The Fascination With Guys Working Out: Why I Like The NFL Combine

Running, jumping and lifting weights.

This sounds like a workout that I may do. But, the 2010 NFL Scouting Combine continues to be must see TV for NFL junkies.  Here are the highlights:

-In the annual, “everyman” event. Rich Eisen ran a 40 in his Prada suit and customized "RE" Under Armor cleats. He failed to run his goal of a sub 6 seconds.  Although he ran it in 6.2 seconds, you have to admit that he was the only person that ran the 40 in his actual uniform. Of course, the players ran in skintight, aerodynamic UA gear. Shouldn't they at least run the 40 in a helmet and shoulder pads?

-Taylor Mays ran an “unofficial” 4.24. Of course, the official time was 4.43. But, the buzz after the announcement of the unofficial times made the announce team speculate that Mays could do a 4.1. Ok, Deion Sanders made that speculation. 

-Bruce Campbell looked like an adonis and impressed with his speed and power.

-Tim Tebow. Was there any surprise that he was interviewed by the NFL Network on Sunday? If personality goes a long way, it will be interesting to see how successful he will be in the NFL.

-Cardinals Strength and Conditioning Coach John Lott. I wish he could be my spotter at the gym. With his “motivational yelling”, I think I could put up 225 a couple times. I might pass on the hug and kiss at the end of my set. 

-Under Armour had its brand all over the draft and purchased commercials during the NFL Network’s airing of the combine.  The UA logo was on display everywhere from the player’s warmups to the aforementioned Rich Eisen customized cleats.

-This isn't a real highlight but a question: Do Alabama lineman benchpress? Andre Smith last year and Terrence Cody this year.  If they played basketball, I'd lobby that they always are shirts.  But, then again, when would those guys ever play basketball?

The NFL Combine is a glorified workout.  But, the NFL has found its bridge from the Super Bowl to the NFL Draft to get fans hyped up for their team’s chances at the future.  Obviously, many of the superstar college players did not participate in the combine and won’t participate until their pro day (I see the NFL Network moving in on this next) on their home field. But, for those who did participate, it gave viewers a glimpse as to what players do to get ready for Sunday.  And, if this was not hyped up by announcers, we would all come to the same conclusion:  its practice and its boring. 

But, for whatever reason, I cannot get enough. I was glued to the set to watch the 40 yard dash and the bench press. My personal favorites because I once participated in these events at one time in my life.

This is why I watch the combine.  In our days in high school, we’ve played sports and had to practice.  We’ve run drills, lifted weights and run as fast as we could.  And, watching others practice makes us realize that players are like us.  Except, they are bigger, faster and stronger. 

Photo:  Eric Berry Running the 40