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These 2016 Pro Day Results written by Tony Pauline of DraftInsider.net. Check back for daily updates or follow Tony Pauline @TonyPauline. |
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2016 Pro Day Notes: Wednesday, April 6, 7:40 p.m.
By Tony Pauline, http://draftinsider.net/
Utah State Kyler Fackrell had a very busy day at pro day. He completed 16 reps on the bench, one more than his Combine mark. He then completed both defensive end and linebacker drills.
The New York Jets ran Fackrell through a gauntlet of pass-rushing drills, allowing him to display his ability off the edge out of a three-point stance. Later, both the Jets and Indianapolis Colts pushed Fackrell through linebacker drills. I’m told the position drills lasted 45 minutes, and the Jets seem enamored with Fackrell.
Fackrell weighed in at 245 pounds, looked the part and moved well in drills. He was very good in coverage drills.
The team’s other linebacker, Nick Vigil, completed 15 reps on the bench, though he’s still not 100-percent healthy from a pectoral injury he sustained more than a year ago. Vigil ran the 40, timing as fast as 4.55, then looked tremendous in position drills. I’m told he was smooth and practiced as fast as he ran.
Vigil spent a significant amount of time with the Cleveland Browns and Chicago Bears. Tomorrow, he leaves for a visit with the Atlanta Falcons and will be traveling to see the New Orleans Saints next week.
Defensive tackle David Moala measured 6012, 314 pounds, completed 18 reps on the bench and posted a 29-inch vertical jump. He timed under 5.10 in the 40 and later met with the Cleveland Browns and Kansas City Chiefs.
Texas A&M Running back Tra Carson weighed in at 226 pounds, one less than his Combine weight, then timed 4.54 in the 40, much fast than expected. He also touched 37 inches in the vertical jump. Carson did not test at the Combine, as he was recovering from toe surgery.
I was informed offensive lineman Germain Ifedi is flying out tonight for an official “30” visit with the Minnesota Vikings tomorrow.
2016 Pro Day Notes: Wednesday, April 6, 2:10 p.m.
By Tony Pauline, http://draftinsider.net/
Georgia Southern Little-mentioned Antonio Glover had a solid pro day at GSU.
The safety measured 6004, 186 pounds, completed 16 reps on the bench, touched 37 inches in the vertical jump and a broad jump of 10-7. His 40 timed in the 4.5s, but the time was adjusted downwards to the 4.42s area as players ran the 40 on a soccer field due to the condition of the football field.
Glover, who has solid game film, met with the Tennessee Titans last night and the Detroit Lions this morning. He’s flying to see the Indianapolis Colts on an official “30” visit.
2016 Pro Day Notes: Wednesday, April 6, 12:05 p.m.
By Tony Pauline, http://draftinsider.net/
It’s the final day of pro-day workouts for 2016, as teams head to Memphis, Texas A&M and Utah State, as well as Georgia Southern. I would expect several updates throughout the day.
Texas A&M Germain Ifedi, the highest-rated Aggie, will sit on his Combine marks and just participate in position drills. Yesterday, Ifedi met with the New Orleans Saints and Indianapolis Colts. After the workout, he will meet with the Cleveland Browns.
In the coming weeks, Ifedi will be visiting the Detroit Lions, Carolina Panthers, Chicago Bears and Houston Texans. He’s already met with the Tennessee Titans and Miami Dolphins.
His workout schedule includes the Arizona Cardinals, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Dallas Cowboys, Carolina Panthers, Houston Texans and Atlanta Falcons, who’ll be working him out this week.
Where does Ifedi fit at the next level? Some believe he’ll be a zone blocking guard, while I think he can play left tackle. The general feeling though is Ifedi and his 36-inch arms could land up at the right tackle spot.
I am told the Houston Texans really like him.
Utah State The Utah State workout is underway.
Linebacker Kyler Fackrell, who is expected to land in the second round, will do position drills and may try some shuttles. He met extensively with the New York Jets yesterday.
Fellow linebacker Nick Vigil has spent a lot of time with the Chicago Bears, and I’m told the team really likes him. Chicago Bears coach Glenn Pires is presently putting the linebackers through the workout.
2016 Pro Day Notes: Tuesday, April 5, 3:35 p.m.
By Tony Pauline, http://draftinsider.net/
Arkansas State was the big ticket on today’s pro-day schedule, as almost 15 teams descended on campus to watch three pass-catchers work out.
Arkansas State Tight end Darion Griswold, who participated in the Shrine Game and Senior Bowl, measured 6034, 250 pounds, timed in the high 4.7s/low 4.8s in the 40 and posted a vertical jump of 32 inches.
Griswold met a bit with the Green Bay Packers and also spent significant time with the Indianapolis Colts.
Receiver J.D. McKissic measured 5100, 187 pounds, timed 4.58 in the 40, touched 37 in the vertical jump and 10-2 in the broad jump. He also completed 17 reps on the bench. After a good positional workout, running routes and catching passes, McKissic fielded punts for a while.
It should be noted several people told me the workout surface at Arkansas State was a slow, sticky one.
Memphis Tomorrow is the final day on the pro-day circuit, and Memphis is the workout everyone will be watching.
There will be a big crowd on hand to see quarterback Paxton Lynch, whom I would expect will be participating only in passing drills. Lynch is meeting with teams today, and there will be a number of front office/coaching staffs on hand for tomorrow’s workout, one of whom will be the New York Jets.
2016 Pro Day Notes: Monday, April 4, 2:15 p.m.
By Tony Pauline, http://draftinsider.net/
West Virginia is the only event on today’s schedule, which begins the final week of the pro-day circuit. The workout is still ongoing, but information is starting to trickle in.
West Virginia Nicholas Kwiatkoski, one of the most underrated and fun-to-watch linebackers in this year’s class, rested on his Combine numbers, but participated in position drills and looked terrific. He was quick, very explosive and moved well in both a straight line as well as laterally. There’s a belief by many scouts Kwiatkoski won’t make it past the fourth round as he has “checked off all the boxes.” He’s got good character, was voted team captain and leaves it all on the field.
Kwiatkoski individually worked out for the Philadelphia Eagles and Tampa Bay Buccaneers prior to this morning’s pro day and met extensively with the Cleveland Browns early this afternoon.
Jared Barber, the team’s other linebacker, is struggling with a hamstring issue and was unable to run today and won’t run before the draft. He did complete 20 reps on the bench then worked through linebacker and fullback drills.
Villanova One of the more interesting participants during the Villanova pro day, which actually took place last week at Temple’s indoor facility due to inclement weather, was West Chester tight end Tim Brown.
First some background:
For a variety of reasons, including a snafu with the NCAA over his eligibility, Brown played just seven games last season, finishing the year with 33 receptions, 444 yards and five touchdowns. He was voted to several All-America teams the prior year when he posted 44 receptions, 843 yards (19.2 yard average) and 15 touchdowns. In a year with limited tight end talent, Brown ranks as a legitimate prospect who can stretch the seam.
Now for his pro day: Brown measured 6-2, 231 pounds, completed 27 reps on the bench, posted 31.5 inches in the vertical jump and 9-4 in the broad jump. His 40 times came in at 4.65/4.67, while his short shuttle clocked 4.50. Its unlikely Brown gets drafted, but watch him in camp this summer.
Villanova linebacker Don Cherry measured 6014, 237 pounds, completed 26 reps on the bench, posted a vertical jump of 32 inches and ran 4.74 seconds in the 40.
Dartmouth Dartmouth had their pro day on Saturday.
Defensive back Vernon Harris measured 6010, 197 pounds, posted a vertical jump of 35.5 inches and a broad jump of 10-3, and timed the 40 at 4.53 with the wind and 4.65 against the wind.
2016 Pro Day Notes: Friday, April 1, 4:50 p.m.
By Tony Pauline, http://draftinsider.net/
Eastern Washington Twenty-two teams were on hand for the EWU pro day, including offensive line coaches from the Arizona Cardinals and Baltimore Ravens. The two prime prospects performed as expected.
Tackle Clay Debord measured 6061, 302 pounds, completed 18 reps on the bench, timed 5.07 in the 40 (1.76 ten split) 4.45 in the short shuttle and 7.62 in the 3-cone. He also posted a vertical jump of 30.5 inches.
Aaron Neary, the EWU guard who projects to center on Sunday, measured 6031, 301 pounds, completed 26 reps on the bench, timed 5.21 in the 40, 4.6 in the short shuttle and 7.45 in the 3-cone.
Afterward, both linemen did extensive whiteboard work with the Cardinals. Debord could squeeze into the later frames, while Neary is expected to be a free agent signing after the draft.
2016 Pro Day Notes: Friday, April 1, 3:50 p.m.
By Tony Pauline, http://draftinsider.net/
Indiana There was a nice-sized crowd on hand for Hoosiers pro day; most in attendance to watch left tackle Jason Spriggs.
Spriggs, who had a long sit down with the Pittsburgh Steelers yesterday, touched 35 inches in the vertical jump and timed 7.37 in the 3-cone, both improvements from his Combine marks. He looked solid in position drills and cemented himself as a late first-round pick.
Jordan Howard ran the 40 in the 4.6s and looked good in running back drills, but really struggled catching the ball. He could not track the deep pass and had a number of throws bouncing off his hands.
It was a plus day for Nate Sudfeld who, except for a few passes that sailed high of the mark, had a good day for himself.
Defensive tackle Darius Latham ran the 40 in times of 5.02 to 5.08 and did well in drills. Most feel he’s a third-round football talent, but off-the-field issues could push him into the final day of the draft. Latham met with the Minnesota Vikings and Tennessee Titans the past two days.
Former Hoosier wideout and NFL free agent Tandon Doss was on hand running routes and catching passes and looked good. Doss last played with the Jacksonville Jaguars but struggled with an ankle injury last season and is looking to catch on with another team.
Washington Husky pro day took place yesterday, and there were a few noteworthy performances.
Unheralded move tight end Joshua Perkins measured 6032, 223 pounds, completed 12 reps on the bench, timed 4.68 in the 40, 6.96 in the 3-cone and 4.38 in the short shuttle. Perkins has some outstanding pass-catching film and the natural skill to make a Sunday roster. The question is, does he line up as a move tight end/H-back, or is he a big possession receiver?
Running back Dwayne Washington tested well. Measuring 6010, 223 pounds, he timed 4.48 in the 40, 6.90 in the 3-cone and completed 21 reps on the bench. The junior started six games last season and missed four with a knee injury. He does not have a big body of work, but when on his game, Washington’s film was impressive in 2015.
2016 Pro Day Notes: Friday, April 1, 9:05 p.m.
By Tony Pauline, http://draftinsider.net/
A very light pro day schedule to start of the month of April, with Indiana being the headliner. Let’s first finish up on yesterday’s very busy day.
UTEP Defender Roy Robertson-Harris impressed the scouts on hand in El Paso.
He measured 6053 and 256 pounds and touched 35 inches in the vertical jump and 9-11 in the broad jump. Robertson-Harris also completed 23 reps on the bench. His 40 times came in anywhere from the mid-4.7s to the low 4.8s, and he went through a battery of linebacker and defensive line drills, looking smooth and athletic.
Robertson-Harris met with the San Francisco 49ers and Carolina Panthers during pro day. He has visits scheduled with the Oakland Raiders and Kansas City Chiefs, and he has workouts coming up with the Chicago Bears and Minnesota Vikings.
Florida Tech Gabe Hughes, one of my favorite sleepers at the tight end position, was as athletic as advertised at pro day.
Hughes measured 6032 and 240 pounds, had an arm length of 33 inches and completed 26 reps on the bench. His vertical jump was 33.5 inches, while his broad jump was 10-0. Hughes timed 4.63 seconds in the 40. His short shuttle timed 4.25 seconds and his 3-cone was 6.90 seconds.
Hughes is a terrific pass-catching move tight end who should get consideration in the closing selections of the 2016 NFL Draft.
Florida Atlantic The numbers on cornerback Cre’Von Leblanc included measurements of 5097 and 185 pounds, 21 reps on the bench, a 34.5-inch vertical jump and a 9-6 broad jump. His 40 time was 4.62 seconds, but Leblanc did look good in position drills.
Florida International Another Florida cornerback, Richard Leonard of Florida International, was significantly faster. Leonard, who measured in at 5-9, 190 pounds, timed 4.38 seconds in the 40 and 6.95 seconds in the 3-cone, and touched 37 inches in the vertical jump.
2016 Pro Day Notes: Thursday, March 31, 5:30 p.m.
By Tony Pauline, http://draftinsider.net/
Boise State Final word on Boise State:
The Atlanta Falcons, who worked out players in Washington State on Monday, then Stanford yesterday, had their entire front office on hand at today’s Boise State pro day. I’m told they were present for Kamalei Correa and Darian Thompson.
Offensive lineman Rees Odhiambo struggled in the testing coming off the ankle injury, but looked good in position drills. The Miami Dolphins, Seattle Seahawks, Chicago Bears and Pittsburgh Steelers all had offensive line coaches on hand.
I’ve known for a few months the Seahawks like Odhiambo as well as his teammate, center Marcus Henry.
Cornerback Donte Deayon, who was not even rated by scouts prior to the season, had a very good day.
