Montee Ball Combine: Evaluating Wisconsin RB's Draft Stock After Strong Showing

Running back Montee Ball had a strong 2013 NFL Scouting Combine that will surely hold him in great stead for the upcoming 2013 NFL Draft in April.

His numbers might not have threatened any of the records of running backs before him, but the Wisconsin man still posted some particularly strong numbers throughout the combine—and could well see a boost in his draft stock as a result.

The 5'11" running back could well go in the first round of the NFL draft now as a result of his strong showing a the combine—consolidating on what we already knew about Ball. 

With Eddie Lacy of Alabama sitting out due to injury, Ball was arguably the top running back at the combine, and did himself no harm of getting picked early. He posted a 4.66 in the 40-yard dash—not anywhere near the quickest time in the world but still solid enough to keep teams interested.

However, his 6.88 time in the three-cone drill could well prove to be the most crucial, with Ball showing he has great turning ability and is able to make cuts at will. He showed he can move well other than just straight-line running, and has the versatility to feature in whatever downs respective teams might need him to appear in throughout the course of the 2013 season.

The biggest question now, it seems, is what impact the combine will have on the draft stock of Ball, particularly in light of Lacy's absence from the combine.

Lacy should run at the Alabama pro day, which will give scouts a chance to see him there. But Ball's complete package of numbers showed that he may well get picked ahead of the BCS Championship running back Lacy in the 2013 NFL Draft—if Lacy doesn't shine at his pro day.

He might not have the pizzazz that Lacy has, but when it comes to filling a gap and fulfilling a need, Ball is seemingly a great guy to turn to in the draft.

However, he shouldn't get picked ahead of Lacy in the draft, and won't be, and it's hard to see Ball going anything higher than late first-round or second-round pick.

Teams will have been impressed by his consistency at the combine and the versatility that he seemingly offers for various roles, but not wowed.

Ball didn't blow anyone away in Indianapolis, and his selection in the 2013 Draft should reflect that.

Where do you think Montee Ball will end up in the 2013 NFL Draft?

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