NFL Combine 2012: 5 Players with the Most to Gain in Indianapolis

The NFL Combine is now underway and will run through February 28th. Let's take a look at five players with the most to gain in anticipation of April's NFL draft:

Ryan Broyles

Broyles is still recovering from a knee injury he suffered in November, but by all indications he is progressing nicely.

It was even noted by draft analyst Chris Steuber that Broyles registered a 40-yard dash time of 4.7 seconds, which is a respectable time for a player just three months removed from an ACL tear.

Although Broyles may be limited on the field as he continues the recovery process, it's been confirmed that the former Oklahoma star will partake in the bench press as well as team interviews.

If Broyles can prove that he's on the track to a speedy recovery this week, his draft status could rise quickly. 

Alshon Jeffery

Much has been made lately about Jeffery's fitness level and whether or not he is in good enough shape physically to warrant a high draft selection.

Draft expert Mike Mayock has pointed out that Jeffery's conditioning level is suspect and that he isn't a fan of the wide receiver's separation abilities at the line of scrimmage.

If Jeffery can run a solid 40 time and impress in the throwing sessions, he could see his stock rise.

Harrison Smith

The safety out of Notre Dame has demonstrated that he has the instincts needed to play the position at the next level, but there have been questions surrounding his athleticism.

He didn't look particularly good against two of the Irish's top opponents in Michigan and USC, but nonetheless he still projects highly in this year's draft.

If Smith can measure in with a decent height and weight and compliment that with a good 40 time, the safety may fly up draft boards come April. 

LaMichael James

James is coming off one of the more prolific careers in Pac-12 history at the running back position, totaling over 5,000 yards during his time at Oregon.

James lacks the size of a prototypical NFL running back (5'9" 180lbs), but he makes up for it with his elite speed.

If the former Duck can notch an impressive 40 time, he could establish himself as a viable option on draft day.

Currently projected as a possible third-round selection by some publications, James could vault himself into the second round if he wows this week. 

Whitney Mercilus

Mercilus led the NCAA in sacks in 2011 with 16, an astounding number for the junior who had just one in 2010.

The former Illinois star opted for the NFL draft instead of returning for his senior year, and he is considered by many to be a high level first-round pick.

In order to establish himself among the elite and solidify his status as a Top-10 pick, Mercilus must demonstrate athleticism and measure well in order to backup his impressive statistics.

Scouts don't have much to go on other than his 2011 season, so performing well this week could do wonders for Mercilus' stock.