Assessing the winners, losers at scouting combine

No player impressed at the combine this year like Ohio State DE Vernon Gholston, who left scouts and GMs raving about his workouts. AP

By Tony Pauline, Special to SI.com, TFYDraft.com

The final chapter of the 2008 NFL combine was written Tuesday afternoon when the last group of defensive backs walked off the turf at the RCA Dome in Indianapolis. Now that the measurements have been recorded, the 40s have been run and the interviews completed, teams will digest the players who impressed and those who did not. Here's a quick overview of the headliners from this year.

Risers

Vernon Gholston, DE/OLB, Ohio State: His performance at the combine could be one for the ages. He ran faster than many of the defensive backs, was stronger than most of the offensive linemen and looked as athletic as anyone presently on the roster of the Indiana Pacers. Gholston came to Indianapolis as a fringe top 10 player but left as a possible top-six pick.

Dominique Rodgers-Cromartie, CB, Tennessee State: He built a buzz around himself after a terrific performance at the Senior Bowl. He now is trumpeting his arrival among the top 40 selections, and could end up in Round 1 after a phenomenal showing at the combine, the most complete of any defensive back.

Devin Thomas, WR, Mich. St.: He's being looked upon as a receiver with rare size and coveted speed after his combine performance. His 40 times of 4.4 seconds were only surpassed by his pass-catching workout, which was outstanding. The Spartan junior could possibly sneak into the late part of Round 1, something no one predicted two months ago.

Jeremy Zuttah, G, Rutgers: Zuttah shocked NFL decision makers with his speed and strength. The Scarlet Knights starting tackle three years running, he now heads into the draft as one of the top three rated guards.

Darren McFadden, RB, Arkansas: Although most of the teams at the top of the draft don't need a running back, McFadden gave them a lot to think about. He is undoubtedly the top player in April's draft and proved as much at the combine. He's drawing comparisons to Adrian Peterson, the seventh pick of last year's draft who went on to earn Rookie of the Year honors.

Carl Nicks, OT, Nebraska: Nicks is a rare athlete for his size. His ability to move his 343-pound frame around the floor of the RCA Dome had scouts drooling. Nicks improved 20 slots in the draft after his combine showing.

Jonathan Stewart, RB, Oregon: Stewart's 40 times in the low 4.4 second area and 28 reps on the bench press elevated his status. Teams in the top third of Round 1 may take Stewart even if running back is not a critical need, based on the value he brings.

Rashard Mendenhall, RB, Illinois: Mendenhall adds to an already crowded field of exceptional ball carriers who improved their draft stock at the combine. He will fight a close battle with Stewart to be the second running back drafted.

Andre Caldwell, WR, Florida: Caldwell, already considered a polished receiver, exceeded expectations with a 40 times under 4.4 seconds. He missed the middle part of his senior season with an injury, yet his combine performance will help Caldwell regain some of the ground his draft ranking lost.

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