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2023 NFL Draft: Scouting The Top Edge Rusher Prospects Scouting the top edge rusher prospects on the Football Scout 365 NFL Draft board. Click here to check out the full 2023 NFL Draft Big Board rankings. Top 5 NFL Draft Grade Will Anderson Jr. Edge Alabama: Standing at 6-4, 235lbs, Anderson possesses an impressive combination of size, strength, and athleticism. He is a dominant pass rusher, utilizing his speed, quickness, and impressive technique to consistently disrupt plays in the backfield. Anderson is also an excellent run defender, showing the ability to quickly diagnose plays and make tackles behind the line of scrimmage. He has excellent instincts and football IQ, always seeming to be in the right place at the right time to make plays. Top 10 NFL Draft Grade Myles Murphy Edge Clemson: At 6-5 275lbs, Murphy possesses one of the highest grades in the 2023 draft class. He has the athletic and physical tools you want in today's NFL edge rusher. At 6-5, 275lbs, Murphy possesses the elite length needed to go one-on-one with today's top NFL tackles. On tape, Murphy exhibits an elite first step combined with elite-level lateral quickness for his position. His assets do not end with quickness; he can win with speed or power at the point of attack. Using his dense frame and elite strength, Murphy can anchor and hold the edge in the run game or bull through a blocker on his way to the QB. Mid To Late 1st Round Grade Tyree Wilson Edge Texas Tech: At 6-6 275lbs, Wilson possesses excellent size and length for the position. He is a powerful and explosive pass rusher, utilizing his strength and quickness to get around offensive linemen and pressure the quarterback. Wilson is also a solid run defender, using his size and strength to set the edge and make tackles. While he may need to continue to refine his technique and develop more pass rush moves, Wilson has the potential to be a productive defensive lineman at the NFL level. Nolan Smith Edge Georgia: At 6-3 235lbs, Smith possesses an impressive combination of size, speed, and athleticism. He is an explosive pass rusher, utilizing his speed and quickness off the edge to consistently pressure the quarterback. Smith is also a strong run defender who understands how to use leverage to set the edge. He has excellent instincts and football IQ. While he may need to continue to refine his technique and develop more pass rush moves, Smith has the potential to be a highly productive defensive player at the NFL level. Keion White Edge Georgia Tech: At 6-4 280lbs, White possesses good size and athleticism. White is a versatile player who can play both defensive end and linebacker, showing impressive speed and agility for his size. He is a disruptive pass rusher, using his burst and quickness to get around blockers and pressure the quarterback. White is also a strong run defender that understands how to use leverage to set a hard edge . While he may need to continue to refine his technique and develop more pass rush moves, White has the potential to be a productive defender at the NFL level. Late 1st Round-Early 2nd Round Grade Lukas Van Ness Edge Iowa: Lukas Van Ness possesses good size and strength, standing at 6-4 and weighing around 275 pounds. Van Ness is a disruptive force on the defensive line and has shown the ability to get into the backfield and make plays behind the line of scrimmage. He has good quickness off the snap and solid technique, allowing him to shed blocks and make tackles. While he may need to continue to refine his skills and develop more pass-rush moves, Van Ness has the potential to be a solid NFL player. Will McDonald IV Edge Iowa State: At 6-4 230lbs, McDonald is athletic with a good first step and speed off the edge. He is a relentless pass rusher, showing impressive burst and agility to get around blockers and pressure the quarterback. McDonald also has solid coverage skills for a defensive end, showing the ability to drop back into coverage and make plays on the ball. While he may need to continue to improve his strength and refine his technique, McDonald has the potential to be a productive pass rusher at the NFL level.

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NFL Draft: NFL Mock Draft 4.2 | No Trades | What If Stroud Falls, Hooker Rises? It has been a wild draft week, and we are now less than 24 hours away from the start of the 2023 NFL Draft. Last week it was all about the leaked S2 Cognition scores that started to tank C.J. Stroud's draft stock. We had another rumor this week that originated on Reddit, mentioning that Will Levis has informed friends and family he will be the top pick in the 2023 NFL Draft. Aaron Rodgers has been traded to the Packers. I hoped that mock 4.1 would be it, but I wanted to take one more crack at it. First-Round NFL Mock Draft 1). Panthers: QB Bryce Young, Alabama Previous Mock Picks : C.J. Stroud, Bryce Young Industry Consensus: Bryce Young The Final Analysis: The Panthers should have taken Justin Fields in the 2021 NFL Draft. In 2023, they aim to make up for that by trading the farm to draft QB1. The names that make the most sense outside of Bryce Young are C.J. Stroud and Anthony Richardson. But why not Will Levis? Levis is a developmental player with a high ceiling and is reportedly a brilliant person earning two degrees as a finance major while achieving a 4.0 the entire way. The only concern is that the Panthers need a bridge QB to allow Richardson to develop without needing to start as a rookie. Bryce Young is the only QB in this class expected to provide an immediate impact. 2). Texans: Edge Tyree Wilson Previous Mock Picks: C.J. Stroud, Will Anderson Jr., Bryce Young, Anthony Richardson, Tyree Wilson, Trade Back Industry Consensus: C.J. Stroud The Final Analysis: At the top of the order, there are some elite defenders, and there are many in the draft community that believe the Texans will pass on a QB, pairing first-year head coach Demeco Ryans with an elite defensive lineman. If the Texans choose a QB, Will it be C.J. Stroud, Bryce Young, Will Levis, or Anthony Richardson? Some insiders believe the Texans and the Colts really like Will Levis more than C.J. Stroud, so assuming this is the case, I won't argue the fit because the Texans are in a complete rebuild. It will take a lot for them to be competitive, and whoever they draft this year will not have a massive impact as a rookie, even if it was Trevor Lawrence or Andrew Luck's generational talent. 