Deayon is small and measured 5090, 159 pounds, but tested well, jumping 37 inches in the vertical jump and 10-7 in the broad. He also completed 12 reps on the bench before running 40 times which ranged from 4.42 to 4.47. He looked terrific in position drills. A productive punt returner for Boise, he was not asked to field punts afterwards.
Deayon is drawing interest from the Indianapolis Colts and Cleveland Browns, and is taking an official visit to the New York Giants facilities.
2016 Pro Day Notes: Thursday, March 31, 3:55 p.m.
By Tony Pauline, http://draftinsider.net/
TCU Receiver Kolby Listenbee sat on his combine numbers and with good reason.
Listenbee underwent sports hernia surgery during the second week of March, soon after returning from the combine. I’m told he initially suffered the hernia during the third game of the season against SMU but finished out the campaign then worked out at the combine. Listenbee will return to Indianapolis for the combine medical re-check and could potentially workout for scouts right before the draft if all goes well.
Josh Doctson also sat on his combine numbers and, except for one deep pass which surprisingly bounced off his hands, caught the ball very well.
Trevone Boykin threw the ball well then ran about 10-to-12 pass patterns displaying his skill as a receiver. He looked good catching the ball. Boykin also fielded punts during the workout. I’m told the Dallas Cowboys requested Boykin run a few specific routes during the workout.
2016 Pro Day Notes: Thursday, March 31, 3:20 p.m.
By Tony Pauline, http://draftinsider.net/
Boise State There is a large crowd on hand for Boise State’s pro day as I’m told 45 scouts, position coaches and coordinators made the trip.
Safety Darian Thompson, who was sick at the combine, ran a much faster 40 time, clocking 4.53 and 4.55 seconds. He also turned in a time of 11.68 seconds in the long shuttle.
Thompson, who worked out for the Philadelphia Eagles on Monday, met with the Tennessee Titans yesterday and has official visits set up with the Pittsburgh Steelers and Carolina Panthers next week.
Outside linebacker/defensive end Kamalei Correa also met with the Tennessee Titans yesterday and had dinner with the Pittsburgh Steelers last evening.
Correa competed in everything but the 40 and bench press today, touching 34 inches in the vertical jump (33 inches at the combine), 9-9 in the broad jump (9-0 even at the combine), then timing 4.15 seconds in the short shuttle and 6.78 seconds in the 3-cone. As mentioned weeks ago, Correa is getting late first-round consideration.
The Pittsburgh Steelers are one of the teams considering Correa late in Round 1.
The belief from people at Boise State’s pro day is the Steelers will take the best defensive back seven player (safety/cornerback/linebacker) when they are called to the clock in Round 1.
2016 Pro Day Notes: Thursday, March 31, 1:40 p.m.
By Tony Pauline, http://draftinsider.net/
Florida Atlantic I’m getting glowing reports on German receiver Moritz Wilhelm Boehringer’s performance at Florida Atlantic pro day.
After his Olympian workout, Boehringer looked equally as good in position drills. I’ve heard everything from “he’s a legitimate prospect” to “he could go as early as the fourth round.” The receiver had dinner with the Minnesota Vikings last night then sat with every team in attendance after the workout, all of whom have requested film. His visit schedule is being set up.
Also, I previously reported that Trevon Coley ran the 3-cone in 4.7, but have been told the official FAU time is under 4.1.
2016 Pro Day Notes: Thursday, March 31, 1:10 p.m.
By Tony Pauline, http://draftinsider.net/
Florida Atlantic The workout is over at Florida Atlantic, and Trevon Coley impressed scouts.
His numbers include measurements of 6010, 306 pounds, 23 on the bench and a 29.5-inch vertical jump. Coley timed between 4.87 to 4.90 and ran 4.7 in the 3-cone. He met with the Minnesota Vikings, Tennessee Titans, Detroit Lions and Cleveland Browns, and has a workout with the Miami Dolphins coming up.
The Carolina Panthers and Denver Broncos have also shown a lot of interest. Coley, whom many teams project as a three-technique tackle, looked terrific in position drills.
Previously mentioned German receiver Moritz Wilhelm Boehringer put up Olympian-type of numbers. He measured 6044, 227 pounds, posted a vertical jump of 39 inches, a broad jump of 10-11, timed anywhere from 4.38 to 4.45 in the 40 while also running 4.09 in the short shuttle and 6.64 in the 3-cone. Wow!! I’m told he also looked good catching the ball.
2016 Pro Day Notes: Thursday, March 31, 12:30 p.m.
By Tony Pauline, http://draftinsider.net/
A very busy day on the pro-day schedule as Notre Dame, TCU and Boise State are among the nine teams working out for scouts.
At Boise State, underrated lineman Rees Odhiambo, who has been hampered by an ankle injury suffered midway through the season, is expected to participate in just about everything today. Instead of running a full 40, Odhiambo will run a 10-yard split.
Odhiambo met with the Indianapolis Colts and Pittsburgh Steelers yesterday. He has a workout next week with the New Orleans Saints and official visits with the Minnesota Vikings and Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Besides cornerback Cre’Von Leblanc and defensive tackle Trevon Coley, one interesting prospect to watch during the Florida Atlantic pro day is Moritz Wilhelm Boehringer of Aalen, Germany. The 6-4, 225-pound Boehringer, who reportedly runs 4.4 in the 40, totaled 70 catches for 1461 yards and 16 touchdowns last season playing for the Schwabisch Hall Unicorns of the German Football League. Recently, the New York Giants signed French receiver Anthony Dable’ from the same league.
Later this afternoon in the state of Florida, tight end Gabe Hughes will workout for scouts. The Florida Tech prospect is one of the better sleepers at the position.
Staying on the tight end position, former Texas tight end M.J. McFarland worked out in front of 25 teams yesterday at Dallas Highland Park High School. McFarland measured 6046, 252, posted a 31-inch vertical jump, 9-2 broad jump and completed 24 reps on the bench. His 40 timed 4.85, 3-cone 7.38 and short shuttle 4.70.
McFarland sat on the sidelines last season after trying to play for UTEP. Off the 2014 film, he looked like a draftable prospect.
Another tight end to keep on the radar is Anthony Norris of Southern Utah. He participated in the UNLV pro day last week as well as SUU yesterday. Viewed more as a blocking tight end, Norris measured 6035, 255 pounds, completed 25 reps on the bench, posted a 41-inch vertical jump and 10-8 broad jump. His 40 time at UNLV was 4.77, and yesterday, he ran 4.85 (though he did broad jump 10-11).
2016 Pro Day Notes: Wednesday, March 30, 8:50 p.m.
By Tony Pauline, http://draftinsider.net/
Maryland Yannick Ngakoue and Quinton Jefferson both sat on their Combine numbers but participated in position drills. Coaches and scouts on hand spoke highly of both players and believe they will eventually be drafted earlier than most presently predict.
Jefferson met with the Tennessee Titans, Miami Dolphins, Philadelphia Eagles and San Francisco 49ers the past two days.
Ngakoue sat with the Buffalo Bills, Tennessee Titans and Cleveland Browns today.
Two additional workout notes from yesterday:
I reported the Philadelphia Eagles worked out several players at Stanford yesterday, including quarterback Kevin Hogan. I’m told offensive linemen Josh Garnett and Kyle Murphy were also participants in the workout.
Also, the Tennessee Titans had a large contingent in Columbus yesterday, working out the Ohio State defensive prospects.
2016 Pro Day Notes: Wednesday, March 30, 5:20 p.m.
By Tony Pauline, http://draftinsider.net/
South Carolina State The South Carolina State pro day got a late start, as teams hustled over from the South Carolina pro day, which ran over time.
Defensive line coaches from the Philadelphia Eagles, Tennessee Titans, Pittsburgh Steelers and Cincinnati Bengals put Javon Hargrave through a workout which lasted almost 45 minutes. Hargrave looked good, displaying terrific quickness, explosion and movement skills. He met individually with all the above mentioned teams.
Southern Utah Due to inclement weather at Southern Utah, the workout was moved to a high school about 40 minutes away where the players ran on what’s been described to me as a very fast track.
Unofficially, Miles Killebrew ran in the 4.5s, while James Cowser timed in the 4.7s.
A lot of teams are not sure what to do with Killebrew; is he a safety? Linebacker? It’s interesting to note the Cleveland Browns had their inside linebacker coach on hand for Killebrew.
2016 Pro Day Notes: Wednesday, March 30, 2:40 p.m.
By Tony Pauline, http://draftinsider.net/
South Carolina It was a long day for Pharoh Cooper, literally.
I’m told his 40 times ranged from 4.58 to 4.64. He then went through receiver and special teams drills for almost 30 minutes and looked very good. Cooper ran sharp, crisp routes, caught just about everything thrown in his direction, and looked very smooth. He also fielded punts and did a solid job there.
Tight end Jerell Adams stood on his Combine numbers, but did position drills and reviews are mixed. While I’m told he looked very good catching the short and intermediate routes, he struggled on the deep patterns, was all over the place, lacking balance, and dropped a number of longer throws.
Running back Brandon Wilds had a good day for himself. He timed 7.03 in the 3-cone and 4.31 in the short shuttle. Wilds caught the ball very well in position drills, and most importantly, displayed a lot of quickness moving laterally. That’s key for Wilds, who’s been branded as a straight-line runner. He’s had meetings with the New England Patriots, New York Giants and Detroit Lions.
Unheralded defensive lineman Gerald Dixon Jr. also impressed scouts. He measured 6020, 324 pounds, completed 34 reps on the bench and timed as fast as 4.89 in the 40 (there were some marks over five seconds).
2016 Pro Day Notes: Wednesday, March 30, 11:40 a.m.
By Tony Pauline, http://draftinsider.net/
Tennessee Twenty-seven teams are on hand in Tennessee.
Thus far, safety Brian Randolph has looked solid. He timed 4.46 in the 40 after completing 31 reps on the bench press and touching 33 inches on the vertical jump.
Receiver Marquez North also ran in the mid 4.4s, timing 4.45 on a number of watches.
Still awaiting word on linebacker Curt Maggitt.
2016 Pro Day Notes: Wednesday, March 30, 11:35 a.m.
By Tony Pauline, http://draftinsider.net/
South Carolina, Southern Utah, Maryland and Miami headline today’s pro-day schedule.
How fast will the Southern Utah players run? That is the question.
All the SUU players who participated at the Combine with the exception of cornerback Leshaun Sims, were almost .2 seconds slower in Indianapolis when compared to their verified times from last spring, leading some to believe the field at Southern Utah was mismarked. Bad weather was predicted for today, and there was some talk they could move the workout to a facility some 40 minutes from campus. The workout begins around noon Eastern.
Tennessee pro day is underway, and I’m told defensive tackle Owen Williams has completed 42 reps on the bench press.
Head coach Dan Quinn and other members of the Atlanta Falcons coaching staff will be in Stanford today working out Austin Hooper and Blake Martinez. Yesterday, they were in Pullman working out Washington State offensive lineman Joseph Dahl, receiver Dominique Williams and underrated defensive lineman Destiny Vaeao, a player people should become acquainted with.
The Philadelphia Eagles are working out Boston College linebacker Steven Daniels today.
2016 Pro Day Notes: Tuesday, March 29, 12:40 p.m.
By Tony Pauline, http://draftinsider.net/
Western Kentucky The testing at Western Kentucky is done, and Prince Charles Iworah has been the star of the show. The cornerback measured 5097, 192 pounds, completed 25 reps on the bench, touched 38 inches in the vertical and 10-8 in the broad jump.
His 40 times have been as fast as 4.32 to the mid 4.3s (4.35). There was a lot of rooting and cheering when Iworah completed his 40.
Players are just starting position drills.
2016 Pro Day Notes: Tuesday, March 29, 11:40 a.m.
By Tony Pauline, http://draftinsider.net/
Florida State and Western Kentucky are the top pro days on the calendar today. Jalen Ramsey will sit on his Combine numbers, but is scheduled to participate in position drills. At Western Kentucky, we’ll be watching another cornerback, Prince Charles Iworah, a terrific sleeper at the position.
A few details to clean up from yesterday:
Sixteen teams showed up at Stony Brook for Victor Ochi’s pro day. Ochi sat on most of his Combine numbers, but participated in both defensive line and linebacker drills. He looked athletic and moved well, but admittedly is a work in progress at linebacker.
The belief is Ochi would be a perfect fit at linebacker for the Baltimore Ravens, New York Jets or Arizona Cardinals. The Cardinals are bringing Ochi in for an official 30 visit.
I’m told there was great interest in Cody Core at Ole Miss pro day yesterday, or at least much more than I reported. The San Diego Chargers and Arizona Cardinals were on hand to watch Core as much as they were there for Treadwell. Core’s performance yesterday may be good enough to squeeze him into the draft’s second day.
Core has already worked out with the Dallas Cowboys and New England Patriots, and he has another workout scheduled with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. He’ll also be traveling to Oakland for an official visit with the Raiders.
One workout note: The Indianapolis Colts privately worked out Illinois State running back Marshaun Coprich yesterday.
2016 Pro Day Notes: Monday, March 28, 5:40 p.m.
By Tony Pauline, http://draftinsider.net/
Ole Miss Information on the Ole Miss workout is still coming in but this is what I have thus far.
