The NFL Combine in Indianapolis is in the books.
Here are some of my observations from the drills, media availability and what our 25 guests said during eight hours of Big Blue Kickoff Live from Tuesday to Friday last week. Here, I look at the defense position by position.
Edge Rushers
The presumptive top non-quarterback in the draft class, Ohio State's Chase Young, chose not to participate in any of the drills. He did measure at 6-5 and 264 pounds. One of the reasons he gave for not participating, according to NFL Network, is he did not want to alter his training to get ready for the Combine. Instead, he will focus on getting ready to play football, which is a very different type of training than trying to maximize Combine results.
Another first round caliber edge rusher, K'Lavon Chaisson, did not participate in any of the timed events or field drills. He does not lack for confidence and declared himself the "most valuable" player at the Combine when he addressed the media. Penn State's Yetur Gross-Matos did not run the 40 but posted the sixth-best broad jump amongst defensive linemen and the fourth-best vertical jump.
A.J. Epenesa, considered by some to be the second best edge rusher in the draft, was better in field drills than in testing. He looked very smooth in all the on-field drills. He only ran 5.04 in the 40 with a commensurate 10-yard split. He is more of a power rusher, and his results in the jumping drills should reinforce those skills.
Alex Highsmith from UNC-Charlotte had a great day. He had the fourth-best 40 at 4.70, the fourth-best 3-cone drill at 7.32, the sixth-best vertical jump at 33.5 inches, and the third-best broad jump at 125 inches. He weighed in at 6-3 and 248 pounds and checked the boxes you want athletically in an edge rusher.
Florida's Jonathan Greenard had the second-best 3-cone time at 7.13 seconds, which might make scouts look past some of his other scores that fell in the middle of the pack. Syracuse's Alton Robinson posted great results, with top five measurements in the 40, the 3-cone drill and the vertical jump. Those types of results at 6-3 and 264 pounds will draw eyeballs.
Defensive Tackles
The defensive tackles at the combine notched some impressive numbers.
Derrick Brown, considered to be the top tackle in the draft, posted 28 reps on the bench, seventh-most among defensive linemen. His other speed and agility numbers were near the bottom of the position group, but it remains to be seen how those testing times will have an impact on where he is selected.
Javon Kinlaw, considered the second-best defensive tackle, did not do anything at the Combine. When he addressed the media, he spoke about the adversity he had to overcome growing up homeless, and it's clear that playing in the NFL won't be too much for him to handle.
The Nebraska twins, Carlos and Khalil Davis, both had excellent days with top ten 40 times as they outran several defensive ends. Neville Gallimore ran an excellent 40 time for a defensive tackle at 4.79, but was near the bottom of the group in the 3-cone and short shuttle agility drills. Justin Madabuike from Texas A&M ran an impressive 4.83 in the 40.
Auburn 3-technique/defensive end Marlon Davidson did not do any athletic events except the bench press (21) and 40-yard dash (5.04), but he was fun to listen to at the podium. He talked about how much he loves the violent aspects of football and said he admired defensive end Cameron Jordan, who he described as "vicious". That attitude will certainly appeal to NFL front offices.
Linebackers
The world of the new-age, smaller, quicker and fast linebacker is officially here. The 230-240 pound linebackers who look more like safeties from the late 90's are now the norm. Led by Isaiah Simmons' ridiculous 4.39, 10 linebackers ran sub-4.6 in the 40.
Simmons, unfortunately, appeared to injure his hamstring on his 40, which cut his day short. Before his injury, Simmons had the fourth-highest vertical jump (39 inches) and second-best broad jump (132 inches). He did not run the short shuttle or 3-cone drill. He impressed at the podium and said his best role is the one he played in college: playing everywhere (linebacker, pass rusher, box safety, deep safety, slot cornerback). According to NFL Network, he said if he could pick one role, it would be weakside linebacker.
Watching Oklahoma linebacker Kenneth Murray at the podium was a revelation. His father, a pastor, and his mother, a retired police officer, adopted three special needs children he grew up with and helped raise. He also helped resuscitate a woman he found unconscious on the sidewalk using CPR. After reviving the woman, he left the scene, hoping he wouldn't be recognized. His leadership qualities appear to be off the charts.
