Big Blue View - 2014 NFL Scouting Combine: Everything Giants' fans need to knowYour place for year-round New York Giants discussion and informationhttps://cdn.vox-cdn.com/community_logos/47371/bigblueview_fave.png2020-02-27T11:09:29-05:00http://www.bigblueview.com/rss/stream/51834172020-02-27T11:09:29-05:002020-02-27T11:09:29-05:00How to watch the 2020 NFL Combine on-field workouts
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<img alt="NFL Combine - Day 1" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/9DhkEa3da8rNmGusIvcsVjNfytc=/0x0:4903x3269/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/66388282/1208599772.jpg.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Photo by Alika Jenner/Getty Images</figcaption>
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<p>Coverage of the quarterbacks, wide receivers and tight ends begins Thursday</p> <p id="sRAw6D">The 2020 <a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl-combine">NFL Combine</a> has been underway for a few days now at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, Ind. But the real fun begins Thursday. </p>
<p id="KIvTvC">Hundreds of NFL hopefuls have participated in the measurements, weigh-ins, medical examinations and team interviews portion of the combine. But on Thursday, the quarterbacks, wide receivers and tight ends will be the first to take the field. The three position groups will have a chance to highlight their skills and athleticism to the crowd of scouts, coaches and general managers. Players will take part in the 40-yard dash, vertical leap, broad jump and other testing in addition to position-specific workouts.</p>
<h3 id="koVK7g"><strong>Here is how to watch Thursday’s events:</strong></h3>
<p id="2J3mAN"><strong>Channel:</strong> NFL Network and live streaming on <a href="http://NFL.com">NFL.com</a>. ESPN will carry coverage from 7-8 p.m. ET with live streams available on WatchESPN.</p>
<aside id="01RPfh"><div data-anthem-component="readmore" data-anthem-component-data='{"stories":[{"title":"3 quarterbacks for Day 3: The Giants wouldn’t draft a late-round QB again, would they?","url":"https://www.bigblueview.com/2020/2/26/21154645/nfl-combine-2020-nfl-draft-rumors-3-quarterbacks-day-3-ny-giants-anthony-gordon-cole-mcdonald"},{"title":"Who’s No. 1? Wide receivers Jerry Jeudy, CeeDee Lamb vie to be first receiver drafted","url":"https://www.bigblueview.com/2020/2/25/21153719/nfl-draft-2020-whos-no-1-wide-receivers-jerry-jeudy-ceedee-lamb-vie-to-be-first-receiver-drafted"}]}'></div></aside><p id="46R3Mg"><strong>Time:</strong> 4 p.m. ET - 11 p.m. ET</p>
<p id="IwAAdD"><strong>Position groups:</strong> Quarterbacks, wide receivers, tight ends</p>
<p id="4fIr7t">Now let’s look at some of the players to watch for Thursday. </p>
<p id="A1Ai72">The projected No. 1 pick, LSU quarterback Joe Burrow, will not participate in Thursday’s activities. Alabama quarterback Tua Tagovailoa will also be sidelined as he continues to recover from his hip injury. </p>
<p id="poCWxD">But the QB class will feature Oregon’s Justin Herbert, Utah State’s Jordan Love and Washington’s Jacob Eason.</p>
<p id="CS3swy">The wide receiver group will feature many potential first-round picks, including Alabama’s Jerry Jeudy, Oklahoma’s CeeDee Lamb and Alabama’s Henry Ruggs III. Ruggs is looking to set the record for the 40-yard dash. Right now, the record stands at 4.22 seconds. University of Washington standout <span>John Ross</span> set the record back in 2017, breaking the previous mark shared by running back <span>Chris Johnson</span> and wide receiver Rondel Menendez.</p>
https://www.bigblueview.com/2020/2/27/21156035/how-to-watch-the-2020-nfl-combine-time-tv-channel-joe-burrow-nfl-draftEmily Iannaconi2014-02-28T13:00:04-05:002014-02-28T13:00:04-05:00Risers and Fallers in the 2014 Scouting Combine
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<img alt="Justin Gilbert ran a blistering 4.35 40 yard dash." src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/sGan3Xf3hO9YWZReOh_zo2rmSjU=/0x140:2696x1937/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/29279235/20140225_pjc_ss1_349.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Justin Gilbert ran a blistering 4.35 40 yard dash. | Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>Who were some of the biggest risers and biggest fallers in this year's NFL Combine?</p> <p>When we talk of "stock," in the traditional sense, we usually think of Wall Street, where "stock" refers to an investment in shares of a particular company or corporation. That also certainly defines player stock. A player's stock is the sum of the investment risk vs reward of that player to the team. The scouting combine is one such area that can greatly add to a player's risk or potential reward. So with that in mind, let's take a look at the fickle stock of a few players who made a splash.</p>
<h4><b>Risers</b></h4>
<p><i><b>Aaron Donald</b>, DT Pittsburgh</i> -- The buzz out of Indianapolis was focused, and rightly so, on one man. The undersized 3 technique from Pittsburgh came into last weekend already ascending, and then decided it wasn't enough. After leaving most of his competition in the dust with jaws agape at his 4.65 40 yard dash at 285 pounds, he affirmed that not only did he have tremendous football character and on field production, but that he was a freakish athlete too. As Mike Mayock stated several hundred times during the coverage, he "checks all the boxes." Certainly positioned himself to go in the 1st half of the first round at this point.</p>
<p><i><b>Justin Gilbert</b>, CB Oklahoma State</i> -- The theme of the Combine was to weed out the average athletes from the special ones. Gilbert absolutely qualifies for the latter. There's a lot of chatter that he could become a top 10 pick and the top overall defensive back in the draft. While I disagree with that notion, its not impossible. He's smooth and explosive. Looked great in the drills while running a blistering 4.35. He made himself some money.</p>
