2011 NFL Combine: 10 Small School Players About to Hit the Big Time

The 2011 NFL Scouting Combine is another opportunity for well known players to make a lasting impression on the NFL teams. For the players that we do not know very well, it is a coming out party.

329 players were invited to the Combine and roughly 255 players will be drafted depending on the number of compensatory picks. 

A lot of the small school and lesser-known players with Combine invites will take the opportunity to truly showcase their talents and make a case that they deserve at least a shot on an NFL roster here in Indianapolis.

Being a small school prospect limits the amount of exposure these players are privy to but that all changes this week.

This is their opportunity to show they belong and here are 10 small school players ready to make the most of the opportunity.

1. Ben Ijalana, OT, Villanova

Ijalana has great athleticism for a man at 6’3 1/2, 315-pounds.

His power, strength and versatility up front will give him a shot at being a starter at the next level.

The Wildcat was an All-American at Villanova and dominated his competition. Teams would have been thrilled to see him play in the Senior Bowl but unfortunately did not get that chance due to a minor injury.

Here, in Indianapolis, teams will get their first real look at this kid up close.

2. Kenrick Ellis, DT, Hampton

A former South Carolina player, Ellis ran into some problems off the field and took his game to Hampton after being dismissed from the team.

He has great athleticism with good explosion off the line and can be a disruptive force.

Ellis is becoming a fast rising prospect after his performance in San Antonio and he will be looking to capitalize on his momentum by showcasing his abilities for all the NFL teams to see.

Ellis will wear ID number: DL17.

3. Justin Rogers, CB, Richmond

Rogers was an impressive player at Richmond and will look use his time in Indianapolis to show NFL teams everything he can offer.

He's got decent size for the position at 5'10 1/2", 185-pounds and has also shown solid speed throughout his career.

The Spider brings added value as a return man and is an active special teamer.

If he can post a good 40-yard dash time it could go a long way in helping him move up.

4. William Rackley, OG, Lehigh

At 6’3”, 305 pounds, the Lehigh offensive tackle will be looking to show NFL teams that he is a complete offensive line prospect that can compete with top level competition on a consistent basis.

He will likely face a position change and kick inside but his attitude and work ethic are two major selling points.

Rackley does an especially good job of getting power in the run game and his time in Indianapolis will likely be well spent. 

5. Cortez Allen, CB, Citadel

The Citadel prospect is not a dominant corner with big time production but is one of the players expected to put up a stellar workout at the combine.

He has great size at 6'1 1/2", 197-pounds, and can use this opportunity to boost himself up draft boards.

It remains to be seen how he will handle the technical drills but his athletic ability should open some eyes.

If he puts up the big workout like expected we will be hearing more of his name.

6. Taiwan Jones, RB, Eastern Washington

One of the more intriguing prospects in the Draft, Jones will unfortunately not be able to run at the Combine in Indianapolis.

The Eagle is a highly productive prospect blessed with good speed and explosion and teams will be excited to finally see when he can again.

His time at the Combine will be spent in interviews and at the bench press.

He has good size at 6'1", 200-pounds and could be a player at the next level if he can develop as a running back; he spent time at cornerback as well.

7. Buster Skrine, CB, Chattanooga

The Chattanooga cornerback is small at 5'9 3/4", 185-pounds, but could potentially put up a big 40-yard dash time in Indianapolis.

His lack of experience against top level competition is naturally concerning but he has good feet and quickness along with overall instincts.

The biggest thing for him will be his speed in front of the NFL teams and if he does perform it will certainly help his cause.

We have seen a lot of fast players in the past not get it together in the league but Skrine will look rise above that.

8. Edmund Gates, WR, Abilene Christian

Almost 6' feet tall and 190-pounds, Gates has enough size to be a contributor at the next level.

He almost had the opportunity to showcase his skills at the Senior Bowl but was not able to do so because of injury.

If Gates can post a solid time, show he is healthy and effective, it could go a long way in helping his Draft stock.

9. Martin Parker, DT, Richmond

At 6'2", 300-pounds Parker is the second Spider on this list and has the potential to be a contributor in the league.

He has good quickness on the line and some strength inside to help along with good hands.

Is not an elite athlete but was very disruptive at the East-West Game.

Showed that he could get stronger and teams will look to see if he did just that.

10. Ricardo Lockette, WR, Fort Valley State

The Fort Valley State wide receiver has great size and speed but has never gotten a great opportunity to show his talents.

At 6'2", 210-pounds he has ideal size for the position and could possibly run sub-4.4.

He will really have to make the most of his opportunity since he has not gotten much publicity yet so we'll be sure keep an eye on him.