Murray weighed in at 6-2 and 241 pounds, had the sixth-best 40 time (4.52 seconds), sixth-best vertical jump (38 inches), the third-best broad jump (129 inches) and was tied for the fifth-most reps on the bench press (21). Like Simmons, Murray pulled up on his second run of the 40-yard dash with an apparent hamstring injury. Based on the analysts we spoke to, he is very unlikely to make it out of the first round.
Patrick Queen, another potential first rounder, ran the fourth-best 40 time of the group at 4.50. He had the 11th-best vertical jump and eighth-best broad jump. Like Murray and Simmons, he pulled up on his second 40-yard dash.
Wisconsin linebacker Zach Braun put up a solid 4.65 in the 40, and his 7.0 3-cone time was fifth-best in the class. His jumping numbers were in the middle of the group. Braun was used primarily as an edge rusher in college but is expected to be used in a more traditional off-ball role in the NFL.
Ohio State's Malik Harrison is considered more an on old-school downhill linebacker, but he timed the best 3-cone at the position at 6.83 seconds. Along with his 4.66 in the 40, Harrison could be moving up draft boards if evaluators believe he has the athleticism to improve in coverage.
Must-see photos from the 2020 NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis
Ohio State defensive back Jeff Okudah runs the 40-yard dash at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Sunday, March 1, 2020. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
LSU quarterback Joe Burrow watches a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Thursday, Feb. 27, 2020. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
Ohio St. defensive end Chase Young poses for a portrait during the 2020 NFL Scouting Combine, Wednesday, Feb. 28, 2020 in Indianapolis. (Todd Rosenberg via AP)
Auburn defensive lineman Marlon Davidson cheers during the bench press at the NFL football scouting combine Friday, Feb. 28, 2020, in Indianapolis. (AJ Mast/AP Images for NFL)
Oklahoma wide receiver Ceedee Lamb catches the ball during the NFL football scouting combine, Thursday, Feb. 27, 2020, in Indianapolis. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
Louisville offensive lineman Mekhi Becton runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Friday, Feb. 28, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
Alabama wide receiver Jerry Jeudy catches the ball during the NFL football scouting combine, Thursday, Feb. 27, 2020, in Indianapolis. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
Vanderbilt wide receiver Kalija Lipscomb catches the ball during the NFL football scouting combine, Thursday, Feb. 27, 2020, in Indianapolis. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
California defensive back Jaylinn Hawkins runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Sunday, March 1, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
Ohio State defensive back Jeff Okudah jumps prior to the 40 yard dash during the NFL football scouting combine, Sunday, March 1, 2020, in Indianapolis. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
In this slow shutter, panning photo, Wake Forest linebacker Justin Strnad runs the 40-yard dash at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020. (AJ Mast via AP Images)
Ohio St. cornerback Jeff Okudah poses for a portrait during the 2020 NFL Scouting Combine, Wednesday, Feb. 29, 2020 in Indianapolis. (Todd Rosenberg via AP)
Central Florida defensive back Nevelle Clarke runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Sunday, March 1, 2020. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
LSU running back Clyde Edwards-Helaire poses for a portrait during the 2020 NFL Scouting Combine, Wednesday, Feb. 27, 2020 in Indianapolis. (Todd Rosenberg via AP)
Baylor defensive back Grayland Arnold runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Sunday, March 1, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
Ohio State defensive lineman Chase Young watches a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
Baylor defensive back Grayland Arnold runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Sunday, March 1, 2020. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
Penn State defensive back John Reid looks at his cell phone at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Sunday, March 1, 2020. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
Ohio State defensive back Jeff Okudah runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Sunday, March 1, 2020. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
Clemson defensive back K'Von Wallace runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Sunday, March 1, 2020. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
Ohio State defensive back Jeff Okudah runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Sunday, March 1, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
Ohio State defensive back Jordan Fuller runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Sunday, March 1, 2020. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
Oklahoma wide receiver Ceedee Lamb speaks during a press conference at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Tuesday, Feb. 25, 2020. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
Notre Dame defensive back Alohi Gilman runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Sunday, March 1, 2020. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
