The 2011 NFL Scouting Combine commenced on Thursday as hundreds of NFL prospects from across the country descended on Indianapolis to try to make a positive impression on NFL teams. On Friday, the specialists took center stage. It's not exactly too thrilling to track the workouts of punters and kickers, but there are some who think the Steelers might use one of their late-round picks on a kicker. UCLA K Kai Forbath reportedly erased concerns about his kickoff ability, driving the ball high and deep on Friday. Several punters were impressive, but I think it's safe to assume that the Steelers will not be pursuing a punter in this year's draft.
Although they didn't workout, the rest of the position players were measured for height and weight on Friday. The Sporting News had this to say about two of the bigger name quarterbacks in this year's draft class:
Cam Newton, QB, Auburn; Blaine Gabbert, QB Missouri: As underclassmen who entered the draft early, the NFL was concerned about both. But each showed good size and proved to be solidly built.
Yeah, yeah. It's not like anybody ever confused the two for borderline bruising backs. They're small. Always have been. But there are examples of diminutive 'backs being productive at the NFL level. Darren Sproles immediately comes to mind.
Stay tuned for more Combine updates both here and at Mocking The Draft throughout the weekend.