3). Cardinals: Edge Will Anderson Jr., Alabama Previous Mock Picks: Will Anderson Jr., Tyree Wilson, Trade Back Industry Consensus: Will Anderson Jr. The Final Analysis: Compared to Mock 4.0, the significant change is that the Texans take the freakish ceiling of Tyree Wilson, allowing Will Anderson to fall one more spot. The Cardinals appear to be losing the perceived value they once held at pick #3. For months the industry has debated who might try to trade up to pick 3 to get a QB. Now we hear that teams are less interested in trading up and will wait to see where the chips fall. A trade is still likely if a team like the Tennessee Titans loves one of the top 4 QB's. If the Cardinals remain in this spot, they should have their choice of Will Anderson, Jalen Carter, or Tyree Wilson. 4). Colts: QB Will Levis, Kentucky Previous Mock Picks: Will Levis, Anthony Richardson, C.J. Stroud Industry Consensus: Anthony Richardson The Final Analysis: Could C.J. Stroud fall to them instead of Will Levis—so many smoke screens? In this particular addition, we follow the trends to see how it shakes out. Colts owner Jim Irsay recently tweeted that they do not have to take a QB if they do not like the options available. Still, it appears the options will be there if the Cardinals and the Texans opt not to trade back and the Texans choose a defender instead of a QB at pick #2. The difficult decision will come down to which of the three remaining QB's fit their new head coach the best. All of our mocks had teams trading in front of the Colts, leaving them with Will Levis, and if it comes down to it, Will Levis or Anthony Richardson can both be great options in a physical Shane Steichen offense. 5). Seahawks: IDL Jalen Carter, Georgia Previous Mock Picks: Anthony Richardson, Will Levis, Will Anderson Jr., Jalen Carter Industry Consensus: Christian Gonzalez The Final Analysis: The Seahawks are a team that could take a QB, and we have mocked QB to the Seahawks in different scenarios. We like Anthony Richardson, who can sit behind Geno Smith or Will Levis. If C.J. Stroud falls, how do you pass on the rookie value? Regardless, the Seahawks will be in a good spot. They could trade back to a QB-needy team or take arguably the best defender in the draft. 6). Lions: Edge Devon Witherspoon, Illinois Previous Mock Picks: Jalen Carter, Myles Murphy, Tyree Wilson, Devon Witherspoon Industry Consensus: Devon Witherspoon The Final Analysis: The Lions are also in a fascinating spot. If a QB falls, they have a bridge QB in Jared Goff. Do you draft Anthony Richardson, or Will Levis, trade back, or stay and get the top DB in the class? 7). Raiders: CB Christian Gonzalez, Oregon Previous Mock Picks: Devon Witherspoon, Christian Gonzalez, Anthony Richardson, Bryan Bresee, Will Levis, Trade Up Industry Consensus: Christian Gonzalez The Final Analysis: We had Witherspoon in this spot in Mock 4.0 . The Raiders might be quick to the podium if a QB falls to them. But they have so many other needs they could trade back and get solid value. 8). Falcons: QB Hendon Hooker, Tennessee Previous Mock Picks: Tyree Wilson, Nolan Smith, Bijan Robinson Industry Consensus: Bijan Robinson The Final Analysis: Another team in the top 10 with a need at QB, and if one falls, we expect they will not hesitate to grab him, but if not, they can get a top defender. 9). Bears: RB Bijan Robinson Texas Previous Mock Picks: Jaxon Smith-Njigba, Will Anderson Jr., Myles Murphy, Paris Johnson Jr., Bijan Robinson Industry Consensus: Paris Johnson Jr. The Final Analysis: The Bears traded back to pick #9 because they have what appears to be their franchise QB in place. They have several needs on both sides of the football, but how could you pass on the opportunity to have Bijan Robinson in the same backfield as Justin Fields? One of my basic arguments is that Justin Fields is great off of play-action, and having a legit elite RB next to him in the backfield will only open up the offense more. They can also go after one of the top available defenders or offensive line. 10). Eagles: OT Paris Johnson Jr., Ohio State Previous Mock Picks: Christian Gonzalez, Jalen Carter, Devon Witherspoon, Bijan Robinson, Jaxon Smith-Njigba, Lukas Van Ness Industry Consensus: Lukas Van Ness The Final Analysis: The Eagles have few needs but are aging at certain positions. Pairing the WR1 with Jalen Hurts would be phenomenal. The industry is low on the WR position in 2023, but only 3 or 4 round-one projections can provide an immediate impact, and Smith-Njigba would be perfect playing out of the slot in Philly. 11). Titans: QB C.J. Stroud, Ohio State Previous Mock Picks: Paris Johnson Jr., Will Levis, Darnell Wright Industry Consensus: Will Levis The Final Analysis: The Titans are losing OT Taylor Lewan to retirement, so replacing him is necessary. However, the Titans are among the teams rumored to be interested in moving up for a QB. If a QB falls, they might be tempted, or they can still try to move into the top 5 if they are motivated by a particular player. 12). Texans: QB Anthony Richardson, Florida Previous Mock Picks: Quentin Johnston, Tyree Wilson, Jaxon Smith-Njigba, Anthony Richardson Industry Consensus: Jaxon Smith-Njigba The Final Analysis: One of the least likely scenarios will be Anthony Richardson dropping out of the top 10. I cannot see this scenario being realistic, but some insiders are speculating that this could be the case, and if it is, you might see several teams trying to move up to get him. The same can be said about Will Levis. As for Richardson, the ceiling is too high not to risk it, and if he falls this far and the Texans pass on QB at pick #2 as some believe, they have to make this move. But what about Hendon Hooker? His stock is rising , and some are speculating he is the 3rd QB on a lot of draft boards. 13). Packers (via Jets) : OT Peter Skoronski, Northwestern Previous Mock Picks : Peter Skoronski, Broderick Jones Industry Consensus: Broderick Jones The Final Analysis: People are still waiting to see what will happen with the Aaron Rodgers situation. Will the Jets trade this pick to the Packers or not is less likely, but they might have no choice if they want to procure Aaron Rodgers. The Jets must add help on their OL if they retain this pick. 14). Patriots: CB Joey Porter Jr., Penn State Previous Mock Picks: Broderick Jones, Quentin Johnston, Jordan Addison, Jaxon Smith-Njigba, Devon Witherspoon, Zay Flowers, Joey Porter Jr. Industry Consensus: Zay Flowers The Final Analysis: The Patriots are a pre-draft speculative trade candidate, but the Patriots need to draft a WR, and we all know that Bill will find a way to pass on a WR for the best available DB or OL, and then he will shock the world and draft Stetson Bennett in the 2nd or 3rd round. 