Nfl Combine Pt. 1

The NFL Scouting Combine, formally known as the National Invitational Camp, is organized by National Football Scouting Inc. as an opportunity for NFL teams to scout a large quantity of players in one place. The current NFL Combine is held each February in Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis. Over 300 draft-eligible players are invited by National Football Scouting Inc.

The first combine was held in 1982 in Tampa, Fla., and was attended by 163 players. However, since not all teams subscribed to National Football Scouting Inc., two other combines were held from 1982-84 and hosted by other scouting organizations.

In 1985, all 28 NFL teams agreed to attend the combine hosted by National Football Scouting Inc. After holding the combine in Florida, Louisiana and Arizona over the first few years, the combine debuted in Indianapolis in 1987.

The original goal of the combine was for teams to obtain medical information on top prospects. It has since evolved into a week-long event featuring multiple opportunities for medical tests, interviews and workouts.At the Scouting Combine, NFL teams can chose up to 60 prospects at the combine to interview. The interviews are held at hotels, rather than at the combine venue, and can cover any subject. Teams will often ask about a player's personal background to uncover any possible character issues and will also ask questions to evaluate a player's readiness for the NFL.

Players are also given the Wonderlic Test, a written evaluation of a player's intelligence. The version of the test taken at the combine consists of 50 questions and lasts 12 minutes. Players are given one point for each question correctly answered. As of 2009, Pat McInally, a former punter and wide receiver from Harvard, is the only player with a confirmed score of 50.

Each prospect is also measured for height, weight, arm length and hand length and undergoes the Cybex Test, a measurement of flexibility and joint movement. Players will also undergo a physical exam to determine any current injuries and an injury history.

40-Yard Dash

Perhaps the most publicized event at the combine, each participant is given two attempts to run the 40-yard dash (commonly referred to as "the40"). Times typically range anywhere from 4.30 to 5.60. Splits are also recorded at the 10- and 20-yard intervals. This drill is most important for running backs, wide receivers and defensive backs.

Bench Press

Players are tested on how many times they can bench press 225 pounds. The bench press, at a relatively low weight for NFL players, tests each player's strength and endurance. Bench press repetitions can range from zero to 45. This drill is most important for offensive and defensive linemen and linebackers.

From ESPN.com