Las Vegas Raiders: Which 2022 NFL Combine drills to watch per position

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INDIANAPOLIS, IN – FEBRUARY 29: Defensive lineman Derrick Brown of Auburn runs the 40-yard dash during the NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium on February 29, 2020, in Indianapolis, Indiana. (Photo by Joe Robbins/Getty Images) /

Las Vegas Raiders: Which 2022 NFL Combine drills to watch per position

DL: 3-cone, broad jump, bench press

Just like the offensive lineman, the defensive linemen need to be just as explosive out of their stances as they look to cause disruption in a short amount of time. So the broad jump is an excellent drill to look at yet again. It also shows that a player has balance and body control in his lower half.

For edge rushers, not only do they need to have that burst from a standstill, but the ability to change direction is equally necessary, so a drill like the 3-cone is significant. Being able to not only explode from a stance but keeping that initial burst while changing direction often separates the 8 sack guys from the 12+ sack guys. A prime example is Jadeveon Clowney, who is unbelievably explosive but does not have a good change of direction.

The best of the best when it comes to edge rushers like T.J Watt, Myles Garrett, the Bosa brothers, Maxx Crosby, Trey Hendrickson all possess that vital combo of skills. And it is important to know that all of these players don’t win the same way, but these traits still remain prevalent.

These are similar traits you want in your interior linemen, especially as they have become more and more pivotal as pass rushers. Aaron Donald is the gold standard, but he is an athletic freak, so it is hard to compare anyone to him. However, many of the best interior rushers still possess either significant broad jump or 3-cone.

The 10-yard split in the 40-yard dash is also a great measure for both interior and edge rushers.

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