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NFL Combine: When, where, and why to watch the 2019 scouting combine

By Reid Hanson

INDIANAPOLIS, IN - MARCH 01: Arkansas offensive lineman Frank Ragnow speaks to the media during NFL Combine press conferences at the Indiana Convention Center on March 1, 2018 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images)
INDIANAPOLIS, IN - MARCH 01: Arkansas offensive lineman Frank Ragnow speaks to the media during NFL Combine press conferences at the Indiana Convention Center on March 1, 2018 in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images) /
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Here is all you need to know about the NFL Combine including dates, the schedule, the stories, and why all NFL fans are required to follow along…

All NFL fans know there is no true offseason in the NFL and if the Super Bowl marks the end of the year, it’s the NFL Combine that marks the start of the year.

From the moment the 2018 season concluded, NFL teams have been fully committed to building their roster for the 2019 season. An endeavor that utilizes both free agency and the NFL Draft, this year long evaluation process peaks the next few days in Indianapolis.

Why the NFL Combine?

The NFL Combine is about evaluating both tangible and intangible traits for would-be NFL rookies. Scouting department have been studying films for months, sometimes even years, and as such, they have a pretty good grasp on this talent pool. But what the Combine allows them, is an opportunity to measure those skills and conclude how said players translate to the professional game.

For the most part draft boards are set. But what happens the next few days will move players off or onto some team’s boards altogether. Interviews play a large part in this process. Character issues, and/or questions about knowledge and work ethic will all play a role in determining final rankings.

Impact on Free Agency

Immediately following the NFL Combine is the deadline to apply the franchise and trastion tag (March 5). Once teams have been able to gauge incoming rookie talent, they can decide what players on their teams are replaceable and which are irreplaceable.

NFL Free Agency soon follows that (March 11). Once again, teams will consult their draft boards to assess which players can and cannot be replaced.

2019 NFL Combine Dates (February 26th – March 4th)

While teams arrive earlier this week, the real action begins on Friday, March 1st. Running backs, offensive linemen, and special teams players will all be in action.

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On Saturday, March 2nd, the quarterbacks take over. Receivers and tight ends will also get in on the aerial action. While QB is hardly considered a position of strength this year, it’s an especially deep pass-catching class making Saturday arguably the best day to watch.

On Sunday the focus goes to the defensive front seven when defensive linemen and linebackers go under the microscope. Positional drills, not timed running, will be the thing to watch here.

Finally things wrap up on Monday when the defensive backs get tested. Play recognition should be somethings scouts saw on film. What they’re looking for here is speed and fluidity.

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Draft season is well upon us but before NFL teams finalize their boards, they put the players to the test at the NFL Combine. This event sets the tone of the offseason and impacts every and all moments going forward.

  • Published on 02/25/2019 at 17:00 PM
  • Last updated at 02/25/2019 at 14:00 PM
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