Various Pro Day workout updates

[dbair1967]

From Gil Brandt, I might have missed some of these being posted but there are some big names on here:

Pro Day workout updates
By Gil Brandt | NFL.com


In between the combine and the NFL Draft, NFL coaches and personnel -- not to mention the prospects themselves -- turn their attention to the various college "Pro Day" workouts. These are not as all-encompassing as the combine, but they are important enough for the key decision-makers in the league to travel around the country for more than a month to see the talent up close and personal. NFL.com's Gil Brandt has his sources at each of these workouts and will update this Pro Day scouting report on a daily basis:


» QB Erik Ainge (6-5 ½, 225): Kept everything from the combine. Ran position drills.

» TE Brad Cottam (6-7 ½, 269): Had a 36 ½-inch vertical jump, 4.27 short shuttle, 7.22 cone drill, ran position drills and kept his numbers from the combine for everything else. Cottam looked good in his workout, catching everything and had 24 receptions in his senior season.

» KR Jonathan Hefney (6-8, 190): Had a 39-inch vertical jump (10 inches higher than the combine), 9-foot long jump, 4.44 short shuttle and a 7.07 cone drill.

» LB Jerod Mayo (6-1 3/8, 237): Had a 40 ½-inch vertical jump, 22 reps in the bench press, ran position drills and kept his numbers from the combine for everything else.

» OL Eric Young (6-3 5/8, 307): He is injured and will work out in the middle of April.

» WR Justin Gatlin (5-11 7/8, 195): Ran a 4.45 and a 4.42 in the 40. Had a 40 ½-inch vertical jump, 11-foot long jump, 4.4 short shuttle and 7.36 cone drill and 12 reps in the bench press. The former Olympic sprinter faces long odds of getting signed.

Clark Atlanta (March 13)
Fifteen NFL teams were on hand as players worked out outdoors on Field Turf. The main attraction at this small school was LB Curtis Johnson, and thus the scouts included LB coaches from Baltimore, Pittsburgh and Arizona.

» LB Curtis Johnson (6-2 5/8, 237): Ran the 40 in 4.60 and 4.65, had a 10-foot, 1-inch long jump, 4.46 short shuttle, 6.78 cone drill, ran position drills and kept his numbers from the combine for everything else.

Georgia Tech (March 13)
There were 28 NFL clubs in attendance -- with LB coaches from Baltimore, Jacksonville, Pittsburgh and the Giants. Ten prospects took part, working out outdoors in Field Turf.

» P Durant Brooks (6-0 ¼, 204): Had a much better day punting the football here than he did at the combine.

» LB Gary Guyton (6-1 5/8, 244): Had a 40-inch vertical jump, 4.33 short shuttle, 16 reps in the bench press, ran position drills and kept his numbers from the combine for everything else.

» DL Adamm Oliver (6-3 ¾, 271): Had 29 reps in the bench press but did no other drills, as he is rehabbing an ACL injury.

» RB Tashard Choice (5-10 ½, 208): Had a 37 ½-inch vertical jump, 10-foot, 3-inch long jump, 4.26 short shuttle, 6.87 cone drill, and had a very good position workout. Kept all other numbers from the combine.

» LB Philip Wheeler (6-2, 240): Ran the 40 in 4.73 and 4.66, had a 36 ½-inch vertical jump, 10-foot, 2-inch long jump, 4.36 short shuttle, 7.11 cone drill, ran position drills.

Illinois (March 13)
Illinois head coach Ron Zook did a very good job helping out the reps from 12 NFL teams, including Cincinnati offensive coordinator Bob Bratkowski and RB coach Jim Anderson plus RB coaches from Detroit and St. Louis. Ten Illini players worked out indoors in Field Turf, along with six other prospects from small schools in the area (two of whom are noted below).

» RB Rashard Mendenhall (5-10 1/8, 225): Had a good position workout, but kept all his numbers from the combine (note: he did not run the short shuttle or cone drill at the combine).

» LB Jeremy Leman (6-1 ¾, 245): Had his ankle scoped, so he did not work out at combine or here at the pro day. Has yet to set a date for a private workout.

» WR Jacob Willis (5-9 7/8, 182): Ran the 40 in 4.52 and 4.46, had a 34-inch vertical jump, 9-foot, 7-inch long jump, 4.22 short shuttle, 6.95 cone drill, ran position drills and kept his numbers from the combine for everything else.

» WR Micah Rucker (6-5 ½, 217): From Eastern Illinois… Ran the 40 in 4.57 and 4.47, had a 39-inch vertical jump, 11-foot, 3-inch long jump, 4.57 short shuttle, 6.90 cone drill, 20 reps in the bench press, ran position drills.

» TE/HB Bryan Bergman (6-2 1/8, 243): From Carthage College… Ran the 40 in 4.68 and 4.69, had a 32 ½-inch vertical jump, 9-foot, 10-inch long jump, 4.27 short shuttle, 7.08 cone drill, 19 reps in the bench press, ran position drills.

Oregon (March 13)
Fourteen NFL teams were on hand to see 12 players work out indoors on Field Turf. The big names, however, were still nursing injuries…

» RB Jonathan Stewart: Stewart had toe surgery on March 10 and did not attend Pro Day. He did run at the combine.

» QB Dennis Dixon (6-3 ¼, 195): Still recovering from ACL surgery on his left knee that ended his 2007 season. Scheduled to run and workout on April 3.

» OL Geoff Schwartz (6-6 3/8, 331): Ran the 40 in 5.25 and 5.25, had a 24-inch vertical jump, 8-foot, 3-inch long jump, 4.66 short shuttle, 7.99 cone drill, and had a very good position workout. He will do the bench press on April 3. Note: Schwartz can be a long snapper.

Fresno State (March 12)
Twelve NFL teams were on hand as players worked out outdoors on grass. Ten players worked out.

» OL Jason Shirley (6-5¼, 329): Ran the 40 in 5.02, had a 35-inch vertical jump, 25 reps in the bench press, a 9-foot, 7-inch long jump, 4.18 short shuttle, 7.16 cone drill and ran position drills.

» OL Damon Jenkins (5-10& 7/8, 190): Ran the 40 in 4.53 and 4.54, had a 30½-inch vertical jump, 9 reps in the bench press, a 9-foot, 7-inch long jump, 4.30 short shuttle, 6.84 cone drill and ran position drills.

Alabama (March 12)
This was a great visit for the representatives from 30 NFL teams who attended, as they served a big lunch and the Alabama coaching staff was very helpful and cooperative. Thirteen players worked out, including an intriguing prospect from tiny Stillman College who has no football experience. They worked out indoors on Field Turf.

» WR D.J. Hall (6-0 ½, 202): Ran the 40 in 4.59 and 4.55, had a 32 ½-inch vertical jump, 9-foot, 9-inch long jump, did not run position drills due to a groin injury and kept his numbers from the combine for everything else.

» DL Wallace Gilberry (6-2 ¼, 261): Ran the 40 in 5.02, had a 30-inch vertical jump, 9-foot, 10-inch long jump, 17 reps in the bench press, kept his other numbers from the combine but did not run position drills.

» CB Simeon Castile (6-0 3/8, 193): Ran the 40 in 4.56 and 4.58, had a 36-inch vertical jump, 9-foot, 10-inch long jump, 8 reps in the bench press, kept his numbers from the combine for everything else but did not run position drills. Note -- his dad played five seasons in the NFL.

» WR Keith Brown (6-2 1/8, 201): Ran the 40 in 4.50 and 4.48, had a 31 ½-inch vertical jump, 9-foot, 7-inch long jump, 4.65 short shuttle, 7.25 cone drill, ran position drills and kept his numbers from the combine for everything else.

» WR Matt Caddell (5-10 3/8,. 184): Ran the 40 in 4.41 and 4.39, had a 39 ½--inch vertical jump, 10-foot, 8-inch long jump, 4.33 short shuttle, 7.33 cone drill, 13 reps in the bench press, and ran position drills.