Ohio State defensive back Damon Arnette runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Sunday, March 1, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
Ohio State defensive back Jordan Fuller runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Sunday, March 1, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
Ohio State defensive back Jeff Okudah runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Sunday, March 1, 2020. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
Ohio State defensive back Jeff Okudah smiles during the NFL football scouting combine, Sunday, March 1, 2020, in Indianapolis. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
Ohio State defensive back Jeff Okudah runs the 40-yard dash at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Sunday, March 1, 2020. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
Ohio State defensive back Jeff Okudah runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Sunday, March 1, 2020. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
Clemson defensive back K'Von Wallace runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Sunday, March 1, 2020. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
Baylor defensive back Chris Miller runs the 40-yard dash at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Sunday, March 1, 2020. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
Ohio State defensive back Jeff Okudah runs the 40-yard dash at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Sunday, March 1, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
Ohio State defensive back Jeff Okudah stretches at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Sunday, March 1, 2020. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
Ohio State linebacker Malik Harrison runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
Ohio St. cornerback Jeff Okudah poses for a portrait during the 2020 NFL Scouting Combine, Wednesday, Feb. 29, 2020 in Indianapolis. (Todd Rosenberg via AP)
Louisville offensive lineman Mekhi Becton sits on the bench during the NFL football scouting combine, Friday, Feb. 28, 2020, in Indianapolis. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
In this slow shutter, panning photo, Utah linebacker Francis Bernard runs the 40-yard dash at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020. (AJ Mast via AP Images)
Maryland running back Anthony McFarland catches the ball during the NFL football scouting combine, Friday, Feb. 28, 2020, in Indianapolis. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
UCLA running back Joshua Kelley catches the ball during the NFL football scouting combine, Friday, Feb. 28, 2020, in Indianapolis. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
In this slow shutter, panning photo, Penn State linebacker Cameron Brown runs the 40-yard dash at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020. (AJ Mast via AP Images)
Wisconsin running back Jonathan Taylor catches the ball during the NFL football scouting combine, Friday, Feb. 28, 2020, in Indianapolis. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
In this slow shutter, panning photo, Missouri linebacker Cale Garrett runs the 40-yard dash at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020. (AJ Mast via AP Images)
A detail view of Louisville offensive lineman Mekhi Becton's jersey during the NFL football scouting combine, Friday, Feb. 28, 2020, in Indianapolis. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
In this slow shutter, panning photo, Stanford linebacker Casey Toohill runs the 40-yard dash at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020. (AJ Mast via AP Images)
Louisville offensive lineman Mekhi Becton runs the 40-yard dash during the NFL football scouting combine, Friday, Feb. 28, 2020, in Indianapolis. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
Auburn defensive lineman Derrick Brown runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
Fresno State linebacker Mykal Walker runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
Clemson linebacker Isaiah Simmons looks on during the NFL football scouting combine, Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020, in Indianapolis. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
Auburn defensive lineman Derrick Brown runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
Charlotte defensive lineman Alex Highsmith runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020. (AJ Mast via AP Images)
Utah State linebacker David Woodward runs the 40-yard dash at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020. (AJ Mast via AP Images)
LSU linebacker Jacob Phillips runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
Iowa defensive lineman A.J. Epenesa runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
Penn State defensive lineman Rob Windsor runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
LSU quarterback Joe Burrow sits on the bench during the NFL football scouting combine, Thursday, Feb. 27, 2020, in Indianapolis. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
Clemson linebacker Isaiah Simmons runs the 40-yard dash at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
Michigan State defensive lineman Kenny Willekes runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
Ohio State defensive back Jeff Okudah does he bench press at the NFL football scouting combine Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020, in Indianapolis. (AJ Mast/AP Images for NFL)
