5 Takeaways from Day 3 of 2023 NFL Combine
Anticipation was high for Saturday at the NFL Combine. The quarterbacks and wide receivers took the field, allowing scouts to get a look at a number of the draft’s most intriguing prospects.
Among them were several quarterbacks who competed, including three who are believed to potentially go in the draft’s top 10 picks. Some of the best talent available was on display between the two positions.
Here are five takeaways from the third day of on-field drills in Indianapolis.
Richardson’s record-setting day
Florida’s Anthony Richardson stole the show with his athleticism Saturday, setting the record for best jumps by a quarterback. He did so in both the vertical and broad jumps, an example of what an NFL team can look forward to next season.
Weighing in at 6-foot-4, 244 pounds, the signal-caller still managed to run a 4.44 40-yard dash. He finished second among quarterbacks in that category. Additionally, he displayed that arm strength that scouts swooned over during individual passing drills Saturday.
Richardson is an impressive prospect whose stock has only been inhibited by inconsistencies at Florida. His good day Saturday will silence some critics, leading him to remain in the conversation as a potential top-10 pick.
Levis, Stroud flash arm strength
Two other top quarterbacks, Will Levis and C.J. Stroud, also took advantage of the opportunity to throw Saturday. Each was successful, showing off their respective qualities that have vaulted them into consideration to be the first quarterback off the board.
Levis’ calling card has been his arm strength, while Stroud is known for his precision. Both were considered to be strong performers Saturday, hitting most of their throws at all levels.
Stroud, in particular, had a superb day. NFL Network’s Daniel Jeremiah said the Ohio State product’s performance was one of the best he’s seen. This was a promising sign for the former Buckeyes quarterback, in terms of his draft hopes.
Kirby Lee, USA TODAY Sports
Duggan struggles to make strong impression
Max Duggan is an intriguing late-round quarterback option. Leading the TCU Horned Frogs to the national championship game boosted his stock, but he struggled in his on-field performance Saturday.
The signal-caller’s brightest moment came in the 40-yard dash, where he ran a 4.52. His throwing reps weren’t the prettiest, as he struggled to connect with receivers on in-between routes.
This comes on the heels of an up-and-down Senior Bowl performance. Duggan’s toughness and mobility make him a worthwhile prospect, but he may have hurt his overall stock with his performance Saturday.
Jaxon Smith-Njigba makes grand return
After missing most of the 2022 campaign with an injury, Ohio State’s Jaxon Smith-Njigba was able to return to action in front of scouts Saturday. He didn’t run the 40, but produced a historic 3.93 short shuttle and a 6.57 3-cone drill.
His short shuttle time was the fastest run by a receiver in nine years. That agility was part of what made him a top prospect prior to his injury. There will be concerns about his durability at the next level, but his agility remains his strong suit.
Darnell Washington exhibits top-notch athleticism
One of Georgia’s two excellent tight ends, Washington didn’t always get the shine he likely deserved. However, he was a force in Indianapolis during his on-field reps.
Weighing in at a massive 6-foot-6, 264 pounds, he moved with a physical grace on the field. He made quick work of the gauntlet drill, and made a ridiculous one-handed catch near the sideline during his workout.
He ran a 4.65 40-yard dash, too, further evidence of his outstanding ability to move.
There are areas of his game that need fine-tuning, but Washington has a rare blend of size and athleticism. He’ll be an appealing choice in the first two rounds of the draft, due to his performance in Indianapolis.
