After a painfully long deliberation process, the Rooney family has decided that Big Ben's questionable off-the-field antics have warranted a quiet exit. An official statement to the media by General Manager Kevin Colbert is expected later today.

Roethlisberger was accused of sexual assault by a 20-year-old college student in Georgia earlier in the offseason and, while he hasn't been officially charged, the Steelers organization has decided the distraction is too much to preserve the integrity of the team.

The former Miami (OH) quarterback is also being sued in Nevada by a woman who claims Roethlisberger assaulted her in a Lake Tahoe hotel in 2008. 

In an additional surprise move, Pittsburgh's front office has arranged for a trip by Philadelphia Eagle's quarterback Donovan McNabb to visit team facilities and meet with Coach Mike Tomlin. 

Rumors on McNabb's future in Philadelphia have been largely circulated of late, but barring any major conflicts, it's becoming more and more clear that McNabb will be donning the black and gold next season. 

Details on the trade haven't been announced yet, but it's likely Pittsburgh will forfeit their first round pick in this year's draft and possibly an additional first round pick in a future draft. 

McNabb has played eleven season as an Eagle and, while age has not been an apparent factor in his play, Philadelphia is looking to the future with Kevin Kolb at the helm and Michael Vick as a contributing role player. 

McNabb has never had an elite receiving corps like he had last year in Philly with DeSean Jackson, Jeremy Maclin, and Jason Avant, but Pittsburgh is not without its own receiving talent. 

Long-time Steeler Hines Ward is still a dependable veteran who can offer a lot to McNabb's run-and-gun style, and the Mike Wallace/Santonio Holmes duo is well-suited for the former Eagles' gunslinger mentality.  

Big Ben's future as an NFL quarterback is still questionable, but his off-the-field court transgressions will need to be settled before he can consider coming back to the league. 

APRIL FOOLS!!!!!!!!!

NO, BIG BEN HAS NOT BEEN RELEASED, STEELERS FANS. THE WORLD HAS NOT ENDED, YET...

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The Texans' greatest loss this off season was of its defensive superstar, corner back Dunta Robinson. The six-year veteran took flight to Atlanta in lieu of a generous contract offer.

Now, with holes in the defensive backfield and nagging inconsistencies at running back, the Texans are poised for a pivotal draft and another potentially marquee season. 

Offense

Biggest Needs: G, RB, WR

Matt Schaub and Andre Johnson are quickly becoming the most electric quarterback/wide receiver duo in the nation. The two connected for over 1500 yards and nine touchdowns in 2009 and will look to raise the bar in '10. 

However, Johnson isn't getting any younger and it may be time to draft a developmental wide out. Schaub could use any weapons he can get right now and with over half of the current receivers eying the tail end of their contracts, Houston could benefit by bolstering their receiver corps with a little much-needed youth. 

It's no secret that Houston struggled to establish an effective running game last season and part of the reason is their lack of adequate talent on the interior of their offensive line. The front office would do well to address those needs this off season.

Idaho's Mike Iupati is the only guard in this class worthy of a first or second-round pick, though he may not be available at Houston's 20th spot. Jon Jerry of Ole Miss and Sergio Render of Virginia Tech both have the size to bulk up the line and the quick feet to create the running lanes the team so desperately needs. 

When Steve Slaton was drafted two years ago, fans of Texans nation were sure they had found their franchise rusher. After a disappointing sophomore slump, though, the need for an effective complementary back has arisen. 

The tandem back system has become the norm in the NFL and Houston will look to follow suit by drafting a downhill runner to punch it in the end zone and add a little beef to their otherwise lachrymose running game. LSU's Charles Scott or Fresno State's Ryan Matthews would make the most sense for the team. 

Defense

Biggest Needs: DT, CB, S

Mario Williams is easily one of the most dominating defensive ends in the league, but his pass-rushing skills will never reach their potential without a better contributing secondary. With Robinson on his way to Atlanta, Houston will likely address their needs at corner with their first pick in the draft. 

Florida's Joe Haden, Florida State's Patrick Robinson, and Boise State's Kyle Wilson are the leading prospects in their class and it's unlikely they will all be off the board before Houston gets a chance to grab them at the 20th position. 

Kyle Wilson would be the ultimate selection for the team, as he brings versatility to the position. The former Boise State defensive star can play both sides of the field and either safety position. He has frighteningly fast feet and has run support skills that surpass any other defensive back in his class. 

With Williams and Antonio Smith on the outside, the Texans' only glaring need on the defensive line is in the middle. Although it's doubtful the team will look to their first round pick to address these needs, there is plenty of talent throughout the later rounds to find an adequate tackle.

Brian Price out of UCLA would be a great fit for this team.  He has NFL size and can tie up multiple defenders in run support. He doesn't have his pass-rushing technique polished down yet, but in time, he will be a dominating tackle who can serve as an anchor for the defense in the future.

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Perhaps we will look back on this draft and see future pro bowlers and franchise tackles. Here's a look at a few guys who had up-and-down performances at the combine.

Risers

1.Bruce Campbell (Maryland)

40-Yard Dash (4.85)  Bench Press (34)  Vertical Jump (32.0)  3-Cone Drill (7.58)

20-Yard Shuttle (4.69)  Broad Jump (8'05")

Campbell came into the combine as one of the more electric tackle prospects and he did not disappoint. He was fast, strong, and smart throughout the day. He posted strong numbers across the board and could be the first tackle taken in April.

He keeps a low center of gravity, has a great initial pop off the line of scrimmage, and has the speed to pull effectively and cut off the outside rush. 

2.Trent Williams (Oklahoma)

40-Yard Dash (4.88)  Bench Press (23)  Vertical Jump (34.0)  20-Yard Shuttle (4.63)

Broad Jump (9'05")

Williams was another lineman with elite potential who showed up big at the combine. He was easily one of the fastest tackles there and, while he didn't look overly impressive at the bench, he showed excellent lower body strength at both jump stations. 

The former Sooner has all of the physical tangibles you look for in an NFL-ready lineman without the production. He doesn't have a deep history of injuries so durability isn't a primary concern. He can be an immediate contributor at the next level and has the potential to be the best rookie tackle by next year's end.

3.Marshall Newhouse (TCU)

40-Yard Dash (5.00)  Bench Press (25)  3-Cone Drill (7.40)  20-Yard Shuttle (4.60)

Broad Jump (7'10")

Newhouse was the decided captain of a strong TCU offensive line for nearly his entire career there. He has the speed to play tackle and the strength to play guard. He was one of the few linemen there that worked well in tight spaces, turning on his edges like a backfield defender.

Virtually unknown before the combine, the former Horned Frog has boosted his draft stock in ways that wouldn't be possible without events like the NFL combine. 

4.Mitch Petrus (Arkansas)

40-Yard Dash (5.29)  Bench Press (45)

Petrus was easily the strongest lineman at the combine, and for a guy with that much bulk, he sure moved fast. The former Razorback was recruited at tight end, raised at fullback, and, after three years on an offensive line that saw enormous success in the SEC, Petrus is ready to make his NFL debut.

The Arkansas native has great athleticism and physicality. He could stand to be a little faster off the snap, but once he's in motion, he's a bull. He showed up big at the combine and could see a quicker exit off the board in April.

5.Jared Veldheer (Hillsdale)

40-Yard Dash (5.09)  Bench Press (32)  Vertical Jump (33.0)  3-Cone Drill (7.40)

20-Yard Shuttle (4.51)  Broad Jump (9'01")

Veldheer has a refreshing attitude towards the game. He is an absolute team player at heart and he has the mean streak to boot. The former Colt is a well-balanced athlete who also made an impression at the bench. He's fast, quick, however you want to put it, and he has more upside than you'd expect. 

Veldheer is a victim of the common rule where players from small school go largely overlooked; the combine is one of the few places where those who would otherwise go unnoticed, get a chance to prove themselves.

Fallers

1.Eric Cook (New Mexico)

Bench Press (19)  Vertical Jump (25.0)  Broad Jump (7'10")

Cook came into the combine as a relatively unknown player and that's how he'll leave. There wasn't anything impressive about his numbers and nothing stood out in the position-specific drills. 

The former Lobo has his upside and his tape shows a lineman with good size and quick feet. He pulls well and has a fast kick step in pass protection. He'll still have a chance to show his stuff at New Mexico's pro day, but until then, he's still just another number.

2.Ciron Black (LSU)

40-Yard Dash (5.49)  Bench Press (23)  Vertical Jump (25.5)  Broad Jump (7'07")

Black was on his way to becoming the first Tiger taken in the 2010 draft until he showed up to Indianapolis. The former LSU lineman posted nothing special across the board and was uninterested in his interviews and position-specific drills. 

Black has the potential to be good; perhaps it was only the wear and tear of a stringent combine schedule that seems to excel at placing young players outside of their comfort zone. At LSU's pro day, though, we should see a better player with quicker feet and a better disposition.

3.Kyle Calloway (Iowa)

40-Yard Dash (5.51)  Bench Press (22)  Vertical Jump (23.5)  Broad Jump (7'08")

Calloway doesn't carry the same weight in the draft as his fellow teammate, Bryan Baluaga, does. He has better size and, arguably, quicker feet, but his technique still needs a large amount of work.

He doesn't utilize his hands at the line effectively and he struggles at keeping his composure against larger defenders in pass protection. He still has some upside, though, and will likely see an exit off the board sometime early on day two of the draft.

4.Kyle Jolly (North Carolina)

40-Yard Dash (5.43)  Bench Press (20)  Broad Jump (7'05")

Jolly was one of the few consistencies Tarheel fans saw in their team last year. The lineman has the size to play inside and the speed to be effective on the outside. It wasn't completely clear where Jolly might end up before the combine but, after his performance, he may not end up anywhere.

The Tarheel showed a sluggish side of him that we haven't seen since his sophomore season. One of the features that make Jolly special on the field was his fiery attitude and, without that, he's just another big ugly without a memorable name. 

5.Chris Scott (Tennessee)

40-Yard Dash (5.49)  Bench Press (19)  Broad Jump (7'06")

Scott may have had the worst time at the combine than any other lineman. His numbers were poor and there were several drills in which the former Volunteer had to repeat.

After ending his season under fire against Virginia Tech, Scott received another chance to shine in the East-West Shrine game and, while he may have made an impression there, he flopped at the combine. Scott had a shot at becoming the second Vol to be taken, Eric Berry is a unanimous top ten pick, but not he may not see a berth until very late. 

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For some, their performance in Indianapolis has garnered a newfound level of attention from scouts and media personnel alike. 

For others, their hopes for an early berth rest on a successful Pro Day in the coming weeks.

The Combine is a good time for below-the-radar prospects to showcase their abilities and increase their visibility to those interested.

Here are a few interior linebackers who truly shined at the Combine and others who...well, didn't.

Risers

1. Mike McLaughlin (Boston College)

40-Yard Dash (4.82)  Bench Press (29)  Vertical Jump (38.5)  3-Cone Drill (6.85)

20-Yard Shuttle (4.11)  Broad Jump (9'06")

McLaughlin has had some problems with injuries, especially towards the end of his career at Boston College, but a good showing at the combine helped his stock significantly. He didn't lead in any major category, but consistently finished near the top.

The former Eagle wasn't the most productive defender in college, but he has the athletic tangibles you look for in a balanced interior linebacker. He has a high football IQ and will fit into any defensive scheme.

2. Donald Butler (Washington)

Bench Press (35)

Butler is a testament to the fact that a player's potential is not cemented in his performance at his respective school. After receiving a late invitation to the Senior Bowl, Butler showed an athletic side of him that was relatively obscure beforehand. 

At the combine, Butler declined to participate in all of the performance drills in hopes that a Pro Day showing would carry more weight. However, he did participate at the bench and did not disappoint. He out-benched every linebacker there and all but five offensive lineman. 

3. Jamar Chaney (Mississippi State)

40-Yard Dash (4.54)  Bench Press (26)  Vertical Jump (39.0)  3-Cone Drill (6.90)

20-Yard Shuttle (4.29)  60-Yard Shuttle (11.46)

Chaney is one of the most experienced and productive linebackers coming into this year's draft. He was the defensive focal point at Mississippi State and will look to carry that responsibility into the next level, something he may find difficult as a rookie in a league full of testosterone-driven leadership.

Chaney performed well at the combine, leading all linebackers in the 40-yard dash and posting up top numbers in every other major category. He'll look to improve some of those numbers at his Pro Day, but overall, he did very well in Indianapolis. 

4. Josh Hull (Penn State)

40-Yard Dash (4.91)  Bench Press (25)  Vertical Jump (32.5)  3-Cone Drill (6.86)

20-Yard Shuttle (4.07)  60-Yard Shuttle (11.31)

Hull had a mixed performance at the combine. He had a relatively slow time at the 40-yard dash and then led the board with his 20-yard and 60-yard shuttle.