Iowa offensive lineman Tristan Wirfs runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Friday, Feb. 28, 2020. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
Ohio State defensive lineman Chase Young watches a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
Alabama offensive lineman Jedrick Wills runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Friday, Feb. 28, 2020. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
Ohio State defensive lineman Davon Hamilton stretches at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Saturday, Feb. 29, 2020. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
Iowa offensive lineman Tristan Wirfs runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Friday, Feb. 28, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
Ohio St. defensive end Chase Young poses for a portrait during the 2020 NFL Scouting Combine, Wednesday, Feb. 28, 2020 in Indianapolis. (Todd Rosenberg via AP)
Alabama offensive lineman Jedrick Wills runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Friday, Feb. 28, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
Clemson linebacker Isaiah Simmons poses for a portrait during the 2020 NFL Scouting Combine, Wednesday, Feb. 28, 2020 in Indianapolis. (Todd Rosenberg via AP)
Clemson linebacker Isaiah Simmons poses for a portrait during the 2020 NFL Scouting Combine, Wednesday, Feb. 28, 2020 in Indianapolis. (Todd Rosenberg via AP)
South Carolina defensive tackle Javon Kinlaw poses for a portrait during the 2020 NFL Scouting Combine, Wednesday, Feb. 28, 2020 in Indianapolis. (Todd Rosenberg via AP)
Ohio St. defensive end Chase Young poses for a portrait during the 2020 NFL Scouting Combine, Wednesday, Feb. 28, 2020 in Indianapolis. (Todd Rosenberg via AP)
Clemson linebacker Isaiah Simmons poses for a portrait during the 2020 NFL Scouting Combine, Wednesday, Feb. 28, 2020 in Indianapolis. (Todd Rosenberg via AP)
Auburn defensive tackle Derrick Brown poses for a portrait during the 2020 NFL Scouting Combine, Wednesday, Feb. 28, 2020 in Indianapolis. (Todd Rosenberg via AP)
South Carolina defensive tackle Javon Kinlaw poses for a portrait during the 2020 NFL Scouting Combine, Wednesday, Feb. 28, 2020 in Indianapolis. (Todd Rosenberg via AP)
South Carolina defensive tackle Javon Kinlaw poses for a portrait during the 2020 NFL Scouting Combine, Wednesday, Feb. 28, 2020 in Indianapolis. (Todd Rosenberg via AP)
Auburn defensive tackle Derrick Brown poses for a portrait during the 2020 NFL Scouting Combine, Wednesday, Feb. 28, 2020 in Indianapolis. (Todd Rosenberg via AP)
Alabama offensive lineman Jedrick Wills runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Friday, Feb. 28, 2020. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
Alabama offensive lineman Jedrick Wills runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Friday, Feb. 28, 2020. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
Boston College running back A J Dillon runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Friday, Feb. 28, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
LSU running back Clyde Edwards-Helaire jumps prior to the 40 yard dash during the NFL football scouting combine, Friday, Feb. 28, 2020, in Indianapolis. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
Iowa offensive lineman Tristan Wirfs runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Friday, Feb. 28, 2020. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
Iowa offensive lineman Tristan Wirfs runs the 40-yard dash at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Friday, Feb. 28, 2020. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
Iowa offensive lineman Tristan Wirfs runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Friday, Feb. 28, 2020. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
Louisville offensive lineman Mekhi Becton runs the 40-yard dash at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Friday, Feb. 28, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
Temple offensive lineman Matt Hennessy runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Friday, Feb. 28, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
Auburn defensive lineman Derrick Brown warms up for the bench press at the NFL football scouting combine Friday, Feb. 28, 2020, in Indianapolis. (AJ Mast/AP Images for NFL)
South Carolina defensive lineman Javon Kinlaw speaks to the media during a press conference at the NFL football scouting combine, Thursday, Feb. 27, 2020, in Indianapolis. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
Oklahoma wide receiver Ceedee Lamb reacts during the NFL football scouting combine, Thursday, Feb. 27, 2020, in Indianapolis. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
Oklahoma wide receiver Ceedee Lamb catches the ball during the NFL football scouting combine, Thursday, Feb. 27, 2020, in Indianapolis. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
Tulane wide receiver Darnell Mooney catches the ball during the NFL football scouting combine, Thursday, Feb. 27, 2020, in Indianapolis. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
Alabama wide receiver Jerry Jeudy runs after the catch during the NFL football scouting combine, Thursday, Feb. 27, 2020, in Indianapolis. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
Iowa tackle Tristan Wirfs poses for a portrait during the 2020 NFL Scouting Combine, Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2020 in Indianapolis. (Todd Rosenberg via AP)