15). Jets (via Packers): OT Darnell Wright, Tennessee Previous Mock Picks : Jordan Addison, Myles Murphy, Quentin Johnston, Nolan Smith, Broderick Jones Industry Consensus: Nolan Smith The Final Analysis: The Aaron Rodgers trade might determine the direction the Packers go with this pick. So it's difficult to determine the direction they are thinking about going. Drafting a WR in this spot to support Jordan Love in the post-Aaron Rodgers era could make sense; they could go with OL or an edge defender. 16). Commanders: OT Broderick Jones, Georgia Previous Mock Pick s: O'Cyrus Torrence, Broderick Jones, Joey Porter Jr. Industry Consensus: Joey Porter Jr. The Final Analysis: I have mocked OL to the Commanders. QB could be an option if one falls drastically, or they love Hendon Hooker. Don't rule out a potential trade into the top 10. 17). Steelers: CB Deonte Banks, Maryland Previous Mock Picks: Kelee Ringo, Dawand Jones, Joey Porter Jr., Christian Gonzalez, Darnell Wright, Broderick Jones Industry Consensus: Darnell Wright The Final Analysis: They need OL; they could add a DB, and they have many options with essentially two first-round picks due to the Dolphin's pick forfeiture. 18). Lions: Edge Myles Murphy, Clemson Previous Mock Picks : Cam Smith, Myles Murphy, Calijah Kancey Industry Consensus: Calijah Kancey The Final Analysis: The Lion's #6 overall pick will determine their direction at pick 18. In addition, the Lions lost Jameson Williams for an extended period ahead of the 2023 season because he allegedly used a sports betting app within Lion's facilities. Could the Lions be motivated to draft a WR? 19). Bucs: OT Anton Harrison, Oklahoma Previous Mock Picks: Nolan Smith, Broderick Jones, Anton Harrison, Bryan Bresee, Hendon Hooker Industry Consensus: Anton Harrison The Final Analysis: The Bucs are one of several teams allegedly grading Hendon Hooker higher than the industry consensus. If he is available, why not take a shot? Hooker is already 25, so the perceived risk is that he might have already peaked to his ceiling. 20). Seahawks: WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba, Ohio State Previous Mock Picks: Tuli Tuipulotu, Calijah Kancey, Joey Porter Jr., Myles Murphy Industry Consensus: Myles Murphy The Final Analysis: The Seahawks, like the Lions, have a top 10 pick to go along with a mid 1st round bonus pick that could be used to fill a need, or they could go with a luxury pick like a WR or maybe a QB like Will Levis or Anthony Richardson does fall significantly. Regardless, the Seahawks will have a lot of options. 21). Chargers: WR Zay Flowers, Boston College Previous Mock Picks: Trenton Simpson, Zay Flowers, Jordan Addison, Kelee Ringo Industry Consensus: Jordan Addison The Final Analysis: The Chargers must replace an aging, often injury-plagued WR core. They could add a DB or an edge defender to build depth. 22). Ravens: CB Kelee Ringo, Georgia Previous Mock Picks: Jalin Hyatt, Joey Porter Jr., Kelee Ringo, Zay Flowers, Deonte Banks Industry Consensus : Deonte Banks The Final Analysis: The Ravens added OBJ, so why not add more firepower to the offense in hopes that Lamar Jackson accepts whatever alleged deal the Ravens offered? Other options are DB and an edge rusher. 23). Vikings: CB Emmanuel Forbes, Mississippi State Previous Mock Picks: Joey Porter Jr., Emannuel Forbes, Hendon Hooker, Quentin Johnston, Kelee Ringo Industry Consensus: Quentin Johnston The Final Analysis: There has been speculation that the Vikings could be a team looking to move up to draft a QB. They have a lot of other needs, but they are in a suitable position to move up and draft a QB, or if one falls to them, they could pull the trigger with Kirk Cousins on the roster as a bridge to the future. 24). Jaguars: S/NB Brian Branch, Alabama Previous Mock Picks: Kayshon Boutte, O'Cyrus Torrence, Anton Harrison, Steve Avilla Industry Consensus: Brian Branch The Final Analysis: Jags need interior OL help and help in their defensive secondary. 25). Giants: Edge Nolan Smith, Georgia Previous Mock Picks: Jaxon Smith-Njigba, Brian Branch, Jalin Hyatt, Zay Flowers, John Michael Schmitz, Industry Consensus: John Michael Schmitz The Final Analysis: The Giants possess decent draft capital. They have needs at WR and safety, but with Saquon Barkley mentioning he might not sign the franchise tag, could the Giants be in the market to draft Jahmyr Gibbs? They could go WR or OL. We have also mocked DB. 26). Cowboys: IDL Bryan Bresee, Clemson Previous Mock Picks : Anton Harrison, Michael Mayer, Trenton Simpson, Mazi Smith, Dalton Kincaid, Dawand Jones Industry Consensus: John Michael Schmitz The Final Analysis: The Cowboys will probably throw a 1st round curveball. They are consistently the most challenging team to mock even when they have obvious needs, but in this mock, we fill their need on the OL. 27). Bills: LB Jack Campbell, Iowa Previous Mock Picks: Andrew Vorhees, Nolan Smith, Brian Branch, O'Cyrus Torrence, Quentin Johnston Industry Consensus: O'Cyrus Torrence The Final Analysis: With a need at LB, the Bills can fill that in the 2nd round and draft the best available WR left on the board to solidify its receiver core. There is some first-round buzz for LB Jack Campbell or Drew Sanders, but that's too early to draft a LB, or is it? Jack Campbell has elite physical traits and athleticism. 28). Bengals: RB Jahmyr Gibbs, Alabama Previous Mock Picks: Brian Branch, Anton Harrison, Jahmyr Gibbs, Michael Mayer Industry Consensus: Michael Mayer The Final Analysis: I have been obsessed with the idea of Jahmyr Gibbs in Cincinnati. With the Bengals' front office not likely committing to Joe Mixon, why not grab the speed of Jahmyr Gibbs to pair with Burrow and Chase? Or, they can go with the versatile TE from Utah. 29). Saints: IDL Calijah Kancey, Pitt Previous Mock Picks: Keion White, Lukas Van Ness, Mazi Smith, Deonte Banks Industry Consensus: Mazi Smith The Final Analysis: The Saints could go many different ways here depending on the availability at certain positions. We go with DB this time around. 30). Eagles: IDL Mazi Smith, Michigan Previous Mock Picks: Siaki Ika, Cam Smith, Steve Avilla, John Michael Schmitz, Bryan Bresee Industry Consensus: Bryan Bresee The Final Analysis: The Eagles apparently dislike RB's. Or do they? Why not add another dynamic playmaker with Jalen Hurts in the same backfield? Gibbs is one of a handful of instant-impact players in this year's class. 31). Chiefs: WR Jordan Addison, USC Previous Mock Picks: Luke Musgrave, Keion White, Lukas Van Ness, Dawand Jones, Quentin Johnston Industry Consensus: Dawand Jones The Final Analysis: The Chiefs could get one of the top WR's in the draft. Quentin Johnston has the upside to be the top WR in this class if he is drafted into the right scenario. In this scenario, he falls far enough to land in the hands of Andy Reid and Patrick Mahomes.