The former Nittany Lion will likely look to his Pro Day to improve that 40-yard, but, at the Combine, scouts saw a guy who can eliminate space quickly and eat up the zone coverage.

He doesn't have elite strength nor does he have especially attractive size, but he will be an instant contributor on special teams and, eventually, Hull will be an excellent coverage linebacker in the NFL.

5. Kion Wilson (South Florida)

40-Yard Dash (4.85)  Bench Press (27)  Vertical Jump (36.5)

Wilson is a relatively unknown prospect, mostly due to the level of defensive talent that surrounded him at USF and the fact that he spent his first two years playing at a community college. 

Wilson really shined at the Senior Bowl, though, and his performance at the Combine is only helping his draft stock. He is a hard worker who has an ever-running motor. He doesn't take plays off and his work ethic, paired with exceptional athleticism for his size, gives Wilson a chance to be taken early in the second day of the draft. 

Fallers 

1. Lee Campbell (Minnesota)

40-Yard Dash (4.89)  Bench Press (17 )

Campbell came into the draft picture as one of the fastest linebackers who could excel in coverage and be physical in open space. At the combine, though, Campbell looked sluggish and his performance at the bench didn't necessarily translate to "physical."

He will still have a chance to improve his stock at Minnesota's Pro Day, but the former Golden Gopher can only watch his stock drop for now. 

2. Micah Johnson (Kentucky)

40-Yard Dash (4.99)  Bench Press (31)  Vertical Jump (29.0)

Johnson showed a new shade of physicality at the Combine, but he also posted the slowest 40-yard of all the linebackers. Many consider Johnson to be a versatile linebacker who can play inside/outside, but at his current speed, the former Wildcat is looking at a job as a rotation man, at best.

At 258 pounds, Johnson is an imposing prospect; his tape shows a defender with a hard hit and a legitimate mean streak. He has the chance to go early on day two of the draft, but will need to improve his speed to do so.

3. Pat Angerer (Iowa)

40-Yard Dash (4.69)  Bench Press (26)  20-Yard Shuttle (4.29)

Like most other products of Kirk Ferentz's defense, Angerer isn't considered a superstar by any means. Rather, most view him as a balanced defender with the potential to be a consistent contributor at the next level. 

However, Angerer's performance at the Combine gave him the appearance of the over sized, lumbering linebacker that needs to drastically improve his quickness. The tape shows a guy who can be quick and agile in tight spaces, but if the former Hawkeye intends to play middle linebacker in the NFL, he'll need to improve his lateral speed.

4.Nathan Triplett (Minnesota)

40-Yard Dash (4.74)  Bench Press (20)  Broad Jump (9'07")

Like his Golden Gopher counterpart, Lee Campbell, Triplett did not have the best showing at the combine. He was boring, to say the least. There wasn't a major category posting that stood out and Triplett will likely look to Minnesota's Pro Day to improve his stock.

Triplett has the speed (on tape) and the size to be effective at the next level, but only time will tell whether or not others feel the same. 

5. Phillip Dillard (Nebraska)

40-Yard Dash (4.64)  Vertical Jump (31.5)  Broad Jump (8'07")

A late invitation to the 2010 Senior Bowl was a good indication of Dillard's potential and, while his performance wasn't dominant, he made a good showing and looked to do the same at the combine. Instead, he posted marginal numbers and is now the proud owner of a stagnant draft stock.

Dillard's speed is his forte and, thus, is the number on trial. He didn't necessarily disappoint with his 40-yard dash, but scouts expected better and weren't impressed at all with his lower body strength at the broad jump. He has a strong desire to play the game and will most likely make a better showing at Nebraska's Pro Day. 

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Due to the number of tenders available to each team and the change in rule concerning fourth-year players eying the end of their rookie contracts, the market is slim and the moves are big.

Take a look at which teams in the AFC have already moved some big names and others who may still make a stab at an available veteran before time is up. 

AFC North 

The Ravens took a big first step toward a more prolific offense this weekend when they signed ex-Cardinal Anquan Boldin to a three-year, $25 million contract. The trade gave Arizona the Ravens' third- and fourth-round picks in the upcoming draft for Boldin and a fifth-rounder.

Aside from signing one of the biggest names in the market, Baltimore put into place the pieces to possibly bolster up their draft potential, tagging offensive tackle Jared Gaither and cornerback Fabian Washington with first-round picks and safety Dawan Landry to a second. 

Pittsburgh and the Rooney family have been relatively quiet so far this offseason, practicing quiet collectivity rather than spend gregarious amounts of money on a free agency pool that is shallow, to say the least.

In news outside of the draft, quarterback Ben Roethlisberger has been charged again for sexual assault. The Steelers organization has never been one to air out its dirty laundry, but a change may be on the way nonetheless—a change that will force the team to make big moves before the market closes up shop. 

The Bengals are on the verge of creating headlines with their confirmed interest in wide receiver Terrell Owens. The loss of Chris Henry and Laveranues Coles has created a need for a wideout, but few are convinced that the prospect of having Chad Ochocinco and Owens in the same locker room is a good one. 

Cleveland is still exploring their options at quarterback but has yet to make an aggressive move toward free agency. In a surprise move, the team opted to retain wide receiver Josh Cribbs, and it's been reported that the Browns have a strong interest in New Orleans linebacker Scott Fujita. 

The Browns and 49ers have interest in quarterback David Carr, but it's unlikely a deal with Carr and either team will take shape anytime soon. 

The North was a strong division in the NFL last year, and neither team really needed to make any big moves, but even if Cincinnati does sign Owens, Baltimore is clearly the winner in their decision to add Boldin to an offense that struggled in the postseason.

With all of the Ravens' key role players returning next year and a solid first-round pick in the draft, Baltimore stands to take control of the division next season.

AFC East

New England reached a record deal in its re-signing of defensive tackle Vince Wilfork earlier this weekend, and a high tender of offensive lineman Logan Mankins spoke volumes on where the Patriots intend to focus their energy this offseason. 

The team's release of tight end Chris Baker has left a gaping hole at that position with Benjamin Watson also a free agent, but the Patriots have always had a good scouting team and will likely make the necessary upgrades they need going into next season.

New York has made one of the biggest splashes this offseason, beginning with the release of running back Thomas Jones before the market opened. Then the Jets bolstered up their secondary with the acquisition of cornerback Antonio Cromartie of the Chargers for a conditional third-round pick in 2011. 