Iowa tackle Tristan Wirfs poses for a portrait during the 2020 NFL Scouting Combine, Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2020 in Indianapolis. (Todd Rosenberg via AP)
Georgia running back D'Andre Swift poses for a portrait during the 2020 NFL Scouting Combine, Wednesday, Feb. 27, 2020 in Indianapolis. (Todd Rosenberg via AP)
Alabama tackle Jedrick Wills poses for a portrait during the 2020 NFL Scouting Combine, Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2020 in Indianapolis. (Todd Rosenberg via AP)
Lenoir-Rhyne defensive back Kyle Dugger speaks during a press conference at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Friday, Feb. 28, 2020. (AP Photo/AJ Mast)
Oklahoma wide receiver Ceedee Lamb runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Thursday, Feb. 27, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
Alabama wide receiver Jerry Jeudy runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Thursday, Feb. 27, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
Alabama wide receiver Jerry Jeudy runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Thursday, Feb. 27, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
Oklahoma wide receiver Ceedee Lamb runs a route during the NFL football scouting combine, Thursday, Feb. 27, 2020, in Indianapolis. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
Ohio State defensive back Jeff Okudah speaks during a news conference at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Friday, Feb. 28, 2020. (AP Photo/AJ Mast)
Alabama wide receiver Henry Ruggs III runs the 40-yard dash at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Thursday, Feb. 27, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
Oklahoma wide receiver Ceedee Lamb catches the ball during the NFL football scouting combine, Thursday, Feb. 27, 2020, in Indianapolis. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
Georgia quarterback Jake Fromm smiles during the NFL football scouting combine, Thursday, Feb. 27, 2020, in Indianapolis. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
Texas A&M wide receiver Kendrick Rogers catches the ball during the NFL football scouting combine, Thursday, Feb. 27, 2020, in Indianapolis. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
Alabama wide receiver Jerry Jeudy catches the ball during the NFL football scouting combine, Thursday, Feb. 27, 2020, in Indianapolis. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
Alabama quarterback Tua Tagovailoa sits on the bench during the NFL football scouting combine, Thursday, Feb. 27, 2020, in Indianapolis. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
A detail view of LSU quarterback Joe Burrow hands on set during the NFL football scouting combine, Thursday, Feb. 27, 2020, in Indianapolis. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
LSU quarterback Joe Burrow poses for a portrait during the 2020 NFL Scouting Combine, Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2020 in Indianapolis. (Todd Rosenberg via AP)
Alabama wide receiver Henry Ruggs III runs the 40 yard dash during the NFL football scouting combine, Thursday, Feb. 27, 2020, in Indianapolis. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
LSU quarterback Joe Burrow poses for a portrait during the 2020 NFL Scouting Combine, Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2020 in Indianapolis. (Todd Rosenberg via AP)
A detail view of the NFL Scouting Combine logo during the NFL football scouting combine, Thursday, Feb. 27, 2020, in Indianapolis. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
A detail view Alabama wide receiver Jerry Jeudy's New Era jersey during the NFL football scouting combine, Thursday, Feb. 27, 2020, in Indianapolis. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
Alabama wide receiver Henry Ruggs III poses for a portrait during the 2020 NFL Scouting Combine, Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2020 in Indianapolis. (Todd Rosenberg via AP)
Alabama wide receiver Henry Ruggs III poses for a portrait during the 2020 NFL Scouting Combine, Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2020 in Indianapolis. (Todd Rosenberg via AP)
Oklahoma wide receiver CeeDee Lamb poses for a portrait during the 2020 NFL Scouting Combine, Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2020 in Indianapolis. (Todd Rosenberg via AP)
Oklahoma wide receiver Ceedee Lamb runs the 40 yard dash during the NFL football scouting combine, Thursday, Feb. 27, 2020, in Indianapolis. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
Oklahoma wide receiver CeeDee Lamb poses for a portrait during the 2020 NFL Scouting Combine, Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2020 in Indianapolis. (Todd Rosenberg via AP)
Alabama quarterback Tua Tagovailoa poses for a portrait during the 2020 NFL Scouting Combine, Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2020 in Indianapolis. (Todd Rosenberg via AP)
Alabama wide receiver Jerry Jeudy poses for a portrait during the 2020 NFL Scouting Combine, Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2020 in Indianapolis. (Todd Rosenberg via AP)
Alabama wide receiver Henry Ruggs III smiles after running the 40 yard dash during the NFL football scouting combine, Thursday, Feb. 27, 2020, in Indianapolis. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
Alabama quarterback Tua Tagovailoa poses for a portrait during the 2020 NFL Scouting Combine, Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2020 in Indianapolis. (Todd Rosenberg via AP)