» CB/KR Brian Witherspoon (5-10 3/8,. 175): This prospect from Stillman College in Tuscaloosa, Ala., was invited to take part in workouts -- he has great numbers but no football experience. He ran the 40 in 4.33 and 4.29, had a 40--inch vertical jump, 10-foot, 10-inch long jump, 4.36 short shuttle, 6.86 cone drill, and ran position drills for cornerback and kick returns.

Nebraska (March 12)
Twenty-four NFL teams were on hand to see 22 Cornhuskers work out indoors on an Astrofurf field. Ironically, one of the most impressive workouts of the day was turned in by a visiting prospect from tiny Chadron State.

» DB Zack Bowman (6-0 3/8, 194): Ran the 40 in 4.43 and 4.46, had a 32-inch vertical jump, 10-foot, 5-inch long jump, ran position drills and kept his numbers from the combine for everything else.

» QB Sam Keller (6-4, 237): Ran position drills and kept his numbers from the combine for everything else. Note: In 1972, I drafted his father, Mike Keller, a lineback from Michigan who played one season for Dallas and then worked for me as a scout.

» WR Maurice Purify (6-3, 215): Ran the 40 in 4.50 and 4.52, had a 36-inch vertical jump, 10-foot, 3-inch long jump, ran position drills and kept his numbers from the combine for everything else.

» LB Bo Ruud (6-3 3/8, 234): Ran the 40 in 4.60 and 4.60, had a 32 ½-inch vertical jump, 9-foot, 10-inch long jump, 4.71 short shuttle, 7.30 cone drill, 18 reps in the bench press, ran position drills and kept his numbers from the combine for everything else.

» RB Danny Woodhead (5-7 ½. 197): This record-setting small-school player from Chadron State had a terrific workout. He ran the 40 in 4.38 and 4.40, had a 38-inch vertical jump, 10-foot, 1-inch long jump, 4.20 short shuttle, 7.03 cone drill, and 20 reps in the bench press.

Oklahoma State (March 12)
Twenty NFL teams were on hand, including Bengals WR coach Mike Sheppard, to see 15 players, who worked out outdoors on Field Turf.

» WR Adarius Bowman (6-3 3/8, 230): A big, strong receivers who caught the ball well in workouts. Ran the 40 in 4.77 and 4.75, had a 33 ½-inch vertical jump, 16 reps in the bench press, ran position drills and kept his numbers from the combine for everything else.

» RB Dantrell Savage (5-8 3/8. 186): Ran the 40 in 4.50 and 4.46, had a 4.32 short shuttle, ran position drills and kept his numbers from the combine for everything else.

Michigan State (March 12)
Twenty-six NFL clubs were represented. Among the group were Panthers wide receiver coach Richard Williamson and Bengals tight ends coach Jay Hayes. Fourteen prospects worked out indoors on Field Turf. It was a great workout, well-run and Michigan State head coach Mark Dantoni was very helpful. One player, Grand Valley State's Brandon Carr, worked out again.

» WR Devin Thomas (6-2, 210): Had a 33-inch vertical jump, 16 reps in the bench press. He had a good workout and kept all his other numbers from the combine.

» TE Kellen Davis (6-6, 256): Had a 34-inch vertical jump, ran position drills and kept all his other numbers from the combine.

» RB Jehuu Caulcrick (6-0, 253): Had a 37-inch vertical jump, 4.45 short shuttle, 7.28 cone drill, ran position drills and kept all his other numbers from the combine.

» DB Nehemiah Warrick (6-1 1/8, 208): Had a 32-inch vertical jump, 10-foot long jump, ran position drills and kept all his other numbers from the combine.

» DE Antonio Smith (6-7, 260): Ran the 40 in 5.19 and 5.14, had a 32½-inch vertical jump, 9-foot, 7-inch long jump, 18 reps in the bench press. Smith played his last year of basketball for Spartans coach Tom Izzo in 1999. He is 32. He is the brother of current Cleveland Browns defensive end Robaire Smith.

BYU (March 12)
Eighteen NFL clubs were represented. Among the group were the linebacker coaches from the Panthers, Bengals, Jaguars and Rams. Ten prospects worked out indoors on Field Turf.

» LB Bryan Kehl (6-2 3/8, 237): Ran the 40 in 4.56 and 4.57, had a 35-inch vertical jump, 10-foot, 2-inch long jump, 4.18 short shuttle, 6.54 cone drill. Had a very good workout.

» LB Kelly Poppinga (6-1 3/8, 240): Ran the 40 in 4.76 and 4.74, 27 reps in the bench press, had a 34-inch vertical jump, 9-foot, 3-inch long jump, 4.27 short shuttle, 6.88 cone drill. Had a very good workout. His brother, Brady, starts for the Packers.

Bowling Green (March 12)
Six prospects worked out indoors on AstroTurf.

» OG Kory Lichtensteiger (6-4¼, 242): Not present. He did everything at the combine.

Cincinnati (March 12)
Eleven NFL clubs were represented. Among the group were Bengals defensive backs coach Kevin Coyle. Fourteen prospects worked out outdoors on Field Turf.

» DE/LB Angelo Craig (6-4¼, 242): Had a 34½-inch vertical jump, 10-foot, 4-inch long jump, 4.57 short shuttle, 7.38 cone drill, ran position drills and kept all his other numbers from the combine.

» DB Haruki Nakamura (5-10½, 203): Ran the 40 in 4.65 and 4.66, had a 34½-inch vertical jump, 10-foot long jump, 4.33 short shuttle, 6.93 cone drill, ran position drills.

California (March 11)
Twenty-five NFL clubs were represented. Among the group were Chiefs head coach Herman Edwards, Raiders offensive coordinator James Lofton and Bengals offensive coordinator Bob Bratkowski. Eleven prospects worked out outdoors on Field Turf. One injured player, Brandon Hampton, will run at Home Depot Center on April 1.

» WR Thomas DeCoud (6-1 5/8, 204): Had a 34½-inch vertical jump, 10-foot, 3-inch long jump, 9 reps in the bench press, ran position drills and kept all his other numbers from the combine.

» RB Justin Forsett (5-8, 191): Ran the 40 in 4.62 and 4.73, had a 31-inch vertical jump, 9-foot, 9-inch long jump, 4.46 short shuttle, 7.15 cone drill, ran position drills and kept his numbers from the combine for everything else.

» OL Mike Gibson (6-3¾, 306): Ran the 40 in 5.21 and 5.21, had a 29½-inch vertical jump, 4.63 short shuttle, ran position drills and kept his numbers from the combine for everything else.

» WR LaVelle Hawkins (5-11½, 185): Had a 33½-inch vertical jump, 10-foot long jump, 4.28 short shuttle, 6.99 cone drill, ran position drills and kept his numbers from the combine for everything else.

» WR DeSean Jackson (5-9 7/8, 167): Had a 34½-inch vertical jump, 10-foot, 2-inch long jump, 4.19 short shuttle, 6.90 cone drills, ran position drills and kept his numbers from the combine for everything else.

» TE Craig Stevens (6-3¾, 255): Had a 32½-inch vertical jump, 9-foot, 6-inch long jump, ran position drills and kept his numbers from the combine for everything else.

Kansas (March 11)
Among the 75 NFL people from all 32 teams in attendance were Chiefs president Carl Peterson. Ravens DB coach Chuck Pagano was there to get a closer look at CB Aqib Talib, and nine OL coaches were there to see Anthony Collins. Prospects ran indoors on Astroturf.

» CB Aqib Talib (6-0 7/8, 197): Since the combine, Talib has been working out at Michael Johnson's speed training facility, and it showed here. After running the 40 in 4.46 and 4.53 in Indy, his 40 times for this workout were 4.42 and 4.44. He ran position drills, but kept all his other numbers from the combine.
» OL Anthony Collins (6-5 1/8, 310): Ran the 40 in 5.35 and 5.37, did 26 reps in the bench press, ran position drills and kept his numbers from the combine for everything else.

» TE Derek Fine (6-2 7/8, 251): Ran the 40 in 4.89 and 4.88, had a 33-inch vertical jump, 9-foot, 7-inch long jump, ran position drills and kept his numbers from the combine for everything else.