The Jets have also traded safety Kerry Rhodes to Arizona for a fourth-round pick in April and a seventh-round pick in 2011. With Cromartie and Revis in the Jets' backfield, though, it's becoming clear that the front office is doing everything it can to help the team return to the AFC Championship next year. 

Miami has also made some noise this offseason, signing one of free agency's biggest names in linebacker Karlos Dansby. The team also opted to bring back quarterback Chad Pennington as a mentor and a dependable backup to Chad Henne and Pat White. 

Buffalo doesn't have a lot of money to throw around, and it shows. Aside from locking up safety Bryan Scott and tendering a few other low-profile veterans, the Bills' ownership views the draft as the primary vessel to improve the team.

Still, Buffalo has needs at defensive end and linebacker and could still look to make upgrades at those positions in free agency. 

While New England's record signing of Wilfork and Miami's acquisition of Dansby are all big moves, New York has clearly emerged as the premiere mover/shaker of the East.

Revis and Cromartie in the defensive backfield is a scary thought, and offenses will have a tough time playcalling against them in 2010.

AFC South

The Indianapolis Colts are once again practicing self-preservation, signing long-time defensive captain Gary Brackett. The team isn't expected to make any big signings in free agency, as the pieces for another Super Bowl berth are set in place. 

On a side note, Indianapolis released its perennial backup quarterback Jim Sorgi, so expect them to explore quarterback options late in the draft.

Houston lost the cornerstone of its secondary, cornerback Dunta Robinson, to Atlanta, but a five-year, $21.5 million contract of wideout Kevin Walter sure made the loss a little lighter.

Walter isn't the most prolific receiver on the team, but his consistency and the security of retaining him on a long-term basis is a good step for the Texans. The team is also reported to be in high contention for Kansas City lineman Wade Smith. 

Tennessee is also slipping quietly into a market where big names are few and far between, but cuts are more popular than ever. The team parted ways with defensive end Kyle Vanden Bosch, linebacker Keith Bulluck, tight end Alge Crumpler, and center Kevin Mawae. 

There's still a chance that Bulluck, Crumpler, and Mawae may all return, though it's unlikely. The Titans are pushing for a more youthful roster and solid picks in the draft, paired with the re-signing with defensive tackle Tony Brown and tight end Bo Scaife, are all signs pointing to a younger and better team next season. 

So far, Jacksonville has only made a few moves early in the free agency period. The team signed wide receiver Kassim Osgood to a lucrative three-year contract and brought back defensive lineman Atiyyah Ellison and offensive lineman Kynan Forney.

The Jaguars have a high pick in the first round and will likely focus their attention on the draft rather than spend money they don't have on the market.

The South hasn't made any particularly big moves so far, but Indianapolis' re-signing of middle linebacker Gary Brackett really spoke to what the Colts plan to do next year. Brackett is the unquestioned captain of their defense, and having your signal-caller in the backfield locked up is a great move.  

AFC West

The Chargers have been making headlines all weekend, beginning with their controversial release of long-time running back LaDainian Tomlinson and their subsequent release of nose tackle Jamaal Williams. 

In an effort to avoid eradicating their entire backfield, San Diego retained backup back/return man Darren Sproles with a first- and third-round tender, hoping to either keep him for the season or use him to obtain another piece of the puzzle in the draft.

Oakland finds itself in a storm of activity with no real headline. The team tendered several veteran role players, including journeyman quarterback Brad Gradkowski. The Raiders released running back Justin Fargas and tendered cornerback Stanford Routt with a first- and third-round option.

Routt started only one game last year, but Al Davis and Co. opted to slap him with the highest tender a player can earn, another "dynamic" move from Oakland.

The Chiefs are the proud owners of a payroll whose entirety was eclipsed by day one of the Chicago Bears' free agency moves. Needless to say, the folks at Arrowhead still have work to do. 

It's been reported the team has strong interest in running back Thomas Jones. Kansas City recently signed linebacker Mike Vrabel to an extension and is looking to do the same with wide receiver Chris Chambers, who is considering a move back to San Diego. 

Denver is seemingly making all the right moves this offseason, despite losing prolific wideout Brandon Marshall to the highest bidder. The team tendered quarterback Kyle Orton, guard Kris Kuper, and linebacker Elvis Dumervil with first-round options this weekend.

The Broncos also agreed to terms with cornerback Nathan Jones and are looking to do the same with Baltimore defensive lineman Dwan Edwards. 

Despite retaining the core group of players and tendering Orton and Dumervil, it's a little surprising that the front office didn't decide to take advantage of an uncapped year and work out long-term agreements with at least Dumervil. Instead, the team will face losing them both again next year. 

San Diego, despite losing cornerback Antonio Cromartie, made the smartest move possible when it released Williams and retained Sproles. No matter who they get out of the draft for their backfield, it won't compare to the flash and pomp Sproles can give. Even if the Chargers do lose him, they now have a much wider array of draft picks to use. 

For more coverage on the NFL Free Agency and the 2010 NFL Draft, go to NFL Soup.

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The dust is starting to clear, but the ride isn't anywhere close to being over. There are still question marks surrounding some of the league's most prolific offensive weapons and doubts as to whether or not the age of capped spending is over. 

This offseason will mark an era where young, unproven talent is tendered and those in their prime will either become collateral damage or owners of a lucrative contract. Not much is different from a typical free agency period, save for the fact that nearly every position's average salary is bound to adjust. 

NFC North

So far, the old "black-and-blue" division has created the most noise since late Thursday evening. Detroit's signing of former Seahawks wide receiver Nate Burleson and defensive end Kyle Vanden-Bosch from Tennessee tapped the lines first.

Their earlier release of defensive tackle Grady Jackson and cornerback Phillip Buchanon came as a surprise until a trade with Cleveland for defensive end/defensive tackle Corey Williams answered any questions about the Lions' commitment to a stronger defense.

Chicago has divvied out the most money at this point, signing possibly the biggest name in free agency, defensive end Julius Peppers, to a six year deal worth potentially $91.5 million. The former Panther was, at one point, reported to have interest in a number of teams, but was inevitably drawn in by Chicago's lucrative offer. 

Later the same day, the Bears also signed Minnesota's backup runningback Chester Taylor to a long-term deal. Taylor is a versatile back who can carry the load on first and second down and catch out of the backfield. 

Minnesota has been relatively quiet so far due to the 'final eight rule', but Vikings fans are already beginning to feel the loss of Taylor. While the team may not publicly admit it, they are concerned over Favre's decision and now the once-steady halfback position has needs to address. 

