4.69 seconds (3rd among tight ends)
10-Yard Split: 1.56 seconds
Bench Press: 32 reps (1st among tight ends)
Broad Jump: 10’0”
Vertical Jump: 34.5”
His combination of speed and power makes him a dangerous offensive weapon, and his dominance in the bench press further proved his upper-body strength and blocking ability. With a time of 4.69 seconds in the 40-yard dash, he showcased elite athleticism, proving he has the speed necessary to stretch the field as a receiving tight end.
CJ Dippre entered the Combine projected as a late-round pick, but after his outstanding performance, his draft stock has skyrocketed, with many experts now projecting him as a Day 2 selection (Rounds 2-3).
A Football Journey Rooted in Lakeland
While CJ Dippre is now making headlines nationally, his football story began on the fields of Lakeland Junior/Senior High School in Scott Township. As a multi-position athlete, he played quarterback, tight end, and defensive end, displaying the versatility that has made him such a sought-after NFL prospect.
Steven Lantzy-Lantzy Photography
His leadership and dominance on the field earned him multiple accolades, including all-region honors and the Lackawanna Conference Defensive Player of the Year award. Even then, it was clear that CJ Dippre had a bright future ahead of him.
After high school, he initially committed to the University of Maryland, where he played for two seasons before transferring to Alabama. At Maryland, he saw significant playing time, recording 33 receptions for 339 yards and three touchdowns. His sophomore season saw a major uptick in production, solidifying his status as a rising star.
When he transferred to Alabama, he immediately made an impact, appearing in all 14 games and starting 11 of them. His time with Nick Saban's Crimson Tide allowed him to refine his blocking ability while continuing to develop as a receiving threat.
The Lakeland Community Rallies Behind Their Hometown Star
Back home in Scott Township and across Northeast Pennsylvania, the excitement surrounding CJ Dippre's NFL future is growing by the day. Local businesses have put up signs cheering him on, and former teammates, coaches, and fans have taken to social media to show their support.
At Lakeland High School, young athletes look up to him as an example of hard work paying off, and many hope to follow in his footsteps. His rise to the national stage has been a source of pride for not only Lakeland but also the entire Lackawanna County region.
For many in the area, CJ Dippre isn’t just another football player—he’s a hometown hero. His success is a testament to the talent that Northeast Pennsylvania produces and serves as inspiration for the next generation of athletes.
Steven Lantzy-Lantzy Photography
Looking Ahead: The Road to the NFL
As the NFL Draft approaches, CJ Dippre's blend of size, speed, and strength makes him an ideal target for teams in need of a dynamic tight end. His ability to contribute both as a receiver and as a blocker ensures he will fit seamlessly into any offensive system.
Scouts are especially impressed by his toughness, work ethic, and versatility—qualities that will help him transition smoothly to the professional level.
Wherever he lands, one thing is certain—Lakeland, Scott Township, and all of Northeast Pennsylvania will be cheering him on every step of the way. His journey from local standout to NFL prospect is just getting started, and the best is yet to come.
For a closer look at Dippre’s combine performance, check out the following video:
