The NFL Scouting Combine has kicked off in Indianapolis, marking the beginning of an exciting week for football prospects. The focus has been on the defensive linemen and linebackers, who are showcasing their skills through athletic testing and positional drills. This year”s class is particularly strong, featuring several edge rushers likely to be selected in the top five come April, alongside a deep pool of linebackers.
Among the standout performers was Caleb Banks, a defensive tackle from Florida. Banks measured in at 6 feet 6 inches and 327 pounds, confirming his impressive size. His remarkable 40-yard dash time of 5.05 seconds on his first attempt showcased his exceptional athleticism, further solidified by his impressive hand size and wingspan, which are well above average. Despite struggling with injuries during the season, Banks appears to be a strong candidate for a first-round selection if his performance remains consistent.
On the other hand, Cashius Howell from Texas A&M faced challenges with his measurements, coming in with only 30.25-inch arms, which is below the average for edge rushers. This limitation, coupled with a weight of 253 pounds, raises concerns about his ability to compete at a high level. Howell will need to deliver stellar times in the 40-yard dash and other drills to boost his draft stock, as he is currently viewed as a potential second- or third-round pick.
Sonny Styles, a linebacker from Ohio State, has emerged as a winner of the week without even running yet. He measured 6 feet 5 inches and 244 pounds, with solid arm length that enhances his profile as a former safety turned linebacker. Styles has shown strong instincts and the ability to tackle with authority, further improving his draft prospects as he prepares for the 40-yard dash.
Conversely, Peter Woods from Clemson, who began as a top prospect, has seen his stock slip. Weighing in at 298 pounds, lighter than expected, Woods did not participate in running drills, which is a missed opportunity to reaffirm his athleticism. His arm length also raised eyebrows, falling into the lower percentile for interior linemen. While his past performances remain strong, the combine has not started favorably for him.
Another player making an impact is Malachi Lawrence from Central Florida. He has attracted attention with a strong showing, including a 40-inch vertical jump and a broad jump of 10 feet 10 inches. His initial 40-yard dash time of 4.53 seconds positions him favorably among edge rushers, potentially giving him a boost in the pre-draft process.
As the NFL Combine continues, the performances of these defensive prospects will be closely monitored, with implications for their draft positions in the upcoming NFL Draft. The next few days will feature additional workouts and drills that could further impact their evaluations and future careers in the league.
