Top Performers at NFL Scouting Combine 2024: Quarterbacks, Running Backs, Wide Receivers, Tight Ends, and Offensive Linemen
The NFL Scouting Combine is a highly anticipated event that showcases the skills and talents of college football players hoping to make it to the professional level. This year’s combine did not disappoint, with several standout performances from quarterbacks, running backs, wide receivers, tight ends, and offensive linemen. Let’s take a closer look at some of the top performers in each position group.
Quarterbacks:
One quarterback who impressed at the combine was Washington’s Penix. Despite other top quarterbacks declining to participate, Penix stepped up and showcased his live arm and accuracy. He threw beautiful deep passes and displayed his ability to make precise throws to various targets. His performance was highlighted by a perfect end zone fade to his Washington teammate, Rome Odunze. Penix is a top prospect who could be a great fit for teams like the Atlanta Falcons, Minnesota Vikings, Denver Broncos, or Las Vegas Raiders.
Running Backs:
In a class lacking top-flight talent, Irving stood out as a pro-ready back with the potential to surprise. He excelled in every drill, demonstrating his agility and fluidity. Irving also showcased his skills as a pass catcher and proved that he has what it takes to handle the workload of an NFL running back. Teams like the Philadelphia Eagles, Baltimore Ravens, New England Patriots, or Los Angeles Chargers would be ideal fits for Irving.
Robinson is another running back who caught the attention of scouts at the combine. He is a natural receiver out of the backfield and runs routes with ease. With his athleticism and versatility, Robinson could potentially split time between running back and wide receiver at the next level. He posted impressive numbers in testing and convinced many that he will be a weapon on third down. The New York Giants, Tennessee Titans, Minnesota Vikings, or Cincinnati Bengals would be great landing spots for Robinson.
Wide Receivers:
McConkey had one of the most complete performances of any receiver at the combine. He showcased his efficient route running and displayed impressive speed, running a 4.39-second 40-yard dash. McConkey’s hands are reliable, and he has no problem securing difficult catches. He is expected to have a more productive NFL career than his collegiate numbers suggest. Teams like the Carolina Panthers, Dallas Cowboys, Buffalo Bills, Kansas City Chiefs, Cleveland Browns, or Atlanta Falcons would benefit from having McConkey on their roster.
Odunze, another Washington receiver, lived up to the hype at the combine. He ran crisp routes, caught every pass in his radius, and posted an impressive 4.45-second 40-yard dash. Odunze is a top-three receiver in this class and proved that he is a reliable target. The Kansas City Chiefs, Baltimore Ravens, Carolina Panthers, Chicago Bears, Jacksonville Jaguars, Tennessee Titans, or New England Patriots would be great fits for Odunze.
Tight Ends:
Culp stood out among tight ends at the combine. He displayed excellent athleticism and speed, running a 4.47-second 40-yard dash. Culp’s versatility as a hybrid tight end makes him stand out from the rest. While he may not find a fit as easily as other prospects, if he can make it work at tight end in today’s NFL, he has the potential to carve out a nice role at the next level. Teams like the New England Patriots, Los Angeles Chargers, New York Giants, New Orleans Saints, Miami Dolphins, or Tampa Bay Buccaneers would be good fits for Culp.
Reiman is a throwback at the tight end position. Despite his size and weight, he surprised many with his speed and agility, running a 4.64-second 40-yard dash. Reiman excelled in blocking drills and showcased reliable hands. He is more than just a blocker and has the potential to make an impact in the passing game as well. The Chicago Bears, Washington Commanders, Denver Broncos, or Cincinnati Bengals would be ideal fits for Reiman.
Offensive Linemen:
Alt, a tackle from Notre Dame, was the standout at his position. He displayed excellent mobility and athleticism, proving that he has what it takes to be a future All-Pro. Alt’s performance at the combine solidified his status as the top tackle in this class. Teams like the Los Angeles Chargers, Tennessee Titans, New York Jets, or New England Patriots would benefit from having Alt on their offensive line.
Fautanu stood out among a talented group of tackles. He showcased his solid blocking skills and displayed light feet and power in his lower half. Fautanu’s athleticism was evident in his testing numbers, and he proved to be a consistent and fundamentally sound blocker. He has the potential to make a difference at the next level and would be a wise investment for teams like the Pittsburgh Steelers, Los Angeles Chargers, Kansas City Chiefs, Cincinnati Bengals