» WR Marcus Henry (6-3 7/8, 207): Had a 38-inch vertical jump, 10-foot, 6-inch long jump, 4.33 short shuttle, 7.05 cone drill, ran position drills and kept his numbers from the combine for everything else.

» RB Brandon McAnderson (5-10 1/8, 240): Ran the 40 in 4.91 and 4.92, had a 29-inch vertical jump, 8-foot, 11-inch long jump, 4.34 short shuttle, 7.32 cone drills, 21 reps in the bench press, ran position drills and kept his numbers from the combine for everything else

 

[dbair1967]

Oklahoma (March 11)
Oklahoma is one of the favorite stops for NFL scouts on the Pro Day circuit -- partly because Oklahoma's Jerry Schmitt gets them in and out in short order and partly because they serve up some great barbecue to their guests. Of course, it doesn't hurt that there are several serious prospects worth seeing. Therefore, there were a total of 80 NFL scouts representing all 32 teams on hand -- among them were Ravens defensive coordinator Rex Ryan and Rams VP/personnel Tony Softli. Twelve players worked out, indoors on a Field Turf surface. Much to the chagrin of the scouts however, DB Reggie Smith and WR Malcolm Kelly skipped the Pro Day workouts and instead it was announced they would hold a separate workout on April 9. Of course, a lot of NFL personnel folks will be much busier at that time putting together their draft boards.

» LB Curis Lofton (6-0 3/8, 243): Ran the 40 in 4.69 and 4.68, had a 32-inch vertical jump, 4.66 short shuttle, 7.74 cone drill, ran position drills and kept his numbers from the combine for everything else.

» RB Allen Patrick (6-0 5/8, 199): Ran the 40 in 4.62 and 4.56, had a 36-inch vertical jump, 4.50 short shuttle, 7.53 cone drill, 17 reps in the bench press, ran position drills and kept his numbers from the combine for everything else.

» CB Marcus Walker (5-10 3/8, 194): Ran the 40 in 4.65 and 4.59, had a 37-inch vertical jump, 4.28 short shuttle, 7.01 cone drill, 7 reps in the bench press, ran position drills and kept his numbers from the combine for everything else.

» TE Joe Jon Finley (6-6 3/8, 251): Ran the 40 in 4.95 and 4.95, had a 31-inch vertical jump, 4.20 short shuttle, 7.22 cone drill, ran position drills and kept his numbers from the combine for everything else.

» S D.J. Wolfe (5-11, 207): Ran the 40 in 4.65 and 4.64, had a 35½-inch vertical jump, 4.28 short shuttle, 7.16 cone drill, 9 reps in the bench press, ran position drills and kept his numbers from the combine for everything else.

Washburn (March 11)
The scouts wanted to see Cary Williams, a tall corner who has some speed and ability, and could be a late-round draft pick. Workout was held indoors on a Astroturf field at the University of Kansas.

» CB Cary Williams (6-1, 187): Ran the 40 in 4.43 and 4.46, had a 32½-inch vertical jump, 9-foot, 11-inch long jump, 4.34 short shuttle, 6.94 cone drill, 8 reps in the bench press, and ran position drills.

Weber State (March 11)
Five NFL teams were on hand to see 12 players work out on an outdoor track.

» OL David Hale (6-5 5/8, 310): Had a 29-inch vertical jump, 4.63 short shuttle, 7.51 cone drill, and 25 reps. He let his other numbers stand from the combine, but he did not run position drills.

Auburn (March 10)
Thirty NFL teams were on hand, including Steelers head coach Mike Tomlin and Bengals head coach Marvin Lewis, to see 11 players work out indoors on Field Turf…

» DE/OLB Quentin Groves (6-3, 249): Weighed in 10 pounds less than he did last month at the combine, and he had a 35-inch vertical jump -- 5½-inches better than he did at the combine. Ran position drills and kept his other numbers from the combine.

» CB Patrick Lee (6-0, 196): Ran the 40 in 4.56 and 4.53, had a 35-inch vertical jump, 9-foot, 9-inch long jump, 4.39 short shuttle, 6.89 cone drill, and ran position drills.

» DL Pat Sims (6-2 1/8, 310): Had a 30½-inch vertical jump, 7-foot, 11-inch long jump, 4.80 short shuttle, 7.71 cone drill, ran position drills and kept other numbers from the combine.

» OL King Dunlap (6-8¼, 311): Ran the 40 in 5.28, had a 30-inch vertical jump, 5.00 short shuttle, 8.19 cone drill, 20 reps at the bench press and ran position drills.

» RB Carl Stewart (6-1 1/8, 231): Ran the 40 in 4.75 and 4.75, had a 39½-inch vertical jump, 10-foot, 1-inch long jump, 4.47 short shuttle, 7.46 cone drill, and ran position drills and kept his combine numbers for everything else.

» CB Jonathan Wilhite (6-9½, 187): Had a 35-inch vertical jump, 10-foot long jump, 4.42 short shuttle, 7.05 cone drill, ran position drills and kept everything else from the combine.

Central Michigan (March 10)
Nineteen teams were present to see 11 players from Central Michigan, plus 5 players from other small schools in the area. Prospects ran indoors on an Astroturf field.

» OL Eric Tunney (6-3 ¼, 296): Ran the 40 in 5.28, had a 25 ½-inch vertical jump, 8-foot, 9-inch long jump, 4.66 short shuttle, 7.63 cone drill, had 22 reps in the bench press, and ran position drills.

» S Curtis Cutts (5-11 7/8, 216): Ran the 40 in 4.62 and 4.62, had a 36-inch vertical jump, 10-foot, 5-inch long jump, 4.38 short shuttle, 7.16 cone drill, ran position drills and kept his numbers from the combine for everything else.

Grand Valley State (March 10)
This was actually Central Michigan's Pro Day, but many of the 19 NFL club representatives in attendance were there to see this visitor from Grand Valley -- a small-school player who will be drafted. Prospects ran indoors on a fast Astroturf track…

» CB Brandon Carr (6-0, 207): Ran the 40 in 4.43 and 4.45, had a 35-inch vertical jump, 10-foot, 4-inch long jump, 4.19 short shuttle, 6.80 cone drill, and ran position drills.

NW Missouri State (March 10)
Nine NFL teams were on hand and the player they were most interested in seeing was RB Xavier Omon. Prospects ran outdoors on Field Turf, in cold weather.

» RB Xavier Omon (5-10 7/8, 230): Ran the 40 in 4.62 and 4.60, had a 38½-inch vertical jump, 9-foot, 7-inch long jump, 4.29 short shuttle, 6.71 cone drills, ran position drills and kept his numbers from the combine for everything else.

Utah (March 10)
Twelve NFL teams were on hand to see 13 players workout out indoors on an Astroturf field…

» DE Martail Burnett (6-2¾, 257): Ran the 40 in 4.75 and 4.79, had a 38½-inch vertical jump, 10-foot, 7-inch long jump, 4.53 short shuttle, 7.16 cone drill, 16 reps at the bench press and ran position drills.

Arizona (March 8)
All 32 NFL clubs were present -- the same personnel that were at Arizona State the day before. Fourteen players worked out indoors on an Astroturf field…

» CB Antoine Cason (6-0 3/8, 187): Had a 36-inch vertical jump, 7.07 cone drill, ran position drills and stood with everything else he recorded at the combine.

» LB Spencer Larson (6-1¾, 239): Ran the 40 in 4.82 and 4.83, had a 33½-inch vertical jump, 9-foot, 8-inch long jump, 4.29 short shuttle, 7.37 cone drill, 26 reps at the bench press and ran position drills.

» CB Wilrey Fontenot (5-9, 170): Ran the 40 in 4.47 and 4.40, had a 37-inch vertical jump, 4.26 short shuttle, 7.07 cone drill, 21 reps at the bench press and ran position drills.

» DL Louis Holmes (6-3 7/8, 260): Ran the 40 in 4.89 and 4.90, had a 34-inch vertical jump, 10-foot, 3-inch long jump, 4.33 short shuttle, 6.98 cone drill, 19 reps at the bench press and ran position drills.