Let’s start with two corrections. Laremy Tunsil did not run the 40 or shuttles, and Robert Nkemdiche did not test. When I asked why Tunsil did not run the 40 or shuttles the response was, “he doesn’t have to.” Nkemdiche was concerned about a slight hamstring issue and wanted to get through the position drills.
As far as the workout is concerned:
I’m told Tunsil looked tremendous in position drills. He moved well and was very fluid. The Tennessee Titans’ decision-making team was on hand at the workout specifically for Tunsil. I’m told the Titans had Tunsil at 33 reps on the bench while other teams credited the tackle with 34 reps.
Offensive lineman Fahn Cooper also looked good in position drills.
As was expressed to me, defensive line coaches from the Miami Dolphins and Cincinnati Bengals ran the defensive line workout and tried to break Robert Nkemdiche, but could not. Everyone in attendance was very impressed with his position drills with some calling it a “special workout.”
Add the Denver Broncos and New York Giants to the list of team’s bringing Nkemdiche in for an official visit. Media reports have Jerry Reese at Ole Miss’ pro-day to watch Laquon Treadwell but I’m told he was there equally for Nkemdiche.
The junior is presently meeting with the Dallas Cowboys.
C.J. Johnson went through defensive line and linebacker drills and also looked terrific. What makes Johnson’s performance all the more impressive is the fact he underwent surgery to repair a meniscus after the first month of the season.
Wide receiver coaches from the San Diego Chargers and Arizona Cardinals were on hand as was Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Jim Bob Cooter. So to were the top brass from the Los Angeles Rams.
All on hand to watch Laquon Treadwell.
Except for a few uncharacteristic drops, Treadwell looked good in position drills. He looked smooth while running routes and caught the ball well.
Treadwell is presently meeting with the Chargers.
The Rebels other receiver Cody Core looked exceptional. Shuttle times from Core included 6.78 seconds in the 3-cone and a 4.34-second short shuttle. I’m told he looked great in position drills, running crisp routes and catching everything thrown his way.
2016 Pro Day Notes: Monday, March 28, 12:05 p.m.
By Tony Pauline, http://draftinsider.net/
Ole Miss Early unofficial times from Ole Miss pro day had receiver Laquon Treadwell running in the mid-4.6s. I’ve been told anywhere from 4.63 to 4.66.
2016 Pro Day Notes: Monday, March 28, 11:30 a.m.
By Tony Pauline, http://draftinsider.net/
Ole Miss The workout at Ole Miss is underway.
Robert Nkemdiche is planning on completing the entire workout and hopes to improve on his Combine numbers and run the 40 in the 4.6s.
Nkemdiche has dinner with the Dallas Cowboys last night and he will make an official visit to the team’s facilities before the draft. I’m told he has 14 official visits on his calendar right now, including the San Francisco 49ers, San Diego Chargers, Oakland Raiders, Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Chicago Bears.
Laquon Treadwell is also scheduled to participate in everything. Last night, Treadwell met with the San Francisco 49ers.
Stony Brook About a dozen teams are on hand to watch Victor Ochi, who weighed in at 250 pounds this morning and completed 22 reps on the bench.
2016 Pro Day Notes: Monday, March 28, 11:25 a.m.
By Tony Pauline, http://draftinsider.net/
The big pro-day event on today’s schedule is Mississippi. We’ll also keep an eye on Stony Brook, where scouts will travel to watch Victor Ochi.
In Oxford, Laremy Tunsil is expected to test for scouts, but the bigger story to watch is receiver Laquon Treadwell, who is scheduled to run the 40. Don’t expect fast times for Treadwell, as anything under 4.6 would be a victory of sorts.
Underrated defensive end/outside linebacker C.J. Johnson, who participated in the Combine, met with the Detroit Lions and San Francisco 49ers last night.
2016 Pro Day Notes: Friday, March 25, 6:15 p.m.
By Tony Pauline, http://draftinsider.net/
BYU The only pro-day event on the schedule today was worth the trip for scouts.
Defensive lineman Bronson Kaufusi stood on most of his Combine numbers but participated in position drills, and as communicated to me, looked like a stud.
Kafusi looked athletic, smooth and forceful in everything he did. Many say it looks like his upper body has filled in and Kafusi is coming into his own. Known as a class act and high-character person, the senior solidified himself as a second-day pick.
Receiver Mitch Mathews turned heads with a tremendous workout.
He measured 6054, 222 pounds, had an arm length of 32 7/8 inches and a hand which measured 10.5 inches. Mitchell completed 12 reps on the bench, touched 38 inches in the vertical jump and 10-9 in the broad. Considered a 4.6 40 guy, Mitchell shocked scouts by running times in the low (4.41) to mid (4.45). His 3-cone time was 6.96 and short shuttle timed 4.21. He caught the ball well and ran good routes, the latter which had been a game-day issue.
Offensive lineman Ryker Mathews measured 6055, 316 pounds, completed 23 reps on the bench and timed 5.05 in the 40. He touched 28.5 inches in the vertical jump and timed 4.64 in the short shuttle.
Mathews, who should be a late-round pick as a swing lineman who can play tackle or guard, met with the Detroit Lions after practice.
2016 Pro Day Notes: Friday, March 25, 3:00 p.m.
By Tony Pauline, http://draftinsider.net/
Just one pro-day event on today’s schedule, BYU, and that’s just finishing up. So we’ll start by finishing up some notes from yesterday’s pro-day workouts.
Arizona There was a decent crowd out in the dessert to watch Scooby Wright, who wasn’t overly impressive. The consensus was Wright ran the 40 in the mid-4.8s (4.84/4.85) though some teams did clock him at 4.79. I’m told his position work was solid, but nothing outstanding. Teams are concerned about his body type, as Wright has a stocky upper frame but thin lower body.
Wright is definitely a leader on the field and teammates are drawn to him; intangibles NFL decision-makers will have to factor in. The question is, how early do you draft a 239-pound linebacker who runs in the 4.8s and can’t cover?
Reggie Gilbert, who was graded as a draftable player prior to the season, had a good day for himself. Gilbert measured 6035, 261 pounds, timed 4.79 in the 40, completed 24 reps on the bench press and posted a vertical jump of 33.5 inches and a broad of 9-6. He participated in both defensive line and linebacker drills afterward, then met with the San Diego Chargers and New Orleans Saints.
Underrated safety William Parks also looked good. He measured 6006, 204 pounds, timed 4.52/4.55 in the 40 and completed 22 reps on the bench. His vertical jump was 32 inches and broad 9-7.
Parks met extensively with the Dallas Cowboys, Baltimore Ravens and New Orleans Saints. He has official visits set up with the Seattle Seahawks and Cleveland Borwns.
Offensive lineman Lene Maiava, who’s struggling with a minor knee issue, measured 6040, 314 pounds and completed 34 reps on the bench. He’s expected to complete a workout for scouts the week of April 18. Maiava, who participated in Shrine week, has official visits set with the San Diego Chargers and Seattle Seahawks.
North Dakota State Cornerback C.J. Smith was impressive yesterday, measuring 5110, 188 pounds, posting a 39-inch vertical jump and 10-11 broad jump, then timing in the low 4.5s on a number of watches.
NDSU coaches have been singing his praise and have told league teams they feel Smith compares favorably to former Bison corner Marcus Williams, who intercepted six passes last season and broke up 10 more with the New York Jets.
Ball State Receiver Jordan Williams, graded as a potential middle-round pick before the season, struggled yesterday. His 40 time was in the mid-to-low 4.6s (4.64/4.66) and Williams looked very ordinary in position drills.
2016 Pro Day Notes: Thursday, March 24, 5:55 p.m.
By Tony Pauline, http://draftinsider.net/
Utah The Utes’ top defensive prospects looked good during pro day.
Jason Fanaika tipped the scales at 274 pounds, completed 29 reps on the bench then timed in the low 4.7s during the 40. He looked very athletic in both the linebacker and defensive line drills.
Linebacker Jared Norris improved on just about all his combine marks. He timed 4.68 seconds in the 40, 6.86 seconds in the 3-cone as well as 4.23 seconds in the short shuttle. He also looked smooth and fluid in drills.
Quarterback Travis Wilson threw the ball very well, displaying arm strength and accuracy; the latter of which has been a problem for him during game time. Many feel Wilson did just enough to get practice-squad consideration.
Receiver Kenneth Scott, whose testing marks I’m waiting on, caught the ball extremely well.
Running back Devontae Booker, who suffered a torn meniscus during the final month of the season, stood on the sidelines today.
2016 Pro Day Notes: Thursday, March 24, 4:25 p.m.
By Tony Pauline, http://draftinsider.net/
UMass Receiver Tajae Sharpe stood on his combine numbers and participated in position drills.
Shrine Game signal-caller Blake Frohnapfel measured 6055 and 230 pounds, posted a 33.5-inch vertical jump, a 9-7 broad jump and timed under 4.7 in the 40. During position drills, Frohnapfel displayed terrific arm strength and threw several nice deep passes, though the belief is he needs work on his mechanics, which will improve the consistency of his overall accuracy. After the workout, Frohnapfel spent time with the Detroit Lions and San Diego Chargers.
Houston The numbers I received on wide out Demarcus Ayers includes a 40 time of 4.62 seconds, a 3-cone in the 6.9s, as well as a vertical jump of 35 inches.
Visits/Workouts
Alabama offensive lineman Dominick Jackson, one of the more versatile and underrated guard/tackle prospects, worked out for the Tampa Bay Bucs this week.
Campbell defensive tackle Greg Milhouse has official 30 visits set up with the New York Giants and Detroit Lions.
Nebraska offensive lineman Zach Sterup has an official visit set up with the New York Giants.
2016 Pro Day Notes: Thursday, March 24, 1:35 p.m.
By Tony Pauline, http://draftinsider.net/
North Dakota State Feedback coming in from the North Dakota State workout:
While many are gushing over the pro-day throwing of Carson Wentz, I though it was a very good workout, but not a great workout as some have proclaimed. My concern today is what I witnessed during Senior Bowl week; when Wentz misses, he’s usually high of the mark, as there were a number of instances today where receivers had to get airborne in order to make the reception. Whether that’s the end result of over-throwing the ball or a footwork issue, it bears watching.
The feedback I’m receiving on the character of Wentz is nothing short of sensational. Everything from “he is a winner” to “he is very down to earth,” as well as points made that Wentz came back from the broken wrist to lead the Bison to a national title, casting aside further injury which could’ve ruined his draft stock.
Offensive lineman Joseph Haeg also helped himself today. He looked terrific in drills, and most feel he’s sealed himself as a top-100 pick. Teams love Haeg’s versatility, and though most have penciled him in as a right tackle or guard, the consensus opinion is other than center, Haeg can line up at any spot on the offensive line.
I’m told yesterday, Haeg worked out individually for the Carolina Panthers.
2016 Pro Day Notes: Thursday, March 24, 1:10 p.m.
By Tony Pauline, http://draftinsider.net/
Houston The position drills are still going on, but there was a lot of rain during the testing portion which made for slippery conditions.
Linebacker Elandon Roberts, who led the Cougars with 142 tackles and 19 tackles for loss, measured 5110, 235 pounds, completed 25 reps on the bench, posted a vertical jump of 37 inches and a broad jump of 10-0. His 40 times ranged from 4.49 to 4.53.
Safety Adrian McDonald, who has 17 career interceptions, posted a vertical jump of 33 inches and a broad of 9-6, and ran the 40 in the mid 4.5s (4.53/4.55). Still waiting on his height/weight numbers.
Cornerback William Jackson sat on his Combine marks, but looked terrific in position drills; smooth and very fluid.
2016 Pro Day Notes: Thursday, March 24, 12:10 p.m.
By Tony Pauline, http://draftinsider.net/
A big day on the pro-day schedule, as workouts are taking places across the nation. The big one is taking place in Fargo, North Dakota, as Carson Wentz throws for teams.
North Dakota State Thirty teams were suppose to show up for NDSU pro day, but I’m told due to the spring snow storm that hit the area, fewer than 20 have actually made it to Fargo. Cleveland Browns head coach Hue Jackson is on hand.
Offensive tackle Joseph Haeg posted a 30-inch vertical jump and a broad of 9-3.
2016 Pro Day Notes: Wednesday, March 23, 6:40 p.m.
By Tony Pauline, http://draftinsider.net/
USC The headliner at USC pro day did not disappoint.
Su’a Cravens weighed in at 220 pounds and ran an official 40 time of 4.61, though several teams clocked him at 4.55 an 4.54. He did both linebacker and defensive back drills and as told to me he looked “Fantastic; he caught everything but a cold.”
I’m told while Cravens can get his weight up to 240 if necessary, but teams like him where he’s currently. And as of late, most teams have him graded as a safety; not outside linebacker. Over the past two days, Cravens has met with the New England Patriots, Detroit Lions, Cleveland Browns and San Diego Chargers. And as expressed to me “there is scary interest from the Carolina Panthers” in Cravens.
Numbers on linebacker Anthony Sarao include a vertical jump of 35.5 inches, broad of 9-8, 22 reps on the bench and a 40 in the 4.6s.
2016 Pro Day Notes: Wednesday, March 23, 4:10 p.m.
By Tony Pauline, http://draftinsider.net/
Illinois State and N.C. Central NFL teams traveled to a pair of IAA schools for pro-day events on Wednesday.
