The NFL Scouting Combine runs from Feb. 18-21, showcasing most of the best talent entering the 2015 NFL Draft. Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, Ind. will be packed with scouts, general managers, coaches and executives, hoping to find the next collegiate gem.
Some players, such as Marcus Mariota and Jameis Winston, are expected to skip the proceedings in hopes of not altering their already top-notch draft stocks. Others are aiming to shoot up the boards, looking to make money in the 40-yard dash and 3-cone drill along with various drills.
Below are five players to watch at the combine, including a trio of talented receivers:
5. Tyler Lockett, WR, Kansas State
Lockett is currently projected as a mid-round pick. The 5’11 and 175-pound receiver played four years for the Wildcats and set multiple school records, showcasing his speed and route-running. At the combine, Lockett should shine due to his skill set, downplaying weaknesses that are exposed in real games. Lockett can struggle when jammed at the line, but holds the ability to move up draft boards later this month.
4. Arik Armstead, DT, Oregon
Armstead looks like the perfect athlete. At 6’8 and 290 pounds, the Oregon Ducks standout can shoot gaps and take blockers on man-to-man. Armstead is going to get plenty of attention if he runs well and can bench press with effectiveness. The defensive tackle is definitely a raw talent, but he can tantalize scouts with an elite combination of size, speed and skill.
3. Phillip Dorsett, WR, Miami
Dorsett is the type of athlete teams are looking for now more than ever. Dorsett can torch almost any corner with elite speed, taking the top off of defenses. Dorsett looked really solid during Senior Bowl week and can build on that momentum with a great combine. Dorsett has a slight build at 5’10 and 183 pounds, but he also has value in the return game. Look for Dorsett to shine in Indianapolis.
2. Brett Hundley, QB, UCLA
No position draws more attention than quarterback, and with Mariota and Winston expected to skip the combine, Hundley has a chance to grab center stage. Hundley has a strong arm and a great body at 6’3 and 226 pounds. While he is inconsistent and has a tendency to lock onto a receiver, Hundley can overshadow some of that with a great effort at Lucas Oil Stadium. Hundley is a strong candidate to be the third quarterback off the board.
1. Dorial Green-Beckham, WR, Missouri
Green-Beckham is going to be a fascinating player to watch. After missing a year after multiple off-field violations at Missouri and a subsequent transfer to Oklahoma, Green-Beckham must be anxious to show his skills. At 6’6 and 25 pounds, Green-Beckham has the build of Randy Moss. Despite so many red flags, the former Missouri star might become a top-15 pick.