NFL Draft 2012: Did Bobby Wagner's Pro Day Push Him into the First Round?

When did Logan, home of Utah State, freezing cold temperatures and delicious ice cream, become such a hotbed for NFL talent?

At least three former Aggies will hear their names called in the upcoming NFL draft: linebacker Bobby Wagner and running backs Robert Turbin and Michael Smith, with others likely to go the free-agent route. These are not just late-round, roster-filling bodies, either; they're sound football players with the ability to make a major impact at the next level.  

And all strutted their stuff in yesterday's pro day, but it was Wagner, the nation's fifth-leading tackler (147) last season, who stole the spotlight.

After missing last month's scouting combine due to a bout with pneumonia, Wagner proved well worth the wait for the several scouts in attendance. He measured in at 6'0", 235 pounds and then displayed incredible athleticism throughout the workout. The hard-hitting linebacker registered a 4.45 40-yard dash, a 39.5" vertical leap and 11'0" broad jump. He completed the short shuttle in 4.24 seconds, the three-cone drill in 7.03 seconds and lifted 24 repetitions of 225 pounds.

It was an eye-popping workout and another addition to his never-ending resume. A four-year starter, two-year captain and three-time All-WAC honoree, Wagner was also named the North Team's Most Outstanding Player in the Senior Bowl after helping his side to a victory with seven tackles, including one for a loss and an interception. He's not just a "workout warrior," he's a dynamic playmaker with the versatility to excel at both inside or outside linebacker in the NFL.

Wagner has been viewed by most as a second or third-round prospect, but do his pre-draft performances and on-field dominance make him worthy of first-round consideration? 

If you made the trip to Logan yesterday, it would be difficult to say no.

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