Fisher and Mariota Combine Performances Excellent
After two days of workouts in Indianapolis complete, both Mariota and Fisher Combine performances stand out among other NFL prospects. Fisher raised eyebrows around the combine with his athleticism, nothing that surprises any of us who have followed the Ducks this year. Oregon was a very different team without him on the field. Mariota, who was kicking around the idea of not throwing, participated fully in the workout and his arm seemed fine as he performed very well in every session and made every throw asked of him.
Jake Fisher Surprises Some in Indianapolis
Dec 30, 2014; Los Angeles, CA, USA; Oregon Ducks offensive lineman Jake Fisher at press conference at the L.A. Hotel Downtown in advance of the 2015 Rose Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-USA TODAY Sports
Fisher’s day really could have only been better had he been able to put the 225 on bench press a few more times, he only reached 25 reps. But every other event he really did wonderful. He checked in at 6’6″ and 306 lbs and despite that size he was the most agile lineman on the field. Fisher posted the top 40 time for an OL, he also posted the top vertical jump, cone drill and 20 yard shuttle.
Zone blocking schemes have to be salivating over his numbers. In fact as someone who has watched more AFC West than any other division if John Elway could find a way to land Jake I think he would match up with what Gary Kubiak plans to do with the Broncos, with or without Manning. If he lands in a different system the speed and agility makes him attractive to stick inside at guard. Depending on where he lands Kansas City could be a landing spot, they love big, long and fast lineman and they are extremely light at that position.
Marcus Mariota Continues to be Consistent and “Classy”
Feb 21, 2015; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Oregon Ducks quarterback Marcus Mariota throws a pass during the 2015 NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports
Mariota’s day didn’t surprise any, but a “surprising day” would be bad news. Most people saw what they expected from Marcus both running and throwing. He ran a position best 4.52 40 yard dash. And he was the top performer in all three “measured” drills (40 yrd dash, vertical jump and broad jump).
Watching on the NFL network, it is clear their opinion is that Winston is more of a known product. I’ve been surprised how little they’ve made of the turnovers that plagued Winston, even if only it only cost him one game. The knock on Mariota from the “experts” is that they don’t know how he’ll do in a pro system. And while that may be fair I would argue what are you going to get from Winston when you give him more reason to feel entitled. It has been stated and restated just how classy Mariota is, but again this and turnovers don’t seem to be a big deal.
So Lovie and Tampa will have to weigh the pros and cons of both of these talented men, with those of us that have watched Oregon think it’s a no brainer. Another interesting story surrounding the draft and Mariota is a source talking about Chip Kelly and the Eagles moving up to grab Marcus. This would probably be a dream scenario for all three player, coach and fans.