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PAC-12 Players to watch at the 2018 NFL Scouting Combine

Emily Wirtz

USC

Quarterback Sam Darnold is a “must watch” player in this year’s combine. Darnold was once a Heisman candidate, but a season plagued by turnovers removed him from Heisman contention. Darnold had 62 rush attempts, 250 yards and scored two rushing touchdowns in the 2017 season. He completed 303-of-480 passes for 4,143 yards and 26 touchdowns. Threw 13 interceptions and fumbled 11 times in the 2017 season. Darnold has elected not to throw at the combine.

Edge Uchenna Nwosu had a breakout senior season. The defensive captain tallied 53 tackles, 7.5 for loss, three sacks and 5 pass breakups in the 2017 season. Nwosu’s explosiveness off the edge is his strength, his overall speed is impressive for a player of his size. His overall athleticism and ability to read the quarterback created interceptions and pass breakups this season.

Wide receiver Deontay Burnett 86 receptions for 1,114 yards and nine touchdowns. Athletic receiver with quick feet.

UCLA

Quarterback Josh Rosen is perhaps Sam Darnold’s biggest rival, not only in their cross-town college rivalry, but also in the 2018 NFL Draft. Rosen was second in the country averaging 341 passing yards per game. Completed 283-of-452 and threw 26 touchdown passes last season.

Wide out Jordan Lasley is a speedy receiver with quick feet. Lasley averaged 8.8 yards after catch in the 2017 season. Caught 41 passes for 620 total yards.

Arizona State

Arizona State running back Kalen Ballage possess great size for his position. Ballage is 6’1”, 227lbs. Ballage has experience as a running back, returner and wildcat formation quarterback and has lined up in the slot for ASU. Rushed for 669 yards and six touchdowns on 157 carries.

The other Arizona State standout, running back Demario Richard, has the speed and strength to succeed at the next level. Richard’s body is 219 pounds of muscle and he uses it to rush through opposing defenses after contact. Richard tallied 198 carries for 1,027 total yards and scored 12 touchdowns in the 2017 season. As a receiver, Richard caught eight passes for 67 yards.

WASHINGTON

Stanford Washington Football

Vita Vea is known for his strong arms, knows how to use them to deter offensive linemen. Large frame, NFL size with light feet. 43 total tackles, 5.5 for loss. Tallied 5.5 sacks in 2o17.

Inside linebacker Azeem Victor is a smart player with knowledge of the game. Knows where to go, reads plays well.  Explosive tackles, overall an extremely physical athlete. 30 total tackles, two for loss, 2 sacks in 2017.

Linebacker Keishawn Bierria is an impressive athlete with decent size and tremendous athleticism. 60 total tackles, 4 for loss in the 2017 season.  One sack, one forced fumble and one fumble recovery last season.

WASHINGTON STATE

Quarterback Luke Falk had his stand out performance against Sam Darnold’s USC Trojans. Completed 66% of his passes, completing 357 passes in 534 attempts. Threw 3,593 yards and 13 touchdowns. Also threw 13 interceptions, averaging one per game.

STANFORD

UTAH

Darren Carrington, former Oregon star tallied 70 catches for 908 yards and six touchdowns. He stands at 6’2” so his size is preferable for an NFL receiver. Carrington is able to control and change his route speeds, throwing off defenses. Able to adjust to passes and secure the ball after catching.

CAL

OREGON

Tyrell Crosby is a 6’5” 325lb tackle with powerful run-blocking strength. Able to move his body well and uses his strength appropriately.

OREGON STATE

ARIZONA

COLORADO

Isaiah Oliver, 6’1”, 190lb corner. 26 total tackles, two interceptions, 13 pass breakups in the 2017 season. Competed for Colorado as a track and field decathlete. A complete athlete, with good size for his position. Possesses great speed, able to catch opposing receivers with ease.

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