REPORT: 5 THINGS TO WATCH IN CFL COMBINE SEASON
The time for CFL’s Combine season is here once more, fans. It kicks off with the invitational camp this Friday, followed by the massive CFL Combine presented by New Era scheduled from March 19 to 24 in Winnipeg.
As the premier National and Global prospects gear up to showcase their skills for team scouts and decision-makers, here are some initial thoughts leading into the discussions, weightlifting, sprinting, and agility drills.
THAT NAME IS FAMILIAR
Ben Hladik has emerged as a standout for the BC Lions, demonstrating his potential as a young linebacker by amassing over 100 tackles in the previous season.
Now, attention turns to his brother Brad, who has been making waves on the offensive side as a tight end for the UBC Thunderbirds. Standing tall at six-foot-four and weighing 235 pounds, Hladik poses a formidable challenge for opposing defenses.
Robert Mimbs, known for his speed and power as a running back, showcased his talent with impressive yardage totals during his time with the Winnipeg Blue Bombers and later the Saskatchewan Roughriders. His son, D’Sean, has been making plays as a receiver for the University of Regina and will have an opportunity to display his skills at the combine.
Michael Soles, remembered as a vital player for both the Edmonton and Montreal teams, made significant contributions as a versatile player, accumulating rushing and receiving yards throughout his career. His son, Anthony, has been making an impact as a running back for the Queen’s Gaels and now aims to raise his profile ahead of the draft.
It’s inspiring to witness the next generation following in their fathers’ footsteps and making their mark in the world of football.
THE HEAD-TURNERS
It’s fascinating when a lesser-known athlete begins to garner attention at the combine. Sometimes, it’s due to the consistent performance they demonstrate in testing, gradually building up their overall numbers. Other times, it’s because word spreads about their exceptional performance in team interviews. And occasionally, it’s the result of a standout day during one-on-one drills that grabs everyone’s attention. Athletes like receivers Gavin Cobb and Daniel Oladejo exemplify this trend in recent times.
It’s truly exciting when a football player who hasn’t been in the spotlight suddenly emerges as a prominent figure in draft discussions. Without a doubt, there will be individuals you haven’t heard much about yet who will boldly step into the spotlight, starting with Waterloo on Friday and then in Winnipeg.
FROM EVEN FARTHER OFF THE RADAR
Before the CFL combine kicks off, we have the Invitational Combine scheduled for this Friday at the University of Waterloo.
The origins of this combine can be traced back to an event previously organized by TSN’s Duane Forde, aimed at providing additional opportunities for players to showcase their abilities before the main event. It’s essential not to underestimate the talent within this group.
I vividly remember covering the 2012 national combine in Toronto, known then as ‘E-Camp,’ where the first player invited from a Forde event secured a spot. He was a determined and optimistic offensive lineman from Mount Allison University.
Mike Filer transitioned from being relatively unknown to becoming a fifth-round draft pick for the Calgary Stampeders. He subsequently enjoyed a remarkable eight-season career with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats.
More recently, linebacker Jordan Williams emerged from one of the predecessors of the invitational, the Ontario Regional, to claim the top spot in the 2020 draft.
It’s important not to underestimate the potential of those who join the process later on.
THE “EXPLOSIVE” DRILLS
Several years ago, a CFL general manager shared with me an insight about the combine that has stuck with me ever since: it’s the explosive drills that truly matter.
While everyone enjoys the excitement of events like the 40-yard dash and the bench press, they are more about entertainment than true indicators of potential success. To discern which players have the subtle skills to transition from standout college performers to reliable professionals, one should focus on drills that highlight explosive, game-changing qualities.
The vertical leap and broad jump are particularly revealing in assessing a player’s explosiveness. When combined with exercises like the 3-cone drill, they provide valuable insight into a player’s ability to outmaneuver opponents in those crucial split-second moments that can determine the outcome of a game.
ONE-ON-ONES CAN MAKE A HUGE DIFFERENCE
Sure, testing at the combine provides valuable data for comparing prospects as we approach the draft.
However, for me, the most captivating aspects of the CFL combine are the one-on-one and unit drills. It’s during these sessions that a prospect can demonstrate a synergy that goes beyond mere test scores.
Recognizing the significance of these drills, the CFL has expanded what was once a one-day session on Sundays into three days of practices. This extended format allows for a thorough assessment of a prospect’s football intelligence and how their testing results translate to on-field performance, which ultimately holds the most weight.
As mentioned earlier, players like Oladejo and Cobb caught attention with their precise routes and reliable hands during practice drills, consequently elevating their draft stock. Keep an eye out for athletes who are asked to try different positions, as this indicates coaches are exploring where they might best contribute in the professional game.
For example, last year, defensive lineman Anthony Bennett was requested to take reps at linebacker, a move that proved pivotal as he was later chosen as the eighth overall pick by the Winnipeg Blue Bombers.