San Diego State (March 8)
Seventeen NFL teams were present, and prospects worked out outdoors on Field Turf…

» QB Kevin O'Connell (6-5 ¼, 222): Ran position drills but kept his numbers from the combine for everything else.

» OL Will Robinson (6-5 1/8, 292): Had a 26-inch vertical jump, 9-foot, 2-inch long jump, 4.69 short shuttle, 7.32 cone drill, ran position drills and kept his other numbers from the combine.

» LS Tyler Schmitt (6-2 5/8, 236): Had a 7.19 cone drill, and kept his combine numbers for everything else.

» WR Chaz Schilens (6-4, 208): Ran the 40 in 4.38 and 4.39, had a 43-inch vertical jump, 10-foot, 3-inch long jump, 4.25 short shuttle, 6.84 cone drill, and ran position drills.

Delaware (March 7)
The key prospect here, of course, was QB Joe Flacco, and Jaguars QB coach Mike Shula was among the personnel from 16 teams in attendance. Flacco measured in at 6-6 ¼, 237 and ran position drills, but stuck with the rest of his numbers from the combine. Five other Delaware players, plus three from area small schools, worked out indoors on a rubber track…

» RB/KR Omar Cuff (5-9 7/8, 195): Ran the 40 in 4.55 and 4.56, had a 34-inch vertical jump, 10-foot, 1-inch long jump, 4.12 short shuttle, 6.86 cone drill, 16 reps at the bench press and ran position drills.

Arizona State (March 7)
All 32 clubs were represented to see 26 ASU players working out on the outdoor, Astroturf surface. Among those in attendance were defensive backs from four teams ...

» S Joshua Barrett (6-1 5/8, 224): Ran position drills and stuck with his combine numbers for everything else.

» LB Robert James (5-10 5/8, 226): Ran the 40 in 4.70, but pulled his right hamstring and failed to run second 40. Had a 31-inch vertical jump and 9-foot, 6-inch long jump, with 26 reps in the bench press. Did not run position drills.

» OL Mike Pollack (6-3 5/8, 300): Had a 28-inch vertical jump, and 9-foot, 3-inch long jump. Did not run position drills and kept all other numbers from the combine.

» RB Ryan Torian (6-0 5/8, 221): Ran the 40 in 4.51. Did not run position drills and kept all other numbers from the combine.

» CB Justin Tryon (5-9 3/8, 191): Ran the 40 in 4.41 and 4.42, had a 35-inch vertical jump and 10-foot, 1-inch long jump. Ran position drills and kept all other numbers from the combine.

Ohio State (March 7)
Eight players worked out and 17 NFL clubs were in attendance, including Bengals head coach Marvin Lewis. The workouts were supposed to be held outdoors but a snowstorm forced them inside, where they ran on an Astroturf field…

» OL Kirk Barton (6-4½, 311): Ran the 40 in 5.01, had a 31 ½-inch vertical jump, 8-foot, 4-inch long jump, 4.59 short shuttle, 7.67 cone drill, and ran position drills.

» LB Larry Grant (6-1 1/8, 235): Ran the 40 in 4.65 and 4.68, ran position drills, and stuck with his other numbers from the combine.

» DE/OLB Vernon Gholston (6-2¾, 263): Ran the 40 in 4.58, had a 42-inch vertical jump, ran position drills and stuck with his other numbers from the combine.

Purdue (March 7)
Twelve players worked out and there were almost as many Bengals coaches there -- Cincinnati sent eight coaches, including Jonathan Hayes (TEs), Jeff Fitzgerald (LBs) and Mike Zimmer (defensive coordinator). In all, 23 NFL teams were represented, along with one arena league team, as prospects worked out indoors on Field Turf ...

» DL/OLB Cliff Avril (6-2¾, 250): Had a 36½-inch vertical jump and 4.31 short shuttle. Ran position drills and stuck with his combine numbers for everything else.

» WR Dorien Bryant (6-9¾, 173): Ran the 40 in 4.44 and 4.45 and had a 6.51 cone drill. Ran position drills and stuck with his combine numbers for everything else.

» LB Stanford Keglar (6-1 5/8, 235): Ran the 40 in 4.55 and 4.56. Had a 39-inch vertical jump, 4.17 short shuttle, ran position drills and kept his combine numbers for everything else.

» TE Dustin Keller (6-2 3/8, 238): Had a 41-inch vertical jump, 3.94 short shuttle, ran position drills and kept his combine numbers for everything else.

San Diego (March 7)
Twelve teams were present to see four players from San Diego and two others from smaller area schools. Prospects ran outdoors on Field Turf.

» QB Joshua Johnson (6-2¾, 213): Ran position drills only and stuck with all of his numbers from the combine.

San Diego (March 7)
Twelve teams were present to see four players from San Diego and two others from smaller area schools. Prospects ran outdoors on Field Turf.

 

[dbair1967]

SMU (March 7)
Ten NFL teams were present to see 11 players work out. Workouts were scheduled for an outdoors venue, but snow the night before nearly forced them to run the 40-yard dash in a stadium hallway leading to the press box. Fortunately, the snow melted and they were able to hold all the drills outdoors ...

» OL Ben Poynter (6-3 ¼, 296): Ran the 40 in 5.33 and 5.33, had a 27-inch vertical jump, 8-foot, 4-inch long jump, and had 33 reps at the bench press. Ran position drills, but did not run the shuttle drills.

South Florida (March 7)
Eleven players worked out for representatives of 20 NFL teams, including secondary coaches from Arizona, Baltimore, Carolina and Cincinnati, on hand to see cornerback Mike Jenkins. Prospects held workouts outdoors on a grass field, with wind gusts of 10-15 mph ...

» CB Mike Jenkins (5-10 ¼, 193): Ran position drills but kept his combine numbers for all the other drills.

» LB Ben Moffitt (6-0 7/8, 224): Weighed in 10 pounds lighter than he did last month at the combine. Ran the 40 in 4.59 and 4.62, had a 37½-inch vertical jump, 10-foot, 4-inch long jump and kept his combine numbers for everything else.

» CB Trae Williams (5-9 ¼, 192): Ran the 40 in 4.53 and 4.52. Had a 33-inch vertical jump, 4.37 short shuttle, and 7.03 cone drill. He did not do the bench press due to a right shoulder strain.

Eastern Michigan (March 6)
Nine players from Eastern Michigan worked out, plus three players from other area schools. Prospects worked out indoors on Astroturf ...

» DL Jason Jones (6-5 ¼, 275): Had a 30½-inch vertical jump. Kept his combine numbers for everything else. Note: has very long arms.

Kent State (March 6)
Three Kent players plus two from Youngstown State worked out, indoors on Astroturf…

» DL Colin Ferrell (6-0 5/8, 293): Ran the 40 in 4.86 and 4.96, had a 35-inch vertical jump, 9-foot, 1-inch long jump, 4.54 short shuttle, 7.16 cone drill, 23 reps at the bench press and ran position drills.

» CB Jack Williams (5-9, 177): Note- lost nine pounds since the combine… Ran the 40 in 4.33 and 4.32, had a 41-inch vertical jump, 10-foot, 5-inch long jump, 4.13 short shuttle, 6.64 cone drill, and ran position drills. He didn't do the bench press but had 18 reps at the combine.

» DB Dorian Chenault (6-0 1/8, 191): Chenault really helped himself with a good workout… Ran the 40 in 4.52 and 4.44, had a 37-inch vertical jump, 10-foot, 10-inch long jump, 4.18 short shuttle, 6.81 cone drill, 11 reps at the bench press and ran position drills.

Northwestern (March 6)
Fifteen NFL teams were represented to see 10 Northwestern players work out along with 19 players from other schools in the region. Prospects worked out indoors on an ideal Astroturf surface ...

» LB Adam Kadela (6-2, 237): Ran the 40 in 4.79 and 4.83, had a 30-inch vertical jump, 9-foot, 6½-inch long jump, 4.20 short shuttle and an outstanding 6.82 cone drill. He ran position drills and did 28 reps in the bench press.

