Recently, various college football players took part in a yearly tradition known as the NFL Scouting Combine. Here, these young college prospects take part in different drills to “interview” for the chance to hear their named called come draft day. The Scouting Combine takes place in Indianapolis and showcases the talents of these college athletes to all 32 of the NFL’s pro teams. Drills include the 40-yard dash, bench press, vertical jump, and the shuttle. But more importantly for the modern times, players take psychological tests, drug screenings, and various other tests to determine if the player is a “head case.”
Many of these players understand the importance of the combine. They understand that their draft status and position will help determine their draft position and therefore how much money they will make. This, of course, is the quintessential action for one to get himself noticed in the draft.
Players at the top of the draft boards right now include LSU’s nose tackle Glen Dorsey, Virginia’s defensive end Chris Long, and Arkansas running back Darren McFadden.
The Scouting Combine is even more enticing for teams to view small school prospects, also known as “sleepers.” These “sleepers” include San Diego quarterback Josh Johnson, Delaware quarterback Joe Flacco, and Richmond running back Tim Hightower. These small school sleepers will have the chance to show their skills nationally.
The NFL Scouting Combine will help determine how April’s NFL Draft will shape out. As of right now the Miami Dolphins have the first pick and many have them projected to draft LSU’s Glen Dorsey.
Here is my top five mock draft at this point:
1. Miami: Matt Ryan QB, Boston College. John Beck failed to establish himself and was an older rookie to begin with. The team is lacking a true quarterback, and Ryan is best in this year’s draft class.
2. St. Louis: Glenn Dorsey DT, LSU. Right now Dorsey appears to be a centerpiece the Rams could have for years. Dorsey also gives flexibility for the Ram’s first round pick last year, Adam Carriker.
3. Atlanta: Darren McFadden, RB, Arkansas. With Ryan off the board, the Falcons take the best available player. Despite the presence of Michael Turner and Norwood, McFadden is special.
4. Oakland: Jake Long, OT, Michigan. The Raiders need help protecting last year’s #1 overall pick. Long has the ability to play on both sides, which will help them fill out the rest of the line.
5. Kansas City: Brian Brohm, QB, Louisville. Brodie Croyle is not the answer at the QB spot, so the Chiefs go with the best available QB. With Long off the board, this pick becomes easier.