MASS. - The NFL Draft starts Thursday and a pair of local stars are hoping to hear their names called.

Former Shepherd Hill football standout Alec Lindstrom was a star at Boston College. Lindstrom was one of the best centers in college football during his time at the Heights. 

Lindstrom worked out for NFL teams and interviewed with them as well. Now he will sit and watch the draft and wait for his name to be called. Lindstrom is proud of carrying on his family tradition, with his older brother Chris in the NFL with the Atlanta Falcons, and his father and uncle having played in the NFL. Lindstrom loves being considered as the next Central Mass. guy to get drafted.

Benton Whitley had a tremendous career at Holy Cross, leading the Crusaders to three consecutive Patriot League titles. He worked out for NFL scouts at Holy Cross, and he is hoping to hear his name called as well. Whitley played for Central Mass. coaching legend Mike Pucko and talked about how Coach Pucko helped him. 

Kevin Shea has the story in the video above.