» DL Dylan Thiry (6-7 1/8, 328): Ran the 40 in 5.32 and 5.32, had a 27½-inch vertical jump, 9-foot long jump, 4.68 short shuttle, 7.88 cone drill, 16 reps in the bench press and ran position drills.

New Mexico (March 6)
Eight NFL teams were represented, including three that sent their WR coaches to check out Marcus Smith. Prospects ran indoors on Field Turf ...

» WR Marcus Smith (6-1 3/8, 223): Ran the 40 in 4.58 and 4.54. Had a 29-inch vertical jump and a 9-foot, 3-inch long jump. Ran position drills and stood on the rest of his numbers from the combine.

» WR Travis Brown (6-2, 194): Ran the 40 in 4.54 and 4.46, had a 34-inch vertical jump and 10-foot, 4-inch long jump. Ran position drills and stood on the rest of his numbers from the combine.

» OT Devin Clark (6-3 5/8, 306): Ran the 40 in 5.37 and 5.34, had a 25½-inch vertical jump and 8-foot, 7-inch long jump. Did no other drills.

Ohio University (March 6)
Seven teams were present to see eight players from Ohio plus five players from smaller schools in the area. Prospects ran outdoors on Field Turf…

» RB Kalvin McRae (5-9 5/8, 203): Ran the 40 in 4.66 and 4.67, had a 4.25 short shuttle, 7.15 cone drill, ran position drills and kept his other numbers from the combine.

TCU (March 6)
Thirteen TCU players worked out, and 15 teams were represented among the scouts in attendance. Prospects worked out indoors on Field Turf ...

» DL Tommy Blake: Had a very good workout ... Weighed in at 272. Ran the 40 in 4.80 and 4.83. Had a 30½-inch vertical jump, 9-foot, 3-inch long jump, 4.37 short shuttle, 7.16 cone drill and had 23 reps in the bench press.

» S Brian Bonner (5-11 1/8, 200): Ran the 40 in 4.65 and 4.57, had a 4.26 short shuttle and 7.03 cone drill. Ran position drills and stood on the rest of his numbers from the combine.

» DL Chase Ortiz (6-2 5/8, 252): Ran the 40 in 4.94 and 4.90, had a 31-inch vertical jump, ran position drills and stood on the rest of his numbers from the combine.

» S David Roach (6-0¾, 208): Had a 38½-inch vertical jump, ran position drills and stood on the rest of his numbers from the combine..

Washington State (March 6)
Fourteen players worked out, running indoors on Astroturf. The key prospects, such as QB Alex Brink and S Hussain Abdullah, ran position drills but mostly stuck with their numbers at the combine.. One interesting wrinkle here was that Williams Chavers, a 6-0 5/8, 194-pound player from the Washington State basketball team, also worked out for the NFL scouts in attendance.

East Carolina (March 5)
Elevan players worked out on an indoor, rubber track. However, the most notable Pirate prospect -- RB Chris Johnson -- was not there. He will have a private workout on either rMarch 17 or April 2…

» CB Travis Williams (5-9 3/8, 186): Ran the 40 in 4.44 and 4.48, had a 33½-inch vertical jump, 10-foot long jump, 4.21 short shuttle, 6.98 cone drill, and did 16 reps at the bench press.

Indiana (March 5)
Twelve Hoosiers worked out, plus one player from Indiana State. They ran and did drills indoors on Field Turf ...

» WR James Hardy: Weighed in at 214. He had a 37-inch vertical jump and ran position drills, stood with everything else he recorded at the combine.

» CB Tracy Porter (5-10¾, 187): Ran the 40 in 4.47 and 4.41, ran position drills and stood on the rest of his numbers from the combine.

» CB Leslie Majors (5-9½, 168): Ran the 40 in 4.53 and 4.55, had a 33-inch vertical jump, 10-foot, 1-inch long jump, 4.37 short shuttle, 7.11 cone drill and had 11 reps in the bench press.

Kentucky (March 5)
Among the NFL personnel in attendance were QB coaches Chris Palmer (Giants) and Ken Anderson (Steelers). Prospects ran indoors on a fast Astroturf track ...

» WR Steve Johnson: Weighed in at 203. Ran the 40 in 4.53 and 4.51, ran position drills, and stood with everything else he recorded at the combine.

» QB Andre Woodson: Weighed in at 227. Ran the 40 in 4.86 and 4.88, had a 27½-inch vertical jump (disappointing), 9-foot, 1-inch long jump, 4.33 short shuttle, and 7.28 cone drill.

Texas A&M (March 5)
Fifteen NFL teams were on hand, and the group included TE coaches Alfredo Roberts (Cleveland) and Jonathan Hayes (Cincinnati), who were there to see Martellus Bennett. Prospects ran indoors on Astroturf, running the shuttles on Field Turf ...

» TE Martellus Bennett: Bennett ran position drills only, and let the rest of his measurables stand from the combine.

» DL Joseph Bryant (6-4, 313): Ran the 40 in 4.88 and 4.92, ran position drills and stood on the rest of his numbers from the combine.

» OL Corey Clark (6-5 ¼, 304): Ran the 40 in 5.13 and 5.19, had a 29-inch vertical jump, and 8-foot, 8-inch long jump.

» DL Chris Harrington: He had a 37½-inch vertical jump, ran position drills, and stood with everything else he recorded at the combine.

» OL Cody Wallace (6-3¾, 291): Ran the 40 in 5.18 and 5.17, ran position drills and stood on the rest of his numbers from the combine.

» DL Henry Smith (6-2 1/8, 310): Ran the 40 in 5.19 and 5.12, had a 30-inch vertical jump, 7-foot, 11-inch long jump, and had 26 reps in the bench press.

UNLV (March 5)
Only three NFL clubs were present to see 10 UNLV players workout, along with two players from other area schools. Peospects ran outdoors on Field Turf, running both with and against a 25-mph wind. LB Beau Bell did not work out but will hold a private workout at UNLV on March 31 ...

» DL Jeremy Geathers (6-2 ¼, 259): Ran the 40 in 4.87 and 4.74. Stood with everything else he recorded at the combine.

West Texas A&M (March 5)
Four players worked out, outside on Field Turf. They ran with 12-mph winds at their backs ...

» LB Steve Allen (6-0½, 242): Ran the 40 in 4.71 and 4.75, had a 29½-inch vertical jump, 9-foot, 5-inch long jump, 4.48 short shuttle, 7.40 cone drill, and had 21 reps in the bench press.

Western Washington (March 5)
This was actually Eastern Washington's Pro Day, but the prospect to watch was from a visiting school. LB Shane Simmons is a very good small-college player who hails from the same league that produced Giants TE Kevin Boss last year. Like Boss, this player will be drafted by someone…

» LB Shane Simmons (6-1 ¼, 239): Ran the 40 in 4.63 and 4.65, had a 34-inch vertical jump, 9-foot, 10-inch long jump, 4.55 short shuttle, and 7.54 cone drill. He did not do the bench press due to a wrist injury.

Wisconsin (March 5)
Players ran indoors on a very fast Astroturf track. There were 14 NFL teams in attendance. On the same day that Brett Favre's retirement news was breaking, Packiers GM Ted Thompson still made the trip in person. One Badger who did not work out was CB Jack Inegwuono, who is set to have a knee operation ...

» DL Nick Hayden (6-3¾, 292): Had a 32-inch vertical jump, 9-foot, 3½-inch long jump, 7.33 cone drill, ran position drills and stood with everything else he recorded at the combine.

» WR Paul Hubbard (6-3 ¼, 223): Ran the 40 in 4.42, had a 39½-inch vertical jump, 4.05 short shuttle, 7.12 cone drill and ran position drills.

Baylor (March 4)
Twelve NFL teams were present to see seven players work out. The prospects worked out outdoors on Astroturf ...

» DB Josh Bell (5-11 1/8, 177): Ran the 40 in 4.46 and 4.42, with a 33-inch vertical jump, 10-foot, 1-inch long jump, 4.50 short shuttle, 7.52 cone drill and 9 reps in the bench press.

» LB Nick Moore (6-1 ¼, 224): Ran the 40 in 4.70 and 4.63, had a 30½-inch vertical jump, 9-foot, 2-inch long jump, 4.47 short shuttle, 7.34 cone drill and 29 reps in the bench press.