Green Bay declined to tender left tackle Chad Clifton and then picked him up from free agency and signed him to a three-year deal worth $20 million. Defensive end Aaron Kampman will likely continue on his path away from the Packers.

Ted Thompson has been dubbed "Tightwad Ted" for a reason, so don't expect Green Bay to make any big changes, not this year. So far, it appears Chicago has emerged as the most advantageous club in the North. 

The Bears don't have a pick in the draft until the third round so it's important that they get the job done in free agency. With a deeper backfield and a legitimate pass rush tandem in Brown and Peppers, not to mention the return of Urlacher, the Bears look ready to once again contend for the division. 

NFC East

Contrary to the normal routine, Washington did not make a big splash on day one of free agency. Rather, they cleaned house. On the eve before the market opened, the 'Skins released wide receiver Antwaan Randel-El, defensive tackle Cornelius Griffin, and cornerback Fred Smoot, just three of the 10 veterans sent packing. 

It's been reported that head coach Mike Shanahan and general manager Bruce Allen, the men in charge of spending the money, have received no fiscal restrictions from owner Daniel Snyder, so Washington's next move could be a big one. 

Philadelphia has played the role of the conservative club thus far, signing only their own fullback Leonard Weaver for now. It's reported there's a strong interest between defensive end Aaron Kampman and the Eagles' front office, but a deal remains to be seen. 

The Giants carved their own signature in the market with the signing of former Arizona safety Antrel Rolle. Rolle claims his marriage with New York safety Kenny Phillips, a fellow former Miami Hurricane, will prove to be the most dynamic safety pairing in the league. 

The Dallas Cowboys are feeling the restrictions set down by the 'final eight rule', but owner Jerry Jones is confident the fiscal limitations won't prohibit the team from acquiring a few upgrades here and there. So far, though, the team's biggest news is its first-round tendering of wide receiver Miles Austin. 

At this point, the East has been relatively quiet and it looks as if New York will come out of all this with the most to gain. Manning's receivers are older and more experienced and Rolle adds a new dynamic to the team's defensive backfield. Barring any major injuries and a terrible draft strategy, the Giants stand to reclaim the East next year. 

NFC South 

The Carolina Panthers have made the most noise in their house-cleaning moves. Two of the highest-decorated players in team history, defensive end Julius Peppers and quarterback Jake Delhomme, have been released, marking a new direction for the team. 

There have been no other major moves to acquire anyone just yet, though Eagles' quarterback Michael Vick has reportedly expressed a strong interest to play with the Panthers. Carolina has retained its core group of role players and will likely wait for the draft to make any major moves.

Tampa Bay is playing their cards close this offseason. Not much has come out of Raymond James Stadium and it's doubtful anything will by day's end. Aside from releasing a few punters and a reserve corner, the Bucs plan to play it quiet this year. 

Atlanta became a big spender when they signed cornerback Dunta Robinson to a six-year, $57 million contract. The also came to an agreement with backup quarterback Chris Redman and a few other key role players with expiring contracts. 

As a side not, former Falcons' runningback Warrick Dunn also became a partial owner of the team, one of seven. 

The Saints are playing the market slow and steady, releasing a few recognizable names in defensive end Charles Grant and linebacker Scott Fujita. Due to the league's restrictions, it's doubtful New Orleans will make any major moves, but dealings between the team and safety Darren Sharper remain a strong point of interest. 

Right now, Atlanta has the upper hand. Quarterback Matt Ryan will be healthy again next year, with a capable offense and a defense made legitimate with the signing of the market's best available cornerback. It's undeniable that New Orleans has the means to a happy end, but the Falcons may have a shot at contention nonetheless. 

NFC West

San Francisco isn't expected to make any major noise in free agency, but New York Giants' free agent quarterback David Carr is visiting the 49ers facilities this weekend and could potentially be the team's biggest signing until the draft.

Singletary fought for the retaining of offensive tackle David Baas and linebacker Ahmad Brooks and it's been reported the team has come to agreements with both players. 

Seattle lost wide receiver Nate Burleson to the Detroit Lions but are hot in their pursuit of Denver's Brandon Marshall to complement TJ Houshmandzadeh. The deal isn't solid yet, but it's likely to happen before the weekend is up. 

The Seahawks are also reported to have interest in Aaron Kampman. The team has multiple first-round picks to work with, meaning Seattle isn't done dealing just yet. 

After St. Louis released long-time quarterback Marc Bulger, all eyes went to finding an heir to the throne. There are speculations that the Rams will grab their franchise quarterback with the first pick in the draft or that they may actively pursue the Eagles' Donovan McNabb.

Even their recent signing of A.J. Feely doesn't remotely answer their quarterback questions. The Rams' new ownership will provide a hurdle or two for making any noise in the market, but there's still time for the team to make some much-needed upgrades.

Right now, the biggest news out of Arizona is the signing of former Cardinals' stars to other teams. Safety Antrel Rolle, linebacker Karlos Dansby, and wideout Anquan Boldin are all out. 

The Cardinals had a number of expiring contracts to face this offseason, so the loss of the "big three" wasn't entirely unexpected. Arizona still has time to make a few upgrades, but there won't be any major changes, not yet anyway. 

Seattle has undergone the biggest change in the West, on and off the field. Their hiring of Pete Carroll and his coaching staff marked the start of a new era, separate once and for all from the Holmgren mentality of the past. The possible acquisition of Marshall and Kampman only sweeten the pot.

Nothing is set in stone, but even without a big splash in free agency, the 'Hawks have two early first round picks they could use to grab a couple playmakers.

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A few no-name prospects in the tight end bracket have emerged as true contenders in the race to April, and—while no one will likely make a big splash in the first round—a team or two will luck out with some late-round selections.

Here are a few guys who are slowly becoming legitimate and others who are watching their stock fall:

Players Whose Stocks Went Up

1. Dorin Dickerson (Pittsburgh)

40-Yard Dash: 4.40 sec.

Bench Press: 24 rep.

Vertical Jump: 43.5"

3-Cone Drill: 6.96 sec.

20-Yard Shuttle: 4.30 sec. 

Broad Jump: 10'5"

Dickerson entered the combine under the shadow of fellow Pittsburgh tight end Nate Byham, but now it looks as if Dickerson is the better of the pair. He dominated the drills, finishing first in the 40-yard, vertical leap, and the broad jump.

He is an extremely physical specimen and has great lower body strength, a quality that will quickly translate into elite blocking ability at the next level. He looked natural at catching balls and he's quick to boot. 

