NFL Draft 2013: Defensive Players Who Exploded at NFL Combine

With the NFL combine officially at an end, there were more than a few players that impressed with their explosiveness and athleticism.  More specifically, there were some defensive players that really impressed NFL scouts, helping improve their draft stock.

This year’s combine workouts just helped prove that players are continuing to get faster and stronger.  While some argue that too much focus is put on the workouts, draft stocks still go up due to impressive performances in Indianapolis.

Here are a few defensive players that really impressed over the weekend.

Dion Jordan

With several teams transitioning into 3-4 defenses over the past few seasons, Dion Jordan is now a very appealing player to pick up as an outside linebacker or defensive end.  Listed at 6’6’’ and 248 pounds, Jordan is a truly intimidating defender.

What makes him even more frightening are his numbers from the combine workouts.  Despite his bigger frame, he still managed to run a 4.6 second 40-yard dash, as well as record a 10’2’’ broad jump. 

Jordan had such an impressive workout in Indy that Bleacher Report’s very own Matt Miller tweeted that Jordan would be taken by the Eagles with the No. 4 pick.  With a workout like Jordan had, it’s no wonder why people have him as a top-five pick.

Dee Milliner

The University of Alabama isn’t unknown to having star players in the NFL, and Dee Milliner may end up being one of them.

Milliner excelled in Nick Saban’s scheme, doing an impressive job pressing wide receivers.  When his speed was questioned, he came into the combine and ended up running 4.37 seconds in the 40.  His solid 36’’ vertical jump also impressed some scouts.

The concern with Milliner is that he will receive surgery for a torn labrum now that the combine is over.  Will Carroll does an excellent job breaking down Milliner's injury in this piece, explaining that the injury isn’t too big of a concern.

With the numbers Milliner put up, as well as his NFL-ready size, there is little doubt that Milliner will be selected within the first ten picks in the draft.

Barkevious Mingo

Of all of the players invited to this year’s draft, there might not have been anyone that impressed during workouts as much as Barkevious Mingo.

Mingo was near the top of the lists in all workouts for defensive linemen.  He ran the second fastest 40-yard dash at 4.58 seconds and had the second best vertical jump at 37’’.  His athletic frame will make him another dominant pass rusher in this year’s draft.

The standout from LSU may not have had the most impressive numbers in college, but his impressive numbers at the combine will significantly raise his draft stock.  Watch for him to be selected in the middle of the first round.