NFL Draft Combine 2012: Alshon Jeffery Has Much to Prove After Weigh-in

The NFL Scouting Combine will truly test many players, but nobody has more red flags than South Carolina Gamecocks' wide receiver Alshon Jeffery.

Before the combine, there was speculation that Jeffery was weighing in at more than 250 pounds.

WR Alshon Jeffery, #SouthCarolina is training at St Vincents here in Indy. Sources say he's weighing 249lbs + running a 4.88 Forty #NFLDraft

"— Joe Everett (@RookieDraft) February 13, 2012"

That had some thinking that Jeffery may fall out of the first round of the draft. That was until today, when he officially weighed in at the combine at 216 pounds.

"

Alshon Jeffery 6-3 216 with 10 1/4 inch hands..is a better solid result for him

"

"— Mike Loyko (@NEPD_Loyko) February 24, 2012"

While the results are a good sign, Jeffery still has much to prove at the combine, as he will be tested to see if he is truly in shape. Considering the field of wide receivers, Jeffery can easily go from a first-round pick to potentially a late second-rounder.

He is going up against guys like Oklahoma State's Justin Blackmon, Notre Dame's Michael Floyd and Baylor's elusive Kendall Wright.

If Jeffery fails to show some speed, people may continue to question his work ethic this offseason.

At 216, Jeffery is definitely big for a receiver, but he can prove his critics wrong with solid results. That is what he is going to have to do because this draft his relatively deep with first-round picks at many different positions. 

If his results are not on par with his peers, it could mean a large drop in his final spot in this year's draft.

Jeff Chase is a Featured Columnist for the Chicago Cubs and Arizona State football.
Follow @Real_Jeff_Chase