At Illinois State, RB/WR Marshaun Coprich did a lot of wideout work, running routes with the receivers and catching everything thrown in his direction. He posted a 38-inch vertical jump, and improvement of four inches from the Combine.
Coprich interviewed with the Indianapolis Colts and Chicago Bears. I’m told the Colts are very high on his skill set.
North Carolina Central corner Ryan Smith, another Combine invitee, sat on his marks from Indianapolis, as he’s dealing with a mild groin strain, but participated in position drills.
The New York Jets, Detroit Lions and Cincinnati Bengals all sent position coaches to watch him work out, and Smith interviewed with the Jets before pro day.
2016 Pro Day Notes: Wednesday, March 23, 1:30 p.m.
By Tony Pauline, http://draftinsider.net/
There are a number of pro days taking place across the country today, some which just finished up, so let’s get at it.
Missouri Linebacker Kentrell Brothers significantly improved several of his Combine marks today. His 40 timed as fast as 4.72 (4.89 at the Combine) and Brothers hit 31.5 inches in the vertical jump (28.5 inches at Combine). He was one pound lighter, weighing in at 244.
Defensive back Kenya Dennis had a very nice day for himself. Dennis measured 5112, 200 pounds, ran the 40 in times of 4.46/4.47, posted a 36-inch vertical jump and a 10-4 broad jump, and completed 17 reps on the bench.
Graded as draftable when the season started, Dennis struggled somewhat in 2015 after a terrific junior campaign. Teams feel he can play either safety or corner in dime packages. Dennis met with the San Francisco 49ers yesterday and was meeting with the New York Jets as of this positing.
Purdue Receiver Daniel Anthrop, who was known as a 4.3 receiver prior to his knee injury, timed 4.40/4.44 in the 40. Anthrop has been a consistent pass-catcher, but never truly translated his 40 time into game-day speed.
2016 Pro Day Notes: Tuesday, March 22, 7:10 p.m.
By Tony Pauline, http://draftinsider.net/
Louisiana Tech Quarterback Jeff Driskel had a very successful pro day.
Standing on his Combine testing numbers, Driskel threw about 60 passes and all but two (one short, one just out of the reach of the pass catcher) were on the mark. Many felt Drskel could really not have thrown the ball better.
The quarterback met with the Denver Broncos and Detroit Lions today and has a workout with the Arizona Cardinals scheduled for later this week.
Defensive tackle Vernon Butler improved on many of his Combine marks, timing as fast as 5.05 in the 40, posting a 33.5-inch vertical jump and 9-3 broad jump. He also looked good in position drills.
Iowa State Receiver Quenton Bundrage, who entered the season stamped by scouts as a draftable prospect, had a solid day.
Bundrage measured 6006, 206 pounds, posted a 37-inch vertical jump and 10-3 broad jump, then completed 17 reps on the bench. His 40 times clocked as low as 4.46. Over the course of the day, Bundrage met with the Kansas City Chiefs, Denver Broncos and San Diego Chargers.
N.C. State One final word from Wolfpack pro day: Former NFL receiver T.J. Graham who caught passes from Jacoby Brissett, was very complimentary of the quarterback’s passing. Graham said Brissett was on point throughout the day and rarely was he forced to adjust to errant throws or wait for the ball to arrive.
A few IAA workouts to report on:
Former UCLA offensive tackle Torian White, who’s played at Hampton the past two seasons, worked out in front of almost a dozen teams on Friday.
White measured 6050, 317 pounds, completed 20 reps on the bench and ran the 40 in the 5.2s. Right now, I’m told the Seattle Seahawks, New England Patriots and Oakland Raiders are all showing interest in White.
Northern Iowa cornerback Deiondre Hall ran as fast as 4.52 in the 40 at pro day, .15s fast than his Combine time.
2016 Pro Day Notes: Tuesday, March 22, 2:45 p.m.
By Tony Pauline, http://draftinsider.net/
Florida Despite the fact it was a beautiful 80-degree day outside, pro day was held in the Gators’ new indoor facility with its brand new soft, slow turf. Many of the players ran slower than expected and struggled with change of direction drills. That being the case, there were still some good performances.
Defensive lineman Jonathan Bullard looked phenomenal in drills, displaying tremendous athleticism, agility and power. He was able to bend, displayed violent punch with his hands and easily moved about the field. Bullard met with the Detroit Lions and Tennessee Titans.
I’m also told the New York Jets like Bullard, whom they would consider if they trade Muhammad Wilkerson. And the word coming from Florida pro day is the Jets are shopping Wilkerson. Whether the team can get a deal done anytime soon is another thing altogether.
I’m told safety Keanu Neal continued the momentum of his improved 40 performance with a terrific position workout. Expanding on my earlier comments on Vernon Hargreaves’ workout, besides looking quick and explosive, he caught every ball in drills. Teams were incredibly impressed.
Tight end Jake McGee also had a strong outing, running in the low-to-mid 4.7s (4.72 to 4.76) and catching the ball well.
Antonio Morrison participated in the workout despite the fact he’s still recovering from an infection. Morrison did not run all that well and struggled in drills, but teams were impressed he competed. His schedule moving forward include 14 visits and eight workouts.
Alex McCalister was another who was commended for his hustle, but I am told he struggled and did not look natural when practicing out of a two-point stance.
Sleeper linebacker Anthony Harrell looked solid in position drills and was also tried at fullback.
Receiver Demarcus Robinson, whose times range from 4.56 to 4.7, looked mechanical, lacked explosion and did not show much quickness in his route running.
2016 Pro Day Notes: Tuesday, March 22, 12:30 p.m.
By Tony Pauline, http://draftinsider.net/
Florida and Louisiana Tech will be two highly watched pro-day events today.
Florida The workout is still going on, but early word on Keanu Neal is he improved his 40 time from the combine by more than .1 of a second. The “official” times on Neal will be 4.50 to 4.53, but a number of teams timed him in the high 4.4s (4.48/4.49). Neal is expected to re-run the shuttles and do position drills.
I’ve been told for the past week Neal is still in the conversation as the first-round pick for the Pittsburgh Steelers, who had defensive back coach Carnell Lake on hand today. The Atlanta Falcons recently sent their head coach and position coaches to work out Neal.
In the past hour, people on hand say Vernon Hargreaves looks tremendous in position drills. In fact, many say it’s one of the best pro-day position workouts they’ve witnessed from a cornerback and Hargreaves is killing the drills.
More on Florida as it comes in.
N.C. State One note from North Carolina State that came in late yesterday:
Former NFL receiver and Wolfpack alum T.J. Graham, who last played with the Buffalo Bills, worked out for scouts yesterday and ran 4.3 seconds in the 40. I’m told during passing drills quarterback Jacoby Brissett tried to impress with his arm strength by purposely overthrowing Graham to no avail, as the speedy receiver quickly ran down the ball.
2016 Pro Day Notes: Monday, March 21, 9:30 p.m.
By Tony Pauline, http://draftinsider.net/
Iowa Some of the news on the Iowa pro day has already circulated, but here are a few more details.
Safety Jordan Lomax improved on almost every one of his Combine marks timing as fast as 4.58 in the 40, 6.7 in the 3-cone and posting a vertical jump of 38.5 inches and a broad of 10-1.
Why were his marks so much better in the span of one month? I’m told Lomax stayed at school and trained for the Combine rather than training at a professional facility. The two weeks prior to his pro day, he spent at a training facility in California where he learned proper running techniques. Lomax also looked good in position drills.
Receiver Tevaun Smith ran 40 times which ranged between 4.33 and 4.40. Measuring 6003, 205 pounds, he posted a 38-inch vertical jump, 10-2 broad jump, timed 3.94 in the short shuttle and 6.56 in the 3-cone. Smith caught the ball well in drills and is a sleeper who just needs proper coaching to translate his athletic ability into football production.
Offensive lineman Jordan Walsh measured 6022, 311 pounds, timed 5.1 in the 40 with a 10 split of 1.76 and completed 22 reps on the bench press.
The saga of eligibility for Drew Ott continues to stretch on, thanks to the NCAA, which cannot make a decision. Sources at Iowa tell me Ott will enter the draft in two weeks if the NCAA does not hand down a final decision on his appeal to play college football in 2016. Shame on the NCAA!
South Florida The highest-rated USF prospects were dealing with injury.
Safety Jamie Byrd measured 5106, 189 pounds, but is dealing with a hamstring injury and only completed the bench (11 reps) and vertical jump (31.5 inches). He will run and participate in the Tampa Bay Bucs’ local workout in the middle of April.
Tight end Sean Price was dealing with hip and back issues. He ran the 40 in the 4.9s (against the wind) and 4.8s (with the wind).
Still waiting on marks from defensive end/linebacker Eric Lee.
Campbell Defensive tackle Greg Milhouse looked terrific at Campbell pro day.
He measured 6013, 295 pounds, completed 26 reps on the bench, posted a vertical jump of 33.5 inches and a broad of 9-3. His 40s were clocked in the 4.8s and he posted a 3-cone time of 7.5.
I’m told afterward he interviewed with a bunch of teams including the Dallas Cowboys, New York Giants, Miami Dolphins, Indianapolis Colts and Philadelphia Eagles.
Milhouse is described as “the real deal” by scouts and a “hard worker who’ll make an NFL roster”.
2016 Pro Day Notes: Monday, March 21, 6:10 p.m.
By Tony Pauline, http://draftinsider.net/
N.C. State In what’s been a rather slow day on the pro-day schedule, it’s been a non-Combine player who impressed the most at N.C. State.
N.C. State defensive end Mike Rose, who participated in the Shrine Game and a player many felt deserved an invitation to Indianapolis, turned heads during the Wolfpack pro day. Rose measured 6024, 261 pounds, timed 4.67/4.66 in the 40, 4.40 in the short shuttle and 7.47 in the 3-cone. He posted a vertical jump of 33.5 inches, a broad of 9-8 and completed 17 reps on the bench (33.5-inch arms).
I’m told Rose did an extensive amount of positions drills, many of which were linebacker drills, and looked really good. He met one-on-one with the Jacksonville Jaguars, Indianapolis Colts, San Diego Chargers, San Francisco 49ers, Denver Broncos and Cleveland Browns.
Running back Shadrach Thornton measured 5116, 220 pounds, timed 4.65/4.69 in the 40 and 7.12 in the 3-cone.
Tight end David Grinnage measured 6053, 255 pounds, timed 4.83/4.86 in the 40, posted a vertical jump of 29.5 inches and a broad jump of 9-3. He completed seven reps on the bench press.
2016 Pro Day Notes: Friday, March 18, 8:50 p.m.
By Tony Pauline, http://draftinsider.net/
Michigan The opinion of those leaving the Wolverines’ workout is quarterback Jake Rudock killed it today and looked very sharp in his position work. His passes were spot on and accurate.
One of the stars during today’s Michigan workout was Eastern Michigan running back Darius Jackson. The ball carrier measured 6000, 220 pounds, posted a 41-inch vertical jump and an 11-1 broad jump, and completed 20 reps on the bench. He was fast in the 40, timing in the mid 4.3s on many watches. The Detroit Lions spent hours with Jackson after the workout, driving back to EMU with him and watching film.
California Dismissing the lavish praise thrown on Jared Goff for a minute, here are some additional results from Cal’s pro day.
Receiver Trevor Davis went through position drills and look solid. He met with the Tennessee Titans and Detroit Lions.
Defensive lineman/outside linebacker Kyle Kragen, a relative unknown, put up solid numbers. He measured 6020, 248 pounds, completed 23 reps on the bench, posted a 37-inch vertical jump and a 9-6 broad jump. His 40 times went 4.77/4.79 and Kragen also had a 3-cone time of 7.04.
Receiver Kenny Lawler had 40 times which were similar to his Combine marks, clocking 4.57/4.64 in the 40. His vertical jump improved to 33.5 inches, broad to 9-8. Lawler met with the Tennessee Titans and New York Jets today.
Stephen Anderson improved his Combine times today, clocking 4.58/4.62 in the 40, 6.95 in the 3-cone and 4.13 in the short shuttle after measuring 6022, 230 pounds. He caught ball incredibly well, looking smooth and making a few difficult receptions. Some teams project Anderson as a move tight end, while others consider him a big possession receiver. Comparisons are being made to Jordan Reed.
Anderson met with the Tennessee Titans yesterday.
2016 Pro Day Notes: Friday, March 18, 3:45 p.m.
By Tony Pauline, http://draftinsider.net/
Sorry for the delay, but in light of the Trey Walker situation, a young man I wrote about extensively last year and came to like, it has been a difficult few hours. Without releasing all the details of what’s going as per instructions of those around him, all I can say is it’s an awful situation that will likely get much worse.
Michigan As far as the Wolverines are concerned, here are a few updates:
Defensive lineman Willie Henry stood on his Combine numbers and did only position drills. The Cincinnati Bengals, New York Jets and New England Patriots sent defensive line coaches to the workout for Henry.
Mario Ojemudia, who tore his Achilles after the fifth game of the season, was recently cleared medically and will have a workout on April 12.
Linebacker Desmond Morgan measured 5117, 231 pounds, completed 21 reps on the bench press, posted a 32.5-inch vertical jump and a 9-4 broad jump. While his 40 timed at 4.81, his short shuttle clocked 4.19 and 3-cone a swift 6.85. He met with the Minnesota Vikings, Detroit Lions and New England Patriots today.
