Penn State Football: NFL Combine told PSU fans what we already know
Penn State football’s talented players caught loads of attention, but no one that follows the program should be surprised.
Running back Saquon Barkley owned the spotlight at the NFL Combine. However, he wasn’t alone in that light. He just took center stage. Beyond his tremendous day, Mike Gesicki and Troy Apke joined him in making noise while a few other Penn State football prospects made names for themselves. These strong performances wowed analysts, but it came as no surprise to me or anyone that’s watched this team.
To start off, Barkley cemented his status as the best player in the draft with an eye-popping workout. Fans have heard all about the numbers (4.40, 40-yard dash, 29 bench press reps of 225 pounds, and a 41-inch vertical). Those numbers didn’t need to tell us anything. He’s been doing that for three years compiling highlight after highlight reel.
At 6-foot, 233-pounds, he solidified the idea of the perfect back. He hasn’t shown his power at all times, but he proved that he can truly do it all. His 4.4 speed just characterized his on-film blazing speed.
Furthermore, tight end Mike Gesicki showed his 50-50 jump ball skills aren’t just limited to the college game. His 41-inch vertical brought merit to his already-impressive athleticism. In his two seasons, he caught 105 passes for 1,242 yards and 14 touchdowns. Although he might not play tight end in the NFL, he’ll be on the receiving end of NFL quarterbacks.
Penn State football fans have watched him out jump defenders for two years. He’ll be doing in the NFL for sure with multiple early round projections. I knew he was worth an early pick especially with his red zone prowess, now he’ll for sure get a chance.
In terms of jump in the draft, Troy Apke made the most of his night. The NFL only saw him as a one-year starter that played second fiddle to stud safety Marcus Allen. When he clocked a sub-4.40, 40-yard dash, he brought himself into draft able conversations.
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After a season where he recorded 55 total tackles, three tackles for loss and an interception, he went on a tear. Apke earned the MVP award at the NFLPA Collegiate Bowl and followed it up with a furiously-quick 40 and noteworthy combine. If he puts up a quality pro day, that’ll solidify his draft chances.