2021 NFL Draft IDL Rankings Re-Evaluated As we move through the pro days and hear the noise of outlandish forty times and verticals through the roof, I have personally gone through and done more research on every position. The Football Scout 365 Big Board Don't forget to check out the full Football Scout 365 NFL Draft Big Board. After Further Review NFL Draft Edition On YouTube You can check out our Football Scout 365 After Further Review NFL Draft Edition on Youtube. We have five shows so far, three covering the QB position where I break down and connect the dots between player skillset and what the player displays on film in relation to such buzzwords like arm talent, arm angle, pocket presence etc. Go To The NFL Draft Guide To View More Content by Clicking Here. What I look for when evaluating an IDL. The first thing you want to look for when scouting the IDL position is where they fit scheme-wise? Is he a two-gap 3-4 interior player or a one-gap 4-3 defender? In a 3-4 defensive scheme, my nose tackle will generally lineup over the center's head and is accountable for both A-gaps. I want my nose tackle to take up space in the middle so that my 2nd level guys can make plays without defenders getting to the second level. You also want them to possess the strength to get off of a block and make a play in the run game. My 3-4 ends are also two-gap responsible; I need them to hold down the B and C gap on each side. In a one-gap 4-3 scheme, you have the two IDL; one is usually considered one tech who lines up half shade over the center in the B gap opposite the three-technique player who is in the B gap half shade over the guard. Both are responsible for stopping the run and rushing the passer when needed. Some of the traits I look for, speed, power, and push. The players who have both speed and power are high-level players. How they use their hands to disengage with a blocker is essential. And the last but not least area is awareness and IQ. A guy who is a student of the game, who can recognize pre-snap movements or player positioning and make adjustments to their movement post-snap are the best defenders in the NFL. Once again, Aaron Donald possesses all of these traits. 2021 NFL Draft IDL Rankings Okay, so let's dive into the IDL rankings; 1) Alabama IDL Christian Barmore 6-5 310 lbs Potential Upside Player The 6-5 310 lbs Christian Barmore arrived at Alabama as a developmental player who has come into his own. He can play the 1, 3, or the 4i; Barmore uses his strength more than a toolbox of moves. Though he has improved his technique, he can use more development. 2) Iowa IDL Daviyon Nixon 6-3 305 lbs Potential Upside Player Nixon is an impressive prospect projected to be a three tech in the NFL. He can shoot a gap because of his burst, using a strong lower profile to explode into an opponent's backfield to disrupt. At over 300 Lbs, he has deceptive speed. On film, Nixon shows the ability to track a ball carrier in the backfield and make a play in pursuit. He is not a wide defender; he could use some work as a power rusher; teams might take advantage of him with a downhill run game. He is a guy who has starting potential and needs some development at the NFL level. 3) NC State Alim McNeill 6-2 315 lbs Potential Upside Player He plays with a solid base; he is hard to move. He has a knack for squeezing through gaps disrupting plays. He plays with good hand placement, does a great job of fighting off double teams. 4) Washington IDL Levi Onwuzurike 6-3 290 lbs Potential Upside Player One of the better pass rushers in the 2021 class, he plays with good leverage and athleticism. He plays with good technique and is hard to single block. He can excel in a 4-3 scheme but can also play in an odd front. 5) Ohio State IDL Tommy Togiai 6-2 300 lbs Developmental Big run-stopper, who can play both the 1, and 3 tech. Togiai projects as a nose player but can play 3-4 DE role in the NFL. Go To The NFL Draft Guide To View More Content by Clicking Here.

How We Grade: Breaking Down The Individual NFL Draft Player Grade Scale Consistent Evaluation Process for Each Player Each player we assess undergoes a consistent process that is tailored to their specific position. We're looking to establish their potential value for the NFL Draft. Every player is given a final or current grade as well as a potential ceiling grade. The final grade represents the player's worth before embarking on their first year in the NFL, while the potential ceiling grade gauges the player's possible future performance. Measuring Ceiling Grades There is no universal approach to calculating ceiling grades. In some instances, a prospect may be seen as a high-quality backup upon entering the NFL but simultaneously has the potential to become a top-tier starter. Some players may reach their ceiling in their first season, whether it's mid-way or towards the end, while for others, it may take 2-3 years. Timing Player's Peak Performance Is it possible to determine when a player reaches their anticipated ceiling grade? There isn't a foolproof way to predict the timeline for a player to reach their ceiling. It heavily relies on the team's circumstances and the particular areas of development the player needs to focus on as they start their NFL journey. However, we continually research and utilize the data we have to try and establish the most effective way to predict a player's potential and when they might realize it. Player Component Grading Scale Here's the grading scale we use for the individual crucial components for a player. Take for instance, the position of WR; one critical element we assess is their ability to run routes. If a player receives a Very Good (7) grade for their route running, it suggests they have NFL-standard route running skills, with the potential to develop this to an Elite (9) level under the right circumstances. 9-Exceptional The player effortlessly and consistently excels in this aspect every time. They display absolute mastery with no weaknesses, often accomplishing seemingly impossible feats. Their dominance is evident across all levels of competition. 8-Outstanding The player performs this aspect with ease and consistency, showcasing a high success rate. They exhibit no weaknesses and can effortlessly execute difficult plays. Their exceptional performance is noticeable against all levels of competition, and they have the potential to dominate. 7-Very Good The player effectively performs this aspect with a high success rate and occasionally demonstrates moments of brilliance. While they may not execute all great plays, they do showcase their abilities against all levels of competition. 6-Above Average The player typically performs this aspect in an effective manner but may display some inconsistency. They contribute solidly to a winning effort and can hold their own against top competition. They have a fair share of victories against players at the professional level. 5-Average The player performs this aspect in a satisfactory manner most of the time, although they may struggle against top competition. They meet the minimum requirements for this aspect. 4-Below Average The player performs this aspect adequately at times, but they often struggle against top competition. Their inconsistency in performance is evident, preventing them from achieving a higher rating. 3-Poor Below Average: The player fails to perform this aspect at an adequate level. They exhibit inconsistency and may even hinder the team's performance. If they do perform acceptably, it's usually against weaker competition. 2-Unacceptable The player has a significant deficiency in this aspect that they cannot overcome. Their shortcomings are evident and have a notable impact on their overall performance. 