Idaho (March 4)
Eleven players from the '07 team and three others from the 2006 team worked out in front of representatives from 12 NFL teams, including LB coach Mike Cox of the Rams, who was there to see LB David Vobora. Due to bad weather conditions outside, the prospects worked out inside, on a hard surface that was not good for workouts ...

» LB David Vobora (6-1 ¼, 234): Ran the 40 in 4.60 and 4.62, with a 35½-inch vertical jump. Vobora let most of his numbers from the combine stand, as he had a very good workout in Indianapolis.

» CB Stanley Franks (5-8¾, 177): Ran the 40 in 4.39 and 4.43, had a 38-inch vertical jump, 10-foot long jump, 4.60 short shuttle, 7.68 cone drill and 10 reps in the bench press.

» LB Brandon Ogletree (6-2 3/8, 227): Ran the 40 in 4.46 and 4.48, had a 32½-inch vertical jump, and 9-foot, 8-inch long jump, 4.76 short shuttle, 7.71 cone drill and 27 reps in the bench press.

Photos ...
2008 Scouting Combine


» More photos Troy State (March 4)
Six NFL teams were represented, including the defensive back coaches from Jacksonville, Tampa Bay and Seattle, who were there to see top prospect Theodis McKelvin. Sixteen players worked out, however McKelvin didn't do much. He is scheduled to hold a private workout on March 11 -- a day after auburn's pro day and one day before Alabama's -- at which there will be a large contingent of NFL personnel ...

» CB Theodis McKelvin: Had a 38½-inch vertical jump, 10-foot, 5-inch long jump, ran position drills and stood on the rest of his numbers from the combine.

» LB Marcus Richardson (5-11 7/8, 235): Ran the 40 in 4.56 and 4.59, outdoors and against the wind. Had a 34½-inch vertical jump, 9-foot, 9-inch long jump, a 4.49 short shuttle, 6.75 cone drill and had 22 reps in the bench press.

Utah State (March 4)
Ten NFL teams sent scouts to Utah State, including the Dolphins who sent their offensive line coach to see OL prospect Shawn Murphy. Seven players from the '07 team and one from the 2006 team worked out on the indoor, Astroturf surface ...

» WR/KR Kevin Robinson (5-11¾, 196): Ran the 40 in 4.65 (twice), with a 32½-inch vertical jump, 9-foot, 10-inch long jump, 4.47 short shuttle and 6.81 cone drill.

» OL Shawn Murphy (6-3 7/8, 314): Ran the 40 in 5.14 and 5.15, had a 27-inch vertical jump, 4.44 short shuttle and 7.37 cone drill.

Army (March 3)
The group of players who worked out included a Cadet from the class of '06 and another from the class of '05. One player, FB Mike Viti, was not invited to the combine but looked pretty good in these workouts ...

» WR/KR Corey Anderson (5-7, 166): Ran the 40 in 4.53 and 4.58, had a 38-inch vertical jump, 10-foot, 1-inch long jump, 4.43 short shuttle and 6.93 cone drill.

» QB David Pevoto (6-3, 222): Ran the 40 in 4.86 and 4.84, had a 26-inch vertical jump, 9-foot, 1-inch long jump, 4.67 short shuttle and 7.41 cone drill.

» FB Mike Viti (5-9, 242): Ran the 40 in 4.87 and 4.86, had a 30½-inch vertical jump, 8-foot, 7-inch long jump, 4.60 short shuttle and 7.37 cone drill.

Boise State (March 3)
Fourteen players worked out -- 13 from Boise State and one (Michael Eby) from Eastern Oregon. Players ran indoors on soft (slow) field turf. Among the personnel in attendance were head coach John Fox and general manger Marty Hurney of the Panthers ...

» OT Ryan Clady: Weighed in at 311. He ran the 40 in 5.20 and 5.27, with a 31-inch vertical jump, 9-foot long jump, 4.7 short shuttle and 7.07 cone drill.

» CB Orlando Scandrick (5-10 1/8, 194): Ran the 40 in 4.32 and 4.34, with a 4.37 short shuttle, 6.76 cone drill and 8 lifts at the bench press.

» C/G Jeffrey Cavender (6-1¾, 303): Ran the 40 in 5.48 and 5.44, with a 25-inch vertical jump, 7-foot, 10-inch long jump, 4.7 short shuttle and 7.07 cone drill. He had 24 reps in the bench press.

Miami-Fla. (Feb. 29)
Sixteen players worked out, running outdoors on short grass (faster field) ... There were 40 scouts on hand, including the defensive staffs from Carolina and Jacksonville ...

» DB Kenny Phillips (6-2 ¼, 212): Posted a 34-inch vertical jump and ran position drills. Satisfied with his combine numbers, he didn't take part in those drills here.

» DE Calais Campbell (6-8, 283): Ran the 40-yard dash twice and finished in 5.01 seconds both times. He ran the short shuttle in 4.6 seconds and the cone drill in 7.19. He ran position drills but let his bench press at the combine stand.

» LB Tavares Gooden (6-1 3/8, 232): Ran his first 40 in 4.57 and pulled up on his second with a 4.65 finish. He had a 32½-inch vertical jump, and kept everything else from the combine.

» DB Glenn Sharpe (5-11 5/8, 185): Ran the 40 in 4.69 and 4.49, with a 10-foot, 2-inch long jump. He kept his other drills from the combine.

» WR Darnell Jenkins (5-9 3/8, 187): Ran the 40 in 4.62 and 4.54. He had a 32½-inch vertical jump, ran the short shuttle in 4.33 and the cone drill in 6.90.

» QB Kyle Wright (6-3 3/8, 215): Ran the 40 in 4.87 and 4.84, with a 31-inch vertical jump and an 8-foot, 5-inch long jump. He ran the short shuttle in 4.42 and the cone drill in 6.97.

» WR Lance Leggett (6-3, 189): Ran the 40 in 4.45 and 4.43. He had a 37-inch vertical jump, 10-foot, 4-inch long jump, ran the short shuttle in 4.31 and the cone drill in 6.56.

Toledo (Feb. 28)
Nine players from the 2007 team worked out, plus one player who was undrafted from the 2006 Toledo squad. Player ran on an indoor rubber track, and did the other drills on artificial turf ...

» OL John Greco: Ran the 40 in 5.15. He had a 32-inch vertical jump, 4.63 short shuttle and 7.78 cone drill. He stuck with his combine numbers for long jump and bench press.

» RB Jalen Parmele (5-11 3/8, 226): Kept his combine numbers for the 40-yard dash and long jump. He had a 41½-inch vertical jump, 4.44 short shuttle and 6.95 cone drill.

» TE Chris Hopkins (6-4¾, 273): Ran the 40 in 4.78 and 4.84. He had a 26½-inch vertical jump, 7-foot, 9-inch long jump, 4.74 short shuttle and 7.41 cone drill

 

[Muhast]

Shocked Gatlin didnt run faster then that and also I feel bad for Adarius Bowman, he was a first day pick coming off the season and absolutely crumbled in everything in the offseason

 

[DaBoys4Life]

any results from CJ private work out or did he decide to wait until April 2nd?

 

[tayloner]

Shocked Gatlin didnt run faster then that and also I feel bad for Adarius Bowman, he was a first day pick coming off the season and absolutely crumbled in everything in the offseason

Ya, what the hell. Isn't Gatlin supposed to be the fastest man in the world with the exception of that one guy (no, not Chris Johnson:laugh2: )?

Guess Olympic speed doesn't translate to 40 speed, who knows.

EDIT: Asafa Powell was the guy I was thinking of.

 

[Dayton Cowboy]

Was this a typo?

» KR Jonathan Hefney (6-8, 190): Had a 39-inch vertical jump (10 inches higher than the combine), 9-foot long jump, 4.44 short shuttle and a 7.07 cone drill

 

[CrazyCowboy]

Nice post...

 

[TheCount]

Great stuff.

