How the NFL Combine Could Make or Break Draft Odds for Quarterbacks and Wide Receivers?

By Oliver Vaughn

March 10th, 2023

The NFL Scouting Combine is one of the most important events in the lead-up to the NFL Draft. It's a chance for college football prospects to showcase their skills and impress scouts, coaches, and executives from all 32 NFL teams.

For wide receivers, in particular, the combine can make or break their draft odds. In this article, we'll take a closer look at how the NFL Combine could impact the draft stock of some of the top wide receiver prospects.

Bryce Young's Height and Weight Could Impact His Draft Stock

Bryce Young is considered one of the top quarterback prospects in the 2023 NFL Draft. However, there are concerns about his size, as he's considered small for an NFL quarterback.

At the Combine, Young's height and weight will be closely scrutinized, and it could impact his draft stock as the potential No. 1 overall pick. If he measures up well, he could solidify his position as the top quarterback in the draft. But if he falls short, it could open the door for other quarterbacks to leapfrog him.

Will Levis Could Surprise as the First Quarterback Drafted

While Bryce Young is considered the top quarterback prospect in the draft, there's another quarterback who could surprise as the first quarterback drafted. Will Levis out of Kentucky is a big, strong quarterback who has impressed scouts with his arm strength and athleticism. He's not as polished as some of the other quarterbacks in the draft, but his physical tools could make him an attractive option for teams in need of a quarterback.

Jaxon Smith-Njigba Could Separate Himself from the Pack

The 2023 wide receiver class is a deep and talented group, but there's no clear-cut No. 1 receiver. That could change at the NFL Combine, where one receiver could separate himself from the pack. Jaxon Smith-Njigba, out of Ohio State, is a player to watch. He's a smooth route-runner with excellent hands and the ability to make plays after the catch. If he performs well at the combine, he could solidify his position as the top receiver in the draft.

The Gauntlet Drill Will Be a Key Test for Wide Receivers

One of the most exciting drills at the NFL Combine is the Gauntlet Drill, which tests a wide receiver's ability to catch the ball while running across the field. It's a test of a receiver's hands, concentration, and ability to make quick adjustments.

The drill is always a highlight of the combine, and this year should be no different. Keep an eye on the wide receivers who excel in this drill, as they could be the ones who separate themselves from the pack.

The Importance of the Bench Press for Wide Receivers

While the bench press is typically associated with offensive and defensive linemen, it's also an important test for wide receivers. A receiver's upper body strength can impact his ability to fight off defenders and make contested catches. Look for the wide receivers who excel in the bench press, as they could have an advantage over their peers when it comes to making tough catches in traffic.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the NFL Combine is a crucial event for wide receivers and other prospects looking to make a name for themselves in the lead-up to the NFL Draft. Bryce Young's height and weight, Will Levis' physical tools, Jaxon Smith-Njigba's route-running and hands, the Gauntlet Drill, and the bench press are all key factors to watch during the combine.

Keep an eye on these players and tests, as they could have a significant impact on the draft stock of some of the top wide receiver prospects.

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