The NFL Combine offers numerous opportunities for prospects to showcase their elite athleticism to NFL scouts, GMs, and coaches. While I've stated before that the most critical aspects of the Combine are the interviews and medical evaluations, which remains true, each year, there are always a number of prospects who can significantly elevate their NFL Draft stock by demonstrating their elite athleticism.
The following five players have already showcased their elite potential on film, and now it's time to confirm these traits through NFL Combine workouts.
Chop Robinson, Edge, Penn State (6030, 250lbs)
Football Scout 365 Grade: High-End Starter Potential
Projected Draft Round: Early Round Two
NFL Combine Expectations
Robinson's physical stature and athleticism distinguish him as a unique talent in this draft class. With expectations of him running the 40-yard dash in the 4.4-second range and targeting a vertical leap in the 38-42-inch range, this presents a prime opportunity to showcase his explosiveness as an edge rusher.
Xavier Worthy, WR, Texas (6010, 172lbs)
Football Scout 365 Grade: High-End Starter Potential
Projected Draft Round: Early to Mid-Round Two
NFL Combine Expectations
Worthy's speed and playmaking ability make him a standout prospect in this draft class. He is rumored to be capable of running the 40-yard dash in under 4.3 seconds, a testament to his elite speed. In addition to his raw speed, Worthy has proven himself to be a dynamic playmaker on the field. He averaged 7.6 yards after the catch in 2023, highlighting his ability to turn short gains into explosive plays. Moreover, Worthy showcased his deep-threat capability by logging a reception of at least 20 yards in all but two of the 14 games he played last season.
Nate Wiggins, CB, Clemson (6020, 185lbs)
Football Scout 365 Grade: High-End Starter Potential
Projected Draft Round: Early to Mid 1st Round
NFL Combine Expectations
Wiggins is renowned for his athleticism and has cemented himself as a top prospect in this draft class. His elite athleticism is evident in plays such as the two pick-sixes he has recorded in the past two seasons, highlighting his ability to turn defense into offense quickly. There is some speculation that he could run a 40 in the 4.3 range. If he does, he could elevate to the top cornerback prospect in the 2024 NFL Draft. He is already considered our top corner on the Football Scout 365 NFL Draft Board.
Jaylen Wright, RB, Tennessee (5110, 210lbs)
Football Scout 365 Grade: Mid-Level Starter Potential
Projected Draft Round: 3rd-4th Round
NFL Combine Expectations
Wright has a unique opportunity to turn heads at the NFL Combine. His background as a track athlete in high school was highlighted by a national-leading 55-meter dash time of 6.29 seconds. This track speed is further substantiated by impressive GPS measurements, where he has been clocked at a remarkable 23.6 mph. In addition to his speed, he reportedly recorded a 44-inch vertical and a 10-foot-8 broad jump. These numbers showcase his explosive power and hint at his potential for dynamic playmaking ability in the NFL.
Devontez Walker, WR, North Carolina (6030, 200)
Football Scout 365 Grade: High-End Starter Potential
Projected Draft Round: 2nd-3rd Round
NFL Combine Expectations
"Tez" has established himself as a formidable vertical threat despite an abbreviated 2023 season due to initial NCAA eligibility issues related to his status as a two-time transfer. Once he hit the field, Walker demonstrated his ability to dismantle defenses, racking up seven touchdowns in only eight games. Walker's reputation for speed was further solidified during Senior Bowl practices, where he was notably fast. This speed is anticipated to translate impressively to the 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine in Indianapolis. Given his demonstrated on-field speed and ability to score, Walker is expected to be one of the top performers in speed and agility drills at the combine.