2024 NFL Combine Burning Questions: Key Storylines, Rising Stars, and More

The NFL Combine, a pivotal event in the lead-up to the 2024 NFL Draft, serves as a platform for teams to validate their assessments of draft prospects through rigorous testing and evaluations. With 321 prospects participating, teams will closely analyze performances to gauge where players should land in the upcoming draft, scheduled to begin on April 25. Here are some of the pressing questions awaiting answers in Indianapolis:

Major Storylines:

• Quarterback Focus: The quarterback position always commands attention, with top prospects like Caleb Williams opting out of throwing drills. Still, talents like Michael Penix Jr. and Bo Nix aim to showcase their skills and solidify their draft stock.
• Wide Receiver Standouts: After top prospects Marvin Harrison Jr. and Malik Nabers, the combine offers a stage for players like Rome Odunze and Troy Franklin to distinguish themselves and potentially rise in draft boards.
• Offensive Tackle Shuffle: Offensive tackle prospects, led by Joe Alt and Olu Fashanu, vie for position in the draft hierarchy. A standout performance could propel a second-tier player into the spotlight.

Potential Standout Performers:

• Chop Robinson (EDGE, Penn State): Underrated but with a relentless motor, Robinson is poised to impress scouts and secure a top-20 draft position.
• Troy Franklin (WR, Oregon): With impressive size and speed, Franklin is primed to excel in the 40-yard dash, potentially elevating his draft stock.
• Dallas Turner (EDGE, Alabama): Despite his youth, Turner possesses elite physical traits that could translate into a stellar combine performance, reinforcing his potential at the professional level.

Quarterback Comparisons:

• Caleb Williams’ Potential: Analysts draw comparisons to Trevor Lawrence, citing Williams’ blend of athleticism and production, making him a top prospect in the draft.
• Marvin Harrison Jr.’s Impact: Comparisons to Julio Jones highlight Harrison’s exceptional skills, though LSU’s Malik Nabers remains a contender for similar success.

Speedsters to Watch:

• Tyler Owens (S, Texas Tech): Owens’ track background and impressive high school times make him a candidate to post a standout 40-yard dash.
• Jawhar Jordan (RB, Louisville): Known for his speed, Jordan could turn heads with his quickness and agility during combine drills.
• Xavier Worthy (WR, Texas): A former track star, Worthy possesses the potential to showcase his speed and agility on a big stage.

Under-the-Radar Prospects:

• Jonah Elliss (EDGE, Utah): With disruptive play in college, Elliss aims to elevate his draft stock with an impressive showing at the combine.
• Braelon Allen (RB, Wisconsin): Allen’s imposing physique and athleticism could draw attention, projecting him as a potential top-50 pick.
• Nathan Thomas (OT, Louisiana): Thomas, often overlooked, has the opportunity to shine and emerge as a sleeper prospect in a deep tackle class.

Quarterback Combine Standouts:

• Spencer Rattler (South Carolina): Rattler’s maturity and arm strength position him for a strong showing, building on his solid Senior Bowl performance.
• Bo Nix (Oregon): Nix aims to differentiate himself with impressive accuracy and overall performance during combine drills.
• Joe Milton III (Tennessee): Despite inconsistencies in college, Milton’s physical attributes and arm strength make him a candidate to impress at the combine.

Players Needing a Boost:

• Michael Penix Jr. (Washington): Once considered a top prospect, Penix Jr. seeks to regain momentum with a standout combine performance.
• Kool-Aid McKinstry (CB, Alabama): McKinstry aims to validate his status as an elite cornerback prospect with strong combine numbers.
• Nate Wiggins (CB, Clemson): Wiggins looks to re-establish his name among top cornerback prospects, showcasing his speed and skills at the combine.

Predictions for the No. 1 Overall Pick:

• Washington’s Trade Interest: Washington may pursue Caleb Williams, but the Chicago Bears ultimately select the USC quarterback.
• Chicago Bears’ Strategy: Chicago retains the No. 1 pick, securing Williams and potentially trading Justin Fields to streamline their quarterback situation.

The 2024 NFL Draft promises intrigue and excitement, with prospects aiming to leave a lasting impression at the combine and secure their futures in professional football. For comprehensive draft coverage, visit CBSSports.com for mock drafts, draft order updates, and prospect analysis leading up to the draft in Detroit from April 25-27.