Tight end/offensive AJ Williams measured 6047, 280 pounds, timed between 4.85 to 4.92 in the 40 and caught the ball well in position drills.
2016 Pro Day Notes: Friday, March 18, 12:50 p.m.
By Tony Pauline, http://draftinsider.net/
Ferris State The much-anticipated pro day for small-school defensive lineman Justin Zimmer of Ferris State, who worked out in Michigan today, is complete.
Some of the times are all over the place, but thus far I’ve been given the following: Zimmer measured 6024, 302 pounds, completed 44 reps on the bench, posted a vertical jump of 32 inches and a broad jump of 9-9. His 40 times ranged from the high 4.8s to the low 4.9s, while his 3-cone times were as fast as 7.10.
Zimmer did defensive line drills and no offensive line drills. I’m told most of the teams in attendance at Michigan pro day have approached Zimmer for one-on-one interviews.
2016 Pro Day Notes: Friday, March 18, 9:00 a.m.
By Tony Pauline, http://draftinsider.net/
Two big pro days are on the menu, as Michigan and California perform for scouts. A large crowd is expected to watch Jared Goff throw.
San Jose State The Spartans’ workout took place on Wednesday, but almost 50 scouts were on hand to watch the three prime prospects.
Tyler Ervin sat on most of his Combine numbers, but was put through a position workout that lasted 45 minutes. Ervin was put through running back drills, ran receiver routes and also participated in punt/kick return drills. Multiple sources told me Ervin looked good and could sneak into the third round. The Seattle Seahawks, Detroit Lions and Oakland Raiders all sent their offensive coordinators. The Cincinnati Bengals already worked out Ervin privately.
Cornerback Cleveland Wallace III also looked good in drills. He improved on his Combine numbers in the 40 (4.58 seconds) and vertical jump (37 inches). The New York Jets and New Orleans Saints have shown a lot of interest in Wallace.
William & Mary Linebacker Luke Rhodes tested well during pro day. Measuring 6014 and 236 pounds, Rhodes completed 29 reps on the bench, touched 35 inches in the vertical jump, 9-10 in the broad jump and timed 4.64 seconds in the 40. He spent time with the Arizona Cardinals, Green Bay Packers, Indianapolis Colts, Atlanta Falcons, Dallas Cowboys and New York Giants.
2016 Pro Day Notes: Thursday, March 17, 8:05 p.m.
By Tony Pauline, http://draftinsider.net/
Stanford Info from the just-completed Stanford pro day is coming in.
Quarterback Kevin Hogan threw the ball well and was on point and accurate with his passes throughout the workout. I’m told while he still has a slight wind-up, Hogan’s delivery is significantly more compact than it was last season or during the Senior Bowl and much better than the Combine. I mentioned a while ago the Buffalo Bills like Hogan, and it should come as no surprise that general manager Doug Whaley and director of college scouting were on hand.
Tight end Austin Hooper ran 40 times of 4.65/4.68, then caught the ball well during drills. Teams are concerned about Hooper’s blocking and it may take him some time to develop in that area. Several mentioned he’s the type of player you may take off the field on third and short. Detroit Lions offensive coordinator Jim Bob Cooter closely inspected the tight ends most of the day.
Devon Cajuste ran times in the 40 that ranged between 4.44 to 4.54. The college receiver did a bit of work at tight end today.
Linebacker Blake Martinez was exceptional. He measured 6013, 242 pounds, touched 34 inches in the vertical jump, then looked great in position drills.
Offensive guard Josh Garnett also looked really good in drills, easily moving about the field and showing good punch. 49ers coach Chip Kelly was enamored with Garnett, spending time with the offensive lineman and seen talking to his agent.
2016 Pro Day Notes: Thursday, March 17, 4:35 p.m.
By Tony Pauline, http://draftinsider.net/
SE Louisiana The SE Louisiana workout took place at the New Orleans Saints facility today where 26 teams showed up to watch cornerback Harlan Miller. Miller improved on his Combine 40 time and looked good in drills. Miller was with the Carolina Panthers last night for dinner and is taking an official visit to the team’s facilities before the draft.
Mississippi State Underrated pass rusher Ryan Brown was unable to work out at pro day this week. He continues to recover from foot surgery which took place after the Bulldogs’ final regular-season game. He has scheduled a date of April 18 to work out for scouts.
To date, Brown has official visits scheduled with the Oakland Raiders, Houston Texans, Dallas Cowboys and Miami Dolphins.
2016 Pro Day Notes: Thursday, March 17, 12:45 p.m.
By Tony Pauline, http://draftinsider.net/
Penn State The workout is still going on, but thus far the results have been positive for quarterback Christian Hackenberg. I’m told he’s looked good throwing the ball, especially on the move. The ball comes out of his hand funny on occasion and flutters, but thus far, Hackenberg has left a positive impression. Jordan Palmer is running the passing workout.
I’ve been told the Buffalo Bills have a very large contingent on hand.
Other marks I’m getting include 13 reps on the bench for tight end Kyle Carter and a 4.45 40 from Jordan Lucas.
Norfolk State Linebacker Deon King, whom many felt should have been invited to the Combine, is working out today, and thus far, the numbers coming in include 4.63 to 4.59 40, 32-inch vertical jump and a 10-foot broad jump.
2016 Pro Day Notes: Thursday, March 17, 9:00 a.m.
By Tony Pauline, http://draftinsider.net/
Several important pro day events on the calendar today, including Penn State and Stanford.
Out at the Farm, tight end Austin Hooper is planning on re-running the 40, weather permitting. Hooper has meetings set with the Miami Dolphins, Detroit Lions, Tennessee Titans and Carolina Panthers.
Speaking of the Panthers, the team is working out Cincinnati receivers Chris Moore and Johnny Holton today as well as Pittsburgh receiver Tyler Boyd.
Some late results from yesterday…
Boston College Fast-rising safety Justin Simmons ran his 40s in the 4.5-to-4.52 range, exceptional times by the senior.
Simmons interviewed with the Detroit Lions on Tuesday, doing film work and having dinner with the franchise. That is significant as the Lions also spent time with Simmons during Shrine week and interviewed him at the Combine.
Fresno State Cornerback Charles Washington stole the show. Washington had a monster vertical jump of 41 inches, then timed his 40 in 4.44 seconds.
Linebacker Edward Ederaine also ran well, timing 4.68 and 4.72 seconds in the 40.
Richmond The Richmond workout took place Tuesday, and I selfishly say two of my favorite small-school sleepers performed well.
Receiver Reginald Diggs measured 6033 and 214 pounds, had arm length of 32 5/8 inches, touched 38.5 inches in the vertical jump, 11 feet in the broad jump and timed 4.55 seconds in the 40. His 3-cone was a solid 7.05 seconds. Diggs met with the Philadelphia Eagles and Oakland Raiders during pro day.
Hard-charging ball-carrier Jacobi Green measured 5090 and 204 pounds, completed 23 reps on the bench, timed 4.54 seconds in the 40 and a 3-cone of 7.02 seconds. He also met with the Eagles.
2016 Pro Day Notes: Wednesday, March 16, 5:35 p.m.
By Tony Pauline, http://draftinsider.net/
Georgia Several Georgia Bulldogs improved on their Combine numbers at pro day today, starting with linebacker Jordan Jenkins.
Jenkins timed 4.75 in the 40 (.05 improvement from the combine), jumped 38 inches in the vertical (1.5-inch improvement) and completed 19 reps on the bench (+3).
Defensive lineman Sterling Bailey timed just over five seconds in the 40 (.2 improvement) and was one-half inch better in the vertical jump (30.5 inches). After the workout, Bailey met with New England Patriots head coach Bill Belichick and defensive coordination Matt Patricia.
Linebacker Jake Ganus, who was not invited to the Combine, ran a respectable 4.78 in the 40.
Baylor A few notes on players not named Corey Coleman or Xavien Howard:
Receiver Jay Lee, considered by many as a Combine snub, ran faster than expected timing in the low 4.5s, as most scouts viewed him as a 4.6-second player. His other marks included 33 inches on the vertical jump. Several people commented that Lee looked better than Corey Coleman during position drills. He met with the Seattle Seahawks, Detroit Lions, Green Bay Packers and Pittsburgh Steelers.
Offensive lineman Blake Muir put up solid numbers. Measuring 6060, 315 pounds, he completed 30 reps on the bench, touched 32 inches in the vertical jump and 9-8 in the broad jump. Muir’s 3-cone time was in the 7.5-second range, but his day was then ended by a hamstring strain.
Michigan State It was a big day for Jack Conklin, as scouts loved his position work. Scouts complimented Conklin for his flexibility, agility and body control. This was important, as Conklin is making more and more teams believe he’ll be able to handle the left tackle spot on Sunday.
Arkansas The times I’m receiving for tight end Hunter Henry are coming in the 4.67/4.68 range. There were a few low 4.7s.
Quarterback Brandon Allen looked sharp and accurate during a passing workout, which lasted almost 30 minutes. Allen interviewed with the Detroit Lions and Pittsburgh Steelers the past two days and last week worked out for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
Temple Final word on Temple is Robbie Anderson was faster than first reported, as I’m told there were times in the low 4.3s (4.32/4.34) on his 40s. I’m told he looked good in both receiver and defensive back drills. He caught the ball well at wideout and was clean in the defensive back drills. Scouts commented that they feel Anderson has definite potential as a next-level cornerback.
Cornerback Tavon Young did not run but posted a broad jump of 10-1, three inches better than his Combine mark. He met with the Arizona Cardinals, Tennessee Titans and Pittsburgh Steelers over the past two days.
Temple pro day also saw a strong performance by Penn tight end Ryan O’Malley, who measured 6062, 256 pounds, timed 4.75 in the 40 and looked good in position drills.
2016 Pro Day Notes: Wednesday, March 16, 2:35 p.m.
By Tony Pauline, http://draftinsider.net/
Pittsburgh To date, the slowest unofficial time I’ve heard on Tyler Boyd was in the very low 4.5s. He looked terrific in position drills, as was to be expected. As someone told me, “He caught everything that touched his hands.” Boyd is meeting with the San Francisco 49ers this afternoon.
Cornerback Lafayette Pitts sped across the 40 yards this morning in times under 4.4 seconds, with some watches stopping at 4.35.
2016 Pro Day Notes: Wednesday, March 16, 2:15 p.m.
By Tony Pauline, http://draftinsider.net/
Virginia Tech Dadi Nicholas improved on many of his Combine marks at today’s pro day. He weighed in at 239 pounds (235 at combine), completed 19 reps on the bench (14 Combine), touched 10-5 in the broad jump (9-8 Combine) and timed the 40 in the high 4.6s (4.74 Combine).
I’m told Nicholas looked terrific in drills, especially when asked to drop into coverage. He had interviews with several teams, among them the Cleveland Browns, Miami Dolphins and Green Bay Packers.
Cornerback Kendall Fuller, still recovering from a meniscus injury sustained last season, did not work out and neither did defensive lineman Luther Maddy or Corey Marshall.
I’m told there’s no definitive decision if Fuller will work out before the draft, while Marshall and Maddy are looking at a mid-April date to perform for scouts.
2016 Pro Day Notes: Wednesday, March 16, 12:20 p.m.
By Tony Pauline, http://draftinsider.net/
Temple Thirty-three scouts from 25 teams on hand at Temple pro day.
Matthew Ioannidis timed 7.56 seconds in the 3-cone after posting 9-5 in the broad.
Hershey Walton, the Owls’ other defensive lineman, timed in the low fives (5.07) in the 40, then 7.85 in the 3-cone.
Tyler Matakevich timed 7.11 seconds in the 3-cone, slightly better than his Combine number of 7.18.
Receiver Robbie Anders ran 40 times of 4.46 and 4.40 seconds, then completed both receiver and defensive back drills.
Pittsburgh As posted on Twitter, a number of stopwatches had receiver Tyler Boyd under 4.5 seconds, with some as fast as 4.46.
The workout is still going on, but I can tell you Boyd met with the Jacksonville Jaguars, L.A. Rams and San Diego Chargers yesterday.
Youngstown State Youngstown State had its pro day yesterday and linebacker Terrell Williams stole the show. Williams measured 6016 and 242 pounds, completed 31 reps on the bench, hit 10-11 on the broad jump, and then timed 4.68 seconds in the 40 and 4.32 seconds in the short shuttle. He looked equally athletic during position drills.
Both the New York Jets and Philadelphia Eagles are looking at Williams as a backup linebacker/core special teams player.
2016 Pro Day Notes: Wednesday, March 16, 10:00 a.m.
By Tony Pauline, http://draftinsider.net/
A very busy pro day is underway today with a lot of draft positioning on the line, so let’s gets started.
Temple Thus far, two non-combine invitees have looked very good:
Receiver Robbiey Anderson, who performed well at the Shrine game, has run 4.44 in the 40 and touched 37.5 inches in the vertical jump.
Center Kyle Friend completed 41 reps on the bench and timed 5.08 in the 40.
Linebacker Tyler Matakevich and defensive lineman Matthew Ioannidis are sitting on most of their Combine marks. Matakevich did not run the 40.
Players are still running and will move to the shuttles.
