The 2024 NFL Scouting Combine has been a platform for several defensive players to showcase their skills and potentially boost their draft stocks. Let's take a closer look at some of these players who have experienced a rise or fall in their draft projections based on their performances during the combine.

One standout performer is Payton Wilson, the linebacker from NC State. Wilson, standing at an impressive 6-3 and weighing 233 pounds, stunned scouts with his remarkable 4.43s 40-yard dash time, placing him in the 99.5th percentile. With his exceptional speed and versatility, Wilson emerged as a strong contender for the first off-ball linebacker selection.

Braden Fiske, a defensive tackle from Florida State, also caught the attention of scouts with his remarkable performance. Fiske's 4.78s 40-yard dash time, coupled with a 33.5" vertical jump, and 9'09" broad jump, showcased his exceptional athleticism. Given his impressive overall Relative Athletic Score (RAS) of 9.97, Fiske's draft stock rose significantly, possibly positioning him for selection at the end of Day 2.

Chop Robinson, the EDGE defender from Penn State, made a strong case to be a first-round pick with his electrifying performance. Robinson blazed through the 40-yard dash in 4.48s, placing him in the 99.6th percentile. His consistent presence in the backfield and impressive pass rush grades from PFF further solidified his standing as a top-tier athletic prospect.

Max Melton, the cornerback from Rutgers, confirmed his status as a shutdown artist during the combine. Melton's exceptional speed, demonstrated through his 4.39s 40-yard dash time, coupled with a remarkable 40.5" vertical jump and an 11-4 broad jump, solidified his position as a potential slot cornerback in the NFL. With his impressive performance, Melton is projected to be a valuable late Day 2 selection.

Another cornerback, Nate Wiggins from Clemson, turned heads with his exceptional speed. Despite initially being underrated with an opening line of 4.55s, Wiggins stunned everyone with a blazing 4.29s 40-yard dash time, making him a locked-in top-25 selection and potentially even higher. Wiggins' athleticism has become undeniable and has drastically improved his draft stock.

Marcellas Dial, the cornerback from South Carolina, showcased impressive technique and smooth movements during the drills. Although Dial's technique still needs refinement, his projectable speed and aggressiveness make him an intriguing Day 3 prospect who could surprise teams in training camp.

Unfortunately, not all players experienced a rise in their draft stocks. Bralen Trice, the EDGE defender from Washington, had a lackluster showing at the combine. Trice's slower 4.72s 40-yard dash time and undersized stature raised concerns about his ability to compete against NFL-caliber tackles. As a result, Trice's potential as a first-round selection diminished.

Kalen DeLoach, the linebacker from Florida State, showcased incredible speed with a blazing 4.47s 40-yard dash. However, DeLoach's shorter frame and less than ideal vertical jump and broad jump measurements raised some concerns about his suitability as a three-down thumper in the middle.

Adisa Isaac, the EDGE defender from Penn State, presented a mixed performance at the combine. Isaac's lighter weight and faster 40-yard dash time were seen as potential red flags, despite his decent vertical jump and broad jump measurements. These concerns raised questions about Isaac's ability to maintain his high-energy approach at the NFL level.

As the 2024 NFL Scouting Combine comes to a close, the performances of defensive players have reshaped the draft landscape. Some have skyrocketed their draft stocks, while others face challenges due to disappointing showings. Only time will tell how these players will fare in their NFL careers, but their combine performances have provided valuable insights for teams looking to bolster their defenses in the upcoming draft.