SEMO Premier QB: Paxton DeLaurent Eyes NFL Future, discusses off-season training

CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. (KBSI) — Former Southeast Missouri State quarterback Paxton DeLaurent cemented his legacy in 2024, breaking the school’s all-time passing yards and passing touchdowns records in a single game against Tennessee Tech.

Now, the Redhawks’ all-time leader is focused on his next goal, earning a spot on an NFL roster.

After undergoing postseason shoulder surgery, DeLaurent has been training in Florida, determined to prove to scouts that he’s ready for the next level.

“This is week nine post-surgery, so I have full range of motion,” DeLaurent said. “I’m throwing the ball around, and the shoulder’s feeling great.”

The former SEMO standout is thankful for his  speedy recovery thankful for his doctors, physical therapists, and his faith.

“I’ve been blessed with great doctors, great healing, my Lord and Savior, and great physical therapists down here,” he said. “I’m doing PT six days a week. I’m feeling really, really good about it.”

Now, DeLaurent is laser-focused on proving his talent to NFL scouts.

“Coach Binotto, who was at SEMO and is now at Missouri State, has been helping me get some throwing sessions in,” he said. “We’re putting some film together to show teams that the shoulder isn’t an issue.”

His next big opportunity comes on March 21, when DeLaurent will participate in Mizzou’s Pro Day alongside former SEMO wide receiver Dorian Anderson showing Pro scouts what they have to offer.

“It’s an indoor facility, a great setup, and I’m excited to throw there,” DeLaurent said. “We won’t have a Pro Day at SEMO this year, so this is a great opportunity.”

DeLaurent isn’t the only Redhawk chasing a professional football career. SEMO is steadily building a reputation for developing NFL-caliber talent.

Last year, wide receiver Ryan Flournoy was drafted by the Dallas Cowboys in the 6th round, while wide receiver Tristan Smith transferred to Clemson. Former Redhawk Michael Ford (DB) remains in the NFL with the Cleveland Browns. Mark Robinson (MLB) with the Pittsburgh Steelers.

When asked which NFL wide receiver he’d love to play with in the future, DeLaurent says there’s an easy answer.

“I was going to say Ryan Flournoy, if you’d let me,” he says. “We still stay in touch, and he’s been great during this process. He told me, ‘This is the longest year of your life.’ You go from a full season straight into training, rookie minicamp, and another season. It’s a 14-month grind.”

DeLaurent also named Justin Jefferson, Cooper Kupp, and draft prospect Efton Chism III as receivers he’d love to work with at the next level.

SEMO’s Standard Continues to Rise.

Head coach Tom Matukewicz believes SEMO’s continues growth speaks to the reputation the program has built.

“It’s a dream everybody has,” Matukewicz said. “We tell players that they can reach every dream they have right here from SEMO.”

As DeLaurent prepares for his Pro Day, he remains grateful for the opportunity SEMO gave him.

“I’m super thankful for the chance to play at a competitive level,” he said. “Looking back, what I love most about football is the competitive nature. At SEMO, we played in ranked matchups, playoff-caliber games, and tough opponents. I’m just really grateful for that experience.”

With Pro Day fast approaching, SEMO fans will be watching closely as DeLaurent and Anderson take steps toward a chance at the NFL. March 21 at Mizzou is a big day for former Redhawks Paxton DeLaurent and Dorian Anderson.