2008 NFL Scouting Combine Preview - Events

Events | Schedule | Players to watch

The NFL Draft’s biggest event is right around the corner. From February 20-26, over 300 of the finest seniors and declared juniors will partake in a number of tasks that will put their athletic ability to the test. All 32 teams will be present, watching and interviewing the athletes, finding out what exactly they’re investing their money on. So let’s find out what happens at the Combine and what to look for.

Weigh-in: Just about every player at the weigh-in will be measured for height, weight, arm length, and hand length. Scouts will be watching as the players stand shirtless and get their measurements. It’ll tell NFL personnel how well built the players are and how out-of-shape they look.

40 Yard Dash: The most hyped event at the Combine. Players run from point A to point B 40 yards away and are timed at intervals of 10, 20, and 40 yards. While the 40 time may get the glamour, look for the 10 and 20 yard times that test explosion and have more relevance at more positions.

Bench Press: Players lie on a bench and lift a 225 pound bar and barbell as many times as they can. It tests upper body strength and is most important for offensive and defensive linemen.

Vertical Leap: Players stand flat-footed underneath plastic flags in the air. They jump with an extended hand to see how many flags they can rotate. It tests vertical leg explosion and is most important for receivers and corners to see how well they can compete for jump balls at the next level.

Broad Jump: Players stand flat-footed and try to jump as far as they can. It once again tests leg explosion and quickness. It’s most important for running backs.

20 Yard Shuttle: Perhaps one of the most important tests at the Combine that goes widely unnoticed by fans. Players run in a straight line, 5 yards to the left, 10 to the right, then 5 to the left again. It tests lateral quickness and change of direction and is equally important for all positions

60 Yard Shuttle: Also known as the long shuttle. It has the same format as the 20 yard shuttle, except longer. It is a better test for speed and endurance than the 20 yard shuttle or the 40 yard dash.

3 Cone Drill: Cones are placed in the shape of an “L” and players are forced to run around them starting and ending at the same line. It tests explosion, change-of-direction, and also body control. It’s also an important drill for just about every position.

Interviews: Teams will have the opportunity to speak with up to 60 players at the Combine. The interview will allow teams to ask just about anything ranging from football knowledge, off-field issues, to family. Nothing is off limits.

The Wonderlic Test: It’s similar to the IQ Test that measures intelligence. Players get 12 minutes to answer 50 questions. It’s most important for quarterbacks as they’ll have to deal with complicated playbooks and reading defenses at the next level.

Part 2: Players to watch at the combine