2. Clay Harbor (Missouri State)

40-Yard Dash: 4.69 sec. 

Bench Press: 30 rep. 

Vertical Jump: 40.0" 

20-Yard Shuttle: 4.37 sec.

Broad Jump: 10'

Harbor is another tight end who didn't have a tremendous amount of attention on him going into the Combine, but an impressive showing there has legitimized his chances at being a contender in the NFL.

He was solid in every category, especially at the bench where he put up astounding numbers, posting three reps higher than the closest player behind him. He also has good speed for a guy with such strength. 

3. Dennis Pitta (BYU)

40-Yard Dash: 4.63 sec. 

Bench Press: 27 rep. 

Vertical Jump: 34.5" 

3-Cone Drill: 6.72 sec.

20-Yard Shuttle: 4.17 sec. 

60-Yard Shuttle: 11.53 sec.

Broad Jump: 9'5"

Pitta is one of the few high-ranked tight end prospects that did not fail to impress at the Combine. Pitta ran a decent 40-yard time, but he showed his quickness with top times in the 3-Cone, 20-yard shuttle, and the 60-yard shuttle.

Pitta has natural hands and his physicality, paired with his natural athleticism, creates an exciting prospect. He was one of the few players who saw his draft stock rise considerably in Indy this weekend. 

4. Jimmy Graham (Miami)

40-Yard Dash: 4.56 sec. 

Bench Press: 20 rep. 

Vertical Jump: 38.5" 

3-Cone Drill: 6.90 sec.

60-Yard Shuttle: 11.76 sec. 

Broad Jump: 10'

Graham made some noise in Indianapolis this week with an impressive 40-yard and solid numbers in every other category. He isn't an especially athletic prospect, but his numbers have solidified his ability to run the routes needed to contend at the NFL level.

His history as a basketball player has scouts equating him with the likes of Antonio Gates, even though he only played one year of football at Miami.

5. Ed Dickson (Oregon)

40-Yard Dash: 4.67 sec. 

Bench Press: 23 rep. 

Broad Jump: 9'7"

Dickson didn't drop any jaws at the Combine, but a solid performance across the board have him at a static state in the eyes of scouts. A good showing at the Senior Bowl catapulted him and his stock as far up as it'd been and his performance at the Combine didn't hurt him.

Dickson is still considered by many to have some of the best hands in his class and he is no slouch as a blocker, either. He has all the physical tangibles you look for in a tight end.

Players Whose Stock Went Down

1. Jermaine Gresham (Oklahoma)

40-Yard Dash: 4.73 sec. 

Bench Press: 20 reps.

Vertical Jump: 35" 

3-Cone Drill: 7.07 sec.

60-Yard Shuttle: 11.88 sec.

Broad Jump: 9'5"

After undergoing season-ending surgery at the start of the '09 season, Gresham had questions and concerns surrounding his ability to still play ball. Many still consider him a top contender, but a slow 40-yard and marginal numbers in other categories didn't look like the Gresham everyone expected.

With more publicity comes more expectations, and Gresham just didn't meet them at the Combine. He finished near the bottom of every category and will need to put up a good showing at his Pro Day if he expects to keep his position as the top tight end in his class.

2. Rob Gronkowski (Arizona)

Bench Press: 23 rep.

Gronkowski did not participate in any of the athletically-geared drills, much to the chagrin of scouts and media writers. He has the capabilities to be a top tight end in the draft, but it's hard to judge that if he doesn't perform.

I expect him to show up big at his Pro Day, but until then, Gronkowski is a tight end with marginal speed who has great physicality and soft hands...or so we hope.

3. Anthony McCoy (USC)

40-Yard Dash: 4.79 sec. 

Bench Press: 19 rep. 

Vertical Jump: 35.5"

3-Cone Drill: 6.99 sec.

Broad Jump: 9'5"

McCoy is another tight end who came into the Combine with high expectations and ended with disappointing results. He didn't have the slowest 40-yard but it was close. We also didn't see a tremendous amount of strength at the bench or the broad jump.

McCoy's tape will likely remain as the strongest piece of evidence for his legitimacy, but for now, he will have to work harder to impress anyone at USC's Pro Day.

4. Andrew Quarless (Penn State)

40-Yard Dash: 4.69 sec.

Bench Press: 23 rep. 

Vertical Jump: 32" 

Broad Jump: 9'4"

Quarless is one of several Penn State players who have a lot of potential going into the draft. At the combine, though, Quarless didn't look especially impressive, posting marginal numbers across the board.

Especially disturbing, I think, was his inability to produce at either jump station. Quarless was touted as an elite blocker with a great lower center of gravity, but it just wasn't evident at the Combine.

5. Colin Peek (Alabama)

Bench Press: 19 rep.

Like Gronkowski, Peek only participated in the Combine at the bench, hoping to make an undisturbed, more comfortable showing at his Pro Day. Instead of producing suspense, though, Peek merely disappointed the number of scouts who showed up to see one of college's highest touted tight end prospects.

Peek still has a chance to prove he is a contender at his Pro Day, but a poor showing at the Combine doesn't make him look any better to the scouts and the media.

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This year's class of wide outs doesn't have a solidified order just yet, but the top and bottom rung players are becoming a little more clear after a week in Indianapolis.

Here are a few receivers that looked great at the NFL Combine and some that still have work to do.

Players Whose Stock Went Up

1. Arrelious Benn (Illinois)

40-Yard Dash (4.48)  Bench Press (20)  Vertical Jump (37.0)  Broad Jump (9'10')

Benn really showed up at the Combine, posting the best numbers at the bench and running a decent 40-yard. There are still concerns about his natural athleticism; some don't consider him a finished product.

There is still ample time for Benn to show us more when Illinois holds their Pro Day on March 23. For now, he looks to be in the Top 3 of available wide outs in April. 

2. Brandon Long (Louisville)

40-Yard Dash (4.46)  Bench Press (20)  Vertical Jump (41.5)  Three-Cone Drill (6.45)  

20-Yard Shuttle (4.09)  60-Yard Shuttle (11.06)  Broad Jump (10'03")

Long is not a highly touted name at wideout, but he will be after his Combine workout.

The former Louisville star posted lead numbers at the bench, in his vertical leap, and at the Three-Cone drill. He may not have had the best production at the collegiate level, but owning the best numbers in three categories at the Combine will speak volumes about this young man. 