<p><i><b>Jerrick McKinnon</b>, RB Georgia Southern</i> -- You know him? Yeah, same here. Only really heard of him after this combine. What did he do? Only have one of the most complete, freaky, combines that you'll see. He ran a 4.41, good for 2nd among all running backs behind Dri Archer. He jumped 40.5 inches in the vertical jump, good for second behind Lache Seastrunk. He jumped 11'0 in the broad jump (second among RBs). His short shuttle and 3 cone? Yup, top three times in both. Oh, and he also bench pressed 225 pounds 32 times. Like I said, one of the freakiest performances by a candidate in this year's draft. He might not get drafted high, but this put him on the map and will likely guarantee him a spot.</p>
<p><i><b>Taylor Lewan</b>, OT Michigan </i>-- Lewan had the best day of all the OL that performed in the drills. Greg Robinson established himself as the de-facto freak, but prior to the Combine, Lewan was losing ground to both Robinson and Matthews. His dominant performance not only in the 40-yard dash (where he posted the best time overall for all OL) but also in the kick slide and movement drills re-established himself as firmly in contention for the best tackle available in this year's draft.</p>
<p><i><b>Blake Bortles</b>, QB Central Florida</i> -- Bortles is the winner by default here simply because he was the one with enough stones to throw. He appeared confident in his media appearance, had nice touch on his throws, and showed off his arm strength. While he didn't blow anybody away with his 40-yard time, he looked to be in shape and didn't hurt himself. He has the inside track towards becoming a top three pick.</p>
<p><b></b></p>
<h4><b>Fallers</b></h4>
<p><i><b>Cyrus Kouandjio</b>, OT Alabama -- </i>Not only did Kouandijo have a horrid athletic performance at the Combine, with a slow 40-yard dash, poor footwork in the drills, and stiff hips, but he apparently also failed several medicals. He has arthritic knees and a failed ACL repair. That's bad news bears for a position that makes exclusive use of knee bending to maintain leverage. He's going to fall like a stone.</p>
<p><i><b>Anthony Johnson</b>, DT LSU</i> -- "Freak" Johnson did not really stand up to his nickname. Now, I don't really care about 40-yard times for defensive linemen, but I do want to see a respectable 10-yard split, especially if you are a 3 technique. Johnson's time was a 1.80, which is not ideal for a 300-pounder. You like to see explosion and power from that 1 gap penetrator and we didn't see that. He looked sluggish in drills as well. He went from being an in-season second round pick to possibly falling into the fourth or fifth rounds.</p>
<p><i><b>Austin Sefarian-Jenkins</b>, -- TE Washington</i> Among the bad injury news was that ASJ had a foot issue that would not only preclude him from working out at the combine, but also at possibly his pro day as well. Coming off a bad season production wise, Sefarian-Jenkins needed a strong workout to re-establish himself (from the preseason) as the top TE in the draft. He didn't do that and we're looking at him falling back down into Day 2, possibly even to the third round.</p>
<p><i><b>Victor Hampton</b>, CB South Carolina</i> -- Hampton is a good player. He's aggressive, physical, and has good awareness. He's just not that athletic. His official time was a 4.69 as a 5-foot-9, 195-pound corner, so he's undersized as well. As we all know, you can succeed as a slower corner, but it makes it much more difficult and you are guaranteed to fall. Hopefully he can pull his stock back up with a faster pro-day.</p>
<p><i><b>Dee Ford</b>, DE/OLB Auburn</i> -- Most of these fallers are due to medical issues uncovered at the Combine, because honestly, most of these players did pretty well in the drills. Ford is on here for this stupid sequence of events:</p>
<p>1) Call out Jadeveon Clowney and proclaim yourself better than him.</p>
<p>2) Jadeveon Clowney runs a 4.47 40-yard dash at 266 pounds.</p>
<p>3) You reveal you have a stress fracture in your foot and can't participate.</p>
<p>Yeah.</p>
https://www.bigblueview.com/2014/2/28/5451062/nfl-combine-results-stock-up-stock-down-2014-nfl-combine-draft-giantsInvictus XI2014-02-25T10:30:03-05:002014-02-25T10:30:03-05:00NFL Combine Explained Part 4: Defensive Backs
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<img alt="NYG Cornerback Prince Amukamara during the 2011 NFL Combine " src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/xg2A_Qte7TncoKpys8sO4ymBN78=/0x106:467x417/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/29121013/gyi0063761381.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>NYG Cornerback Prince Amukamara during the 2011 NFL Combine | Joe Robbins</figcaption>
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<p>The last day of the Combine sees some of the best athletes take the field.</p> <p>They're listed as one group, but there are a few different kinds of defensive back. First, there are safeties and cornerbacks. Among those, there are strong safeties and free safeties, edge corners and slot corners.</p>
<p>There are different requirements for each one.</p>
<p>In general corners will be more athletic than safeties. Edge corners generally (but not always, depending on scheme) will be bigger and longer than slot corners. Likewise, free safeties will need to be rangier and better in coverage than strong safeties, who need to have stouter builds to contribute in the run game.</p>
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<h4>Height, Weight, Arm Length, Hand Span</h4>
<p>Taller defensive backs are becoming more and more en vogue. Not only do the match up better with the NBA-sized receivers entering the league, but the most recent Superbowl champion featured a secondary full of industrial sized DB's.</p>
<p>However, height is not without its disadvantages. Taller corners have a hard time sinking their hips in their backpedal, and being smooth in coverage. Yes, they can cover larger receivers, but they have a hard time covering tightly. Likewise, heavier DB's have the same problems. They can be physical with bigger receivers, but they tend to lack the quick-twitch athleticism to stay with quick receivers in space.</p>