» CB Aqib Talib (6-0 7/8, 197): Since the combine, Talib has been working out at Michael Johnson's speed training facility, and it showed here. After running the 40 in 4.46 and 4.53 in Indy, his 40 times for this workout were 4.42 and 4.44. He ran position drills, but kept all his other numbers from the combine.

Not bad, not bad at all. Shows he can be coached up too, I think he would be a solid corner.

 

[Mr Cowboy]

» KR Jonathan Hefney (6-8, 190): Had a 39-inch vertical jump (10 inches higher than the combine), 9-foot long jump, 4.44 short shuttle and a 7.07 cone drill.

» CB Jonathan Wilhite (6-9½, 187): Had a 35-inch vertical jump, 10-foot long jump, 4.42 short shuttle, 7.05 cone drill, ran position drills and kept everything else from the combine.

These two guys are intriguing to me; a 6 ft, 8 inch Kick returner, and a CB that is almost 6 feet 10 inches tall.

Both of them are pretty fast too.

 

[Big Dakota]

Thomas DeCoud from Cal is a FS.

 

[ThreeSportStar80]

These two guys are intriguing to me; a 6 ft, 8 inch Kick returner, and a CB that is almost 6 feet 10 inches tall.

Both of them are pretty fast too.

6'9???? That's got to be a typo!

 

[Bob Sacamano]

Cal RB Justin Forsett w/ a 4.63 and 4.72 40

ouch

LB Kelly Poppinga (6-1 3/8, 240): Ran the 40 in 4.76 and 4.74, 27 reps in the bench press, had a 34-inch vertical jump, 9-foot, 3-inch long jump, 4.27 short shuttle, 6.88 cone drill. Had a very good workout. His brother, Brady, starts for the Packers.

intriguing

DL Pat Sims (6-2 1/8, 310): Had a 30½-inch vertical jump

ho-ly crap

Curtis Johnson had a heck of a workout himself

 

[SDogo]

DL Tommy Blake: Had a very good workout ... Weighed in at 272. Ran the 40 in 4.80 and 4.83. Had a 30½-inch vertical jump, 9-foot, 3-inch long jump, 4.37 short shuttle, 7.16 cone drill and had 23 reps in the bench press.

I would love to take a look at Blake around the 4th or 5th round.

 

[jterrell]

Was this a typo?

If not the Mavs need to sign him. 6'9" with a 40 in vert??? He'd have Jordanesque hang time.

 

[Bob Sacamano]

I would love to take a look at Blake around the 4th or 5th round.

I missed that, that's pretty, darn good

 

[Hoofbite]

Gholston 42'' vert.....goodness

 

[silverbear]

Was this a typo?

If not, the guy's spent too much time on the Dachau Diet...

 

[SDogo]

I missed that, that's pretty, darn good

He's really an interesting story. Totally dominated his Junior year at TCU with 16.5 tackles for loss, 7 sacks, 54 tackles and only had 2 games where he did not register a tackle behind the line of scrimmage.

He was an early favorite for the Lomardi trophy his senior season and was rated in the top 5 on most experts draft boards but missed 5 games with what was finally announced in February as depression and social anxiety disorder. He now receives treatment and takes medication to treat the disorder. He is now finally getting back into shape and learning to deal with his problems.


Here is a story from TSN on Blake:

The sky is gray and forbidding, the rain cold and relentless. Days like this make it hard to smile, let alone chase fortune, fame and greatness. But on a late-January Friday in DeSoto, Texas, all those things are right inside this door. The place doesn't look like much from the outside; it's narrow and squat, and the only sign reads "Fitness Center." In truth, it doesn't look any better on the inside. But 225 pounds are on the bench. A trainer with awe-inspiring credentials is ready to rock and roll. Workout partners, including a Detroit Lions defensive end and a University of Texas safety, are bouncing on their toes, eager to get started.

Twenty-six days until the NFL Scouting Combine. All Tommy Blake has to do now, 10 days after his 23rd birthday, is walk through that door -- better yet, kick it down -- and grab hold of his future. His reputation. His new life. It's all waiting for him. Everybody here is waiting for him.

It's 1:30. The workout was called for 1:30, right? "We'll wait," the trainer says. And so we do. At 2:08, my cell phone rings. "We're rolling," says Blake's agent, a 31-year-old who struck out on his own in 2006 and is banking on the 6-3 defensive end from TCU, a 2007 preseason All-American, to be his first big-ticket client. But Fort Worth to DeSoto in this weather?
Who knows when they'll get here?
After all, Tommy Blake has been college football's mystery man since late last summer.

Exit, stage right

Where was Tommy Blake going? It was August 16, about halfway through a fall camp during which Blake, a fifth-year senior, had been, as expected, the best player on the field. He wasn't yet in peak shape -- he'd passed on many an unofficial offseason team workout led by his fellow seniors, rankling some of them -- but he was still 255 pounds of greased lightning coming off the edge. Scouts had been coming to TCU's practices in waves and leaving with notebooks filled with high first-round praise. But the day took a strange turn when Blake, known by fans and local media as one of the most pleasant and quotable Horned Frogs, began showing signs of anger. Coaches got on him, and Blake argued back. And then he simply walked off the practice field.

He called his sister, Rochella Thomas, who drove the 370 miles from their south Texas hometown of Aransas Pass and brought him back home. TCU coach Gary Patterson and Mike Sinquefield, the school's director of football operations, flew down on August 18 and persuaded Blake to return to campus and rejoin practice. "It was two-a-days," Patterson says. "Nobody was happy." But things only got worse back in Fort Worth.

Blake continued to exhibit disturbing, often combative behavior. "He was not the old Tommy," says Chase Ortiz, Blake's road roommate and the other half of what was expected to be the best defensive end tandem in college football. But neither Blake nor anyone else had a handle on what was happening. "Our morning meetings started off with, 'Here's the Tommy Blake report today,' " says a program insider. "To Gary's credit, he tried to hold the situation together the best he could."
TCU held Blake out of the season opener at Baylor with an undisclosed medical condition. He played, and not very well, in the next three games -- in hindsight, a mistake Patterson recognizes -- and then was given a medical leave of absence. Blatantly false rumors swirled: drug abuse, steroids use, legal troubles, even a decision by Blake, a devout Baptist, to enter the ministry. Reporters chasing Blake's story discovered his troubles were psychological in nature, but privacy laws prohibited anyone at TCU from speaking about his condition. Stories were written that mixed fact with fiction, driving Blake further inward and his family into a deep distrust of the media.

Blake returned to the field for the final four games of the regular season; he was overweight and at times visibly uninterested, and his draft stock plummeted. In December, as TCU prepared for its bowl game, a nervous Blake gave me his first interview in two months, declining to explain his absences but acknowledging he was in poor physical condition and not particularly enjoying football. "I kind of lost track of football for a little bit," he said. "I have to get my focus back. I've tried to play through it, but I have to handle my business." What business that was, he wouldn't say

But late last month in Fort Worth, heeding the counsel of his agent, Reggie Rouzan, Blake went public for the first time about his mental illness, telling me -- though declining to discuss in depth -- that he is being treated, and medicated, for depression and social anxiety disorder. In Blake's words, "I still don't really want to talk about all that, but I have to. I feel fine now."

A hot spotlight

I was not the first person outside Blake's inner circle to hear firsthand about his condition. In the days leading up to the East-West Shrine Game on January 19 in Houston, Blake was grilled in private interviews by representatives of several NFL teams -- his first taste of what it will be like next week at the Combine in Indianapolis, where high-powered coaches from across the league will stare deep into his eyes and demand full disclosure.

The whole week in Houston was unpleasant. Blake weighed in at 287, roughly 30 pounds heavier than a variety of scouts agree he should play at

According to one of them, Blake looked like an NFL star on one or two plays a day but otherwise was a nonfactor. The interviews, though, were the worst part. Back in December, Blake said the league's personnel people would "probably have to deal with me not telling them the whole thing." Rouzan made Blake understand how severely that would damage his draft standing. "I had to do it," Blake says. "It was a pressure situation."

