The NFL combine is just a small sliver of the evaluation process. Evaluators often use it to confirm their scouting reports from the tape. Here's how some of the top players fared Sunday at the combine, when defensive linemen and linebackers took the field.
And in case you missed them, here are my recaps from Day 1 (RB/O-line) and Day 2 (QB/WR/TE).
Joey Bosa, DE, Ohio State
At 269 pounds, Bosa ran a disappointing 4.86 40-yard dash. Coming into the combine, the one argument you could make against him was that he does not have exceptional get-off speed and acceleration around the edge. For some context, NFL pass rushers with a similar build to Bosa tested far better in the 40 and the vertical jump (see chart below). One notable exception? The Patriots' Chandler Jones, who was fifth in the NFL in sacks last season, ran a 4.92 at 6-foot-5 and 266 pounds. What makes Bosa special is his length and exceptional hand use as a pass rusher. He plays with great leverage and power. With that said, it does raise some concern that Bosa posted below-average results in two of the explosion drills