COMBINE REPORTS: #6

DAY #1 COMBINE NOTES

The first day of the NFL Combine isn't usually characterized as exciting. I think a better description would be "clinical. The action will definitely heat up this weekend when the actual physical portion of the process kicks into gear. For now we will have to be happy with notes on interviews & measurements of some the prospects physical attributes.

Thursday marked the arrival of the linemen, tight ends, and special teams to Indianapolis's NFL Combine & here are some of the stats & notes on those players.

Joe Thomas, Wisconsin: Definitely a top 5 prospect, if not a top 2, was present & measured in at 6’6”5/8ths and weight at 311 pounds. Thomas stated during team interviews, that himself and his style of play could be described as, “I think I’m a technician.” When the prospect was asked how he would feel about being drafted by the Lions, he replied, “I’d love to play for Detroit.”

Levi Brown, Penn State, was present & measured in at 6’5”1/2 and 323 pounds. There is no doubt that Brown will be the next tackle off the board after Thomas. Scouts realized that Levi had weighed in a little lighter than his team has listed . Many speculated that Brown may be trying to show teams of his commitment to his career and show up in the shape and ready to work. Not a bad idea!

Ryan Kalil, Center, has been questioned that he may not be able to be as successful at the next level, like he was at the College Level. He measured 6’2”3/4 and weighed in at 299. Kalil put on an impressive ten pounds. Improving his weight from the Senior Bowl. All & all it was thought that Kalil was considered very impressive in his Combine debut. He just very well be the top center selected in the April draft.

Greg Olsen, Miami, Many regard him as the best player at the Tight End position in the 2007 Draft Class. Scouts also compare his style of play to that of Giants tight end Jeremy Shockey. Olsen measured in at 6’5”7/8 and 254 pounds. NICE!

Ben Patrick, Delaware, Fellow Tight End Greg Olsen may very well want to look back over his shoulder at young Mr. Patrick. Many scouts have called him the next Vernon Davis style Tight End. He measured in 6’3”1/8 and 252, the same as "Vernon Davis’ measurements! Patricks athletic ability is said to be the equivalent also.

The most stand out measurement of the Combine so far? Chase Johnson, O-lineman, Wyoming, HEIGHT:6’8”1/2!!! WHERE DO THEY FIND THESE GUYS????