<p>Long arms are a big advantage for a defensive back. It allows them to play bigger than their frame would indicate, letting corners with the size to be quick, be able to cover area like a larger defensive back.</p>
<p>Big hands are useful when jamming receivers or for snagging interceptions</p>
<h4>Measurable Events</h4>
<p><b>40 Yard Dash</b>: Like the wide receivers they cover, raw speed is important for defensive backs. Corners need to be able to turn and run with receivers, and safeties need to be able to cover ground.</p>
<p><b>Vertical Jump</b>: The vertical jump shows two things for defensive backs. First, it shows lower body explosion, and their ability generate power. Second, defensive backs need to be able to leap to defend high passes and be better-able to high-point the ball than the receiver</p>
<p><b>Broad Jump</b>: Again, this drill shows a DB's ability to generate power.</p>
<p><b>3-Cone and Short Shuttle</b>: These drills are very important for defensive backs. Corners especially need to have quick feet and loose hips to transition and run with receivers.</p>
<h4>Position Drills</h4>
<p><b>W Drill</b>: Deion Sanders once said that he tells kids that if there is one drill every DB should do, it is the "W-Drill". This drill give prospects a chance to show whether or not they have the quick feet and loose hips in transition. Safeties, and strong safeties in particular, won't perform well here, but top-flight cover corners should excel in this drill.</p>
<p><b>Backpedal Drills</b>: I'm lumping a few drills together in this section, but they are all variations on a theme. Basically, the prospect goes into their backpedal, and then flips his hips based on direction from the coach running the drill. Then, they turn and either run down the field or break at a 90 or 45 degree angle. The purpose here is to first see how good the prospects backpedal is, then how loose their hips are when breaking on the ball. Also, because the drills force prospects to react the direction of the coach, it shows how well they are able to react to what a quarterback does when they are in zone coverage.</p>
<p><b>Close and Speed Turn Drill</b>: This final drill has the DB start out with a backpedal. Then he has to plant, change directions and drive back toward the quarterback, before having to transition again and play the ball down the field. Like the previous drills, this one shows the prospects' backpedal as well as their ability to transition out of it suddenly. Then it shows how they can turn and run and how well they are able to track the ball going down the field.</p>
<h4>How It All Ties Together</h4>
<p>Teams need to figure out which defensive backs are safeties in the NFL, and which are cornerbacks. There are corners playing in college who can cover college receivers, either due to similar athletic abilities, or because college rules allow corners to be more physical than in the NFL. However, those guys might (or even will) not be able to stay at corner against the best receivers in the game.</p>
<p>Likewise, there are few things as valuable to a defense as a safety who is able to play center-field without letting passes go over his head. Having a safety with that kind of range and coverage ability gives defenses the flexibility to play with more men close to the line of scrimmage to defend the run, or to bring extra pressure on blitzes.</p>
<p>The measurable events and the position drills defensive backs are designed to separate the corners from the safeties, the outside corners from the slot corners, and the free safeties from the strong safeties.</p>
https://www.bigblueview.com/2014-nfl-draft-mock-order-prospects-picks-new-york-giants/2014/2/25/5442112/nfl-combine-measurements-explained-part-4-defensive-backsChris Pflum2014-02-25T07:03:47-05:002014-02-25T07:03:47-05:00NFL Combine: Tuesday preview, TV schedule, more
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<img alt="Justin Gilbert" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/yDRlwSMTH_TLAk6bSFjKVddeCtc=/0x222:3198x2354/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/29138089/20140223_ads_bl4_305.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Justin Gilbert | Pat Lovell-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>The NFL Combine concludes Tuesday with on-field workouts by defensive backs.</p> <p>The 2014 NFL Combine concludes on Tuesday with defensive backs working out at Lucas Oil Stadium.</p>
<h4>Players To Watch</h4>
<p><b>Cornerbacks </b>-- Darqueze Dennard (Michigan State) and Justin Gilbert (Oklahoma State) are expected to be the first cornerbacks drafted. Can Jason Verrett of TCU work his way into the first despite being just 5-foot-9, 176 pounds? E.J. Gaines (Missouri), Stanley Jean-Baptiste (Nebraska) and Pierre Desir (Lindenwood) are among corners to pay attention to.</p>
<p><b>Safeties </b>-- Ha-Ha Clinton Dix (Alabama) is considered the best safety in the class.</p>
<h4>Big Blue View Coverage</h4>
<ul>
<li> <a target="_blank" href="http://www.bigblueview.com/2014/2/21/5433882/tom-coughlin-giants-agree-to-extension-nfl-combine-2014">Tom Coughlin announced Friday</a> he is getting a one-year extension from the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.bigblueview.com/">Giants</a> to continue coaching.<br>
</li>
<li> <a target="_blank" href="http://www.bigblueview.com/2014/2/22/5436538/jerry-reese-giants-nfl-combine-justin-tuck-hakeem-nicks-free-agency">GM Jerry Reese covered a wide variety of topics</a> during a Saturday press conference.</li>
<li>Our <a target="_blank" href="http://www.bigblueview.com/2014-nfl-draft-mock-order-prospects-picks-new-york-giants/2014/2/17/5419376/2014-nfl-scouting-combine-preview-prospects-schedule-results-news-rumors">Complete Combine StoryStream</a> includes results, news, schedules of what is coming up, explanations of what talent evaluators are looking for in the various drills and more.</li>
<li>Visit our<a target="_blank" href="http://www.bigblueview.com/2014-nfl-draft-mock-order-prospects-picks-new-york-giants/2014/1/20/5320682/2014-nfl-draft-prospect-profiles-scouting-reports-rankings-news-new-york-giants"> Prospect Profiles StoryStream</a> to learn more about individual players.</li>