1-Very Bad The player lacks any redeemable qualities and does not meet the minimum standards in this aspect. NFL Draft Player Grade Scale Each category below has several different subcategories to identify the player's final and ceiling grade. Elite (75+) (Instant Impact Player) An elite prospect is a player who has the potential to be a difference-maker in the NFL. They have rare physical tools and athleticism and perform at a high level with ease and consistency. They show no weakness, and they can do the seemingly impossible on occasion. These players are typically the top picks in the NFL Draft and can be stars in the league. Near Elite (70-74) (Instant Impact Player) A near-elite prospect is a player who is projected to become a significant contributor by their second year in the NFL. They have elite physical tools and athleticism and perform at a high level with ease and consistency. They have some weaknesses, but they are not significant. These players are typically high first-round picks, and they have the potential to be stars in the league. High-End Starter Potential (65-69) A high-end starter potential prospect is a player who is projected to be among the top starters on their team within the second or third year in the NFL. They have good physical tools and athleticism and perform at a high level most of the time. They have some weaknesses, but they are not significant. These players are typically second or third-round picks, and they have the potential to be starters in the league. Mid-Level Starter Potential (60-64) A mid-level starter potential prospect is a player who is likely to be a mid-level starter on their team but with the potential to exceed expectations within 2-3 years. They have good physical tools and athleticism and can perform at a high level. They have some weaknesses, but they are minor. These players are typically fourth- or fifth-round picks, and they have the potential to be starters in the league. Low-Level Starter Potential (55-59) A low-level starter potential prospect is a player who is expected to be a lower-level starter or high-level backup with some elite qualities. Development over 2-3 years is anticipated. They have good physical tools and athleticism, and they perform at a high level some of the time. They have some weaknesses, but they are not major. These players are typically sixth- or seventh-round picks, and they have the potential to be starters in the league. Backup Level (50-54) A backup-level prospect is a player who is likely to serve as a career backup and fill specific roles on the team. They have good physical tools and athleticism, and they perform at a consistent level. They have some weaknesses, but they are not major. These players are typically undrafted free agents, and they have the potential to contribute to the team. Not NFL Level (<49) A player who is not NFL level is a player who is still at the NFL level and who could benefit from another year in college or in a developmental league. They have some physical tools and athleticism but perform at an inconsistent level. They have significant weaknesses, and they are unlikely to make an impact in the NFL. Player Grades Are Not One Size Fits All The NFL Draft Player Grade Scale provides a structured and consistent evaluation process, offering a nuanced understanding of each player's potential value. This system is tailored to specific positions, assigning both a current grade—reflecting the player's readiness for the NFL—and a potential ceiling grade—estimating long-term development. Assessing ceiling grades involves multiple factors, including a player's developmental trajectory and the team environment. Since some players reach their peak within their rookie season while others take years, predicting this timeline remains an ongoing challenge. By incorporating a detailed grading scale for key player attributes and overall draft value, this process helps differentiate talent levels and project future performance. The ability to measure both present ability and long-term potential ensures that teams can make data-driven draft decisions with greater confidence. This comprehensive evaluation system ultimately provides a valuable framework for identifying prospects who can maximize their impact at the next level.

Tetairoa McMillan Dynasty Rookie Profile – Fantasy Football 2025 Tetairoa McMillan Dynasty Rookie Profile WR – Carolina Panthers | Drafted: Round 1, Pick 8 | College: Arizona Tetairoa McMillan enters the NFL as one of the most refined X receiver prospects in recent draft memory. Drafted by the Carolina Panthers with the 8th overall pick, McMillan brings elite ball skills, physicality, and a massive catch radius to a wide receiver room that lacked a true alpha. With a clear opportunity to establish himself as Bryce Young’s go-to target, McMillan offers high-end WR2 fantasy upside in Year 1 with WR1 potential in dynasty formats. College Career Recap A five-star recruit and the highest-rated signee in Arizona football history, McMillan made an immediate impact as a true freshman, leading all freshmen nationally in receiving yards. He elevated his game in 2023 and 2024, earning back-to-back All-American honors and finishing his career as the school’s all-time leader in receiving yards (3,423). His ability to consistently win downfield and along the boundary made him one of the most productive Power Five wideouts of the past decade. In 2024, McMillan hauled in 84 passes for 1,319 yards and 8 touchdowns, including a school-record 304-yard performance against New Mexico. He proved dominant in contested catch situations and continued to develop his route tree. Despite a dip in drop rate, his overall body of work and film graded him as a top-tier X receiver with rare body control, timing, and sideline awareness. NFL Scouting Report At 6’4”, 219 lbs with 10-inch hands and long arms, McMillan profiles as a prototypical outside wide receiver. He’s a smooth mover with functional long speed and exceptional body control, particularly in the air. His ball tracking and ability to adjust mid-route allow him to thrive in deep and intermediate areas. While he lacks elite twitch or burst off the line, he compensates with technique, hand usage, and physicality. His production metrics align closely with big-bodied WRs like Mike Evans and Michael Pittman Jr., and while he can struggle to separate consistently against top press-man defenders, he remains a nightmare at the catch point. Scheme Fit & Projected Role with Panthers Dave Canales takes over in Carolina after successful stints developing X receivers like D.K. Metcalf and Mike Evans, both of whom posted double-digit TD seasons under his guidance. McMillan will step into a WR room that rotated options like Xavier Legette, Adam Thielen, and David Moore last year but lacked a true alpha. McMillan’s skill set and draft capital lock him in as the Panthers’ starting X receiver. Expect him to be featured heavily in vertical concepts and red-zone packages. While Carolina’s offense is still evolving under Bryce Young, McMillan should see immediate targets in a low-volume but high-leverage role. Rookie Outlook (2025) Floor: WR4 with FLEX appeal in deeper leagues Ceiling: Low-end WR1 with red-zone upside and WR2 consistency Early Projection: 65–80 receptions, 950–1,100 yards, 6–9 TDs Expected PPG (0.5 PPR): 10.0–14.5 Long-Term Dynasty Value McMillan is a plug-and-play dynasty WR2 with WR1 upside. His first-round capital, dominant college profile, and alpha WR build make him a strong pick in the middle of Round 1 in rookie drafts (1QB) and in Superflex formats. If Bryce Young continues his late-2024 progress, McMillan has top-10 dynasty WR potential within two seasons.

