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Robert Nkemdiche Leads NFL Scouting Combine Rampage

By Erik Lambert

Feb 26, 2016; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Mississippi defensive lineman Robert Nkemdiche speaks to the media during the 2016 NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 26, 2016; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Mississippi defensive lineman Robert Nkemdiche speaks to the media during the 2016 NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports /
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Everybody knew the defensive line crop for the 2016 draft was pretty good.  It didn’t take long at the NFL scouting combine for people to find out it has a chance to be special.  A host of prospects did themselves a ton of favors during the drill, posting solid numbers across the board.  Here were some of the highlights and surprises that will have teams talking.

Robert Nkemdiche answered the talent question

In a loaded class, it takes a significant amount of talent to stand out on the defensive line.  Robert Nkemdiche knew he’d have to showcase his coming out of Ole Miss, especially after his off-the-field problems toward the end of last season.  He didn’t disappoint, posting a 4.87 dash in the 40, a 35-inch vertical jump and 28 reps on the bench press at 294 lbs.

Emmanuel Ogbah and Shaq Lawson blaze in the dash

A couple of the bigger surprises among the defensive line group were what Emmanuel Ogbah of Oklahoma State and Shaq Lawson of Clemson pulled off in the 40-yard dash.  Already labeled as solid defensive end prospects at 270 lbs with plenty of power.  The question that needed answering was how explosive they were.

Lawson delivered a healthy 4.70 time, which was impressive enough.  Then Ogbah proceeded to fill the arena with buzz when he posted a 4.62.  Throw in long arms, big hands and a 6’4″ frame and he is fast becoming a lock first rounder.

Joey Bosa shows better-than-expected agility

Given his size and tape, most believed Ohio State standout Joey Bosa is a classic defensive end for a 4-3 defense.  His 4.86 time in the 40-yard dash showcased his good explosion and there are few qualms about his size, length and power.  The more surprising part of the morning was how fluid and comfortable he looked moving in space during agility drills.  This might be enough to convince one of those teams in the top 10 that run a 3-4 defense that he could make a go of it at outside linebacker.

Dean Lowry turns some heads

The knock on the Northwestern alum is short arms.  At 31 inches he would have a hard time against big tackles who often boast 34 inches or longer reach.  Still, Dean Lowry showed he has value.  Not only known for being a high motor player, he turned in 30 reps on the bench press, good for 4th-best among his peers and then delivered a 4.88 dash in the 40 at 296 lbs.  So it’s clear he’s a good athlete for his size with strength.  If he can learn to win without the advantage of long reach, he might end up being a steal.

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