<li>Visit the <a target="_blank" href="http://www.bigblueview.com/2014-nfl-draft-mock-order-prospects-picks-new-york-giants">Big Blue View 2014 NFL Draft Hub Page</a> for all of our coverage of the upcoming draft.</li>
<li>The <a target="_blank" href="http://www.bigblueview.com/2014/2/17/5408466/2014-nfl-scouting-combine-preview-new-york-giants-draft-prospects">Big Blue View Combine Primer</a> is still a good, useful read.</li>
</ul>
<h4>SB Nation Coverage</h4>
<p class="pgh-paragraph" id="paragraph2">SB Nation draft analysts Dan Kadar (@MockingTheDraft) and Matthew Fairburn (@MatthewFairburn) will be covering events in Indianapolis. Follow them as they post updates on Twitter. You can also read their full reports at <a target="_blank" href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl-mock-draft">Mocking The Draft</a>.</p>
<h4>TV Schedule</h4>
<p class="pgh-paragraph" id="paragraph4">Here is the complete run-down of NFL Network's coverage of the workouts:</p>
<p class="pgh-paragraph" id="paragraph5"><b>Tuesday, Feb. 25</b><br> 2014 NFL Scouting Combine Workouts: Defensive Backs, 9 a.m. ET (LIVE). Encores at 2 p.m. ET, 9 p.m. ET & midnight ET.</p>
https://www.bigblueview.com/2014-nfl-draft-mock-order-prospects-picks-new-york-giants/2014/2/25/5443020/nfl-combine-2014-tuesday-preview-tv-schedule-defensive-backsEd Valentine2014-02-24T13:32:48-05:002014-02-24T13:32:48-05:002014 NFL Draft: QBs will impact Giants' plans
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<img alt="Blake Bortles" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/4uMcGgkkaXGH7j5jPXxxgaiIdBo=/0x250:3505x2587/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/29109233/20140223_ads_ss1_268.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Blake Bortles | Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>The Giants won't take a quarterback in the first round of the 2014 NFL Draft, but the teams that do will impact how the Giants approach the first round.</p> <p>The <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.bigblueview.com/">New York Giants</a> will not be selecting a quarterback in the first round of the 2014 <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl-draft">NFL Draft</a>. Yet, Sunday's quarterback workouts and interviews at the 2014 <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl-combine">NFL Combine</a> could have a tremendous influence on the Giants' 2014 NFL Draft.</p>
<p>Why so? Because at No. 12 in the first round of a draft most analysts see as rich in talent -- remember NFL Network's Mike Mayock calling it "<a target="_blank" href="http://www.bigblueview.com/2014/2/19/5425448/mike-mayock-nfl-draft-new-york-giants-taylor-lewan-zack-martin">the deepest and best draft class</a> I've seen in probably 10 years" -- the Giants sit at what could be a critical pivot point in the draft.</p>
<p>Johnny Manziel of Texas A&M, Teddy Bridgewater of Louisville, Blake Bortles of UCF are the three top quarterbacks in the class. Some analysts also love Derek Carr of Fresno State. What order they go in and which guys will go before the Giants pick at 12 depends on who you ask.</p>
<p>If the Giants want to sit at No. 12 and take the best player there (who fits their needs, of course) then the more quarterbacks taken in the first 11 picks the better. That increases the pool of players the Giants get to pick from, making it more likely guys like Michigan offensive tackle Taylor Lewan or wide receiver Mike Evans of Texas A&M will still be on the board.</p>
<p>Should a couple of those quarterbacks still be on the board at No. 12 that might also be outstanding news for the Giants. That could increase the possibility that a quarterback-needy team will get antsy to move up for whoever remains, thus enabling the Giants to trade down and stockpile extra picks in this deep draft.</p>
<p>GM <b>Jerry Reese</b> indicated Saturday that he is open to trading down. Of course, take that with a grain of salt. Reese never shows his hand, always saying he is open to moving up or down and nearly-always offering some version of the idea that the Giants want to "keep all of our options open."</p>
<p>My oft-stated preference is that trading down in the draft is nearly always better than trading up. That is especially true in a draft that is expected to be several rounds in deep in starting-caliber NFL talent. Here is what I wrote in the <a target="_blank" href="http://www.bigblueview.com/2013-nfl-draft/2013/4/21/4244738/2013-nfl-draft-rules-new-york-giants-big-blue-view">'Big Blue View Rules for Draft Success':</a></p>
<blockquote>
<p>There are very few times when any player is worth trading up for, thus causing a team to mortgage valuable draft picks. You need depth in the NFL, and you can't accumulate it by trading away your draft choices -- which is what you have to do to move up. Generally, it is better to move down and accumulate more draft choices than to move up and wind up with less. Your mistakes hurt less when you have more choices, you can take risks on occasion and -- if the situation is right -- you can actually use some of those 'extra' picks to move up when you feel it is warranted.</p>
</blockquote>
<p><a target="_blank" href="http://walterfootball.com/combine2014workoutQB.php">Walter Football has a good summary</a> of the on-field work done by quarterbacks on Sunday.</p>
<p>Ultimately, the point is this -- don't ignore what is going on with the quarterbacks even though the Giants won't take one. Their fortunes will impact who the Giants do end up with.</p>
https://www.bigblueview.com/2014/2/24/5439312/2014-nfl-draft-quarterbacks-giants-manziel-bridgewater-bortlesEd Valentine2014-02-24T08:28:12-05:002014-02-24T08:28:12-05:00Combine Measurements Explained Part 3: DL & LB
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<img alt="Future-Giant John Hankins performs a defensive line position drill at the NFL Scouting Combine " src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/fFOlcGUpTRboS7_bzpgcJL_bMRs=/0x561:3386x2818/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/29028641/20130225_ajw_ss1_801.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Future-Giant John Hankins performs a defensive line position drill at the NFL Scouting Combine | USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
