The NFL combine begins this week in Indianapolis. Much of the exciting stuff won’t happen for a few days, as the skill players will not be testing for a little while.
However, with the start of the combine, intrigue in the draft and draft prospects begins to grow. For Arizona Cardinals fans, this is particularly true, as Arizona has the very first pick in the draft and the very first pick in each of the first six rounds of the draft.
With the start of the combine, there are a few prospects who are of particular interest for Cardinals fans. Some could be in play for the first overall pick. Others might be later picks.
Here are those players:
Ohio State DE Nick Bosa
Bosa is considered the favorite to the Cardinals’ pick at No. 1. As such, how he tests becomes very important. The medical exams, which the fans will not hear about, will be critical, especially after his core muscle injury, but his athletic testing will matter. He is not expected to be a freak like others, but the Cardinals have said they want someone with high athleticism at the top of the draft.
Kentucky OLB Josh Allen
If the first pick isn’t Bosa, Josh Allen might be the guy. He is believed to be an athletic freak and the combine will show that. He has the body type and the production. If he blows Bosa way in athleticism, it might make the difference to make him the No. 1 pick.
ASU WR N’Keal Harry
With the needs the Cardinals have at receiver, Harry might be the most popular prospect because of his ties to Arizona, having played high school ball locally and for Arizona State. Everyone knows of the ball skills and size. What is yet unknown is his speed and quickness. How he performs in the 40-yard dash and his quickness drills will be of interest.
Texas Tech WR Antoine Wesley
The Cardinals might not need to know much about Wesley because he was coached by new head coach Kliff Kingsbury, but fans probably should get acquainted with him. He very well could end up a target because of his time at Texas Tech. At 6-5, 175, he has length. Does he have the athleticism?
Houston DT Ed Oliver
Oliver was at one time considered a contender for the top pick in the draft. He likely isn’t now, but if the Cardinals trade back, he could be a very intriguing option, considering the athleticism. Fans will want to see how he tests.
Oklahoma QB Kyler Murray
The connection between Arizona and Murray is something fans either love or hate. Coach Kingsbury has already said what he thinks of him as a player. Does that mean they will draft him? No, but it is enough for fans to watch his drills.
How fast is he really? How will he do in the throwing drills? More importantly, how big is he? he is short for the position, but does he have enough to his frame to handle the rigors of playing quarterback in the NFL?
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