3. Emmanuel Sanders (SMU)

40-Yard Dash (4.41)  Bench Press (12)  Vertical Jump (39.5)  3-Cone Drill (6.60)

20-Yard Shuttle (4.10)  Broad Jump (10'06")

Sanders is another relatively unknown prospect out of SMU who has tremendous physical capabilities; it showed in Indianapolis this week.

He ran a near-perfect 40-yard, finishing second only to Clemson's Jacoby Ford.

Without the numbers, Sanders is merely a late-round acquisition but his performance at the Combine really boosted his chances at becoming a sought-after commodity in April. 

4. Carlton Mitchell (South Florida)

40-Yard Dash (4.49)  Bench Press (16)  Broad Jump (10'02")

Mitchell hasn't garnered a lot of attention since his performance in '09 at USF, but his numbers at the Combine were all-around very impressive. He has the athleticism and the size you look for in an NFL-ready wide out. 

Although Mitchell didn't participate in all of the drill at Indy, but scouts are impressed by his potential alone.

He still needs work to polish his ball skills, but given time, he could be a legitimate threat at the next level.

5. Jacoby Ford (Clemson)

40-Yard Dash (4.28)  Bench Press (13)  60-Yard Shuttle (11.58)  

We already knew Ford was quick, but holding the fastest 40-yard time at the Combine just solidified that. He is scary fast and has all of the tangibles you look for in an elite wide out. 

His bench numbers weren't overly impressive, but strength isn't a particular concern for a player of his size anyway.

Some have called him the C.J. Spiller of the receiver bracket and it's easy to see why. He is an explosive player who could be an immediate threat as a return specialist in the NFL.

Players Whose Stock Went Down

1. Dez Bryant (Oklahoma State)

DNP

Bryant didn't participate in any of the drills at the Combine so, at the present moment, his stock will be on the decline until his Pro Day.

At his best, Bryant is a purely productive wide out who has all of the tools to be successful at the professional level.

Reports indicate he will be 100 percent at his Pro Day, so we should expect to see the usual flawless route-running and quick speed we expect from him. 

2. Eric Decker (Minnesota)

Bench Press (15)

There is something to be said about showing up at the bench and putting up decent numbers, but without any further results at the Combine, it's hard to really put Decker's abilities in perspective.

Decker's size has been a concern for scouts this offseason, but he has great hands, a very good feel for the route tree, and the physicality needed to be a lethal slot receiver, he just has to show us. 

3. Brandon LaFell (LSU)

40-Yard Dash (4.59)  3-Cone Drill (6.81)  Broad Jump (9'05")

LaFell really failed to impress at the Combine, putting up a marginal 40-Yard and finishing near the bottom of those who chose to run the Three-Cone.

His size is a strong contributor to his slow time, but he needs to be faster to eclipse an early-mid round selection.

We expect someone with LaFell's size to have better lower-body strength but his low broad jump shows us there is still work to be done.

LaFell's production at LSU was so-so late in his career but a decent Pro Day at Death Valley may make up for all of it.

4. Dez Briscoe (Kansas)

40-Yard Dash (4.61)  Bench Press (9) 

Briscoe looked legitimate at the Senior Bowl but his Combine numbers were not as impressive as many would have liked to see.

His performance at the bench was minimal at best and his 40-yard still needs a lot of work.

As a wideout, Briscoe is physical and tough but he's not quite a polished product just yet. Despite concerns over his attitude and willingness to play the game, Briscoe will still be talked about with great aplomb in April.

5. Mike Williams (Syracuse)

40-Yard (4.45)  Bench Press (8)  Vertical Jump (33.5)

Despite running a good 40-yard, Williams failed to show us anything more with a downright bad performance at the bench and marginal jumping capabilities at the vertical. 

Williams isn't in the elite bracket of receivers, but a good showing at the Senior Bowl had his stock go up considerably.

Now, it looks as if he has fallen back to mediocrity and that's where he'll stay until he gets a shot at redemption on Syracuse's Pro Day.

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The Combine is a good place to see the prospects out of their own comfort zone and away from familiarity. So, with that being said, here are a few players that did well in Indianapolis and a few that failed to impress.

For a look at the Quarterbacks, click here.

Players Whose Stock Went Up

1. Ben Tate (Auburn)

40-yard Dash (4.43)  Bench Press (26)  Vertical Jump (40.5)  3-Cone Drill (6.91)

Broad Jump (10'4")

Ben Tate really impressed at the Combine, running a third-best 40-yar dash and leading the pack in the bench press and vertical jump. His rare combination of elite upper and lower body strength was a refreshing sight to see.

Tate came out of Auburn without the amount of recognition his fellow SEC backs garnered, but he has until March 9th, when Auburn holds their Pro Day, to further impress the critics and improve his game. 

2. Jahvid Best (Cal)

40-Yard Dash (4.35)  Bench Press (18)  3-Cone Drill (6.75)  Broad Jump (9'3")

Jahvid really did look his "best" at the Combine, posting the fastest 40-yard dash and 3-Cone drill of all other backs. His workout video showed a back that can change directions on a dime and turn on the jets once he turns the corner.

There are still concerns that the nagging injuries throughout his career at Cal is a strong indicator to his durability, but Best is confident he can take the hits at the next level. Though he's not built like the prototypical running back, Best's stock is better than it's ever been at this point.

3. Ryan Matthews (Fresno State)

40-Yard Dash (4.53)  Bench Press (19)  Vertical Jump (36.0)  Broad Jump (10'1")

Until recently, Matthews wasn't grouped with the likes of Best and Spiller, but after a raving performance at the Combine, it's looking more and more like he has a chance to make a first-round berth. 

Matthews has the build of an NFL-ready running back and though he didn't finish first in any of the categories, his numbers are strong. He can catch out of the backfield and he'll have an opportunity to lower that 4.53 40-yard at Fresno States' Pro Day on March 17th.

4. C.J. Spiller (Clemson)

40-Yard Dash (4.37)  Bench Press (18)  

Spiller didn't participate in all of the drills in Indianapolis, but he is still considered to be the top running back prospect in his class. His 4.37 40-yard dash will likely be faster at his Pro Day, but until then, all we can do is wait.

Spiller is an explosive back who has the potential to be a legitimate game-breaker at the next level. His bench press numbers, though not especially impressive, are solid for his size and speak volumes about his physicality as a runner.

5. Montario Hardesty (Tennessee)

40-Yard Dash (4.49)  Bench Press (21)  Vertical Jump (41.0)  3-Cone Drill (6.87)

Broad Jump (10'4")

Hardesty came out of the '09 season as a late-round prospect, someone who could contribute immediately as a third-round back, and maybe more. Now, Hardesty is coming into his own; his combine showed solid upper and lower body strength as he posted the day's best vertical leap and middle-of-the-road bench stats.

