All Access: Combine Primer; Big Board + Senior Bowl Stardust

A preview of top storylines as the NFL Combine gets set to begin. Plus, final observations from the Senior Bowl now that the dust has settled on Mobile and a look at our 2024 positional big board.

Feb 28, 2024

RAINCHECK PLEASE. An influx of NFL head coaches have opted to skip the combine this year, including Sean McVay (Rams), Matt LaFleur (Packers), Robert Saleh (Jets) and Mike Macdonald (Seahawks). With rumors swirling the past several years that the combine could eventually move, the NFL could be playing with fire. Based on dozens of conversations, there is an overwhelming support within league circles for the event to stay in Indiana. One wonders, should the combine depart Indy, just how many other coaches will begin to bail on the league’s ‘made for prime time’ programming.

COMBINE STAYING PUT, FOR NOW. The city of Indianapolis retained the rights to host the NFL Scouting Combine through 2025 but bidding for the 2026 event will begin once the 2024 combine closes. It has been big business for the past 38 years in Indianapolis, as more than 5,000 league officials, executives, agents sponsors and media flock to the city. The combine generated an estimated $9.1M in economic impact according to Inside Indiana Business. Other cities who were under consideration during the last go around on bidding included Dallas and Los Angeles.

THE KING OF ROME. With news that wide receivers Marvin Harrison Jr. of Ohio State and Malik Nabers of LSU would not be participating in full combine activities, Rome Odunze of Washington announced that he will indeed do everything. Currently, most NFL Draft boards rank either Harrison Jr., or Nabers as their top-rated wideout. However, Odunze is not too distant and now that the window has been left cracked open, it’s possible that the Huskies playmaker leapfrogs them entirely.

QB SPOTLIGHT. It’s typical for quarterbacks to dominate the headlines during combine week. Sadly, the top three projected signal-callers expected to be chosen in the 2024 NFL Draft will not be participating in throwing drills; Caleb Williams (USC), Drake Maye (UNC) and Jayden Daniels (LSU) will be in town to conduct interviews but will wait until their respective pro days to workout in front of NFL teams.

COMBINE: DAY ONE — NOTABLE QUOTABLES

Baltimore Ravens general manager Eric DeCosta on what he values in a prospect: "I think integrity is important to me. Passion for the game is important to me. Work ethic, dependability, growth mindset, grit – all those things – factor in. It's something that we really kind of focus on. I mean, anyone can watch tape and assess how good a player can catch a football or bend his knees or make a tackle in space or block somebody. But to me, the secret sauce is really knowing the person behind the tape, the personality of the player, [and] how he carries himself day to day. What's he going to do every day in the offseason? How is he going to carry himself on the field, in the community? All those kinds of things are critically important. And really, I think, those are probably as important – those factors – as how a guy plays the game." (photo credit: @scoutdnfl)

Jacksonville Jaguars head coach Doug Pederson on whether he would take back play-calling duties on offense: “I think those are things that I need to, you know, consider this off season, this spring. You know, there were things out of my control that I had to deal with more you know, the last last year. It takes you away from some of that stuff and I’m not going to get into those. So yeah, it’s something that I have to [look at] as part of the evaluation process and I have to evaluate myself and Press, as decision makers and play callers and see what’s best for our team.”

New York Giants general manager Joe Schoen on listening in to his coaches' headset for four games during the season. "So, it's something I've wanted to do for quite some time. We were at Washington, and I can show you guys sometimes but where they put us, it's not a good sideline. It's not a great spot to watch the game. So, I went and did it and it was amazing. Just the communication of the coaches from an evaluation standpoint when I talk to (president and chief executive officer) John Mara after the game, or my personnel staff, I can say 'yeah, player X screwed that up,' or 'yeah, we called this but this happened,' or 'the safety was over and he was supposed to be that way,' or whatever it may be. You just have an intimate knowledge of what went on and why during the game. I'm superstitious, so we won. We beat Washington and then we won the next week and then we won the next week and then we lost against New Orleans and I was out of there. Being superstitious, that's why I was in their multiple games. I thoroughly enjoyed it. I also like sitting with my staff but I'm not the only GM that's ever done that and again, from an evaluation standpoint, it was really beneficial, so that was the reason behind that."

STARDUST | ON LOCATION: 2024 REESE’S SENIOR BOWL

Below is an accumulation of what we saw and heard on the ground in Mobile, Alabama for the 75th Annual Reese’s Senior Bowl, in addition to our completed film study from the practice week. Here are some additional observations that have yet to been shared. (Photo Credit: Jim Nagy):

Despite playing victor to the spoils in both head-to-head matchups this past season, while appearing to be the sharper of two quarterbacks in Mobile, Washington pocket-passer QB Michael Penix [6024/212/1038/3358/8138] seems to rank lower on draft boards than Oregon dual-threat QB Bo Nix [6017/218/0978/3028/7438] when polling the scouting community. Many prefer the mobility and experience (60 career starts) of Nix over Penix, who has three-season ending injuries on his resume during his time at Indiana. With the current QB-needy landscape in the NFL, there’s a chance that either, or both could still hear their name called in round one.

Taking reps alongside Nix and Penix on the National roster was Notre Dame QB Sam Hartman [6010/209/0958/3078/7528] — combined, the three signal-callers accounted for over 150 career starts on college. Unfortunately for Hartman, his week read more like a roller-coaster, as he struggled to find his rhythm. There’s no doubt that teams will value his leadership, experience and intangibles but Hartman is viewed more as a late round prospect who could possibly develop into a dependable back up.

It remains to be seen if Tennessee QB Joe Milton III [6050/235/1038/3318/8058] will ever put it all together. A polarizing prospect due to his physical attributes—a size/speed specimen with a howitzer for an arm, Milton needs to harness some of his accuracy woes. The all-star game environment is tough on timing but too many balls seemed to sail, or were off the mark. However, his combination of rare size, athleticism and arm strength could be enough for an NFL team willing to roll the dice on his upside.

It was perplexing to see South Alabama QB Carter Bradley [6030/218/0938/3148/7700] omitted from the combine (for disclaimer purposes, votes are submitted by NFL teams prior to the All-Star circuit). Bradley was masterful at his stops at the Hula Bowl and Tropical Bowl, where he was clearly the best quarterback at both events, before receiving a call-up to the Senior Bowl. Once again, he was amongst the best signal-callers in attendance. Bradley possesses prototypical size, the ability to make all throws, excellent pocket presence, plus smart decision-making. He would be a wise Day Three investment for any organization.

The most pleasant surprise in Mobile was USC RB Marshawn Lloyd [5091/217/0868/3078/7258], who seemed to run angry all week. He hits the hole with controlled chaos and great intent, clear vision, plus excellent burst. A hard-nosed runner with a compact frame, Lloyd is able to gain tough yards between the tackles but is also shifty enough to cut it outside when presented the opportunity. Look for him to be an impactful factor as a rotational back in the pros.

A fast-riser would be Georgia WR Ladd McConkey [5114/187/0858/3018/7268] who was out of sight, out of mind for most of this past season due to back and ankle injuries. Upon first glance, it’s quick to see that McConkey possesses a next level gear that is in elite category. With exceptional depth in the wide receiver class, McConkey can serve as tremendous value should he slide out of round one, although the Chiefs selecting at No.32 would seem like the ideal fit. For those of us who remember gutsy Phil McConkey, there’s no relation but there are some similarities.

When discussing the ‘best of the best,’ we must include Michigan WR Roman Wilson [5104/186/0918/3028/7228] who helped his draft stock as much as anyone. His top-end speed, sharp route running and ability to create separation in small areas has made him a hot commodity entering Indy. As alluded to earlier, with such a deep wide receiver class, Wilson can provide exceptional bang for your buck on Day Two!

Electrifying Arizona WR Jacob Cowing [5084/165/0900/2928/6928] is a fluid mover with elite change of direction burst, along with body gyrations that can easily leave defenders in his dust. Cowing owns great acceleration and quickness, which is very reminiscent of Tank Dell (Texans), whose measureables also happen to be near-identical. Cowing is expected to be one of the faster players in attendance this week.

Opinions tend to vary when it comes to the draft stock of North Carolina WR Devontez Walker [6014/197/0900/3268/7928], whose grade fluctuates depending own who you ask; it ranges from early-to-late rounds. The truth probably lies somewhere in between. He made a handful of splash plays throughout the week but was also plagued by several drops, which also haunted him at times in Chapel Hill. With great size to play the perimeter, a fast forty-time at the combine can help put Walker in better graces.

It’s not hard to spot Florida State WR Johnny Wilson [6061/237/0948/3528/8438]—he’s a tall glass of water who towers over defenders and utilizes his size to his advantage. There have been some questions about his timed speed which should get answered this week. We have seen numerous comparisons to Darren Waller (Giants) in recent years, yet they never seem to pan out. Is Wilson the one? He looks as if he would be a red zone mismatch but he scored just two touchdowns in 10 games this past season.

It was a steady week for Texas OT Christian Jones [6050/318/1038/3478/8378], who brings prototype size, tremendous starting experience, along with sound fundamentals and an excellent frame, all of which were all full display. Outside of one bad rep, where he was completely bulldozed over, Jones was otherwise a top standout. A projected right tackle at the next level, Jones is likely to come off the board amongst the top 50.

It was a rewarding Senior Bowl week for Kansas OL Dominic Puni [6043/323/1000/3368/8168] who outshined the competition. Puni looked to be a man on a mission, showcasing the size, bend, footwork and hand placement to play with anyone who stood in his way. If his performance in Mobile is any indication of what’s to come in the future, don’t be surprised if Puni hears his name called earlier than expected. While some may prefer him on the interior, he provided glimpses of being a potential pro tackle.

Upon his first impressions taking over at UConn, head coach Jim Mora was quick to realize that he had a Sunday player on his hands in OG Christian Haynes (6024/318/0878/3378/8038). The football Huskies haven’t exactly been relevant, so the Senior Bowl showcase was a coming out party of sorts for Haynes, as he flashed Day One level ability throughout the week. One of the more polished players in this year’s draft, Haynes is a technician with a bubble butt and won the majority of his one-on-one matchups, while finishing up with a strong performance in the game.

A scrappy mauler who carries a chip on his shoulder, Miami OG Javion Cohen [6043/319/0938/3378/8118] owns brute strength, sound footwork and a tenacious demeanor that was noticeable inside the trenches. The Alabama transfer boasts plenty of experience with 36 career starts and brings a top-tier level of toughness. His future is bright and Cohen would figure to be entrenched as a solid mid-round pick.

Built like a refrigerator on wheels, Oregon C Jackson Powers-Johnson [6032/334/0958/3218/7900] is near-impossible to skate around. His fiery play mentality, enormous strength and wide frame simply wore out multiple defenders who tried. He straight bullied defenders and was dominant at times—that’s how way to make a lasting impression! Anyone who bared witness to his performance departed Mobile with the understanding that this is an instant plug-and-play starter; JPJ has the talent to be special long-time pro.

Another center who had a solid showing but not nearly the amount of fanfare was Wisconsin C Tanor Bartolini [6037/305/0968/3158/7758]. He displayed surprising agility, fancy footwork, a ferocious jab and won the majority of his one-on-one reps. With 14 starts at center and 13 starts at guard, his versatility is an added bonus. Only a few centers are drafted each year but Bartolini stands a good shot and if not, he would certainly be a player who can earn his way onto a roster with enough ‘make-it’ traits.

There may not have been a more imposing figure in Mobile than Missouri DL Darius Robinson [6050/286/1048/3468/8448], whose monstrous wingspan was evident in his ability to batter opposing offensive lineman like doughboys. Likely viewed as a Day Two prospect coming into the Senior Bowl, Robinson departed as a clear-cut first round pick. His size, strength, athleticism and hand combat certainly separated him from the crowd. This young man has a huge arrow pointing up next to his name inside war rooms.

Versatile Oregon DL Brandon Dorlus [6031/272/0928/3338/8100] is considered a ‘tweener’ type prospect. At times, he flashes the burst, quickness and motor to state a case to play defensive end. Other times, it appears Dorlus would be better suited to bulk up and utilize his twitch to his advantage on the interior. There are questions if he owns the strength to survive there. Dorlus likely projects as an early-to-mid round candidate but teams will want to do some critical thinking in terms of what position they want to commit him to.

STOCK UP: There could be up to a dozen players chosen in the first round from this year’s Senior Bowl. Three players who seemed to have confirmed that sentiment were Oregon State OT Taliese Fuaga [6057/332/1028/3338/8148], UCLA DE Laiata Latu [6054/311/0938/3318/8018] and Miami SS Kam Kinchens [5111/206/0958/3128/7518]. The only other wideout who may have created more noise than the aforementioned McConkey would be South Carolina WR Xavier Legette [6010/223/0878/3158/7728], who demonstrated the ability to run a variety of routes. Another player to keep an eye on is Washington OT Roger Rosengarten [6054/311/0938/3318/8018] who caught the eye of several keen talent observers and is a potential Day Two starter at right tackle.

ALL ACCESS FOOTBALL NETWORK — TUNE-IN!

REAL Football Talk Programming Alert: Catch Ric Serritella Show Appearances

2/29 - Thursday @ 8:20am: Birds 365 with Jody Mac and John McMullen

2/29 - Thursday @ 10:00pm: Sports Rage with Gabriel Morency SIRIUSXM Ch.159

Combine Confidential: All Access Football will be on location at the NFL Scouting Combine with updates provided by NFL insider Howard Balzer, plus interviews with All Access Football correspondent Candice Davis-Price and NFL Draft Bible ninja Bo Marchionte. Make sure you keep it locked!

Boston Sports Journal: Catch new exclusive draft content by Ric Serritella on BSJ, the premier source for Boston sports!

PRE-COMBINE BIG BOARD | TOP 5 BY POSITION

Below is the official 2024 NFL Draft Bible Pre-Combine Big Board Rankings. Be sure to check out our expanded version on Boston Sports Journal (top 25 prospects at each position).

QUARTERBACKS

Caleb Williams, USC, Rd1
Drake Maye, North Carolina, Rd1
Jayden Daniels, LSU, Rd1
JJ McCarthy, Michigan, Rd1
Michael Penix Jr., Washington, Rd2
Bo Nix, Oregon, Rd2
Spencer Rattler, South Carolina, Rd3
Michael Pratt, Tulane, Rd4
Devin Leary, Kentucky, Rd5
Joe Milton III, Tennessee, Rd6

RUNNING BACKS

Trey Benson, Florida State, Rd2
Jonathon Brooks, Texas, Rd2
Braelon Allen, Wisconsin, Rd3
Blake Corum Michigan, Rd3
Will Shipley, Clemson, Rd3
Audric Estime, Notre Dame, Rd3
MarShawn Lloyd, USC, Rd4
Dylan Laube, New Hampshire, Rd4
Bucky Irving, Oregon, Rd4
Blake Watson, Memphis, Rd4

WIDE RECEIVERS

Marvin Harrison Jr, Ohio State, Rd1
Malik Nabers, LSU, Rd1
Rome Odunze, Washington, Rd1
Brian Thomas Jr, LSU, Rd1
Troy Franklin, Oregon, Rd1
Ladd McConkey, Georgia, Rd2
Xavier Worthy, Texas, Rd2
Roman Wilson, Michigan, Rd2
Keon Coleman, Florida State, Rd2
Adonia Mitchell, Texas, Rd2

TIGHT ENDS

Brock Bowers, Georgia, Rd1
Ja’Tavion Sanders, Texas, Rd2
Erick All, Iowa, Rd3
Ben Sinnott, Kansas State, Rd3
Cade Stover, Ohio State, Rd3
Jaheim Bell, Florida State, Rd4
Dallin Holker, Colorado State, Rd5
Jared Wiley, TCU, Rd5
Theo Johnson, Penn State, Rd6
Isaac Rex, BYU, Rd6

