The first day of on-field workouts at the Scouting Combine did not disappoint. A handful of edge defenders, defensive tackles and linebackers put on a show at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, IN.
Here are five players who could be on the Chargers’ radar who increased their stock with eye-opening demonstrations of athleticism.
DT Braden Fiske, Florida State
The Chargers will need to improve the interior part of the defensive line, and they could do so in Round 2 with Fiske, who was the biggest standout on Thursday. Fiske, the 6-foot-4 and 292-pounder, led all defensive tackles in the vertical (33.5″), broad jump (9’9), and 40-yard dash (4.78 seconds). He was also lights out in the on-field drills, finessing with his footwork. On the football field, Fiske plays with a combination of athleticism and strength.
DT Ruke Orhorhoro, Clemson
Orhorhoro ran a 4.89-second 40-yard dash, which ranked fourth among defensive tackles. He finished second in the 10-yard split with 1.67 seconds, second in the broad jump (9-8) and third in the vertical jump (32 feet). Like Fiske, Orhorhoro moved well in the on-field drills, showing good change of direction skills and speed. Orhorhoro is a versatile player capable of playing different spots along the defensive line, and he plays with great size, strength and athleticism.
DT Kris Jenkins, Michigan
I highlighted Jenkins in my defensive tackles to watch piece, and he put on a show for those in attendance, including his former coach, Jim Harbaugh. He ran a 4.91 in the 40, jumped 30 inches in the vertical, and 9-7 in the broad, all while showing silky smooth movement skills and bend during the on-field drills. His athleticism was on full display throughout his workout.
EDGE Marshawn Kneeland, Western Michigan
Kneeland is another player I mentioned in my preview piece and how I expected him to test well, and he delivered. He posted a blazing 7.02-second three-cone drill and a 4.18-second short shuttle, the best among his positional group. Those numbers exemplify elite change of direction skills for someone as big and long as Kneeland is. He is a physical, high-motored and disruptive, and he is reminiscent of Tuli Tuipulotu.
LB Trevin Wallace, Kentucky
The Chargers had a formal meeting with Wallace, who showed off his athleticism on Thursday. He posted a 4.52-second 40, a 37.5-inch vertical jump and a 10-7 broad jump. On the football field, Wallace is a physical, lengthy and athletic linebacker with good speed and range, so the numbers back it up.
