Miami Hurricanes' top prospects face the Combine, aiming to impress NFL scouts and boost their draft stock. Can they stand out among the elite?
As the NFL Draft Combine is less than a couple of weeks away, numerous Miami Hurricanes players received an invitation: Quarterback Carson Beck, wide receiver CJ Daniels, left tackle Markel Bell, right guard Anez Cooper, right tackle Francis Mauigoa, edge rusher Rueben Bain Jr., edge rusher Akheem Mesidor, linebacker Wesley Bissainthe, cornerback Keionte Scott, and safety Jakobe Thomas.
However, wide receiver Keelan Marion and center James Brockermeyer did not receive an invitation.
The Combine will be a perfect opportunity for many of these Hurricanes' invitees to showcase their talents in front of NFL scouts, coaching staff, and front office personnel, with hopes of raising their draft stock.
Here are notable candidates who would benefit the most:
1. Quarterback Carson Beck
Beck rediscovered himself after one season with the Hurricanes. He completed 338 of 467 passes, 72.4 percent, throwing for 3,813 yards, 30 touchdowns and 12 interceptions, in 16 games started. The 23-year-old is a projected third-rounder in what's considered a weak quarterback class. However, coming off a National Championship, Beck can prove to be more valuable for an NFL franchise.
In a mock draft conducted by analyst Chad Rueter, Beck would be selected by the Arizona Cardinals with the 65th pick.
2. Left tackle Markel Bell
As part of the Hurricanes' bulky offensive line, Bell has more to prove individually. He's known for his 6-9 frame, 345 pound built. However, there are concerns about Bell's mobility, speed, and run-blocking inconsistencies. He was surrounded by other high-quality offensive linemen on the Hurricanes, such as Mauigoa, Cooper, and Brockermeyer.
However, Bell will need to prove his own capabilities at the Combine with hopes of any slight improvements to his stock.
3. Cornerback Keionte Scott
The upcoming class consists of many talented defensive backs, including Scott. He was a tremendous leader for the Hurricanes last season, recording 64 total tackles, 42 solos and 22 assists, 13 tackles for loss, five sacks, two forced fumbles, five passes broken up, seven passes defended, and two pick-sixes.
Despite falling on the older side compared to average rookies, 24 years old, Scott can provide an immediate impact for any NFL organization. He was named Defensive Player of the Game in the Cotton Bowl quarterfinals against the Ohio State Buckeyes, recording a 70-yard pick-six.
Scott could work his way up the boards with a strong showing at the Combine. According to Rueter, he's projected to be a third-rounder, selected by the Tennessee Titans.
The Hurricanes have loaded talent in this upcoming draft, which takes place in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, from April 23 to 25.
Join the Community! Don't miss out on our ROUNDTABLE community and the latest news! It's completely free to join. Share your thoughts, engage with our RoundTable writers, and chat with fellow members.
Download the free Roundtable APP, and stay even more connected!
More Miami Hurricanes News: