NFL Combine Day 3 is now complete, which means the Quarterbacks, Running Backs, and Wide Receivers have finished their testing and measurements. This day was no different than the first two days, in which Combine records continue to be set, and many players were able to boost their draft stock today. Here are some of the most notable standout players from Day 3 of the NFL Combine:
Taylen Green, QB, Arkansas
Taylen Green might very well be one of the biggest athletic freaks we’ve ever seen at the QB position. While Green might not have shown out in the drills portion, he impressed in nearly every other category. Green measured in at 6-foot-6, 227 pounds, further solidifying his immense size. He would then go on to have the highest vertical jump (43.5”) and broad jump (11 ‘2”) of any other Quarterback at the combine since at least 2003. Oh, and if that wasn’t enough, he also ran 4.36 in the 40-yard dash. While Green’s overall quarterback ability is still very underdeveloped, with these tools, he is worth a gamble on Day 3 by any NFL team.
Ty Simpson, QB, Alabama
Simpson was by far the best performing quarterback at the Combine today. He showed scouts and fans alike why he should be the second quarterback taken in the Draft. He was able to display his sound throwing mechanics and threw some beautiful touch passes down the field. Although he had some misses when throwing the fade routes, he was relatively consistent from an accuracy standpoint, and his tight release and good footwork will continue to provide a decent baseline in the NFL.
Jeremiyah Love, RB, Notre Dame
Love had very little to prove entering today; he is already regarded as the top Running Back in this draft class and a potential top-10 pick. However, Love confirmed what most already know: he is a damn good football player. Love put on a show today; he showcased his quick feet, vision, and very good hip fluidity when running his routes. Combine all of these skills with a 4.36 – second 40-yard dash, and it’s very easy to see why he is as highly regarded as he is.
Mike Washington Jr., RB, Arkansas
One of the best moments of the day was seeing Washington break down in tears after his 40-yard dash. “I’m so emotional man. I’ve worked my entire life for this,” Washington told NFL Network reporter Stacey Dales after learning he had just run a 4.33 in the 40-yard dash. Washington’s 40-yard time led all running backs at the combine, while being 6-foot-1 and 223 pounds. Speed has always been a part of Washington’s game, so it wasn’t surprising he ran as fast as he did, but nonetheless, it is an amazing feat that Washington should be proud of.
Zachariah Branch, WR, Georgia
While Branch’s day didn’t start in the best way, measuring in smaller than expected at 5-foot-9, 177 pounds, he quickly made that up by running a tremendous 4.35 40-yard dash and showing out during the position drills. Branch consistently demonstrated his route-running prowess and strong hands, catching every ball thrown his way, while also showcasing a strong catch radius and good body control to secure inaccurate passes. Branch has been discussed as being drafted at the back end of Day 2, potentially Day 3, but this performance today solidified him as a Day 2 pick for a team in need of a slot wide receiver.
Skyler Bell, WR, Connecticut
Bell was able to post a 41-inch vertical jump, as well as a 11 ‘1 broad jump. Combine that with measuring in with 31-inch arms and 10-inch hands, and you have yourself a potential Top-50 pick at wide receiver. Bell was solid during position drills, as he had a couple of double-catches, but he was able to maintain concentration and haul them in, as well as strong footwork while route-running. Bell has kept continuing to build upon his strong draft process.
Cover photo credit Getty Images
