The true value of the NFL Scouting Combine lies behind closed doors, where team representatives meet with prospects to determine their fit within an established—or developing—team culture. Teams have already studied plenty of film, making the on-field workouts a tool to confirm what they've seen.
However, some NFL hopefuls could raise their stock by showing scouting departments something unexpected. CBS Sports' Chris Trapasso recently released his latest mock draft, which leans heavily on predicting which players might turn some heads in Indianapolis.
One player who may not need much help proving his worth is Marshall defensive end Mike Green. A standout at the Senior Bowl, Green's draft stock has been on the rise. A strong showing at the Combine would only further cement his status as a top prospect.
Trapasso projects Green as the 49ers' selection at No. 11 overall.
"The 49ers get a Leonard Floyd-type in Green who plays with speed and bend around the corner as a rusher," Trapasso wrote. "He was ridiculously productive at Marshall and looks incredibly explosive on film."
Most analysts expect the 49ers to target either the offensive or defensive line in the first round, as both are considered the team's biggest offseason needs.
Green (6-4, 215) put together a dominant 2024 season at Marshall, leading the nation with 17 sacks. He also recorded 84 tackles (23 for a loss), two passes defensed, three forced fumbles, and a fumble recovery in a standout campaign.
Green's performance earned him a 92.4 defensive grade from Pro Football Focus (PFF)—not only the highest among all FBS defensive linemen but the highest among all FBS defenders. His 90.2 run-defense grade ranked second among edge rushers, while his 91.4 pass-rushing grade tied for sixth.
"He has the perfect speed-to-power ratio to give the 49ers the boost they need on the edge," wrote Wayne Brown in his analysis of Green at the Senior Bowl.
If Green continues to impress throughout the pre-draft process, he could be exactly the kind of disruptive pass rusher the 49ers need.