2016 Pro Day Notes: Tuesday, March 15, 6:45 p.m.
By Tony Pauline, http://draftinsider.net/
UCLA The day’s big star from UCLA’s pro day was linebacker Aarron Wallace.
After some outstanding testing numbers, Wallace carried that momentum through the position drills. Though he slipped on a few occasions, scouts were very impressed the way he moved in reverse and how he looked in coverage drills, especially for a college linebacker who spent much of his career playing on or near the line of scrimmage. I’m told Wallace, who had dinner with Mark Duffner of the Tampa Bay Bucs last night, received raved reviews from UCLA coach Jim Mora, who went out of his way to talk up the linebacker to coaches and general managers in attendance.
Myles Jack also looked incredible during position drills, but his non-participation in the 40 and shuttles rubbed some people the wrong way.
Jack was described as a “remarkable athlete,” and as one source at the workout said, “he looked like a defensive back doing linebacker drills,” referring to his speed, quickness and ease of movement. Jack showed no ill effects from his knee surgery as he easily moved in every direction.
That being the case, some teams wondered aloud why he didn’t run the 40 or shuttles.
It was long trip for many of the teams who came specifically to watch Jack, and many felt he would’ve been better off announcing a private workout before today’s pro day in which he would participate in everything, as it would’ve saved some NFL decision-makers a trip across the country.
Alex Redmond also had a great position workout, as he looked athletic, smooth and NFL-ready.
And while many feel his position work was some of the best of any offensive guard in the run-up to this year’s draft, teams wonder what’s going on between his ears. Redmond was not reliable at UCLA and often showed up late. There were other issues in school, but the belief is the team that selects him could have a future starter if they get the best out of Redmond.
2016 Pro Day Notes: Tuesday, March 15, 3:50 p.m.
By Tony Pauline, http://draftinsider.net/
UCLA As reported earlier and posted on Twitter, Myles Jack did not test in any of the running events, but did touch 40 inches in the vertical jump and 10-4 in the broad.
The running events are over, and the Bruins are finishing up the bench press (reverse from the Combine and most other pro days).
Thus far, it’s been non-Combine invitee Aaron Wallace who’s been the star of the show. His 40 times have been consistently in the low 4.5s (4.51) with a few high 4.4s. He touched 36 inches on the vertical jump and 10-10 on the broad, while also completing 25 reps on the bench.
Tight end Thomas Duarte timed in the mid-to-high 4.6s today (4.67).
Running back Paul Perkins did not run the 40.
2016 Pro Day Notes: Tuesday, March 15, 3:00 p.m.
By Tony Pauline, http://draftinsider.net/
UCLA A large crowd is on hand at the Bruins’ pro day, which was to be expected.
Thus far, I’m told Reggie McKenzie (Oakland Raiders), Les Snead (Los Angeles Rams), Doug Whaley (Buffalo Bills) and Trent Balke (San Francisco 49ers) were just some of the general managers prowling the sidelines.
The 40s are just about complete, and the big news is Myles Jack did not run. He warmed up and it looks like he will participate in other drills, but did not run the 40. It seems the only Combine participant who chose to rerun the 40 was tight end Thomas Duarte.
I’m told many of the times have been very fast. Linebacker Aaron Wallace, who has also added the Indianapolis Colts to his official visit list, was timed in the low 4.5s/high 4.4s.
2016 Pro Day Notes: Tuesday, March 15, 9:00 a.m.
By Tony Pauline, http://draftinsider.net/
The long-awaited pro day for Myles Jack takes place this afternoon as a big crowd is expected in Westwood. But scouts will be there for more than just one linebacker.
Aaron Wallace, the Bruins’ other linebacker, is gaining a lot of momentum in the scouting community, and scouts are really looking forward to watching him work out today. Not rated entering the season, Wallace led the Bruins with 12.5 tackles for a loss and added 65 tackles. Thus far, Wallace has official visits set up with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the Cleveland Browns and the Oakland Raiders. More visits are expected.
Some final notes from yesterday:
North of the border, defensive lineman David Onyemata, who looked tremendous in spots during East-West Shrine week, performed for 17 NFL teams at the University of Manitoba in Winnipeg. Onyemata completed 33 reps on the bench (arm length 33 1/4 inches), posted a vertical jump of 33 inches, a broad jump of 9-11 and ran the 40 in 5.06 seconds at 300 pounds. The New Orleans Saints and Philadelphia Eagles put Onyemata through defensive line drills.
Numbers for Silverberry Mouhon from Cincinnati’s pro day yesterday included 27 reps on the bench, a 31-inch vertical jump and a 40 time in the mid 4.8s. He was worked at both defensive line and linebackers drills, and scouts were very impressed with Mouhon’s quickness, first-step and acceleration.
Nine teams, including the Detroit Lions, Cincinnati Bengals, Green By Packers, Kansas City Chiefs, Cleveland Browns, New York Giants, San Francisco 49ers, Atlanta Falcons and Washington Redskins, traveled to Sacramento to watch massive offensive tackle Lars Hanson work out.
Hanson’s testing numbers included measuring 6067, 310 pounds, completing 28 reps on the bench and posting 5.2 seconds in the 40. The belief is Hanson will be destined for a practice squad this fall.
Linebacker Darnell Sankey, who is highly thought of in many scouting circles but hurt his ankle during the NFLPA game, did not test or do position drills.
2016 Pro Day Notes: Monday, March 14, 7:15 p.m.
By Tony Pauline, http://draftinsider.net/
LSU The pro day at LSU is complete, and there were some rather fast times as Combine participants improved on their marks from Indianapolis.
Linebacker Deion Jones was the day’s big winner, timing 4.40 in the 40, an improvement of .19 seconds from his Combine mark. Safety Jalen Mills also bettered his mark from Indianapolis, timing 4.50 in the 40.
Former LSU cornerback Rashard Robinson ran times which were clocked between 4.42 and 4.45. It was an improvement from his performance at the Combine; it was a solid mark, but not a great time. I’m told there were 21 teams on hand and a combination of secondary coaches, defensive coordinators and even few head coaches in Baton Rouge primarily to watch Robinson, who is all over draft boards.
2016 Pro Day Notes: Monday, March 14, 1:35 p.m.
By Tony Pauline, http://draftinsider.net/
Cincinnati Pro-day at Cincinnati is over, as wide receiver coaches from the New York Jets, New York Giants and Detroit Lions were on hand, as was New England Patriots Director of Plater Personnel Nick Caserio.
Offensive lineman Parker Ehinger, who participated at the combine, is struggling with a hamstring issue and did not workout today. The plan is for Ehinger to work out for teams on April 5.
Receiver Johnny Holton saw a significant improvement in his 40 time, clocking in the low to mid 4.4s. As previously mentioned, Holton ran at the Combine with a bad hamstring. His other numbers included a vertical jump of 36.5 inches and a broad jump of 10-4.
Receiver Mekale Mckay, who also worked out at the Combine, posted a vertical jump of 37.5 inches. Receiver Shaq Washington hurt his hamstring during his initial 40 and was done for the day.
I’m told both Moore and Holton looked good in position drills. At one point toward the end of the workout, Nick Caserio requested the receivers run specific routes.
The Kansas City Chiefs later put Holton through defensive back drills.
2016 Pro Day Notes: Monday, March 14, 9:00 a.m.
By Tony Pauline, http://draftinsider.net/
Week Two on the pro-day schedule kicks off with a much anticipated workout at LSU and a chance for former Tiger cornerback Rashard Robinson to impress scouts. A big crowd is also expected in Cincinnati to watch a number of offensive prospects.
LSU Rashard Robinson, the big unknown at the cornerback position, is participating in today’s pro-day at LSU. Robinson did not test as well as expected at the combine, but was one of the many invitees who fell sick in Indianapolis.
Robinson did meet with the Denver Broncos last night.
Cincinnati In Cincinnati, receivers Chris Moore, Johnny Holton, Mekale Mckay and Shaq Washington are drawing a lot of interest.
Moore will stand on his combine numbers, while Holton, who was suffering with a Grade 4 hamstring strain during the combine, will run again with the hopes of improving his 40 time of 4.54 seconds.
I’m told Moore met with the San Diego Chargers last night while Holton has meetings set up with the Detroit Lions, Carolina Panthers and San Francisco 49ers.
2016 Pro Day Notes: Friday, March 11, 4:50 p.m.
By Tony Pauline, http://draftinsider.net/
Ohio State More on the Buckeyes:
Some teams walked away from the Buckeyes’ pro day with a 40 time for Michael Thomas in the low 4.3s. Like the Combine, most teams use the 40 time that’s on their scouts’ stopwatch as opposed to any “official” time that makes its way through the media. After the workout, Thomas met extensively with the San Diego Chargers.
Joey Bosa is receiving very positive reviews for his workout today. He was faster (under 4.8 on most watches), stronger (28 on the bench) and significantly better in drills. Most on hand thought his position workout was outstanding. In the coming weeks, Bosa will work out or officially visit the Tennessee Titans (who met with him after the workout), Cleveland Browns, Dallas Cowboys and Jacksonville Jaguars.
Darron Lee spent a lot of time with the San Francisco 49ers after the workout and also met with the Tennessee Titans. He has cemented himself as a top-15 pick.
While it was only bag drills, scouts on hand told me they were surprised by the power and punch displayed by Taylor Decker today.
2016 Pro Day Notes: Friday, March 11, 1:20 p.m.
By Tony Pauline, http://draftinsider.net/
Ohio State Ohio State Pro day is coming to a close and these are the observations from people on the inside I briefly spoke with:
Michael Thomas/WR: “Best workout of the day. Ran faster than I expected, ran terrific routes and caught the ball really well. Much better receiver than people give him credit for.”
Braxton Miller/WR: “Had a great workout but he also looked great during Senior Bowl practice. It’s a matter of transitioning all this talent into game production, which he couldn’t do during the Senior Bowl game. It may take a little longer than people want, but he’ll get there.”
Ezekiel Elliott/RB: “Looked significantly better catching the ball today. I don’t know what was wrong during the combine.”
Darron Lee/OLB: “Dynamic athlete and a good-looking football player. In the right system with proper coaching, he has Pro Bowl potential.”
Joshua Perry/ILB: “Big, and maybe a little to big. Somewhat stiff.” (not a quote but some feel he can only play in a 3-4).
Nick Vannett/TE: “He’s going to be under-drafted. Should be a top-75 pick but may last until the fourth round. Does everything very well, but not the glamour-boy field-stretcher everyone wants today. ”
2016 Pro Day Notes: Friday, March 11, 11:15 a.m.
By Tony Pauline, http://draftinsider.net/
Ohio State The league has descended on Columbus for Ohio State pro day, which is underway. Teams were on campus yesterday interviewing players (see below), including Joey Bosa, who had dinner with the San Diego Chargers last night. Le’Raven Clark of Texas Tech and the rest of the Red Raiders also take part in workouts today.
Safety Tyvis Powell will participate in position drills today and rest on his testing numbers from the Combine. Powell had one-on-one interviews with the Cleveland Browns, Detroit Lions, Tennessee Titans and New Orleans Saints.
As mentioned during the Combine, the Titans will look to select a safety during the draft’s second day. The Lions will look safety early as well after missing out on George Iloka in free agency.
Tight end Nick Vannett is expected to run today after not participating in the 40 at the combine. Yesterday, Vannett met with the Philadelphia Eagles, San Francisco 49ers, Denver Broncos, Seattle Seahawks, Atlanta Falcons and New York Jets.
Once again, the Jets are showing interest in Vannett, as they’ve met with him previously, and the team’s offensive line coach worked out the tight end privately.
Fast-rising linebacker Darron Lee interviewed with the Cleveland Browns and New Orleans Saints yesterday.
One note from yesterday’s pro day:
I mentioned Taveze Calhoun looked terrific in position drills during the Mississippi State workout and impressed scouts. I’ve since found out the San Francisco 49ers met extensively with Calhoun the evening before pro day, and the cornerback had private meetings with the Miami Dolphins, New York Giants as well as the Los Angeles Rams.
As for the Ohio State workouts:
Receiver Michael Thomas has been really impressive in the early going and timed under 4.4 on his second 40.
Thomas met with the New Orleans Saints yesterday, and from what I’m told, he had an outstanding meeting with the Cleveland Browns.
The receiver also has a workout scheduled with the New England Patriots next week.
I’m told tight end Vannett ran in the mid 4.7s.
Something to take note of: In the past, teams have usually added .03 to .05 to times at Ohio State pro day due to the fast surface,
2016 Pro Day Notes: Thursday, March 10, 9:50 p.m.
By Tony Pauline, http://draftinsider.net/
Oregon Oregon had four players invited to the Combine, but the prospect who wowed everyone at pro day was linebacker Joe Walker, would did not receive an invitation.
Walker’s testing marks included measuring 6020, 236 pounds, posting a 37.5 inch vertical jump and a broad jump which measured 10-4. He completed 23 on the bench, then ran 40 times which clocked 4.60/4.63, a short shuttle of 4.37 and a 3-cone at 6.84. Walker then looked good in position drills.
Graded as a street free agent entering the year, Walker was considered a terrific football player (he led the Ducks with 87 tackle last season) but questionable athlete. This will now have scouts rethinking that opinion.
