The NFL Scouting Combine is basically a huge job interview for college football players hoping to be drafted into the NFL. They are scrutinized, measured, and timed. One bad drill could cost you draft position, and ultimately money. Several former Iowa Hawkeyes took part in the combine in Indianapolis with mixed results.

NFL Combine - Day 5
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Josh Jackson

Jackson entered the draft a year early and has been mentioned as one of the top prospects at corner in this year's draft. All eyes were on his 40 yard dash time. Run it fast enough and Jackson might just land in the top 10. While his time of 4.56 wasn't awful, it wasn't in the 4.4 range that some had hoped for. Jackson is a sure-fire first-round pick, but where at this point, is anyone's guess.

New Era Pinstripe Bowl - Iowa v Boston College
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Akrum Wadley

The star Iowa running back came into the combine graded at around a 5th round pick. Wadley has added some weight to his slim frame since his time at Iowa. That may have led to a slower than anticipated 40 time at 4.54. But experts weren't put off by it, saying Wadley is still more 'shifty' than fast. What did concern some scouts is that he didn't complete all the running back drills. His pro day in Iowa City will give him another chance.

NFL Combine - Day 1
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James Daniels

The Iowa offensive lineman was the other Hawkeye to declare early for the draft, and that decision looks to be paying off. Daniels was already known as a mature and intelligent player, but his combine proved he has the strength to go along with it. Daniels is now a sure-fire first round pick and could even go higher than teammate Josh Jackson. Who would've thought THAT one month ago!

NCAA FOOTBALL: NOV 05 Iowa at Penn State
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Josey Jewell 

Ask Iowa fans and Big Ten players what they think about linebacker Josey Jewell. They'll tell you he's a tough son of a gun that makes plays all over the field. Jewell's combine numbers weren't great but put in a tape of him at Iowa and all the guy does is make plays. NFL execs have to wonder which Josey Jewell will show up. The one who played so well at Iowa, or the one at the NFL combine. Jewell is projected in the 5th round right now, but someone could get one heck of a steal!

 

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