2020 NFL Scouting Combine, Day 3 Open Thread: Defensive Line and Linebackers

There are some new wrinkles to the 2020 NFL Combine and one of them is a Prime Time viewing slot. This is great for those of us that may want to watch and chat about it live as it is happening.

There are also drill changes coming in 2020 and some that have been removed.

New to the Combine

Smoke Route - The smoke route drill helps measure how a quickly a quarterback can adjust in a run-pass option situation when the run isn’t the best option. This is being timed from the release to the catch.

Mirror - This drill once had a prospect run the “rabbit” and the other would mirror his movements. This has been changed to a coach doing the change of direction, whatever that means

Screen Drill - This is to evaluate movement skills, footwork and speed on setting up screens.

Duce Staley Drill - A drill set up for a running back to maneuver around the trash or obstacles one may encounter on a running play. Change of direction and vision are key.

Figure 8 or Hoop Drill - is a pass-rush drill where prospects run around hoops and snatch flags off the ground. This is meant to get a gauge on the prospects ankle flexion and bend when coming around the edge.

Gauntlet - Defensive backs will now run the same drill as the receivers.

Some that were removed

Toe tap on the sideline for Wide Receivers and Tight Ends

Stack and Shed for Defensive Lineman

Hip Turn and Go for Defensive backs

As always, remain respectful and Go Steelers!