The 2014 NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, Indiana concluded today. Some call it the “Underwear Olympics”. But the Scouting Combine is really an important first impression and transition from college to the pros. Essentially it’s a job interview in the gym. Coaches from around the league fly in and watch closely to separate the best from the rest. So who turned heads this year?
It looked like a Ferrari running the 40 yard dash. Jadeveon Clowney, DE/OLB out of South Carolina hit 6th gear with an official time of 4.53 seconds. That’s faster than a five year average of wide receiver times in which receivers weigh an average of 202 lbs. Clowney stands 6’5, 266 lbs.
Straight line speed isn’t technically a great in game measureable for pass rushers but no one can ignore the big guy’s burst. To make the doubters feel better, his 10 yard split timed an incredible 1.56 seconds. His broad jump reached 10 feet four inches, and vertical jump 37.5 inches. It’s like he has a jet-pack on with those super sneakers you pump up.
The only knock on Clowney’s workout was in the weight room. He benched 225 lbs 21 reps; modest but no big deal. Giants’ Jason Pierre-Paul put up 19 and he’s still a success; All Pro defensive end, Superbowl champion. We can look the other way around and remember Brady Quinn. He lifted 24 reps, but where is he now? Exactly.
Clowney stole the show proving his skills and drills are no joke. The Scouting Combine is a job interview and Clowney just handed the NFL an awesome resume.
The 2012 SEC Defensive Player of the Year exploded onto the scene earning a spot on Sports Center’s Top 10 a while back. Visuals always help. Here’s that hit by the freakish athlete.
For extra analysis of how strong and fast Clowney really is, he even starred on ESPN’s Sports Science. And John Brenkus only studies the best.
Clowney’s draft stock is rising every time he’s on camera. We look forward to seeing his Pro Day next.