The NFL Combine. This event in Indianapolis determines the fate of many prospects. Whether one player has the ability to get drafted all depends on his 40 time, or his play during the on field workouts. It can make or break players. For some people, they thrive in the combine. Gym freaks who love to workout every day. Today I highlight 5 players who will perform at an elite level at the NFL Combine, some who could possibly shatter a record and most who could raise their stock dramatically...
1. David Njoku, Tight End (Miami)
Here is a player that comes out of nowhere to be a first round pick in only 9 starts. In 9 collegiate starts. Well, you are probably asking, how can that even be possible? He must have some sort of factor that puts him a cut above everyone else, right? To answer said question, David Njoku is an insanely athletic player who has a ton of upside in this years draft. With 700 yards receiving and 10 TDs this season, Njoku's on field performance without a doubt helped him achieve his first round status. But it is the intangibles that make him unique. As a national champion high jumper, look for Njoku to have a big day in the drills around that area.
40 yard dash: 4.47 seconds
Bench Press: 22 reps
Vertical Jump: 42 inches
Broad Jump: 12 feet
Piece of information to keep in mind: David Njoku stated in inteviews and on social media that he will break the broad jump record on Saturday. Whether he will do that or not will actually remains to be seen.
2. Samaje Perine, Running Back (Oklahoma)
Ever since Samaje stepped onto the field in Norman, I knew the kid was going to be a special talent. My point was proven when he broke the NCAA single game rushing record. As a FRESHMAN. Now his role since then has digressed and been reduced with the emergence of Joe Mixon, but it doesn't mean Perine can't be a stud in the NFL. There are many reports regarding Perine's strength, some that are absolutely ridiculous. Perine will shock some people in the bench press drill, lifting 25, even up to 35 reps. However, 30 seems to be in target and more accurate, therefore he will lift 30 reps. In addition, Perine will excel in the 40, and the position drills.
40 yard dash: 4.55 seconds
Bench Press: 33 reps
Vertical Jump: 38 inches
Broad Jump: 10 feet 9 inches
3. Solomon Thomas, Defensive End (Stanford)
Overview:
At the beginning of the year, Thomas was not on anyone's radar. Nowhere to be seen on draft boards, not visible in any Big Boards. Then the football season started. As the season progressed, Thomas rose his stock severely. This was capped off by an amazing performance in the Sun Bowl against UNC, showing his defensive prowess and the ability to rush the QB. Now that the draft commences, there are still questions regarding whether he should be a top 10 pick. The Combine will erase those questions, for now.
Predictions:
40 yard dash: 4.55 seconds
Bench Press: 35 reps
Vertical Jump: 36 inches
Broad Jump: 10 feet 6 inches
4. Al-Quadin Muhammed, Hybrid DE (Miami)
Arguably the most interesting story in terms of a draft prospect I have ever seen comes from Al Quadin Muhammed. A highly touted prospect from Don Bosco, Muhammed chose to go to Miami. While at Miami, he got into a couple of altercations throughout his playing career. As a freshman, he got suspended for assault on a student, ultimately missing the year. Muhammad stepped into a larger role his sophomore season, totaling 5.5 sacks and showing glimpses of future potential. Coming into his Junior year, he garnered a lot of preseason hype, and buzz from NFL Draft scouts. Before he could even play a down, he was kicked off the team for receiving improper benefits at a luxury car rental. Now he has been fueled by this moment, working tirelessly every single day to get better at his craft. An NFL Combine Performance could be the thing he needed, and it is something I know many will be looking forward too. Look for Muhammed to flirt around with the Top Bench Press in the NFL Combine.
Prediction:
40 yard dash: 4.67 seconds
Bench Press: 38 reps
Vertical Jump: 38 inches
Broad Jump: 10 feet 6 inches
5. Tawan Taylor, Wide Receiver (Western Kentucky)
Overview:
Tawan Taylor holds unique abilities that make him an intriguing prospect in this years draft. Coming out of Western Kentucky, Taylor had his best year as a Hilltopper, accumulating over 1700 yards receiving as well as 17 TD's, His numbers are very inflated, as WKU is primarily a pass first offense. Therefore, he faces criticism about his ability to play Wide Receiver at the next level. Ultimately, with all the factors in place, Taylor will likely be picked in the 4th or 5th round. His current value will soar once this combine is settled, so don't assume he is a day three pick just yet. Multiple reports stated that the Hilltopper star ran a sub 4.3 and jumped a 40 inch vertical. I have this man as the Biggest Freak in College Football, and the best Combine Warrior this year. Therefore, expect this man to be mentioned a lot throughout the weekend.
Predictions:
40 yard dash: 4.35 seconds
Bench Press: 10 reps
Vertical Jump: 40 inches
Broad Jump: 12 feet
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