Preseason 2023 NFL Draft Top 10 Big Board Player Rankings Our top ten big board rankings consist of three Georgia bulldogs, two Alabama Crimson Tide, and two Ohio State Buckeyes to start the 2022 college football season. Our top prospect is Alabama edge rusher Will Anderson who would have been the top prospect in the 2022 NFL Draft. The 2023 class looks like a very strong interior defender class with two names in the top ten of our top 50 big board and 4 in the top 20. We have eight defensive linemen in our initial top 20 rankings if you combine edge defenders with interior defenders. Click here to view the entire top 50 big board. After Further Review NFL Draft Player Evaluations Don't forget to check out After Further Review on our Youtube Channel. We evaluate individual prospects at a deeper level. We discuss play style and scheme fit, player comparisons, and do a film review of the top NFL Draft prospects. So whether you are looking for an edge in your dynasty fantasy football league or just want to learn more about NFL draft prospects, After Further Review has, you covered. 1). Edge Will Anderson, Alabama, 6-4, 235lbs Anderson is an explosive edge player that combines size, speed, and power to win off the edge. Anderson can play standing up or with his hand in the dirt. He provides three-down versatility as a pass rusher and a run defender. As a sophomore, Will Anderson achieved 1st team All-American Status, All-SEC 1st team, and won the Nagurski Award in 2021. If eligible to be drafted in the 2022 NFL Draft, Anderson would have been considered the top prospect on our draft board. 2). IDL Jalen Carter, Georgia, 6-3, 310lbs Carter is a disruptive physical force. Carter combines a quick first step and feet like a running back to shoot into gaps. At 6-3, 310lbs, Carter is a densely proportioned twitchy player with quick hips and elite lateral ability. Carter wins with strength generated from his dense lower half; combined with his elite positional athleticism and quick hands, Carter is a problematic defender to block. Carter will need to improve his ability to handle and move off of double teams at the next level. 3). Edge Myles Murphy, Clemson, 6-5, 275lbs In terms of ceiling grades, Murphy possesses one of the highest grades in the 2023 class. He has the athletic and physical tools you want in today's NFL edge rusher. At 6-5, 275lbs, Murphy possesses the elite length needed to go one-on-one with today's top NFL tackles. On tape, Murphy exhibits an elite first step combined with elite-level lateral quickness for his position. His athleticism allows him to accelerate into a gap, or he can execute stunts using his high-level agility. His assets do not end with quickness; he can win with speed or power at the point of attack. Using his dense frame and elite strength, Murphy can anchor and hold the edge in the run game or bull through a blocker on his way to the QB. 4). QB Bryce Young, Alabama, 6-0, 194lbs Bryce Young is a solid athlete with a better-than-average arm. He wins with his decision-making and his ability to work through his progressions. Based on our assumptions that Bryce Young will likely declare for the 2023 NFL Draft after one more year of seasoning, he already has shown enough on his tape to have been considered the top QB in this past draft ahead of Kenny Pickett, Malik Willis, and Desmond Ridder. 5). CB Kelee Ringo, Georgia, 6-2, 205lbs Ringo is another Georgia Bulldog with top-ten NFL Draft potential. Ringo is a lengthy press man corner at 6-2, 205lbs; he plays with aggression. Ringo uses his strength and long arms to attack the catch point with good body control muscling the football away from the receiver. The former 10.43sec 100M track star can run with the fastest receivers on the field. In addition, he possesses the twitchiness and fluidity needed to play at a high level in the NFL. Ringo does not allow receivers to gain a step very often; when they do, he has the explosiveness to close fast. Ringo must learn to use his aggression as needed at the NFL level. His physicality in the NFL might be deemed too aggressive and lead to penalties in coverage. He will need to improve eye discipline; he can get caught by play action, pump fakes, and double moves by receivers. 6). QB C.J. Stroud, Ohio State, 6-3, 218lbs Stroud is accurate with a strong arm. He can fit the football into tight windows, especially on layered throws between LB's and safeties down the middle. His ability to throw outside the numbers beating coverage, and placing the football only where his receiver has the best chance stands out on tape. C.J. Stroud possesses arm talent in critical areas of the measure. He can throw with touch at all levels, get the ball out quickly when needed, and fire a laser down the seam. Stroud does a good job feeling and handling pressure, but there are moments where you would like to see him use his legs a bit more to keep a play alive. 7). ED Nolan Smith, Georgia, 6-3, 235lbs Smith is an edge player with excellent athleticism for his position. in high school, he reportedly ran a 4.5 40 and posted a near 40in vertical, which correlates to his elite first step and downhill explosiveness. Smith also possesses elite lateral quickness for his position. He has good power for an edge defender his size at 6-3, 235lbs. Smith likes to place a blocker in conflict. He can bend a tackle wide with speed, use his quick twitch ability to freeze the blocker, and then attack his weakest leverage on his way to the QB. Smith's athleticism allows him to play in coverage as needed. 8). WR Kayshon Boutte, LSU, 6-0, 200lbs Boutte took the reigns as LSU's next big-time WR in 2021 before succumbing to an ankle injury midway through the season. Boutte would miss seven games in 2021 but still led the Tigers in receiving yards and TD's. He is a mismatch for opposing DB's, and his after-the-catch ability is next level. We project Kayshon Boutte as a top ten overall talent in the 2023 NFL Draft. 9). IDL Bryan Bresee, Clemson, 6-5, 300lbs Bresee possesses elite instant impact upside, and he is a player who has top ten NFL Draft potential even after missing 2/3 of the 2021 college football season. At 6-5, 300lbs, Bresee possesses elite length. On tape, Bresee has an explosive first step combined with the elite positional strength needed to be a success at the NFL level. He also possesses elite lateral quickness and twitchiness for an interior defender. He can shoot through a gap in a hurry on one play to force a bad throw, and on the next play, he can shoot through a hole to close off a run lane. Bresee can play different techniques along the line, but he projects as a 3-tech in the NFL. 10). WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba, Ohio State, 6-0, 198lbs Smith-Njigba waited his turn at Ohio State, and when it was his time to shine, he stepped up in a big way a season ago. In the 2022 Rose Bowl game, Smith-Njigba became the Buckeye's number one receiver after Chris Olave and Garrett Wilson opted out. Njigba is not the flashiest receiver; he is a good route runner with excellent hands. He is also fearless and willing to pick up the tough yards over the middle—Smith-Njigba projects as a slot receiver at the next level. At 6-0, 198 lbs, he is a gritty player who can make defenders miss in space like a running back after the catch. He can stop on a dime and displays good lateral movement and loose hips. He attacks the catch point and can muscle the ball away from defenders in traffic.

Athlete Brand Development Series: Interview W/Mary Hardin Baylor Basketball's McKenzie Cano Football Scout 365 Founder/Analyst Brandon Lundberg Interviews Mary Hardin Baylor Basketball Player McKenzie Cano. They discuss her background as an athlete, her views and experiences with NIL so far, and more. Follow: McKenzie Cano on Instagram This show series will be a part of the Football Scout 365 Athlete Brand Development initiative. You can learn more about our Athlete Brand Development initiative and how you can get involved by visiting the Athlete Brand Development Home Page . Todays Show Focus Today we have a special guest interview with McKenzie Cano; she is a freshman College Basketball Player at Mary Hardin Baylor in Texas. McKenzie played high school basketball at Mason Highschool , a 2A program in West Texas; she is considered a dynamic post player who could be impactful early on as a freshman at Mary Hardin Baylor. She was a four-year varsity player in high school who earned a two-time Texas Association of Basketball Coaches honorable mention while achieving first-team All-District honors twice. Subscribe and Follow Don't forget to subscribe to our podcast ( Football Scout 365 ) and the 5 Tool Sports Podcast . Follow Football Scout 365 on our socials-> Here . Stay tuned for more great content!