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<p>We wrapped up the offensive players Sunday. Now it's time to take a look at the guys who get to hit them.</p> <p>Even though it's only listed as two positions on the program, there are a bunch of different types of players being tested Monday on the third day of on-field workouts at the 2014 NFL Combine. Teams that run a 4-3 defense (such as the New York Giants) have to look for a completely different set of players as a team running a 3-4 front.</p>
<p>In general, the 4-3 defense needs better athletes across the front seven. The defensive line is asked to both stop the run as well as rush the passer, while the linebackers need to have good range, cover, clean up in the run game, and be athletic enough to blitz.</p>
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<link rel="stylesheet" href="http://cdn3.sbnation.com/assets/3608425/mustreads.css"></p>
<h4>Defensive Line</h4>
<h5><b>Height, Weight, Arm Length, & Hand Span</b></h5>
<p>All of these are important for defensive linemen, but in different ways for each position along the defensive line.</p>
<p>Big hands and long arms are a plus wherever a defensive lineman plays, allowing them to get their hands on an offensive lineman first and either control him or shed the block.</p>
<p>Height and weight vary more widely for defensive linemen than pretty much any other position. On one end you can have 3-techniques like Aaron Donald at 6-feet, and at the other you can have defensive ends like Devin Taylor who are 6-7. Likewise, speed rushers on the edge can be as light as 250 pounds, while 3-4 nose tackles can weigh 350 pounds. Generally, there is a prototype for each position along the defensive line.</p>
<h5>Measurable Events</h5>
<p>Like the Height, Weight, Arm, and Hand measurements, what teams are looking for here varies widely. Nobody is going to care if a 350-pound nose tackle doesn't have good numbers. What they care about is whether or not he can occupy blockers and collapse the pocket.</p>
<p>Athletic pass rushers, however, will need to test out well here. These guys need to be quick and powerful to get past offensive linemen and get to the quarterback.</p>
<p><b>10-yard split, Broad Jump, Vertical Leap</b>: I'm lumping these three together, because they all help to illustrate a prospects lower-body explosiveness and his ability to generate power. To me, these numbers are much more important than how many reps they have on the bench press or how fast their 40 is.</p>
<p><b>3-cone drill and Short Shuttle</b>: Defensive linemen need to be able to have short-area quickness. Edge rushers especially need to be able to bend around the corner to get to the quarterback.</p>
<h5>Position Drills</h5>
<p><b>3-Bag Drill</b>: This drill has the prospect shuffling along the line of scrimmage, alternating between tapping bags on the ground and punching bags standing up. Teams are looking to see how players can move, bend, get out of their stance, and how violent their hands are</p>
<p><b>4-Bag Drill</b>: Similar to the three-bag drill, this one has four bags on the ground. The prospect starts out in the middle of them, goes over the bags to one side, then back the other way, then goes back along the line bending down and hitting each of the bags as he goes. This drill shows which prospects have the quick feet to be able to work through the trash at the line of scrimmage, movement skills in space, and bend/flexibility.</p>
<p><b>Pass Rushing Drill</b>: This drill shows which prospects can bend and turn the corner to rush the passer. They go from the left and right sides, and have to get around two tall bags before getting to the "passer".</p>
<h5>How It All Ties Together</h5>
<p>When you hear scouts talk about pass rushers, one of the most common phrases you hear is "Converting speed to power". That refers to a rusher's ability to get low in their stance, explode off the snap, then use their burst and leverage to move the offensive lineman backwards, then discard him on the way to the ball carrier. To do that, they need to have good flexibility in their ankles, knees, and hips; strong lower-body explosiveness; and the ability to bend and play with good pad level (ie, lower than the offensive lineman's). These are what scouts are looking for in the measurables and position drills.</p>
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<h4>Linebackers</h4>
<h5>Height, Weight, Arm Length, Hand Span</h5>
<p>While there is no such thing as an "Ideal" linebacker size, they don't vary nearly as wildly as defensive linemen do. Generally, scouts want to see linebackers are between 6-2 and 6-5, and 230-250 pounds. They have to be big enough to deal with blocks from offensive linemen or tight ends, and tackle power backs. However, they have to be athletic enough to cover tight ends, running backs out of the backfield, and rush the passer.</p>
<p>Like the defensive linemen, however, long arms and big hands are a definite plus for linebackers, and for the same reasons.</p>
<h5>Measurable Events</h5>
<p>I'm just going to go ahead and refer you back to this part for the defensive linemen, and for the same reasons.</p>
<p>The biggest difference is that the full 40-yard dash does matter for linebackers. For the most part the front-seven plays in a 10-yard bubble, but sometimes linebackers will, be asked to turn and run with tight ends, running backs, and even receivers.</p>
<h5>Positional Drills</h5>
<p>The pass rush and three-bag drills are the same as the defensive linemen, and are important for the same reasons. There are some linebacker specific drills and that's what I'm going to concentrate on.</p>
<p><b>Pass Drop & Hip Rotation</b>: This drill has the prospect dropping back at a 45-degree angle, and flips his hips three times and changes direction while dropping back before making one break back towards the coaches to intercept the ball.</p>
<p><b>Wave Drill</b>: The same drill as the offensive linemen run. Scouts want to see how fluid the linebackers' movement skills are, and get a look at their ankle, knee, and hip flexibility.</p>
