This week, the 2022 NFL Combine gets going in Indianapolis. Here’s what to be watching for as the days unfold in the heartland.
If you didn’t feel like the NFL offseason was upon us, you will this week.
After watching the Los Angeles Rams win Super Bowl LVI, the football world took a few weeks to relax and perhaps step back from one of the wildest postseasons in NFL history. Now, though, with the franchise tag window open and the 2022 NFL Combine upon us, it’s time to get going once more.
Come Monday, the league will descend on Indy for a week, as more than 350 of the best draft prospects get ready for the biggest test of their lives. So what should you be watching and listening for over the next seven days? Here’s a quick rundown:
– The rumors. We’re going los tart hearing rumors and reports about free agency and both the market for players and the teams who could be interested in them. Until now, it’s largely speculation based on cap space and fits. After this week, we’re going to have a very good idea of who is interested in where, and vice versa.
– Pay attention to the medical reports of players. Who comes away from their check with a team doctor having a red flag? It’s really unfortunate, but it happens every year We always see one or two high-profile players who drop in the rankings because of a medical issue previously not known or thought to be lesser. More than anything you’ll see on the field at Lucas Oil Stadium, these assessments matter.
– Trades. While nothing can become official until the new league year on March 16, we could see some agreements made. There are a slew of franchise quarterbacks who could be available ranging from Aaron Rodgers and Deshaun Watson to Russell Wilson. Also, there’s the intrigue of Jimmy Garoppolo, who would make a fine fallback option if a team can’t acquire one of the others, or simply sees him as a better fit from a financial standpoint.
– Who shows out. There are always a player or two who runs faster, jumps further or throws harder than anybody anticipates. Who is going to earn themselves some money this week by putting together a great on-field performance with some quality interviews and clean medical?