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2024 NFL Draft Position Rankings: The Top 3 Defenders By Position Group Ahead Of The 2024 NFL Combine We are entering the next stage of the NFL Draft player rankings process. As always, I start with the top 5 quarterbacks (QB) , top 5 running backs (RB) , top 10 wide receivers (WR) , and the top 5 tight ends (TE) before diving into the updated offensive line and top defender grades. The defender rankings below are the top three ranked players at their position ahead of the 2024 NFL Draft. Click Here: Check out the Football Scout 365 NFL Draft Big Board top 100 player rankings. We evaluate every player using a proprietary grading process that involves film evaluation combined with advanced data. On the back end, our scouting process mirrors the same process deployed by current NFL front-office personnel so that we can deliver the most in-depth player scouting reports available. All of this is currently free (subject to change). Each player scouting report includes: In-depth player scouting report Play Style and Scheme Fit Analysis Player Strengths & Weaknesses Player Comparisons The Top 3 Cornerbacks (CB1) Nate Wiggins, Clemson (CB, 6'2", 185 lbs) Projection: High-End Starter Potential Analysis: Wiggins excels with his disruptive range and efficiency against vertical threats. His agility and sharp route recognition make him adaptable to various defensive schemes, emphasizing his role in off-man coverage. His potential in the NFL aligns with 'High-End Starter Potential,' showcasing his capability to adjust and excel in numerous roles. Draft Projections Projected NFL Draft Round: 1st NFL Teams Mocked: Colts, Vikings, Jaguars (CB2) Cooper DeJean, Iowa (CB, 6'1", 210 lbs) Projection: Elite Analysis: DeJean's spatial awareness and athleticism afford him versatility across the boundary, slot, and potentially safety roles. His explosive athleticism and quick response to plays highlight his proficiency in zone and off-man coverage, marking him as an 'Elite' prospect ready for early-round selection. Draft Projections Projected NFL Draft Round: 1st NFL Teams Mocked: (CB3) Quinyon Mitchell, Toledo (CB, 6'0", 196 lbs) Projection: High-End Starter Potential Analysis: Mitchell showcases exceptional zone and off-man coverage prowess, leveraging his excellent route recognition and ball skills to disrupt plays. His coverage instincts and reactive athleticism render him perfectly suited for schemes that value versatility, allowing him to excel both in open spaces and near the line of scrimmage. Draft Projections Projected NFL Draft Round: 1st NFL Teams Mocked: Steelers, Eagles, Rams The Top 3 Edge Rushers (EDGE1) Dallas Turner, Alabama (ED, 6'4", 240 lbs) Projection: High-End Starter Potential Analysis: Turner's flexibility across defensive alignments, comparable to notable NFL talents, underpins his value as a dynamic pass rusher. His need for refinement in run defense and block shedding does not overshadow his 'High-End Starter Potential,' promising a strong NFL impact. Draft Projections Projected NFL Draft Round: 1st NFL Teams Mocked: Falcons, Vikings, Bears (EDGE2) Laiatu Latu, UCLA (ED, 6'5", 265 lbs) Projection: High-End Starter Potential Analysis: Latu's pass rush ability and motor, suitable for odd front schemes, resonate with his compelling comeback story. His 'High-End Starter Potential' forecasts an impactful NFL career, emphasizing his skill set for aggressive defensive play. Draft Projections Projected NFL Draft Round: 1st NFL Teams Mocked: (EDGE3) Jared Verse, Florida State (ED, 6'4", 250 lbs) Projection: High-End Starter Potential Analysis: Verse's adaptability, mirroring the versatility of NFL edge rushers, positions him as a potential cornerstone in defensive strategies prioritizing quarterback pressures. His 'High-End Starter Potential' suggests year-one NFL readiness. Draft Projections Projected NFL Draft Round: 1st NFL Teams Mocked: Seahawks, Rams, Bucs The Top 3 Interior Defensive Linemen (IDL1) Jer'Zhan Newton, Illinois (IDL, 6'2", 295 lbs) Projection: High-End Starter Potential Analysis: Newton's athleticism and technical skills make him a fit for dynamic defensive fronts, aiming for Pro Bowl levels. His ability to lead Power 5 in pressures denotes his 'High-End Starter Potential,' promising a disruptive NFL presence. Draft Projections Projected NFL Draft Round: 1st NFL Teams Mocked: Bengals, Raiders, Seahawks (IDL2) Byron Murphy II, Texas (IDL, 6'1", 308 lbs) Projection: High-End Starter Potential Analysis: Murphy's prowess in run defense and potential in pass rush align him with traditional 4-3 schemes, where his foundational skills forecast 'High-End Starter Potential' as a solid interior force in the NFL. Draft Projections Projected NFL Draft Round: 1st NFL Teams Mocked: Lions, Texans, Cardinals (IDL3) Kris Jenkins, Michigan (IDL, 6'3", 305 lbs) Projection: Mid-Level Starter Potential Analysis: Jenkins' effectiveness against the run and effort in pass rush cater to his suitability as a nose tackle or defensive tackle, suggesting 'Mid-Level Starter Potential.' Despite speed limitations, his strengths indicate a reliable defensive contribution. Draft Projections Projected NFL Draft Round: 2nd-3rd NFL Teams Mocked: Packers, Bengals, Vikings The Top 3 Linebackers (LB1) Edgerrin Cooper, Texas A&M (LB, 6'3", 230 lbs) Projection: Mid-Level Starter Potential Analysis: Cooper's athletic profile and diagnostic ability fit a weakside linebacker role, highlighting his 'Mid-Level Starter Potential.' His versatility promises a dynamic impact within NFL defensive schemes. Draft Projections Projected NFL Draft Round: 2nd-3rd Round NFL Teams Mocked: Packers, Eagles, Steelers (LB2) Junior Colson, Michigan (LB, 6'3", 247 lbs) Projection: Mid-Level Starter Potential Analysis: Colson's agility and coverage skills, effective in a 4-3 defense, mark him as a 'Mid-Level Starter Potential.' His comprehensive abilities suggest a path toward becoming a substantial defensive contributor. Draft Projections Projected NFL Draft Round: 3rd-4th NFL Teams Mocked: Commanders, Chargers, Cardinals (LB3) Jeremiah Trotter Jr., Clemson (LB, 6'0", 230 lbs) Projection: Mid-Level Starter Potential Analysis: Trotter Jr.'s blend of run-stopping and pass rush potential positions him for versatile linebacker roles, with 'Mid-Level Starter