While the NFL has an uncertain future, the NFL’s future is on display this week in Indianapolis.
Tight ends, kickers and other specialists got things started with the combine staggered by position with each group getting four days to show their stuff.
The first three days are uneventful for You The Fan. Day one, athletes go through orientation and receive clearance from medical staff. Day two filled with measurements, media time and interviews. Day three features meetings with the players association and more mental testing. Finally, on the fourth day the NFL network gets real involved and we get to see the athletes in action.
For your viewing pleasure, the 4th day is when we get to see the meat market. Here’s a quick calendar to make sure you catch the position groups you seek!
Wednesday : Offensive lineman, tight ends, kickers, specialists (Saturday)
Thursday: Quarterbacks and wide receivers (Sunday)
Friday: Defensive lineman and linebackers (Monday)
Saturday: Defensive backs (Tuesday
Remember the visual stuff for us doesn’t come until the 4th day. (shown in paranthesis for each group)
What exactly will we see on Day 4?
-40 yard sprint
-2o yard shuttle
-3 cone drill
-60 yard shuttle
-standing long jump
-vertical jump
To wrap things up, players execute a half dozen drills specific to position. This is where we get the directly “football related” activities.
Who is participating? We have the full list for you: http://www.nfl.com/com bine/participants
What’s new this year? Cablecam technology! No, not specifically for Cam Newton, but a cutting edge overhead angle which promises a unique and more intimate view of the workouts.
Best of the Best. If you don’t know Mike Mayock. You need to. The NFL Networks draft expert IS the best in the business.
With the NFL combine and April’s NFL draft continuing despite labor unrest, this may be NFL fans last taste of pro gridiron action for awhile. More than 300 athletes and more than 30 hours of LIVE NFL Network coverage, certainly enough to satisfy any football appetite.
