Bulldogs' Winners and Losers From NFL Combine
The NFL Combine can make or break a player's stock prior to the draft. Measurements, drills, and other different tests serve as the ultimate showcase for athletes to show teams why they should (or shouldn't) be selected.
Now that numerous former Georgia players have wrapped up their workouts, here is a list of names of the Bulldogs who increased their stock the most and those who will likely need an impressive pro day.
Winner: Stetson Bennett
"Too small" and "weak arm strength" have been the common narratives for Bennett heading into the combine. But much like he has done his entire career, "The Mailman" shattered expectations and once again, proved his doubters wrong. He measured a full inch taller than potential no.1 pick Bryce Young, ran an impressive 40-yard dash, and tied with Kentucky quarterback Will Levis for the highest velocity in a throw. Bennett also wowed scouts and other athletes with his impressive deep ball skills and accuracy throughout the day.
Another excellent performance from Bennett on Georgia's pro day could help the Georgia legend climb up team boards as high as the second round.
Loser: Jalen Carter
While he did not participate in any drills, Carter's arrest during the combine certainly caused his draft stock to slip. It also did not do him any favors that other linemen such as Gervon Dexter and Calijah Kancey turned in outstanding performances as well. Despite this, Carter's skillset and elite pass-rush abilities will almost surely guarantee that he is a first-round pick.
Winner: Nolan Smith
Speed and overall athleticism are important factors for any athlete in the sport of football. Nolan Smith not only checked those, but he also shattered expectations as well. Fresh off surgery on a torn pectoral, Smith ran the fastest 40-yard dash for all defensive linemen and turned in an astronomical jump on the vertical.
Paired with an impressive pro day showing, Smith's incredible combine performance could nab him a first-round spot.
Loser: Kenny McIntosh
Kenny McIntosh certainly did not hurt his draft stock with his combine performance. In fact, the former Bulldog turned in some excellent catches and showed why he was such a valuable player for four years at Georgia. Unfortunately, he was simply outperformed by other prospects such as Bijan Robinson and Jahmyr Gibbs and will likely fall down the boards as a result. With that said, Georgia running back still possesses an elite set of skills that will give him the potential to be a star in today's league.
Winner: Broderick Jones
Heading into the NFL Combine, many believed that Broderick Jones would be a first-round pick. However, after showing off his freakish athleticism and terrifying strength it seems likely Jones could be not only a first-round pick, but one of the first tackles taken in the draft.
Winner: Darnell Washington
It's not hard to see that Darnell Washington is a physical anomaly. After all, simply standing next to the nearly 6-foot-7 tight end is intimidating. But, after putting his freak athleticism on display with some impressive catches and an insane 40 time for his size, many now believe that "The Big 0" has the potential to be a first-round pick come April.
Other Georgia News:
- How to Watch Bulldogs in This Year's NFL Combine
- Luke Bryan Gets Contestant to say "Go Dawgs" on American Idol
- Glenn Schumann Will Return to Georgia After Interview With Eagles
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