Walker met with the Cowboys last night.
Receiver Byron Marshall was fully healthy and able to test. His marks included 4.28 in the short shuttle and 6.95 in the 3-cone. Marshall looked good in position drills. He has a workout scheduled with the New England Patriots.
Offensive tackle Tyler Johnstone stood on his combine marks, but looked very good in position drills.
2016 Pro Day Notes: Thursday, March 10, 3:40 p.m.
By Tony Pauline, http://draftinsider.net/
Clemson Players, scouts and coaches are leaving Clemson, and here is the latest word.
Kevin Dodd looked terrific in both defensive line and linebacker drills, displaying a lot of athleticism and ease moving around the field. His testing numbers included a 30.5-inch vertical jump, 9-2 broad jump, 4.44 in the short shuttle and 7.31 in the 3-cone. He also completed 22 reps on the bench press. The question now is how early in Round 1 will Dodd be selected?
I’m told Shaq Lawson also looked good in defensive line drills, but struggled when put through the battery of linebacker drills.
People are gushing over the position workout of Mackensie Alexander. He was very fluid and natural in all his movements. Teams love the versatility he offers and the ability to line up in multiple coverages; man coverage, backed off the line, and zone. Many are critical of Alexander’s stats last season: 5 PBUs and no interceptions, but as one scout rightfully said to me, “He can’t intercept the ball if no one is throwing it his way!”
T.J. Green looked much better in his positional workout at pro day compared to the Combine. He was smooth, and his footwork was much better. Green ran the short shuttle (4.4) and 3-cone (7.12) today.
Conversely, scouts were not impressed by the positional work of Jayron Kearse. He was not as nearly as quick or smooth when taking reps with Green or Alexander. As one source said, Kearse may be best off adding 20 pounds and moving to linebacker.
Finally, B.J. Goodson had a very good day in position drills and helped his stock.
Harvard Twenty-six teams were on hand, including offensive line coaches for the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Baltimore Ravens and New England Patriots, as well as the Indianapolis Colts tight end coach.
Offensive lineman Cole Toner tested again, completing 24 reps on the bench, running the 40 in times of 5.08 to 5.14, and touching 27 inches on the vertical jump.
Tight end Ben Braunecker had a terrific workout and timed 4.65 to 4.72 in the 40, touched 37.5 inches in the vertical jump and 10-1 in the broad.
2016 Pro Day Notes: Thursday, March 10, 1:45 p.m.
By Tony Pauline, http://draftinsider.net/
Mississippi State About 20 teams were on hand for the Bulldogs’ workout, including Bengals defensive coordinator Paul Guenther.
Receiver Da’Runnya Wilson improved his 40 time from the Combine, timing between 4.71 and 4.78. He caught the ball well in drills and completed 13 reps on the bench. Wilson met with the San Francisco 49ers today.
Linebacker Beniquez Brown, who met with the 49ers yesterday, had a very good pro-day workout. Brown ran one 40, timing between 4.62 to 4.67 after weighing in at 236 pounds, seven more than his Combine weight. I’m told he looked outstanding in position drills and moved better than some of the defensive backs on hand. Take note – Brown met with the Dolphins during the day.
I’m told defensive tackle Chris Jones had an outstanding positional workout and was described as “looking like a first-rounder.”
Underrated corner Taveze Calhoun also stood out in position work. Teammate Will Redmond, who is still recovering from the ACL injury which sidelined him the second half of the season, was on the sidelines.
Quarterback Dak Prescott had an up-and-down day, making some nice passes but also throwing high of the mark on a number of occasions.
Illinois Safety Clayton Fejedelem had a very good day, measuring 6000, 204 pounds, posting a vertical jump of 40.5 inches, broad jump of 10-1 and timing the 40 in 4.45 to 4.50. He also completed 20 reps on the bench. Fejedelem, who was not rated by scouts entering the season, finished off a terrific senior campaign with a good showing during Shrine week and now looks like a lock in the late rounds.
Receiver Geronimo Allison timed 4.56 in the 40 (compared to 4.67 at the Combine) and caught all the passes thrown to him in position drills.
2016 Pro Day Notes: Thursday, March 10, 12:05 p.m.
By Tony Pauline, http://draftinsider.net/
Harvard Thus far, underrated offensive lineman Anthony Fabiano has looked terrific at pro day. Just six weeks removed from walking around in a boot on his surgically repaired foot, Fabiano measured 6036, 303 pounds, completed 25 reps on the bench, ran the 40 in 4.94, timed 4.34 in the short shuttle and 7.41 in the 3-cone. His vertical jump was 32.5 inches, while his broad measured nine feet even. Fabiano looked solid in position drills.
Fabiano caught my eye as a sophomore at Harvard when he played left tackle before being pushed inside to guard. His senior film is underwhelming, but Fabiano was playing through injury as he struggled mightily with turf toe, which required surgery to permanently fix. He’s a late-round pick who can play any of the three interior offensive line positions.
Tulsa The New York Jets, San Francisco 49ers and Cincinnati Bengals (who sent their receivers coach) were just a few of the teams on hand to watch receiver Keyarris Garrett work out. Garrett measured slightly under 6-3 1/2 and 221 pounds, then tested in the vertical jump, where he improved to 38 inches (36.5 inches at combine).
Position work is still going on, but there’s a definite buzz building around Garrett, who entered the season graded as a street free agent. Consider this: After a record-breaking senior season (96 recptions, 1,588 yards, 8 TDs) Garrett ran 4.53s in the 40 at the combine, quelling concerns about his speed. He then had a terrific positional workout. Scouts also love the fact the big-bodied receiver comes with 34 inch arms.
Garrett already has visits set up with the Indianapolis Colts, New England Patriots and Carolina Panthers.
2016 Pro Day Notes: Thursday, March 10, 11:25 a.m.
By Tony Pauline, http://draftinsider.net/
Clemson The workout is still going on, but I’m getting early results on cornerback Mackensie Alexander.
His 40 times have ranged from low of 4.44 to a high of 4.50. His vertical jump was 37.5 inches.
I can tell you Alexander met one-on-one with the New York Jets and Pittsburgh Steelers last night and had dinner with the New Orleans Saints, a dinner in which head coach Sean Payton and assistant general manager Jeff Ireland attended.
2016 Pro Day Notes: Thursday, March 10, 9:00 a.m.
By Tony Pauline, http://draftinsider.net/
Another important date on the pro-day calendar as Clemson and Mississippi State are holding workouts for NFL teams.
At Clemson, fast-rising defensive end Kevin Dodd, who suffered a Grade 1 hamstring strain during his initial attempt in the 40, is planning on working out. Dodd will stand on his 40 time from the combine (4.86) but hopes to get all other testing and position drills in. Its almost universally accepted at this point that Dodd will be selected prior to his teammate Shaq Lawson, something I initially reported from East-West Shrine practice.
Another fast-rising Tiger, defensive back T.J. Green, is expected to do the shuttles and position drills. To date, Green has 12 private workouts/team visits scheduled. Teams are still split as to whether or not he projects as a safety or press corner on Sunday’s.
Keep an eye on Mississippi State linebacker Beniquez Brown. His official combine time was 4.77 seconds but most teams had him in the low 4.7s to high 4.6s. He is planning on running again today. Brown met with the San Francisco 49ers on Wednesday.
A few house keeping notes from yesterday.
There were several solid small-school performances from Wedensday’s pro days that need to be mentioned.
Tight end Joe Sommers of Wisconsin-Oshkosh looked good during the Badgers workout. Sommers timed 4.59 seconds in the 40, touched 36 inches in the vertical jump, ran the 3-cone in 6.84 seconds and completed 23 reps on the bench. He looked good catching the ball.
In Colorado, tackle Zeth Ramsey of Colorado-Mesa measured 6060, 302 pounds, completed 25 on the bench, ran the 40 in 5.11 seconds and posted a respectable 30.5-inch vertical jump and 9-8 broad jump. After the workout, he spent time with the Cincinnati Bengals, New York Jets, Indianapolis Colts and New Orleans Saints.
Quentin Gause of Rutgers built a buzz about himself with his performance and one local AFC East team told me he was the best player in attendance at the pro day. After the workout, Gause met with the Detroit Lions, Denver Broncos, Tampa Bay Bucs, Cincinnati Bengals, Philadelphia Eagles and New York Giants. He has three official visits set up.
2016 Pro Day Notes: Wednesday, March 9, 8:30 p.m.
By Tony Pauline, http://draftinsider.net/
Colorado Nelson Spruce ran times in the low 4.5s, with some watches reading 4.5 flat. I’m told besides catching the ball well, he ran very good routes.
Wisconsin Besides linebacker Joe Schobert, who looked very good, it was a rather ho-hum pro-day in Madison.
One interesting note was the fact Houston Texans coach Bill O’Brien was in attendance, a story initially reported by Ed Werder of ESPN, and he was in Madison to watch Joel Stave. I reported on Combine Saturday that a lot of teams like Stave’s size, arm strength and upside, but understand he needs work on his technique and decision-making. At the Combine, I was told later rounds is a definite for Stave, but some feel he could be off the board early in the third day. Despite the Texans signing of Brock Osweiler today, remember this point; O’Brien was the same coach who made the trip to Pittsburgh pro-day not long ago to watch Tom Savage, a physically gifted signal-caller who needed work on his technique and decision-making.
2016 Pro Day Notes: Wednesday, March 9, 7:30 p.m.
By Tony Pauline, http://draftinsider.net/
Colorado Numbers are still coming in, but from what I’ve been told, it was a good workout for massive lineman Stephane Nembot.
The offensive tackle, who measured 6-6 and 322 pounds at the Combine, timed 5.19 in the 40 (.2 better than Indianapolis), 4.82 in the short shuttle and 7.88 in the 3-cone. I’m told he was impressive during drills.
Nembot had private interviews with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, Kansas City Chiefs and Cincinnati Bengals, who also sent an offensive line coach to the workout.
Still waiting on numbers for receiver Nelson Spruce, but I heard he was a little lighter at pro day than his Combine weigh-in, and he caught the ball well.
Marshall Fullback/running back Devon Johnson was the headliner at today’s workout. Johnson, who sat on the sidelines at the Combine recovering from a back injury, measured 6005, 237 pounds, timed 4.63 in the 40 and posted jumps of 33.5 inches in the vertical and 9-5 in the broad. Johnson initially sustained his back injury last season, but soldiered through Shrine Game practices and pushed it a bit too much. Teams like his versatility and ability to line up just about anywhere in the backfield.
2016 Pro Day Notes: Wednesday, March 9, 2:45 p.m.
By Tony Pauline, http://draftinsider.net/
Colorado State More numbers are pouring in from Colorado State:
Linebacker Cory James, who was graded as a potential third-round pick entering the season, ran the 40 in 4.57/4.58 after measuring 6010, 229 pounds. His other marks included a vertical jump of 35 inches, a 10-7 broad jump and a terrific 3-cone of 6.67. Scouts commented that James looked fast and fluid during position drills.
Pass-catching tight end Kivon Cartwright measured 6037, 243 pounds, timed 4.69/4.72 in the 40, completed 23 reps (after arms which measured 35.5 inches!) and posted a vertical jump of 34.5 inches.
2016 Pro Day Notes: Wednesday, March 9, 2:05 p.m.
By Tony Pauline, http://draftinsider.net/
Colorado State Colorado State’s pro day workout has just finished up.
Receiver Rashard Higgins participated in the entire workout. I’m told his 40 times clocked in the high 4.5s, a slight improvement from his Combine time of 4.64.
Cornerback Deandre Elliott is still not 100 percent from the hamstring injury he suffered at the Combine and did not participate. Over the past two days, Elliott met with the Carolina Panthers, Pittsburgh Steelers and Indianapolis Colts.
Samford There was a big crowd on hand yesterday to watch defensive back James Bradberry, who sat on most of his Combine numbers, but participated in position drills. Bradberry did turn in a broad jump of 11 feet, eight inches better than his Combine mark. Bradberry had individual meetings with the Miami Dolphins and Tennessee Titans at Samford.
2016 Pro Day Notes: Wednesday, March 9, 1:05 p.m.
By Tony Pauline, http://draftinsider.net/
Oklahoma The workout is still going on in Norman, but results are beginning to leak out.
Cornerback Zack Sanchez, who did not run at the Combine due to a strained hamstring, timed under 4.5 in the 40. Times passed on to me ranged from a low of 4.44 to 4.49. The 40 time is a solid mark for Sanchez, who weighed in at 185 pounds at the combine. The cornerback met with the Cincinnati Bengals and San Francisco 49ers yesterday.
Former Sooner receiver Ryan Broyles worked out for scouts and ran the 40 in times of 4.50 and 4.51.
2016 Pro Day Notes: Wednesday, March 9, 12:15 p.m.
By Tony Pauline, http://draftinsider.net/
Rutgers The workout is just about over at Rutgers, and the day’s big winner was linebacker Quentin Gause.
Gause, who comes off a monster season in which he finished with 96 tackles, including 12 for loss, timed 4.75 in the 40 after posting 23 reps on the bench. His other numbers included a vertical jump of 36 inches, broad of 9-9 and some quick agility numbers including 4.15 in the short shuttle and 7.0s in the 3-cone.