Michigan wide receiver Donovan Peoples-Jones runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Thursday, Feb. 27, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
Alabama wide receiver Jerry Jeudy poses for a portrait during the 2020 NFL Scouting Combine, Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2020 in Indianapolis. (Todd Rosenberg via AP)
Memphis wide receiver Antonio Gibson runs a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Thursday, Feb. 27, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
LSU quarterback Joe Burrow watches a drill at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Thursday, Feb. 27, 2020. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
Ohio State defensive lineman Chase Young speaks to the media during a press conference at the NFL football scouting combine, Thursday, Feb. 27, 2020, in Indianapolis. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
Fresno State offensive lineman Netane Muti does the bench press at the NFL football scouting combine Thursday, Feb. 27, 2020, in Indianapolis. (AJ Mast/AP Images for NFL)
Wisconsin linebacker Zack Baun speaks during a press conference at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Thursday, Feb. 27, 2020. (AP Photo/AJ Mast)
Clemson linebacker Isaiah Simmons speaks during a press conference at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Thursday, Feb. 27, 2020. (AP Photo/AJ Mast)
Ohio State defensive lineman Chase Young listens during a press conference at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Thursday, Feb. 27, 2020. (AP Photo/AJ Mast)
Auburn defensive lineman Derrick Brown listens during a press conference at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Thursday, Feb. 27, 2020. (AP Photo/AJ Mast)
Ohio State running back J. K. Dobbins speaks during a press conference at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
LSU running back Clyde Edwards-Helaire adjusts the height of the microphone before speaking at a press conference at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2020. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
Ohio State running back J. K. Dobbins speaks during a press conference at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
Alabama offensive lineman Jedrick Wills speaks during a press conference at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
Louisville offensive lineman Mekhi Becton speaks during a press conference at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
Oregon quarterback Justin Herbert speaks during a press conference at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Tuesday, Feb. 25, 2020. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
Iowa offensive lineman Tristan Wirfs speaks during a press conference at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2020. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
Louisville offensive lineman Mekhi Becton speaks during a press conference at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Wednesday, Feb. 26, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
Alabama wide receiver Jerry Jeudy speaks to the media during a press conference at the NFL football scouting combine, Tuesday, Feb. 25, 2020, in Indianapolis. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
New York Giants senior vice president & general manager Dave Gettleman speaks to the media during a press conference at the NFL football scouting combine, Tuesday, Feb. 25, 2020, in Indianapolis. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
New York Giants head coach Joe Judge speaks to the media during a press conference at the NFL football scouting combine, Tuesday, Feb. 25, 2020, in Indianapolis. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
New York Giants senior vice president & general manager Dave Gettleman speaks during a press conference at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Tuesday, Feb. 25, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
New York Giants head coach Joe Judge speaks to the media during a press conference at the NFL football scouting combine, Tuesday, Feb. 25, 2020, in Indianapolis. (Aaron M. Sprecher via AP)
New York Giants head coach Joe Judge speaks during a press conference at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Tuesday, Feb. 25, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
Alabama wide receiver Henry Ruggs III speaks during a press conference at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Tuesday, Feb. 25, 2020. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
Alabama wide receiver Jerry Jeudy speaks during a press conference at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Tuesday, Feb. 25, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
South Carolina wide receiver Bryan Edwards speaks during a press conference at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Tuesday, Feb. 25, 2020. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
LSU quarterback Joe Burrow speaks during a press conference at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Tuesday, Feb. 25, 2020. (AP Photo/Michael Conroy)
Alabama quarterback Tua Tagovailoa speaks during a press conference at the NFL football scouting combine in Indianapolis, Tuesday, Feb. 25, 2020. (AP Photo/Charlie Neibergall)
Cornerbacks
It's another draft, and another deep cornerback class. The group impressed with its on-field workouts and drills with many players making their case for first round consideration.