OFFENSIVE TACKLES

Joe Alt, Jr, Notre Dame, Rd1
Olumuyiwa Fashanu, Penn State, Rd1
Taliese Fuaga, Oregon State, Rd1
Tyler Guyton, Oklahoma, rJr, Rd1
JC Latham, Alabama, Rd1
Jordan Morgan, Arizona, Rd2
Amarius Mims, Georgia, Rd2
Dominick Puni, Kansas, Rd2
Christian Jones, Texas, Rd2
Javon Foster, Missouri, Rd2

OFFENSIVE GUARDS

Troy Fautanu, Washington, Rd2
Cooper Beebe, Kansas State, Rd2
Christian Haynes, UConn, Rd2
Javion Cohen, Miami, Rd3
Zak Zinter, Michigan, Rd3
Christian Mahogany, Boston College, Rd3
Layden Robinson, Texas A&M, Rd4
Isaiah Adams, Illinois, Rd4
Trevor Keegan, Michigan, Rd5
Jarrett Kingston, Washington State, Rd5

CENTERS

Jackson Powers-Johnson, Oregon, Rd1
Zach Frazier, West Virginia, Rd2
Graham Barton, Duke, Rd2
Sedrick Van Pran, Georgia, Rd3
Drake Nugent, Michigan, Rd4
Tanor Bortolini, Wisconsin, Rd5
Andrew Raym, Oklahoma, Rd6
Dylan McMahon, North Carolina State, Rd6
Charles Turner III, LSU, Rd6
Beaux Limmer, Arkansas, Rd7

DEFENSIVE TACKLES

Jer’Zhan Newton, Illinois, Rd1
Byron Murphy II, Texas, Rd1
Darius Robinson, Missouri, Rd1
T’Vondre Sweat, Texas, Rd2
Leonard Taylor III, Miami, Rd2
Kris Jenkins, Michigan, Rd2
Maason Smith, LSU, Rd2
McKinnley Jackson, Texas A&M, Rd3
Ruke Orhorhoro, Clemson, Rd3
Michael Hall Jr., Ohio State, Rd3

EDGE RUSHERS

Dallas Turner, Alabama, Rd1
Jared Verse, Florida State, Rd1
Laiata Latu, UCLA, Rd1
Chop Robinson, Penn State, Rd1
Edgerrin Cooper, Texas A&M, Rd2
Chris Braswell, Alabama, Rd2
Bralen Trice, Washington, Rd2
Adisa Isaac, Penn State, Rd2
Zion Tupuola-Fetui, Washington, Rd3
Jonah Ellis, Utah, Rd3

LINEBACKERS

Cedric Gray, North Carolina, Rd1
Jeremiah Trotter Jr., Clemson, Rd2
Junior Colson, Michigan, Jr, Rd2
Jaylan Ford, Texas, Rd2
Payton Wilson, North Carolina State, Rd3
Tommy Eichenberg, Ohio State, Rd3
James Williams, Miami, Rd4
Nathaniel Watson, Mississippi State, Rd4
Curtis Jacobs, Penn State, Rd4
Darius Muasau, UCLA, Rd4

CORNERBACKS

Terrion Arnold, Alabama, Rd1
Quinyon Mitchell, Toledo, Rd1
Cooper DeJean, Iowa, Rd1
Ennis Rakestraw Jr., Missouri, Rd1
Kool-Aid McKinstry, Alabama, Rd1
Caelen Carson, Wake Forest, Rd2
Nate Wiggins, Clemson, Rd2
Kamari Lassiter, Georgia, Rd2
TJ Tampa, Iowa State, Sr, Rd2
Mike Sainristill, Michigan, Rd3

SAFETIES

Tyler Nubin, Minnesota, Rd1
Kamren Kinchens, Miami, Rd1
Javon Bullard, Georgia, Rd2
Calen Bullock, USC, Jr, Rd2
Cole Bishop, Utah, Rd2
Beau Brade, Maryland, Rd3
Jaden Hicks, Washington State, Rd3
Kitan Oladapo, Oregon State, Rd4
Tykee Smith, Georgia, Rd4
Jaylin Simpson, Auburn, Rd4