Defensive Players’ NFL Draft Stocks Rise and Fall at 2024 NFL Scouting Combine
The 2024 NFL Scouting Combine has been a whirlwind of excitement and anticipation as defensive players showcase their skills and athleticism in hopes of improving their draft stocks. Several players have seen their stock rise while others have experienced a decline. Let’s take a closer look at some of the standout performers and those who have struggled during this crucial event.
Stock Rising:
Payton Wilson, LB, NC State:
One player who has undoubtedly caught the attention of scouts is Payton Wilson. Standing at an impressive 6-3 and weighing 233 pounds, Wilson’s performance in the 40-yard dash was nothing short of remarkable. He recorded a time of 4.43 seconds, placing him in the 99.5th percentile. Additionally, his 10-yard split time of 1.54 seconds showcased his exceptional speed. Wilson’s on-field performance has also been outstanding, earning him high grades in both coverage and tackling. With a Relative Athletic Score (RAS) of 9.81, Wilson has become an enticing prospect for teams in need of a strong middle linebacker.
Braden Fiske, DT, Florida State:
Another player who has turned heads is Braden Fiske. Known for his ability to plug gaps and make crucial stops, Fiske’s combine performance only solidified his status as a top-tier prospect. His 40-yard dash time of 4.78 seconds placed him in the 99th percentile, while his vertical jump of 33.5 inches and broad jump of 9’09” showcased his explosive athleticism. With an Overall Relative Athletic Score of 9.97, Fiske has likely secured himself a spot on Day 2 of the draft.
Chop Robinson, EDGE, Penn State:
Chop Robinson has made a strong case for himself to be a first-round selection. His blazing 40-yard dash time of 4.48 seconds, along with impressive shuttle and split times, demonstrated his elite speed and agility. Although his sack numbers may not be as high as some would like, Robinson has consistently disrupted opposing offenses and earned high pass rush grades from Pro Football Focus. Alongside Alabama’s Dallas Turner, Robinson has solidified his position as one of the top athletic defensive ends/outside linebackers in the draft.
Max Melton, CB, Rutgers:
Max Melton’s combine performance confirmed what many already believed about his abilities. His exceptional 40-yard dash time of 4.39 seconds, combined with a remarkable vertical jump of 40.5 inches and a broad jump of 11-4, showcased his elite athleticism. Melton’s lockdown coverage skills in the talent-laden Big Ten East have earned him a reputation as a shutdown cornerback. With his impressive combine showing, Melton is likely to be a valuable asset for any team willing to invest in him on Day 2 of the draft.
Nate Wiggins, CB, Clemson:
Nate Wiggins provided one of the most surprising performances of the combine. After initially being underestimated with an opening line of 4.55 seconds in the 40-yard dash, Wiggins proved everyone wrong by running an astonishing 4.29 seconds. His exceptional athletic traits have solidified his position as a top-25 selection and potentially even higher. Wiggins’ speed and agility make him an attractive prospect for teams in need of a lockdown cornerback.
Marcellas Dial, CB, South Carolina:
Marcellas Dial’s smooth and effortless performance during the drills caught the attention of scouts. With his fluid footwork and hawkish downfield ball tracking, Dial showcased his potential as a cornerback at the NFL level. Although his technique requires refinement, Dial’s projectable speed and aggressiveness make him an intriguing mid-Day 3 prospect who could surprise in training camp.
Stock Falling:
Bralen Trice, EDGE, Washington:
Unfortunately, Bralen Trice’s combine performance did not live up to expectations. His 40-yard dash time of 4.72 seconds ranked 16th among the EDGE group, and his decision to skip other drills raised concerns about his overall athleticism. Additionally, Trice’s size at 6-3 and 245 pounds may pose challenges when facing NFL-caliber tackles. As a result, Trice’s chances of being a first-round selection have diminished.
Kalen DeLoach, LB, Florida State:
Kalen DeLoach’s impressive 40-yard dash time of 4.47 seconds was overshadowed by concerns about his size and overall fit in the NFL. Weighing in at 5-11 and 210 pounds, DeLoach’s vertical jump and broad jump were outliers compared to other linebackers. His undersized frame raises questions about his ability to hold up against blocks and excel in a three-down role. Teams may hesitate to invest in DeLoach due to these concerns.
Adisa Isaac, EDGE, Penn
