INDIANAPOLIS — NFL Draft Prospects Shine at Combine

During the initial two days of fieldwork at the NFL Scouting Combine, standout defensive prospects showcased their skills. Players like Ohio State linebacker Sonny Stiles, Wisconsin defensive end Mason Reiger, Missouri cornerback Toriano Pride Jr., and Texas Tech defensive end David Bailey particularly drew attention.

However, they weren’t the sole performers making a name for themselves. Here’s a look at five additional players who were notable during their time in Indianapolis and how they might fit into the draft strategies of the Rams, Chargers, Raiders, or 49ers.

Chris Johnson, CB, San Diego State University

Chris Johnson, who was named a second-team All-American, clocked an impressive 4.4 seconds in the 40-yard dash, ranking third among cornerbacks, possibly solidifying his first-round status. He also tied for third in the 10-yard split with a time of 1.54 seconds, alongside a solid vertical jump of 38 inches.

Weighing in at 6-foot-0 and 193 pounds, he possesses the necessary size to play both inside and outside. Last season at San Diego State, Johnson recorded 49 tackles, four interceptions (including two touchdowns), and nine pass breakups. Given his potential, he could easily become a day-one starter at a crucial position, perhaps even sneaking into the first round.

Best fit: Though the Chargers hold the 22nd pick, which might be a bit high for Johnson due to other pressing needs, the 49ers (27th) and Rams (29th) could be logical landing spots for him. Considering the 49ers have various priorities, including wide receivers and defensive line, it’s uncertain if a top-tier cornerback will still be available by the time their pick comes around, making Johnson someone to watch.

Dillon Thieneman, LB, Oregon

Dillon Thieneman, a productive third-year starter with experience from both Purdue and Oregon, came into the combine potentially looking at a late first or sure second-round pick. However, he surprised many with a 4.35-second 40-yard dash, along with a 41-inch vertical jump, demonstrating exceptional agility during on-field practice.

While his college stats of 306 tackles and eight interceptions might not have been stellar, his athletic showcase could very well push him into the first round. The real question now is how much traction he gains from here.

Best fit: The Rams may have a significant gap at safety depending on offseason moves, especially with Kamren Karl being a potential free agent. If Thieneman is still available at the 29th pick, it seems highly unlikely that the Rams would pass up the chance on such a savvy player.

Malachi Lawrence, Edge, Central Florida

Malachi Lawrence aimed to enhance his draft stock, and he certainly delivered. His athleticism shone through with a 4.52-second 40-yard dash and impressive vertical and broad jumps. Standing at 6-foot-4 and weighing 253 pounds, Lawrence generated 20 sacks during his college career and often disrupted opposing plays.

Like many prospects, he needs to refine certain technical aspects of his game, but if he continues to improve, he could promise great value in the NFL.

Best fit: Entering the combine, Lawrence was viewed as a decent top-110 prospect and likely a Day 3 pick. The Chargers and 49ers, holding the 86th and 92nd picks in the third round respectively, would find him a worthy addition, while the Raiders would eagerly welcome him should he drop into the fourth round.

Jacob Rodriguez, LB, Texas Tech

Jacob Rodriguez has proven himself in college, boasting over 127 tackles across two seasons. However, his athleticism had some doubting how he’d translate to the next level, projecting him between the late second and third rounds. He effectively quashed these doubts when he recorded a fast 4.57 in the 40-yard dash, alongside solid vertical and broad jumps.

With a solid performance, Rodriguez showed his capabilities among his peers by posting a top-three cone time of 6.90 seconds and tying for first in the short shuttle at 4.19 seconds. At 6-foot-1 and weighing 231 pounds, he could provide immediate support to an NFL defense.

Best fit: The Chargers, Rams, and Raiders could all use additional talent at linebacker. While the Raiders possess the 36th overall pick, they may see better options than Rodriguez there. However, the Chargers and Rams are in a good position to pick him up in the second round.

Demonte Capehart, DT, Clemson

Draft prospects can still emerge in the later rounds, and Demonte Capehart is one to watch. During his college career at Clemson, he tallied 78 tackles, with a respectable number of them behind the line of scrimmage. His impressive size at 6-foot-5 and 315 pounds, paired with solid athleticism shown at the combine, suggests he could fit diverse defensive schemes well.

His relative athletic score of 9.97 ranks him as one of the top defensive tackle prospects, making him a compelling option for teams in need of interior depth.

Best fit: As the Raiders transition to a 3-4 defense, bolstering their defensive line depth would be prudent. They might consider Capehart in the fourth or fifth round, depending on how their draft unfolds.