Potential' indicating a promising NFL journey with substantial room for growth. Draft Projections Projected NFL Draft Round: 3rd-4th NFL Teams Mocked: Packers, Eagles, Steelers The Top 3 Safeties (S1) Kamren Kinchens, Miami (S, 6'0", 205 lbs) Projection: High-End Starter Potential Analysis: Kinchens' comprehensive coverage abilities and adaptability signal 'High-End Starter Potential,' predicting a significant defensive role. His need for improved tackling technique suggests areas for enhancement. Draft Projections Projected NFL Draft Round: 2nd-3rd Round NFL Teams Mocked: Packers, Eagles, Bears (S2) Tyler Nubin, Minnesota (S, 6'2", 210 lbs) Projection: Mid-Level Starter Potential Analysis: Nubin's proficiency in run defense and straight-line speed cater to zone or nickel safety roles, with 'Mid-Level Starter Potential' underscoring his capacity for solid NFL contributions. Draft Projections Projected NFL Draft Round: 2nd-3rd NFL Teams Mocked: Packers, Eagles, Bears (S3) Calen Bullock, USC (S, 6'3", 190 lbs) Projection: Low-Level Starter Potential Analysis: Bullock's prowess in deep coverage juxtaposes his need for tackling improvement, with 'Low-Level Starter Potential' highlighting developmental areas alongside promising pass-defense capabilities. Draft Projections Projected NFL Draft Round: 3rd-4th NFL Teams Mocked: Packers, Bears, Bills

2025 NFL Scouting Combine: Full Schedule, All-Time Records, and How Top Prospects Can Boost Their Draft Stock in Indianapolis The NFL’s Ultimate Pre-Draft Evaluation Event The NFL Scouting Combine is the premier evaluation event for draft-eligible college football players, offering NFL GMs, coaches, and scouts a centralized opportunity to assess prospects through a comprehensive series of medical, mental, and physical tests. Held annually in Indianapolis, Indiana, this invitation-only event determines how players stack up against the league’s elite draft prospects in a standardized setting. The Combine serves as a proving ground—a place where players can confirm their on-field dominance, answer lingering questions, and even reshape their draft stock with a standout performance. While game tape remains the most critical factor in an NFL team’s scouting process, the Combine allows evaluators to verify athletic ability, injury history, and football intelligence before making multimillion-dollar draft decisions. Each year, approximately 300 of the nation’s top prospects receive an exclusive invite to participate. But what happens in Indianapolis can either solidify a player’s first-round projection or expose weaknesses that push them down the draft board. Click to Expand 2025 NFL Scouting Combine Schedule Location: Lucas Oil Stadium, Indianapolis, INDates: February 27 – March 2, 2025 Date Position Groups Start Time (ET) TV Coverage Thursday, Feb 27 Defensive Linemen & Linebackers 3 PM ET NFL Network Friday, Feb 28 Defensive Backs & Tight Ends 3 PM ET NFL Network Saturday, Mar 1 Quarterbacks, Wide Receivers & Running Backs 1 PM ET NFL Network Sunday, Mar 2 Offensive Linemen 1 PM ET NFL Network The four-day event features measurable testing, on-field positional drills, and interviews that help teams assess how prospects handle pressure, adapt to coaching, and respond to high-stakes evaluations. Why the NFL Scouting Combine Matters The NFL Combine is more than a workout session—it’s an intense, highly scrutinized evaluation process that can reshape a player’s draft stock. Every drill, interview, and medical check holds weight. Medical Evaluations: Teams gather critical data on injuries, surgeries, and long-term health concerns. Athletic Testing: Prospects compete in key drills that quantify speed, explosiveness, agility, and strength. Team Interviews: Teams conduct 15-minute interviews to evaluate football IQ, personality, and character. On-Field Workouts: Players participate in position-specific drills to showcase technique, footwork, and movement skills. For some players, a dominant performance can propel them into the first round. For others, a poor showing may raise red flags that push them down draft boards. 2025 NFL Combine: Updated Performance Metrics & Records Each year, prospects aim to break records and make history at the Combine. Here’s a look at some of the most important drills and the top all-time performers in each category. 40-Yard Dash Importance: The premier speed test, crucial for skill positions like wide receivers, defensive backs, and running backs. Top All-Time Performers: Xavier Worthy, WR, Texas (2024) – 4.21 seconds John Ross, WR, Washington (2017) – 4.22 seconds Kalon Barnes, CB, Baylor (2022) – 4.23 seconds Chris Johnson, RB, East Carolina (2008) – 4.24 seconds 10-Yard Split Importance: Measures initial burst and acceleration, critical for pass rushers, running backs, and linebackers. Top All-Time Performers: Chris Johnson, RB, East Carolina (2008) – 1.40 seconds Henry Ruggs, WR, Alabama (2020) – 1.43 seconds Malcolm Mitchell, WR, Georgia (2016) – 1.43 seconds Vertical Jump Importance: A key indicator of lower-body explosiveness, useful for WRs, DBs, and pass rushers. Top All-Time Performers: Chris Conley, WR, Georgia (2015) – 45.00 inches Donald Washington, CB, Ohio State (2009) – 45.00 inches Byron Jones, CB, Connecticut (2015) – 44.50 inches Bench Press (225 lbs Reps) Importance: Tests upper-body strength and endurance, crucial for linemen and linebackers. Top All-Time Performers: Stephen Paea, DT, Oregon State (2011) – 49 reps Mitch Petrus, OL, Arkansas (2010) – 45 reps Mike Kudla, DL, Ohio State (2006) – 45 reps Bringing It All Together: The Road to the NFL Draft While the NFL Combine isn’t the final say, it provides one of the last major opportunities for prospects to boost their draft stock ahead of Pro Days and private workouts. A historic performance can skyrocket a player into the first round. A poor showing can force teams to reevaluate a prospect’s tape and long-term potential. Medical evaluations often carry more weight than the drills themselves. At the 2025 NFL Scouting Combine, all eyes will be on Indianapolis as teams search for the next franchise cornerstone. With the NFL Draft fast approaching, the Combine serves as a critical turning point in the journey to professional football. Exclusive coverage of the 2025 NFL Scouting Combine is available on NFL Network, NFL.com , NFL Now, and NFL Mobile.