Linebacker Steve Longa slightly improved on his Combine numbers, timing 4.72 in the 40 (4.78 at Combine), 21 reps on the bench (19 at combine), 10-0 broad jump (4-inch improvement) and a 4.23 short shuttle (4.50 at combine).
Offensive tackle Keith Lumpkin measured 6076, 320 pounds, completed 23 reps on the bench press, touched 28.5 inches in the vertical jump and timed 7.74 in the 3-cone. He sat out the 40 after tweaking a groin muscle.
Lumpkin, who met extensively with the New York Jets during Shrine Game week, met privately with the Miami Dolphins last night.
2016 Pro Day Notes: Wednesday, March 9, 10:40 a.m.
By Tony Pauline, http://draftinsider.net/
The pro-day schedule picks up steam the second half of this week and kicks off today with Alabama and Oklahoma as the headline events. All told, as many as five first-round picks and 25 draftable players will be working out for scouts across the nation today.
I’m told Reggie Ragland is planning on running the 40 and the 3-cone at Alabama’s pro-day today. In Norman, cornerback Zach Sanchez is running the 40, while receiver Sterling Shepard will stand on his Combine mark.
To bring you up to date from earlier in the week, these were the final numbers for Theiran Cockran of Minnesota: 6047, 247 pounds, 33 7/8 arm, 22 bench, 4.83 40, 7.40s 3-cone, 37-inch vertical and 10-1 broad jump. Cockran has caught fire with some teams as a potential late-round pick.
2016 Pro Day Notes: Tuesday, March 8, 4:50 p.m.
By Tony Pauline, http://draftinsider.net/
Results from pro days in the Midwest have been a little slow coming in.
I am told the New York Giants had decent-sized presence in attendance at Oklahoma State pro day for Emmanuel Ogbah.
Kansas State’s pro day is just about wrapping up. Cornerback and all-conference return-specialist Morgan Burns stayed true to form and timed 4.34 to 4.38 in the 40. The Arizona Cardinals are on hand to specifically workout Burns as a punt/kick returner.
Fellow corner Danzel McDaniel, who flashed a lot of skill as a junior but had his senior season cut short by a knee injury, is expected to work out today.
2016 Pro Day Notes: Tuesday, March 8, 12:20 p.m.
By Tony Pauline, http://draftinsider.net/
Jacksonville State Almost two dozen teams were on hand for Jacksonville State pro day, with defensive tackle DeVaunte Sigler the headliner.
Sigler completed 23 reps on the bench, the same number as the Combine, then posted a 40 time which clocked as fast as 4.85 on a number of watches, an improvement of .2 seconds from Indianapolis. Sigler suffered a minor hamstring strain on the second attempt and left for the trainers room. He won’t be participating in position drills. I’m told he had no formal meetings today.
In other news from the JSU pro day, defensive end LaMichael Fanning was seen sporting Alabama gear (the school he formerly played for) while prowling the sidelines. Fanning entered the season with late-round grades but played in just three games before sustaining a year ending ACL injury. Word is he will return for another season with Jacksonville State this coming September.
2016 Pro Day Notes: Tuesday, March 8, 11:05 a.m.
By Tony Pauline, http://draftinsider.net/
The pro-day schedule picks up the pace on Tuesday, as seven workouts are scheduled, headlined by Oklahoma State.
One player who will be at the Oklahoma State workout but not participating is defensive lineman Jimmy Bean. Bean is still not 100 percent from the surgery he underwent after Week 8 of the college season to repair a torn ACL. Sources close to his camp tell me it’s unlikely Bean works out prior to the draft.
One late note from yesterday was the performance of North Dakota linebacker William Ratelle, who took part in the Minnesota workout. Ratelle measured 5090, 251 pounds, completed 36 reps on the bench, posted a 36-inch vertical jump and 9-10 broad, and ran the 40 in 4.55. He did both linebacker and fullback drills for scouts in attendance.
2016 Pro Day Notes: Monday, March 7, 8:10 p.m.
By Tony Pauline, http://draftinsider.net/
Minnesota Times from the 40, 3-cone and shuttles from Minnesota pro day have been slow coming in, but the New England Patriots were very active at the workout.
The team met one-on-one with linebacker De’Vondre Campbell as well as underrated pass-rusher Theiren Cockran.
Campbell stood on his 40 time from the Combine and did position work. Besides the Patriots, he met with the Cleveland Browns and Tampa Bay Buccaneers for one-one-one interviews the past two days.
Cockran is a tremendous athlete coming off a disappointing campaign. He measured 6047, 250 pounds today, completed 22 reps on the bench (completed 25 but some teams discounted three reps) and posted a 37-inch vertical jump as well as a 10-1 broad jump. Teams want to see Cockran put on about 10 more pounds and fill out his frame. After meeting with the Patriots last night, Cockran sat down with the Minnesota Vikings after today’s workout.
Auburn Auburn cornerback Jonathan Jones stood on his fast 40 times from the Combine, but was still a busy man today. I’m told he met with about a half dozen teams the past two days, among them the Washington Redskins, Detroit Lions and Kansas City Chiefs.
2016 Pro Day Notes: Monday, March 7, 4:35 p.m.
By Tony Pauline, http://draftinsider.net/
Auburn Bill Belichick of the Patriots and Doug Whaley of the Buffalo Bills were just some of the people in attendance at Auburn’s pro-day.
Running back Peyton Barber improved on many of his marks from the Combine.
Barber tipped the scales at 232 pounds, then ran his 40 in a time of 4.59, about .05s faster than in Indianapolis. His other marks included 32.5 inches in the vertical and a broad of 9-3.
I’m told scouts ran Barber through a bunch of drills, and his footwork, pass-catching and pass-protection skills were impressive.
Underrated corner Blake Countess had a solid day. He timed 4.46 to 4.49 in the 40, completed 21 reps on the bench, then turned in a vertical jump of 36.5 inches and a broad jump of 10-2.
Countess met with seven teams including the Jacksonville Jaguars, Detroit Lions, San Francisco 49ers and Los Angeles Rams.
In other news from the workout, I’m told Shon Coleman is still hurt, while linebacker Cassanova McKinney hurt his hamstring on his first attempt at the 40 and will schedule a private workout at a later date.
2016 Pro Day Notes: Monday, March 7, 9:00 a.m.
By Tony Pauline, http://draftinsider.net/
The big workout on today’s light pro-day schedule features Auburn.
As of this morning, running back Peyton Barber is planning to run the 40 and hopes to improve on his Combine time which clocked in the 4.6s.
Linebacker Cassanova McKinzy, who did not run at the Combine due to a hamstring issue, is planning on completing a full workout, as is offensive lineman Avery Young.
Wideout Ricardo Louis, who timed the 40 in the 4.4s during the Combine, is planning on participating in the shuttles and position drills.
Late word I received from Friday’s pro day at Nebraska was defensive tackle Vincent Valentine had a solid overall day and looked especially good during position drills. Valentine met one-on-one with the Cleveland Browns, Detroit Lions and Tennessee Titans after pro day, and to date, has five private workouts set up.
2016 Pro Day Notes: Friday, March 4, 4:30 p.m. (4:45 update)
By Tony Pauline, http://draftinsider.net/
Eastern Kentucky The workout finished just a little while ago, and Noah Spence completed the 40 as well as position drills. Almost 40 scouts from 24 different teams were on hand.
Times for Spence ranged in the high 4.6s to 4.77 on a wet field in 37-degree temperature. Tampa Bay Bucs defensive line coach Jay Hayes ran the workout, and the early reports are Spence was impressive.
Kentucky Here’s the lowdown on why linebacker Josh Forrest ran so much faster today at pro day as compared to his combine workout:
Immediately after the combine, I tweeted safety Darian Thompson was sick in Indianapolis, which factored into his poor workout on Monday. I’ve since been told it was not just confined to Thompson as multiple players as well as scouts, coaches and other NFL team personnel were afflicted with various stomach flus and viruses.
Amongst them were Utah defensive end Jason Fanaika, as well as Forrest.
It was recommended to Forrest on Saturday evening, the night before his workout, he not run for the 40, but he went ahead and did so anyway. I’m told right now the Carolina Panthers and Cincinnati Bengals are showing strong interest in the linebacker.
Offensive tackle Jordan Swindle, whom many thought deserved a combine invitation, measured 6065, 313 pounds, completed 22 reps on the bench press and ran 5.38 in the 40. His broad was 9-5, while his vertical jump hit 29 inches.
Arizona State The headliner from Arizona State pro day was offensive guard Vivii Teofilo, who completed 43 reps on the bench. I’m told he went non-stop to 35 reps before gritting out the final eight.
Scouts on hand were pleased with the performance of linebacker Antonio Longino. He measured 6020, 235 pounds, completed 22 reps on the bench, then ran the 40 in the mid 4.6s. He looked good in position drills.
D.J. Foster looked much improved from his combine performance, running in the mid 4.4s, then looking phenomenal catching the ball.
Receiver Devin Lucien measured 6010, 222 pounds, timed 4.48 in the 40, touched 34.5 inches in the vertical jump, 9-9 in the broad and completed 13 reps on the bench. I’m told his 3-cone was “in the 6.9s,” and he looked sharp catching the football.
Quarterback Mike Bercovici is getting mixed reviews. While I’m told he looked very sharp inside of 15 yards, he struggled with his downfield throws, especially the deep outs. Bercovici struggled getting speed on his long throws, and they tended to hang in the air. I’m told Foster made an incredible reception on one of the long throws.
Update:
I’m told Noah Spence just did defensive line drills today, and no linebacker drills were requested by the teams on hand. I’m told it was a huge crowd today. The New York Jets had almost a half dozen people on hand.
Spence met with Tampa Bay defensive line coach Jay Hayes last night, as the team is considering him at defensive end. He is also scheduled to meet with the Miami Dolphins.
2016 Pro Day Notes: Friday, March 4, 1:10 p.m.
By Tony Pauline, http://draftinsider.net/
The schedule picks up today as Kentucky, Arizona State and Eastern Kentucky work out for scouts. Obviously, the big name of the day is Noah Spence.
Spence was scheduled to run the 40, shuttles and 3-cone today then participate in position drills at Eastern Kentucky, but I’m told the weather is not agreeing. It’s been a cloudy, 30-degree day in Richmond, Kentucky after snow and rain last evening. The field is not in good condition and EKU has no indoor facility for the workout. It’s likely to be wait-and-see situation for Spence and others, who are scheduled to work out in about an hour.
Several people tell me Spence’s combine interviews were not nearly as bad as they are being portrayed in the general media. While he didn’t knock it out of the park, there were not a whole lot of teams shaking their heads after speaking with Spence.
The Kentucky Wildcats just finished their workout, and I’m told linebacker Josh Forrest ran his 40 in the high 4.6s to low 4.7s, a significant improvement from his Combine times which were .2 slower. Forrest stood pat on his shuttle and 3-cone times from Indianapolis, but participated in position drills.
Defensive tackle Melvin Lewis, considered draftable by some, participated in position drills and will test later in March. Lewis fractured a fibula in the game against Auburn on Oct. 15 and needs additional training time.
2016 Pro Day Notes: Thursday, March 3, 5:05 p.m. (9:40 update)
By Tony Pauline, http://draftinsider.net/
Vanderbilt Early results from Vanderbilt pro day:
On the bench press, offensive lineman Jacob Bernstein and Spencer Pulley completed 29 and 28 reps, respectively. Tight end Steven Scheu completed 23 reps.
Unofficial times in the 40 include Scheu in the low 4.7s, an excellent mark, and safety Andrew Williamson clocked in at 4.45. Williamson was also under 7 seconds in his 3-cone. Linebacker Stephen Weatherly was unofficially in the low sevens in the 3-cone.
Williamson had a real good day. In addition to his 4.45 time, Williamson measured 6006, 208 pounds and posted a 35-inch vertical jump as well as a 10-4 broad jump.
Update:
I’m told, overall, it was a good day for tight end Steven Scheu. He measured 6045, 253 pounds and had 10.5-inch hands. His 40 times ranged from a fast of 4.65 to 4.75. His other marks included 32.5-inches in the vertical jump and 9-8 in the broad. I’m told Scheu caught the ball very well and also did some long snapping, as he was the Commodores long snapper.
Linebacker Stephen Weatherly did in fact run in the low seven-second range during the 3-cone, timing 7.12 with a short shuttle of 4.42. The junior later looked smooth and very fluid in drills. He could be drafted much earlier than people expect.
Finally, offensive lineman Spencer Pulley posted a 40 time of 5.10, ran the 3-cone in 7.50 and jumped 9-4 in the broad after measuring 6040, 301 pounds.
2016 Pro Day Notes: Thursday, March 3, 12:30 p.m.
By Tony Pauline, http://draftinsider.net/
A slow start to the beginning of the pro-day schedule, as Vanderbilt takes the field around 11:30 EST today, then Northern Arizona later this afternoon. Obviously, the big attraction at the Vanderbilt pro-day is linebacker Stephen Weatherly.
Twenty-seven NFL teams are on hand for Vandy pro day despite the fact Weatherly is the only draftable player. I’m told Weatherly will stand on his combine 40 time, which was 4.60 electronic, but is slated to participate in the 3-cone, shuttles and position drills.
The other prospect to watch is tight end Steven Scheu, whom many thought deserved a combine invitation.
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