You want pressure? Try 26 days until the Combine and at least as many pounds to lose, plus two-tenths of a second to shave off your 40-yard dash time and as many reps to gain as possible at 225 pounds on the bench. After a junior season in which he led the Mountain West Conference with 16 1/2 tackles for loss, Blake rose into the top five on some early 2008 draft boards and drew wide comparisons to Dwight Freeney for his burst off the ball and his straight-line speed. But that was when Blake, who had been timed in the high 4.4s as a high school running back, weighed 255. Today in DeSoto, less than a minute after meeting the man who will train him until the draft -- former 11-year NFL cornerback Rod Jones -- Blake is put on a scale. The number makes Jones and Rouzan look down and shake their heads: 293.

Rouzan breaks the silence with a shout: "Three and a half weeks! We're gonna do this!"

"No," says Jones, a nine-time NCAA track champion who was a first-rounder and the fastest player in the 1986 draft, running a 4.25 in the 40. "Two and a half weeks. We've got to give his muscles a chance to recover."

Turning to Blake, Jones says, "We've got a lot to do, man."

"We're gonna have to get it, huh?" Blake says.

Jones' face lights up: "Oh, we're gonna get it!"

Over the next hour, at this spartan gym owned by former competitive bodybuilder John McWilliams, Blake's chest muscles are abused as never before. He works in rotation with Lions practice squad defensive end Victor DeGrate, a 260-pound DeSoto native who, according to Jones, has gone from a 4.7 40 to a sub-4.5 under his tutelage the past two offseasons; Texas safety Erick Jackson, a Rouzan client and 2008 second-day draft hopeful; and two other players.

After two sets of 10 with 135 pounds to get loose, Blake does 21 reps at 225, with Jones spotting him, before racking the bar himself -- not exactly pushing his pecs to the limit. With no break, though, he must push up 135 as many times as possible, then do the same with just the 45-pound bar. When Blake is completely gassed, Jones says coolly, "Now get on the floor and do 25."

"Push-ups?" Blake gasps.

"Keep your knees on the floor if you have to. Just do 'em."

Knees down, Blake can't get his massive shoulders 6 inches off the floor. His workout partners laugh. Blake laughs, too -- the first time I've seen him do what many have told me he does, or used to do, all the time.

Circle of love

"Tommy always likes to joke around," says his sister, Rochella. "He's a really good person, very caring, very hard-working. And he has a lot of support here at home."

If you want to see Blake smile, ask him about his family, which he describes as "one big circle of love." Rochella, 30, and 27-year-old Juan Bruce are old enough to remember their mother, who died of pneumonia when Blake was 10 months old. The only parent Blake has ever known is his maternal grandmother, Ernestine Chisholm. "We're all very close, but Tommy is closest to her," Rochella says. "He's definitely a mama's boy."

When Blake went home to Aransas Pass in August, he sat with his family and ate, watched television and ate some more. It was apparent Blake was struggling emotionally, but "he didn't see anyone professionally," Rochella says. "We just did it as a family."

Though that loving embrace calmed Blake's emotions temporarily, he certainly needed more help to stave off the perils of depression, which, if untreated, can lead to alcohol or substance abuse or even suicide. Patterson -- who was inaccurately reported to have "embarrassed" Blake at a summer practice heavily attended by scouts, causing Blake to go AWOL -- eventually made sure Blake received the proper care.

There are clear reasons to believe the therapy sessions and the medication -- the specifics of which the Blake camp will not disclose -- have helped. For one, Blake, described by a program insider as a student who did "just enough to stay eligible" his first four years, managed to stay on top of his studies in the fall, completing his coursework with what he says were his best semester grades. And finishing the football season -- he played far below his standard but led the team over the final five games with six tackles for loss -- was an accomplishment not to be overlooked.

"So many people have focused on the negative and not the positive," Rouzan says. "He went out there, with everything he was going through, and finished what he started. I mean, seriously. How about that?"

At a practice in Fort Worth nine days before the Texas Bowl, Patterson stepped off the field and told me Blake had seemed "much happier the past three, four, five weeks."

"With clinical depression or social phobia, people recover from these things all the time," says Dr. Xavier Amador, an adjunct professor in clinical psychology at Columbia University and a regular contributor to several national television programs. "The bottom line is these are really treatable disorders. If you're in treatment and follow it up with the proper medication, the response rates and the recovery rates are really high."

But in some circles, the damage to Blake is considered irreparable. "I wouldn't touch Tommy Blake," says a scouting veteran of four NFL teams who watched Blake up-close in 2007 and is familiar with the details of his medical condition. "I don't know how you can justify bringing a player in who has mental instability. One thing you have to have to play in the NFL is your head screwed on right each week."

Can't stop the ringing

Social anxiety disorder involves a fear of being judged and can be triggered by actual or perceived scrutiny by others. There was nothing "perceived" about the constant barrage of phone calls -- on some days as many as 300, Blake says -- from would-be agents and their minions after Blake decided to stay at TCU for his senior season. Really, though, 300? "I would say that sounds accurate, absolutely," says the same scout who wouldn't touch Blake.

It has been reported that the daily presence of scouts is what drove Blake off that practice field, but Blake believes those calls are what brought about his mental illness. "It started long before camp," he says. "My cell phone rang so much, I couldn't even keep it turned on. I always like to be available to my family, and that was frustrating. I couldn't even get a good night's sleep."

Adds Rouzan: "I say this as an agent -- these kids have a right to privacy, a right to enjoy the college experience, and it shouldn't be violated. And in Tommy's experience, it was violated to a very high degree. Anyone who sits there and tells me they can field 300 phone calls and do what they need to do in their everyday life without that being a burden is lying."

Meanwhile, the truth about Tommy Blake, in regard to his NFL future, is unknown. So, frankly, is his long-term desire to play football for a living. "I don't have to play football -- I choose to," he says. "I can live without football. I really can

But it is too soon to give up on college football's mystery man.

He is doing what he has to do. Abusing his chest, arms, shoulders, back and legs in the weight room. Running with Jones every day: on hills, on the track and in deathly 40- and 80-yard sprint drills with a weighted sled fastened around his torso.

This is where the skies begin to clear and the story brightens: Blake is losing weight and picking up steam. Halfway from that first day in DeSoto to the Combine, his weight has dipped to 277, and his bench reps at 225 are in the mid 20s. "As far as his intensity when he trains, he still needs to pick it up," Jones says, "but he has impressed me. He's done everything I've told him to do, and he's really a physical talent.

"If the Combine were today, he'd probably run a little under a 4.7. But by the Combine, he's going to be in pretty good shape -- lighter, stronger. I'm looking for him to go mid-4.5s, and the goal on bench is to get toward 30. If Tommy gets down to 260-anything, he's going to run a 4.5. If and when he gets under 260, he'll run in the 4.4s."

Blake can't possibly drop that much weight by Indianapolis, but perhaps he can by TCU's pro day on March 2, or by a later date at an individual workout for scouts that Rouzan may schedule in Houston. Or maybe it won't ever happen.

At stake are the millions of reasons Rouzan urged Blake to open up. Rouzan says four or five NFL teams have assured him that if Blake runs like his old self and handles the grilling with aplomb at the Combine, he could sneak back into the late first round. But considering the TCU coaching staff hasn't given many thumbs-ups to NFL scouts about Blake's reliability, that is very doubtful. If Blake shows up with significantly improved form and attitude, however, he will give himself a chance to be a first-day pick, but Sporting News' War Room scouts project him to last well into Day 2, possibly the fifth round. Rouzon estimates the difference in signing bonus from the first round to the third round at $13 million.

Blake's story is part cautionary tale, part ray of hope. Although he has yet to reach the point of speaking freely about his mental illness, "his coming out is really a public service," Amador says.

And at a time when most draft prospects, to use Rouzan's words, "tuck tail and drop out of school," Blake -- while running and lifting for his football life and striving to maintain his emotional well-being -- is taking 13 credit hours this semester. Otherwise known as a full load

It's what he needs to graduate -- and to fulfill the promise he made to his grandmother when he left Aransas Pass five years ago, full of laughter and hope.

"I just want to finish what I started," Tommy Blake says.

And then will come all the rest.

 

[Hostile]

This is a great thread.