<h5>How It All Ties Together</h5>
<p>Linebacker is one of the more difficult positions to scout. That's fitting, since it's something of a mirror to the running back position. Like the RBs, linebackers depend on their defensive line to keep opposing linemen off of them so they can make plays. There's also a bunch of different types of linebackers.</p>
<p>However, the ones that go high in the draft and make the most money in the NFL can: A) Rush the passer, B) Play with range, and C) Cover tight ends and running backs. As offenses seek to spread defenses out, defenses need athletic linebackers who can affect the passing game (either through coverage or pass rushing). That is the goal of most of the position drills</p>
<p>They still need to be able to clean up in the run game though, and that means the ability to fight off and shed blocks, and stop a running back when they make the tackle. That is where the lower-body explosiveness numbers come in.</p>
<p>Finally, linebackers need to be able to recognize plays and react to them, which is part of the reason why most of their drills involve them reacting to the coaches' directions.</p>
<p>One more day of workouts to go, with the defensive backs taking over Tuesday Brace yourself, Richard Sherman comparisons are coming.</p>
https://www.bigblueview.com/2014/2/24/5436224/nfl-combine-2014-measurements-explained-part-3-defensive-line-linebackersChris Pflum2014-02-24T07:33:47-05:002014-02-24T07:33:47-05:00NFL Combine: Clowney takes the field Monday
<figure>
<img alt="Jadeveon Clowney" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/1xIF1C4dyvRovjs9HVZQxDAegjw=/0x0:4000x2667/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/29089003/20140222_mje_ss1_1673.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Jadeveon Clowney | Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>The NFL combine continues today with linebackers and defensive linemen taking the field for workouts.</p> <p>All eyes at the 2014 <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl-combine">NFL combine</a> will be on Jadeveon Clowney Monday. The South Carolina defensive end and potential first overall pick in the 2014 <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl-draft">NFL Draft</a>, who has promised an eye-popping Combine performance, leads the defensive linemen and linebackers who will work out Monday at Lucas Oil Stadium.</p>
<p>Below is a look at some of the stories that made news at the Combine Sunday, as well as everything you need to continue following the action today.</p>
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<h4>Big Blue View Coverage</h4>
<ul>
<li> <a target="_blank" href="http://www.bigblueview.com/2014/2/21/5433882/tom-coughlin-giants-agree-to-extension-nfl-combine-2014">Tom Coughlin announced Friday</a> he is getting a one-year extension from the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.bigblueview.com/">Giants</a> to continue coaching.<br>
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<li> <a target="_blank" href="http://www.bigblueview.com/2014/2/22/5436538/jerry-reese-giants-nfl-combine-justin-tuck-hakeem-nicks-free-agency">GM Jerry Reese covered a wide variety of topics</a> during a Saturday press conference.</li>
<li>Our <a target="_blank" href="http://www.bigblueview.com/2014-nfl-draft-mock-order-prospects-picks-new-york-giants/2014/2/17/5419376/2014-nfl-scouting-combine-preview-prospects-schedule-results-news-rumors">Complete Combine StoryStream</a> includes results, news, schedules of what is coming up, explanations of what talent evaluators are looking for in the various drills and more.</li>
<li>Visit our<a target="_blank" href="http://www.bigblueview.com/2014-nfl-draft-mock-order-prospects-picks-new-york-giants/2014/1/20/5320682/2014-nfl-draft-prospect-profiles-scouting-reports-rankings-news-new-york-giants"> Prospect Profiles StoryStream</a> to learn more about individual players.</li>
<li>Visit the <a target="_blank" href="http://www.bigblueview.com/2014-nfl-draft-mock-order-prospects-picks-new-york-giants">Big Blue View 2014 NFL Draft Hub Page</a> for all of our coverage of the upcoming draft.</li>
<li>The <a target="_blank" href="http://www.bigblueview.com/2014/2/17/5408466/2014-nfl-scouting-combine-preview-new-york-giants-draft-prospects">Big Blue View Combine Primer</a> is still a good, useful read.</li>
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<h4>SB Nation Coverage</h4>
<p class="pgh-paragraph" id="paragraph1">SB Nation draft analysts Dan Kadar (@MockingTheDraft) and Matthew Fairburn (@MatthewFairburn) will be covering events in Indianapolis. Follow them each day as they post updates on Twitter. You can also read their full reports each day at <a target="_blank" href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl-mock-draft">Mocking The Draft</a>.</p>
<h4>Monday NFL Combine Schedule</h4>
<ul>
<li>On-field workouts for defensive linemen, linebackers</li>
<li>Bench press, interviews for defensive backs</li>
</ul>
<p>
<link rel="stylesheet" href="http://cdn3.sbnation.com/assets/3608425/mustreads.css"></p>
<h4>TV Schedule</h4>
<p class="pgh-paragraph" id="paragraph2">Here is the complete run-down of NFL Network's coverage of the workouts:</p>
<p class="pgh-paragraph" id="paragraph3"><b>Monday, Feb. 24</b><br> 2014 NFL Scouting Combine Workouts: Linebackers & Defensive Linemen, 9 a.m. ET (LIVE). Encores at 3 p.m. ET, 9 p.m. ET & midnight ET.<br><b>Tuesday, Feb. 25</b><br> 2014 NFL Scouting Combine Workouts: Defensive Backs, 9 a.m. ET (LIVE). Encores at 2 p.m. ET, 9 p.m. ET & midnight ET.</p>
<h4>News, Notes From Sunday</h4>
<p><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/2014/2/23/5441006/nfl-combine-2014-recap-results-day-4">2014 NFL Combine results: Full recap of Day 4 - SBNation.com</a><br>The quarterbacks, running backs and wide receivers all had their on-field drills on Sunday. Here's a full recap of the results.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/24454779/nfl-combine-five-takeaways-from-sunday">2014 NFL combine: Five Takeaways from Sunday - CBSSports.com</a><br>Jaw-dropping performances from quarterbacks, running backs and wide receivers made Sunday's workouts the most memorable day thus far at the 2014 NFL combine.</p>
