The 2019 NFL Draft Combine begins Friday in Indianapolis, IN where college players will hope to make a splash impression on the general managers, coaches and scouts who will be on hand. Often a display of raw athletic ability may be enough to have a player have his name called on draft day. The San Francisco 49ers have a plethora of players who have been combine standouts in the past. Here is a look at some of the current players who did not fail to impress in their time in Indy.
Marquise Goodwin, WR
Probably the most obvious choice on the roster, Marquise Goodwin was a former Olympic long jumper and a burner on the football field. Goodwin broke the 4.3-second threshold in the 40-yard dash when he was clocked at 4.27 seconds. Possibly more impressive, he registered a 132.0-inch broad jump and showed why he represented the good ol' US of A in the 2012 London Olympics.
Jerick McKinnon, RB
While 49ers fans have yet to see McKinnon play any meaningful snaps in red and gold, he was able to put on a show at the 2014 combine. He registered as a top performer in every single event he participated in. McKinnon displayed a rare blend of speed and strength when he ran a 4.41 second 40-yard dash and bench pressed 225lbs a mind-boggling 32 times.
George Kittle, TE
Anyone who has seen George Kittle break away from cornerbacks and safeties after the catch have no doubt that the speed in there. In 2017, he was the third fastest tight end finishing behind only Evan Engram (4.42) and O.J. Howard (4.51), both of whom were first-round selections. Kittle's 4.52 second 40-yard dash time has helped transform him into one of the best tight ends in the league.
Solomon Thomas, DL
When Solomon Thomas had the opportunity to get in front of NFL teams he did not disappoint. A top five finisher in the bench press, three cone drill, 20-yard shuttle and the broad jump, Thomas flashed the athletic prowess that landed him as the third-overall pick.
Cassius Marsh, EDGE
Three cone drill and 20-yard shuttle are two key drills for defensive lineman because they display explosiveness and the ability to change direction on a dime. Cassius Marsh finished third in the three cone drill and second in the 20-yard shuttle and has flashed that quickness on the field.
DeForest Buckner/Arik Armstead, DL
These two former Oregon Ducks make the list on size alone. Both measured in at 6'7" and tower over many of their teammates with Trent Taylor immediately coming to mind. On top of their immense height, Buckner and Armstead weighed in at 291 and 292 lbs, respectively.
- Matthew Barr
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Written by:Matthew Barr has been writing for 49ers Webzone and 49ers Hub since 2018 and co-hosts the 4th and Gold podcast which can be found on all podcast platforms. He can be found on Twitter fighting an endless battle to get the underscore removed from his handle, @MattBarr_.
