NFL Draft Combine: Rising and Falling Stocks of Defensive Players
The 2024 NFL Scouting Combine has been a platform for defensive players to showcase their skills and make an impression on NFL teams. Several players have seen their draft stocks rise or fall based on their performances at the combine. Let’s take a closer look at some of these players and how they have fared.
Stock Rising:
Payton Wilson, LB, NC State:
One player who has significantly improved his draft stock is Payton Wilson, a linebacker from NC State. Wilson’s impressive 4.43 40-yard dash time at 6-3, 233 pounds has turned heads. His speed places him in the 99.5th percentile, making him an exceptional athlete. Wilson’s performance on the field has also been outstanding, with high grades in coverage and tackling. With a Relative Athletic Score (RAS) of 9.81, Wilson is a highly sought-after prospect for teams in need of defensive help.
Braden Fiske, DT, Florida State:
Braden Fiske has also caught the attention of scouts with his exceptional athleticism. The defensive tackle ran a 4.78s 40-yard dash, placing him in the 99th percentile for his position. Fiske’s vertical jump and broad jump were also impressive, further solidifying his status as a top prospect. With an Overall Relative Athletic Score of 9.97, Fiske may find himself selected on Day 2 of the draft.
Chop Robinson, EDGE, Penn State:
Chop Robinson has made a strong case to be a first-round selection with his outstanding performance at the combine. Robinson ran a blistering 4.48s 40-yard dash and showcased his agility with a 4.25s shuttle time. Although his sack numbers may not be as high as expected, Robinson has consistently been a disruptive force in the backfield. With his athleticism and pass rush grades, Robinson has become a top-flight defensive end/outside linebacker prospect.
Max Melton, CB, Rutgers:
Max Melton has confirmed his status as a top cornerback prospect with his impressive combine performance. Melton ran a 4.39s 40-yard dash and displayed exceptional vertical and broad jumps. His ability to shut down opposing wide receivers in the talent-laden Big Ten East has caught the attention of scouts. Melton’s draft capital investment may be a steal for teams looking for a slot cornerback.
Nate Wiggins, CB, Clemson:
Nate Wiggins has been the surprise of the combine, exceeding expectations with his blazing speed. Wiggins initially had an opening line of 4.55s for the 40-yard dash but ran an impressive 4.29s instead. His elite athletic traits have solidified his position as a top-25 selection and potentially higher. Wiggins has proven himself as a valuable asset to NFL defenses.
Marcellas Dial, CB, South Carolina:
Marcellas Dial has showcased his smooth and effortless skills at the combine. His footwork, ball tracking, and cover grades have impressed scouts. Although Dial’s technique needs refinement, his projectable speed and aggressiveness make him an attractive mid-Day 3 prospect. Dial could surprise teams in training camp and exceed expectations.
Stock Falling:
Bralen Trice, EDGE, Washington:
Bralen Trice’s lackluster performance at the combine has caused his draft stock to fall. His 4.72s 40-yard dash ranked 16th among EDGE players, and he chose not to participate in other drills. Trice’s size and technique may not be as effective against NFL-caliber tackles compared to his performance in the Pac-12. As a result, Trice is no longer considered a potential first-round selection.
Kalen DeLoach, LB, Florida State:
Kalen DeLoach’s impressive 4.47s 40-yard dash time may have overshadowed concerns about his size. Weighing in at 5-11, 210 pounds, DeLoach is more of a hybrid safety than a traditional linebacker. His vertical jump and broad jump were outliers compared to his size, raising questions about his ability to hold up against blocks. Teams may be hesitant to invest in DeLoach due to his undersized stature.
Adisa Isaac, EDGE, Penn State:
Adisa Isaac’s decision to slim down for the combine has raised concerns about his speed. His 4.74s 40-yard dash time is alarming, considering his high-energy approach to the game. Although Isaac’s vertical jump and broad jump were decent, his weight and slower speed may be disqualifying factors for teams. Despite his strong pressure rate, Isaac’s current weight and 40 time may impact his draft stock.
In conclusion, the 2024 NFL Scouting Combine has been a crucial event for defensive players to showcase their skills and make an impression on NFL teams. Several players have seen their draft stocks