Mel Kiper Jr. Grades Jaylen Wright and Top Combine Risers Ahead of 2024 NFL Draft

The 2024 NFL scouting combine is in the books, and some players parlayed their trip to Indianapolis into a swift rise up draft boards.

ESPN's Mel KiperJr. released his list of draft risers following the combine Monday:

• Tennessee RB Jaylen Wright
• Texas A&M LB Edgerrin Cooper
• Auburn S Jaylin Simpson
• LSU WR Brian Thomas Jr.
• New Hampshire RB Dylan Laube
• Rutgers CB Max Melton
• Pitt WR Bub Means
• Washington State DE Brennan Jackson
• Toledo CB Quinyon Mitchell
• Washington LB Edefuan Ulofoshio

Wright was listed at the top of Kiper's risers after a stellar all-around performance that could put him in the RB1 conversation. He ran the 40-yard dash in 4.38 seconds, added an 11'2" broad jump and 38" vertical leap to earn an athleticism score of 93, putting him second among all running backs.

Texas running back Jonathon Brooks did not participate in the combine as he continues to recover from an ACL tear, so Wright was able to quickly ascend in what's considered a down year at the position. Kiper currently gives him a third-round grade.

Laube won't be in the RB1 conversation, but Kiper reported he did earn himself a lock into the Day 3 conversation. Laube doesn't have much of a national profile after playing at New Hampshire, but starred in the backfield, as a pass-catcher and on special teams during his college career. After a strong showing in Indianapolis, he's a name worth watching as NFL teams continue valuing versatility.

It wasn't just mid-round picks getting shine, either.

Kiper lauded the performances of Thomas and Mitchell, who were both already projected as first-round picks. Thomas is not even considered the best LSU receiver in this class—that distinction goes to teammate Malik Nabers—but he ran a 4.33-second time in the 40-yard dash at 6'3" and 209 pounds. His 10-yard split was just 0.01 seconds behind Texas wideout Xavier Worthy, who ran a combine-record time of 4.21 seconds.

Mitchell also impressed with his 40 time (4.33 seconds) and led all corners with 20 reps on the bench press.