Standout Performances and Disappointments at the 2024 NFL Scouting Combine
The 2024 NFL Scouting Combine is well underway, and the second night of workouts did not disappoint. The defensive backs and tight ends took center stage on Friday, showcasing their skills and leaving an impression on scouts and personnel decision-makers. While some players exceeded expectations and solidified their draft stock, others fell short and may need to make a strong impression at their school’s pro day.
Let’s take a closer look at some of the standout performances from the combine:
1. Bishop, CB, Florida State
Bishop’s performance was nothing short of impressive. Standing at 6-foot-2 and weighing 206 pounds, he showcased his athleticism with a 39-inch vertical and a 4.45-second 40-yard dash. Despite concerns about his arm length, Bishop’s tackling prowess and quickness stood out during drills. He made catches over his shoulder effortlessly and moved laterally without any issues. With a standout gauntlet drill, Bishop has likely secured a Day 2 draft slot.
2. Jones, CB, Rutgers
Jones proved to be an effective nickel defender with his performance at the combine. Measuring at 5-foot-11 7/8 inches and 190 pounds, he ran a blistering 4.38-second 40-yard dash and displayed impressive jumps with a 39 1/2-inch vertical and a 10-foot-9 broad jump. Jones was smooth in his cuts and transitions during field work and showcased excellent ball skills. His performance could make him a third-round pick.
3. Melton, CB, Toledo
Melton was expected to show off good athleticism, and he did not disappoint. Standing at 5-foot-11 and weighing 187 pounds, he ran an impressive 4.39-second 40-yard dash and had excellent jumps with a 40 1/2-inch vertical and an 11-foot-4 broad jump. Melton’s speed and smoothness in drills caught the attention of scouts, and his ability to snag passes without issue was impressive. After this performance, teams should consider him a Day 2 pick.
4. Mitchell, CB, Kansas State
Mitchell’s performance solidified his spot in the top half of the first round. Standing at 6-foot 1/8-inch and weighing 195 pounds, he ran a lightning-fast 4.33-second 40-yard dash and showcased his explosiveness with a 38-inch vertical. While he had a rough start catching the ball in drills, Mitchell quickly adjusted and finished strong in the gauntlet drill. His ability to bounce back and his short memory will be appreciated by teams looking for a reliable cornerback.
5. Sinnott, TE, Texas Tech
Sinnott proved his athleticism with explosive jumps and a solid 40-yard dash time. Standing at 6-foot-3 7/8 inches and weighing 250 pounds, he posted a 40-inch vertical and a 10-foot-6 broad jump. Sinnott’s on-field work in drills was excellent, showcasing his ability to make tight cuts and snare throws on the move. With his impressive combine performance, don’t be surprised if Sinnott is picked in the early-to-middle second round.
6. Taylor-Demerson, S, Penn State
Taylor-Demerson continued to climb up draft boards with his performance at the combine. Standing at 5-foot-10 3/8 inches and weighing 197 pounds, he ran a speedy 4.41-second 40-yard dash and reached an impressive 38-inch vertical. His explosiveness and corner-like build make him a valuable asset when attacking receivers or taking on slot receivers. While he slipped a couple of times in drills, Taylor-Demerson’s ability to extend away from his frame and make difficult catches will earn him starting-caliber grades from some teams.
While there were standout performances at the combine, there were also some disappointments:
1. King, CB, Penn State
King needed a strong combine showing to overcome an inconsistent junior season, but unfortunately, his 4.61 40-yard dash time fell short. His jumps also didn’t separate him from the pack, with a 37-inch vertical and a 10-foot-2 broad jump. While King showed fair hands and adequate movement during drills, it’s unlikely that he will be drafted earlier than Day 3.
2. Kinchens, S, Miami
Kinchens failed to separate himself from other safeties with his performance at the combine. He ran a 4.65-second 40-yard dash and had a 35-inch vertical and a 9-foot-2 broad jump. While his ball skills looked good, Kinchens struggled with backward movement and transitions during drills. With fierce competition to be the top safety off the board, Kinchens will need to make improvements at his pro day to boost his draft
