Combine Update: Workouts Day 1

Workouts have begun at the 2007 NFL Combine, and the first "workout warriors" have begun to show their stuff. Tight End and Offensive Line prospects worked out yesterday, with Quarterbacks, Running Backs and Receivers scheduled to test today.

Olsen, Thomas and Blalock Impress
Nobody impressed more in their individual workouts than Miami (FL) tight end Greg Olsen (pictured left). Olsen has always been mentioned as one of the top two tight ends available in this class; he now stands alone at the top. Olsen blazed a 4.46 in his 40 yard dash, which blew away every other tight end testing by more than two-tenths of a second. He also looked fluid catching the ball and graceful running routes. The one knock still hanging over Olsen's head? Checking in at 254 lbs., he needs to bulk up a bit more before he can be an every-down tight end.

Wisconsin tackle Joe Thomas was also impressive. Thought of as a sure-fire Top-5 pick, Thomas went against the norm for top prospects and worked out at the Combine. He didn't disappoint - his 4.96 40 was outstanding for a tackle, and in general he looked like a master technician and a very fluid athlete. If he can stay healthy (he suffered a severe knee injury in college), he will be dominant.

When it comes to strength, few compare to Texas guard Justin Blalock. The 6'3", 320 pound lineman threw up 40 reps of 225 lbs., proving his strength that becomes so valuable in the running game. Blalock also ran a respectable 5.10 and looked surprisingly nimble in footwork drills. There is still debate as to his true line position - scouts are split as to whether he should play tackle or guard. Blalock played right tackle for most of his career at Texas.

Marv Officially Shopping Willis
As I reported in yesterday's post, the New York Giants have publicly shown interest in acquiring Willis McGahee to replace Tiki Barber. The fun apparently doesn't stop there, however.

An ESPN report indicates that the Bills, led by GM Marv Levy, are actively pursuing trade partners for our disgruntled running back. The Bills are looking to become more versatile at the position, and combined with McGahee's attitude, a trade seems imminent.

The Giants are the only team that have yet been mentioned in the McGahee talks. Other potential suitors include Baltimore, Carolina, Cleveland, Denver, and Detroit. Cleveland and Carolina in particular are intriguing potential destinations for Willis. Stay tuned...

More Workouts Tomorrow
Once again, the QB, RB and WR positions will be working out at the Combine this morning. Expect an update on the star performers as well as other observations tomorrow morning.