<p><a href="http://msn.foxsports.com/nfl/story/sunday-s-standouts-blake-bortles-puts-on-a-complete-show-022314">Sunday's Standouts: Blake Bortles puts on a complete show | FOX Sports on MSN</a><br>Sunday at the Combine was the big quarterback's chance to stand apart from the pack and he didn't disappoint.</p>
<p><a href="https://go.redirectingat.com?id=66960X1641761&xs=1&url=http%3A%2F%2Fnesn.com%2F2014%2F02%2Fnfl-combine-sunday-winners-and-losers-brandin-cooks-johnny-manziel-shine%2F&referrer=sbnation.com&sref=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.bigblueview.com%2F2014%2F2%2F24%2F5441790%2Fnfl-combine-2014-monday-preview-tv-schedule-more-jadaeveon-clowney" rel="sponsored nofollow noopener" target="_blank">NFL Combine Sunday Winners And Losers: Brandin Cooks, Johnny Manziel Shine | NFL Draft | NESN.com</a><br>The <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.patspulpit.com/">New England Patriots</a> will look to one category from Sunday's NFL Scouting Combine results first: the three-cone drill. History suggests that the Patriots value that number more than any other when drafting. This year's crop of wide receivers fared very well in the three-cone drill.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/24454182/nfl-combine-manziel-runs-unofficial-456">2014 NFL combine: Johnny Manziel runs official 4.68-second 40 - CBSSports.com</a><br>Texas A&M quarterback Johnny Manziel rolled off 4.63 and 4.56 unofficial times and was officially clocked at 4.68 in the 40-yard dash at the NFL scouting combine on Sunday morning.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.sbnation.com/nfl-mock-draft/2014/2/23/5439084/despite-acl-injury-aaron-colvin-stills-feels-like-a-1st-rounder">Despite ACL injury, Aaron Colvin stills feels like a 1st rounder - SBNation.com</a><br>Despite a devastating injury, Colvin said he still feels great about going to the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="http://www.sbnation.com/senior-bowl">Senior Bowl</a>. He would even recommend it to his former Oklahoma teammates. <br><br> "I wanted to go there and prove to people I was a first-round corner," Colvin said. "I felt like I was doing that while I was there. <br><br> "I felt I was a first-round corner. I still feel I'm a first-round corner."</p>
<p><a href="http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/eye-on-football/24454554/2014-nfl-combine-dee-ford-on-jadeveon-clowney-im-better">2014 NFL combine: Dee Ford on Jadeveon Clowney: 'I'm better' - CBSSports.com</a><br>Dee Ford was asked about Jadeveon Clowney and said 'I'm better' before saying Clowney plays like a 'blind dog in a meat market.'</p>
<p><a href="http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/nfl-draft-scout/24455076/san-diego-state-rb-adam-muema-leaves-combine-early-cites-religion">San Diego State RB Adam Muema leaves Combine early, cites religion - CBSSports.com</a><br>Muema, the fourth leading rusher in San Diego State history, left the Combine prior to working out. He said he is following God, who told him that his dream of playing for the <a class="sbn-auto-link" href="https://www.fieldgulls.com/">Seattle Seahawks</a> would come true if he left the workout.</p>
<p><a href="http://espn.go.com/nfl/draft2014/story/_/id/10508242/2014-nfl-combine-receivers-impress-qbs-lack-depth">2014 NFL combine - receivers impress, QBs lack depth - ESPN</a><br>Receivers lived up to the hype Sunday at the scouting combine, but quarterbacks showed a lack of depth, writes John Clayton.</p>
<p><a href="http://www.giants.com/videos/videos/Combine-Report-Sunday/c578b359-3a8f-485f-ab77-c8bb390cbc9c">Combine Report: Sunday</a><br>Giants.com's John Schmeelk brings you the latest from the NFL Combine</p>
https://www.bigblueview.com/2014/2/24/5441790/nfl-combine-2014-monday-preview-tv-schedule-more-jadaeveon-clowneyEd Valentine2014-02-23T09:30:02-05:002014-02-23T09:30:02-05:00Combine Drills Explained, Part 2: WRs and RBs
<figure>
<img alt="Rueben Randle high points the ball for a touchdown" src="https://cdn.vox-cdn.com/thumbor/tl7gYaoisslqtsZN5FKdIgA3scI=/0x132:2572x1847/1310x873/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/28987203/183452968.0.jpg" />
<figcaption>Rueben Randle high points the ball for a touchdown | Maddie Meyer</figcaption>
</figure>
<p>Day 2 of the on-field part of the NFL combine brings out two positions where athleticism is at a premium. </p> <p>Yesterday we got a look at the big guys. Today we get into the positions where athleticism is at an absolute premium. So, without further ado, let's get to it:</p>
<h4>Running Backs</h4>
<h5>Height, Weight, Arm Length, & Hand Span</h5>
<p><b>Height</b> and<b> weight</b> don't matter much for running backs. I don't recall the exact quote, but I remember Bill Parcells saying that he hated scouting the running back position because there is no prototype. Effective running backs come in all shapes and sizes.</p>
<p><b>Arm Length:</b> This is another one that doesn't matter too much for running backs. Long limbs gives defenders targets near the line of scrimmage. However, for running backs that could also be considered receiving threats, long arms do make for a larger catch radius. Also, longer arms could help them in pass protection.</p>
<p><b>Hand Span:</b> Hand size is important for running backs. First and foremost, big, powerful hands make it easier to grip the ball and improve ball security. Likewise, big hands make it easier to catch the ball.</p>
<h5>Measurable Events</h5>
<p><b>40 Yard Dash</b>: Running backs are one of the positions where the 40 matters. Not only does the 10 yard split (the time it takes the prospect to cover the first 10 yards) help to show the prospect's explosiveness, a fast 40 can help to separate the ever sought-after home run threats from the pack</p>
<p><b>Vertical & Broad Jump</b>: Two more drills that can help to measure a prospect's lower body explosiveness. Strong leaping numbers illustrate how explosive a back can be in a short area. That's the power to break tackles or to explode through a hole after making a cut</p>
