Defenders Wrap Up Combine Workouts

Defensive linemen, linebackers and defensive backs have been working out the last two days at the Scouting Combine in Indianapolis. With the defensive backs wrapping up their workouts early this afternoon, it's time to take a look at who the top performers were in this year's class of rookie defenders.

Early-Round Talents Shine
Several talented youngsters who are expected to be selected early solidified their standing over the past two days. Topping that list is linebacker Patrick Willis of Ole Miss; much more on him appears below.

Michigan cornerback Leon Hall (pictured right) was outstanding as well. Checking in at 5'11", 193 pounds and pumping out a 4.39 40-yard dash time, Hall has cemented himself as the top cornerback available this year. With great size and speed, Hall is an ideal fit for Buffalo's Cover-2 scheme; he may be too good for Buffalo to nab at #12, however.

As the top safety prospect, LaRon Landry blew away the competition during defensive back workouts. After running a 4.35 in the 40, Landry displayed explosive jumping ability, registering a 37.5-inch vertical jump. This kid is fluid, fast and hits like a mack truck. He'll be a Top-10 pick.

Many people were surprised to see Penn State linebacker Paul Posluszny run the 40 yard dash; he didn't disappoint with his 4.65 time. He has the look of a big, quick linebacker and likely has the versatility to fit into any defensive scheme.

In terms of defensive linemen, two players stood out: Clemson defensive end Gaines Adams and Michigan defensive tackle Alan Branch - both are considered the best prospects at their respective positions. Adams ran a phenomenal 4.64 in the 40 and likely won't slip past the #5 or #6 pick in the draft. Branch may now be a Top-10 pick as well after running a 5.09 at 324 pounds.

Is Willis the Perfect Fit?
Nobody was more impressive to me than Ole Miss linebacker Patrick Willis (featured in a highlight video below). As a 243-pound linebacker, his 4.49 40 time is fantastic. He has the perfect size and speed to be a Cover-2 linebacker (where size is ultra-important for shedding blocks), and has the versatility to play inside or out.

Of course, workout numbers aren't everything. I'll let his play speak for itself. You can view a video montage of his play by clicking here.

I love the fact that Willis can play inside or outside. With the Bills contemplating moving Angelo Crowell inside, it is still uncertain as to whether the team will look to add an inside or outside linebacker. With Willis, it doesn't really matter. The team may decide to move Crowell inside. If so, Willis would be a more-than-capable replacement on the weak side, where his speed and pass rushing ability would be huge assets. If the team decides that Crowell is too valuable at the weak side to move inside, Willis' natural position is in the middle. He would be more than capable of starting as a rookie. He is the ideal fit for the Bills.

I've jumped on the bandwagon: the Buffalo Bills need to draft Patrick Willis at #12 - if he's still there, of course.