Rolovich in state of heightened awareness as draft approaches

By Stephen Tsai
Advertiser Staff Writer

Yes, as a matter of fact, former University of Hawai'i quarterback Nick Rolovich does measure up to pro football standards.

Former Hawai'i quarterback Nick Rolovich says he has drawn interest from the 49ers, Falcons, Ravens and Cardinals. Advertiser library photo

"I didn't talk to him," said Rolovich, who is 6 feet 1 "but I noticed I was a little taller."

Rolovich is hopeful the 49ers, who sponsored the workout for 40 prospects, were impressed with his skills. The National Football League draft is Saturday and Sunday.

"It went really well, I think," Rolovich said. "It's looking right now like I might have a chance to go to somebody's camp."

Rolovich said he has drawn interest from the 49ers, Atlanta Falcons, Baltimore Ravens and Arizona Cardinals.

To prepare for the workout, he consulted with UH coach June Jones and Jones' close friend, former NFL quarterback Warren Moon.

"(Moon) said the main thing was to relax and be the guy who played all season for Hawai'i," Rolovich recalled.

Because the workout would not include weightlifting or sprints, Rolovich focused on his passing accuracy and dropbacks. He practiced by throwing to former UH slotback Craig Stutzmann.

Friday afternoon, after a short group meeting with 49er coach Steve Mariucci, Rolovich threw about 50 passes.

"I was satisfied," he said. "I knew there were three or four throws I wanted to take back, but most of the other ones I was comfortable with."

Rolovich vehemently denied reports he had played with an injured left shoulder last season, insisting his non-throwing shoulder "might have been bruised" after the Fresno State game, "but that was it. I'm healthy."

He weighed 200 pounds at the workout, "and that means something to" scouts. Measuring close to 6 feet 1 "means something, too."

"I think they're pretty happy with the way it worked out," Rolovich said. "I'm pretty happy."

Rolovich recalled how he was prepared to redshirt last season before Tim Chang suffered a season-ending injury. Rolovich was 8-1 as a starter, passing for 3,361 yards. Excluding the Nevada game, when he entered for a play, Rolovich would have led the nation in total offense per game. He finished fourth.

"It's funny how things turn out, that's for sure," Rolovich said. "I just want a chance. That's all I can ask for, especially for not being a starter at the beginning of the season."

Rolovich said his first preference would be to play for the 49ers.

"That's my team," said Rolovich, who idolized 49er quarterback Joe Montana while growing up in the Bay Area. "I'd love to stick around. But wherever they call me, I'll go."

He said he will watch the first round of the draft at his parents' home Saturday. "I want to watch (former UH teammate Ashley) Lelie get picked," he said.

Sunday, when the later rounds are conducted, "I'll hang out for a while," he said. "I'm trying to be patient. There's nothing you can do right now. It's just a waiting game.