On-field workouts for the combine start on March third and end on the sixth. During that time players from schools all over the country try to win over coaches and scouts with their athletic ability and fundamentals. Here are a few things to look out for during the workouts.
- Which quarterback stands out?: There’s no Trevor Lawrence in this year’s draft. The combine is what is going to start to separate the tops guys in the draft. Going into the workouts, Kenny Pickett is projected as the top guy, and a solid combine could keep him up there. However, watch out for Malik Willis and Sam Howell, as they have a chance to overtake him if they can put on a show. Desmond Ridder can move into first-round conversations with a strong performance. Carson Strong, meanwhile, could lock himself as at least a day two pick if the scouts like what he does in Indianapolis. One quarterback who will not be working out is Matt Corral. For these quarterbacks, the combine could be the key to a higher draft position.
- Who is a natural hands catcher?: The combine is what can help determine who has the bests hands out of the receivers. The gauntlet drill will be watched carefully by coaches and scouts. If a receiver drops or juggles multiple passes during the drill, that’s a red flag. Those that can easily catch everything thrown their way will have risen their stock.
- Whose draft stock rises/ falls?: During the combine, there’s a chance for a prospect to either significantly raise or lower their draft stock. In 2012, Dontari Poe had one of the best workouts that included a sub-5 forty at almost 350 pounds and 44 reps on the bench press. That workout helped him go from a second-pick prospect to being drafted 12thoverall by the Kansas City Chiefs. Orlando Brown Jr. had a different experience in 2018. Going into the workouts, he was projected to be a mid-first-round pick. However, after a horrible combine with a 5.8 forty and 14 reps on the bench press his stock fell hard. He didn’t hear his name called until the third round by the Baltimore Ravens. Going into the combine, no one’s draft stock is set in stone. There will be players who help themselves and those that will take a hit with these workouts.
