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NFL Scouting Combine 2016: 5 players to watch

By Nathaniel Reeves

Jan 10, 2015; Frisco, TX, USA; North Dakota State Bison quarterback Carson Wentz (11) throws a pass during pre game warmups against the Illinois State Redbirds at Pizza Hut Park. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 10, 2015; Frisco, TX, USA; North Dakota State Bison quarterback Carson Wentz (11) throws a pass during pre game warmups against the Illinois State Redbirds at Pizza Hut Park. Mandatory Credit: Tim Heitman-USA TODAY Sports /
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Nov 28, 2015; East Lansing, MI, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions quarterback Christian Hackenberg (14) attempts to pass the ball against the Michigan State Spartans during the 2nd half game of a game at Spartan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mike Carter-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 28, 2015; East Lansing, MI, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions quarterback Christian Hackenberg (14) attempts to pass the ball against the Michigan State Spartans during the 2nd half game of a game at Spartan Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mike Carter-USA TODAY Sports /

5. Christian Hackenberg, QB, Penn State

After arriving in Happy Valley as a highly-touted five-star recruit in 2013, it appeared Hackenberg was on course to be the top overall pick in this season’s draft. Things didn’t quite work out that way in Hackenberg’s college career, and the combine will now be absolutely critical in regards to his NFL future.

While Hackenberg was not bad with the Nittany Lions by any means, he never seemed to put everything together and live up to perhaps impossible expectations. Many blame the lack of other talent around him and the offensive line (a fair assessment, at least for 2015), so Hackenberg will now get a couple of chances to show what he can do on his own.

It may never have totally worked out for Hackenberg on the field with Penn State, but he was a five-star recruit for a reason. Hackenberg has ideal physical skills for an NFL quarterback, and that could show with a great performance at the Scouting Combine and subsequent interviews.

In particular, Hackenberg has a great arm, and his ability to throw the deep ball could play well in the NFL. Hackenberg is also a much better athlete than he is given credit for, plus footwork should attract scouts’ attention at the Scouting Combine.

Hackenberg’s issues with reading coverages will almost certainly keep him out of the first round. However, if he shows off his physical abilities with a great combine performance, NFL teams may begin to look at him as an intriguing project quarterback.

As Hackenberg was easily at his best under Bill O’Brien, it will be interesting to see if he can stand out to the Houston Texans, who may be willing to pick him in the second or third round.

Next: Shawn Oakman, DE, Baylor

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