<p><b>3-Cone Drill & Short Shuttle:</b> These two drills will help to show how well a running back can start, stop, and change direction. Backs will have to show that they have the lower body flexibility to cut at speed and are able to play fast but under control.</p>
<h5>Position Drills</h5>
<p><b>Off Tackle Reaction:</b> This drill simulates a running back picking his way through the trash at the line of scrimmage, and then reacting and making a cut depending on direction from a coach. The backs have to show that they have quick feet to not trip, then be able to make the correct read and cut at speed.</p>
<p><b>Cone Weave:</b> For this drill the running backs get the ball then need to weave their way through a series of cones. This drill shows which backs are able to sink their hips and bend their knees and ankles to make sharp cuts at speed.</p>
<p><b>Receiving Drills:</b> Pretty self explanatory, the running backs run routes similar to what they will be asked to run out of the backfield in the NFL. This is a chance for running backs to show whether or not they are natural pass catchers.</p>
<h5>How it all ties together</h5>
<p>Running back is a position where guys have to be athletic. A guy can be big, but he isn't going to last long in the league if he can't run and cut. Successful running backs don't need to be burners, turning 4.3 second 40's. A term we're going to hear a lot this weekend is "Quicker Than Fast" and that is reserved for guys who lack that extra "Road Runner" gear, but have a great burst and acceleration.</p>
<p>The read option and spread offenses that have taken over college football, stretching out and slowing defenses down, and making reads easier. Scouts and GM's need to see that running backs have the vision to see what defenses are doing and the ability to make fast, difficult cuts. Likewise, the receiving drills give prospects who might not have been receiving options in college (such as Auburn's Tre Mason), a chance to show that they can catch the ball.</p>
<h4>Wide Receivers</h4>
<h5>Height, Weight, Arm Length, & Hand Span</h5>
<p><b>Height & Weight</b>: Like running backs, good receivers come in all shapes and sizes. However, the different body types can have different roles. Outside receivers tend towards being both bigger and smaller, to create mismatches and as much separation down the field as possible. Slot receivers tend to be shorter and smaller, so they can make sharp cuts over the middle to create separation in tight areas.</p>
<p><b>Arm Length</b>: Long arms mean a big catch radius. If a receiver with long arms can pluck the ball out of the air, that makes him that much more difficult for teams to defend.</p>
<p><b>Hand Span</b>: Hand size is vitally important for receivers. They need to be sure handed to be able to fight for the ball or hang on to it if they get hit. Also, big hands combined with long arms make difficult catches</p>
<h5>Measurable Events</h5>
<p><b>40 Yard Dash</b>: Like the the running back position, there is a premium on athleticism at wide receiver. A receiver with blazing speed is something all defenses have to respect, and all offenses covet.</p>
<p><b>3-Cone Drill</b> <b>& Short Shuttle</b>: Again, like the running back position, this drill is going to highlight or expose players' ability to start, stop, and change direction. Receivers need to show that they can have the flexibility to make hard, fast cuts and explode out of their breaks (while remaining under control).</p>
<p><b>Broad and Vertical Jumps</b>: Receivers don't need quite the same level of lower-body explosiveness that running backs do, however being able to out-jump defenders is an incredible advantage all over the field. Also, having the power to fight through jams is obviously a plus.</p>
<h5>Position Drills</h5>
<p><b>The Gauntlet</b>: This is the same drill as the tight ends run. Scouts want to see if receivers can pick up the ball quickly and snatch it out of the air. Also, it's good to see if a player gets flustered if they miss a catch.</p>
<p><b>Toe Tap Drill</b>: This is the Amani Toomer special. Teams want to see if receivers can make the tough catch going out of bounds. Receivers will have to show that they have the coordination to get both feet down in bounds while securing the ball.</p>
<p><b>Over The Shoulder Catch</b>: In this drill the QB's (try to) drop the ball over the receiver's outside shoulder. The receiver has to turn his head and locate the ball at the last second, then adjust to make the catch.</p>
<p><b>Route Tree</b>: The receivers run a complete route tree while catching passes thrown by the quarterbacks. The receivers need to show that they can run the routes correctly, make sharp cuts, and be decisive.</p>
<h5>How It All Ties Together</h5>
<p>The Combine is important for receivers. They need to show that they are athletes as well as football players. However receivers can get by on their agility and quickness. They can create separation with sharp cuts and get a step on defenders with quickness, and get yards after the catch even if they aren't speedsters (Victor Cruz leaps to mind).</p>
<p>That being said, few things scare defensive coordinators like a legitimately fast receiver who can blow the top off a defense. The measurable part of the combine gives under-the-radar prospects, who might not have been the feature of their offense or who didn't receive national attention, a chance to get scouts' attention</p>
<p>Few college receivers play in pro-style offenses, so not many come into the NFL with a complete route tree. The route tree part of the wide receivers' workout gives them a chance to show that they can be NFL receivers. They also show which receivers have the ability to track the ball, the body control to adjust to it, and which ones are natural hands catchers.</p>
<p><i>Next up: Defensive Line and Linebackes.</i></p>
https://www.bigblueview.com/2014-nfl-draft-mock-order-prospects-picks-new-york-giants/2014/2/23/5433514/combine-measurables-explained-part-ii-running-backs-and-wide-receiversChris Pflum