Physically, he has all of the tangibles you look for. He runs like a tank and, once he gets to his second gear, it's hard to bring him down. There's still an air of obscurity surrounding camp Hardesty, but with a Pro Day on March 17th, he has plenty of time to answer the questions. 

Players Whose Stock Went Down

1. Jonathan Dwyer (Georgia Tech)

40-Yard Dash (4.59)  Bench Press (15)  Broad Jump (8'11")

Dwyer failed to impress anyone with his numbers at the Combine, but many scouts still hold him in high regard as a late blessing for any team lucky enough to chance upon him in later rounds.

Hopefully, Dwyer will spend more time in the weight room and have a better Pro Day. He has the prototypical build of an every-down back in the NFL, but his speed is a concern for anyone unwilling to put up big numbers for a potential bust. 

2. Joique Bell (Wayne State)

40-Yard Dash (4.65)  Vertical Jump (36.5)  3-Cone Drill (6.84)  Broad Jump (10')

Bell ran a disappointing 40-yard dash at the combine and, while the eyes of the media aren't focused on him anyway, he had a tremendous Senior Bowl and has the potential to be an effective backup at the professional level.

What he lacks in straight-line speed, Bell makes up for it with great lateral quickness. He has soft hands out of the backfield, as well. Wayne State will not be holding a Pro Day for Bell but Central Michigan's Dan Lefevour has invited Bell to join him at his Pro Day instead. 

3. Dexter McCluster (Ole Miss)

40-Yard Dash (4.58)  Bench Press (20)  Vertical Jump (37.5)  Broad Jump (9'10")

After the Senior Bowl, it looked like McCluster was destined to be among the top prospects in April, but a disappointing 40-yard dash at the Combine has hurt his stock. McCluster posted up impressive numbers at Ole Miss as a back and a wideout and I expect scouts to put more weight into his tape than his raw numbers, but he sure didn't help himself at all. 

McCluster will have another shot to run a better 40-yrad dash during his Pro Day, but until then, he looks like a late second or third round pick, a guy that can be an immediate contributor as a third-down back. 

4. LeGarrette Blount (Oregon)

40-Yard Dash (4.62)  Bench Press (19)  3-Cone Drill (6.85)  Broad Jump (9'9")

After being suspended early in the '09 season and suffering from injuries afterwards, it looked like Blount was bound for a late-round selection. Well, nothing much has changed. A disinterested performance in the Combine has taken even more attention off of the former Duck.

His inconsistencies at Oregon was a concern then and his inconsistent numbers are a concern now. He has the physicality of an NFL running back but the slow 40-yard dash and a lachrymose performance overall is only hurting his stock. 

5. Charles Scott (LSU)

40-Yard Dash (4.67)  3-Cone Drill (6.98)  Broad Jump (9'3")

Scott is another player whose size prohibits him from garnering a label of "explosive back" but every team is looking for a back with physicality and speed. Scott posted the slowest 3-Cone time out of all other backs who opted to run it and finished in the bottom of every other category.

More than a few agencies had Scott pegged as early-mid round prospect but his failure to impress at the Combine may have hurt those chances. 

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Florida's Tim Tebow, Texas' Colt McCoy, Oklahoma's Sam Bradford, and Notre Dame's Jimmy Clausen have all decided to wait until their prospective pro days to preform the throwing drills scouts look at in the combine.

Dan Lefevour also declined to throw to moving targets, opting instead to throw at stationary targets. He has stated he will make a full appearance of his ball skills at his pro day, a tactic that some call cowardly, but in reality it's nothing less than what the other major names have decided upon.

Sam Bradford and Jimmy Clausen have declined to participate in any of the workout drills. 

Post-combine, a few players really stood out while others fell to static performance. 

Stock Rising

1. Dan Lefevour (Central Michigan)

40-yard Dash (4.66)  3-Cone Drill (6.93)  Broad Jump (9'2")

Lefevour's decline to throw at moving targets hurt his draft stock, but only a little. He ran the second fastest 40-yard time of any quarterback at the draft, another indicator he has the ability to escape pressure at the next level. 

Like most elite college quarterbacks, Lefevour comes from a spread offense. Come pro day, the focus will be on his footwork (three, five, and seven step drop back), and whether or not his release is compact enough. Until now, though, it looks like Lefevour's original sixth-seventh round projection is no more. 

2. Daryll Clark (Penn State)

Bench Press (21)

Clark is still considered a quarterback who belongs in later rounds and, while he didn't perform at all the drills in Indianapolis, he dominated in the bench press room. His elite upper body strength has scouts eying him for a position in a Wildcat style of offense, but Penn State's pro day could prove that he has more capabilities. 

If anything, Clark's twenty one repetitions on the bench just shows his commitment in the weight room. A lot of guys show up at the combine after a "cramming" session with the weights, but Clark's performance shows a constant level of conditioning and a history of muscle building. 

3. Zac Robinson (Oklahoma State)

40-yard Dash (4.71)  Vertical Jump (35.0)  Broad Jump (9'2")

Robinson came out of the Senior Bowl with accolades of greatness circling his limited, though undoubtedly successful performance late in the fourth quarter. His measurements at the combine didn't fail to impress either.

He beat out Tim Tebow in his 40-yard and finished second in the vertical jump to, ironically, Tim Tebow. He has the athleticism to compete at the next level and we would should see nothing but good things at Stillwater's pro day. 

4. Jarrett Brown (West Virginia)

40-yard Dash (4.54)  Vertical Jump (34.5)  Broad Jump (9'6")

We already new Brown was fast, but holding the fastest 40-yard at the combine confirms that in ways that tape can only assume. He had the third highest vertical jump and tied for third highest broad jump.

During the year, we saw inconsistencies from Brown, but his athleticism shows promise and the potential to play in a Wildcat formation only elevates his stock. 

5. Tim Tebow (Florida)

40-yard Dash (4.72)  Vertical Jump (38.5)  3-Cone Drill (6.66)  Broad Jump (9'07)

Arguably one of the most-watched prospects entering the combine, Tebow has a lot to prove with his throwing ability, but his physical tangibles are elite, to say the least. He set a record with his vertical leap and finished in the top three in every other category.

We won't see how he throws until Florida holds its pro day later in the month, but based off of what he showed us in Indianapolis, it's safe to say Tebow is still the most athletically-gifted quarterback going into April. 

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