Jeffrey Okudah, the media consensus top cornerback, did nothing to make analysts re-think their evaluations. He measured at 6-1, 205 pounds with 32.5 inch arms and proceeded to run a 4.48 40-yard dash, jump a position-best 135 inches in the broad jump and 41 inches in the vertical jump. He hit his head on the ground during cornerback drills and didn't partake in any more of the workout, but he did do the jumping events after the fall. When Okudah addressed the media, he seemed like a smart and mature young man who could develop into a defensive leader.
Florida's C.J. Henderson was considered by many analysts as the potential second cornerback off the board before the Combine and he only helped himself in Indianapolis. He had the third-best 40 time at 4.39 seconds and was Top 10 in both jumps before looking very smooth in his on-field drills. He could be a Top 15 or 20 pick.
Fellow top cornerbacks LSU's Kristian Fulton (4.46) and Clemson's A.J. Terrell (4.42) both ran well in the 40-yard dash. Notre Dame's Troy Pride Jr. showed his speed and athleticism with a 4.40 in the 40 and looks like he could be a slot cornerback in the NFL. Potential slot cornerbacks Darnay Holmes (UCLA) and Jeff Gladney (TCU) both ran 4.48. Utah's Javelin Guidry, also a potential slot cornerback, ran a position best 4.29.
Two players' pro days to keep an eye on are Ohio State's Damon Arnette (4.56) and Mississippi State's Cameron Dantzler (4.64), who will try to improve on their 40-yard dash times.
Safeties
There aren't any safeties the media analysts believe will be a Top 10 pick, but that doesn't mean it isn't a talented class. Grant Delpit, considered by many to the best safety in the draft, measured at 6-2 and 213 pounds but did not do any of the athletic testing due to his recovery from a high ankle injury that plagued him for much of the season. He said during his media availability that he thinks he fixed his tackling issues in the season's final games.
Alabama's Xavier McKinney, considered to be the second-best safety in the class, ran a 4.63 40-yard dash and had the seventh-best vertical jump (36 inches). He also jumped 122 inches in the broad jump.
Antoine Winfield Jr. only measured at 5-9 and 203 pounds, but he dominated athletic testing and drills. He was tied for the third-best 40 in the group at 4.45 seconds and was in the Top 10 in both the vertical and broad jumps. He did not run the short shuttle or 3-cone, but his change of direction in drills was excellent.
Division II Lenoir-Rhyne's Kyle Dugger dominated Indianapolis. At a monstrous 6-1 and 217 pounds, he had the best vertical jump (42 inches), second-best broad jump (134 inches) and the sixth-best 40 time (4.49 seconds). He looked smooth in the drills and proved once and for all that his competition level in college should not be held against him. According to multiple reports on NFL Network, he interviewed well with teams. He could be off the board in the top half of the second round.
Clemson's Isaiah Simmons was the talk of the combine, but do not overlook teammate Tanner Muse. Also considered a linebacker/safety hybrid, Muse had the second-best 40 time amongst safeties at 4.41 and looked smooth in drills. Jeremy Chinn, a safety from Southern Illinois, tested well with a 4.45 in the 40 (third-best amongst safeties), a 41-inch vertical jump (second-best amongst safeties) and a 138-inch broad jump (best of the safeties).
Check out the best photos from behind the scenes at the NFL Combine.
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