NFL Draft: Observations from the combine interviews that surprised

The interviews of prospects from the podium provides valuable insight in order to size-up the class.

It’s been a very busy week here in Indianapolis for the NFL Combine, as we try to decipher what the Cleveland Browns will do in the upcoming NFL Draft. There has been plenty of buzz surrounding Abdul Carter, Cam Ward, Shedeur Sanders, and Travis Hunter over the past few days but the overall depth isn’t being discussed enough.

As the skill players take the field to compete and test, it’s a good time to talk about some of the players who have stood out in their interviews that I walked away very impressed.

I find that being in person is quite valuable as the players answered questions from the media. Getting to see players up close and personal allows you to compare them to players at the same position standing 30 feet away.

Most of the questions asked don’t reveal much to help you evaluate their abilities as a player, however, it does help you get a sense of their personality, intelligence, and character.

It’s always striking when your expectations don’t match

The following players have either elevated their position in my rankings or are on my list to watch more of:

TE Elijah Arroyo

Arroyo has incredible size and a physique to rival that of David Njoku. His draft stock soared coming out of the Senior Bowl but another injury has dampened the excitement. The injury history will remain a concern but the traits combined with his size are impressive.

CB Azareye’h Thomas

I already have Thomas as one of my top corners in the draft. He’s an absolute fit for the Browns defense as a press-man corner. He showed a ton of polish in front of the media and seems to be an alpha leader on the field.

TE CJ Dippre

Dippre is on my list of guys to watch more of than I had originally planned. I was really impressed with his size and looks capable of handling a lot of blocking dirty work. He also played for Tommy Rees at Alabama.

CB Max Hairston

Hairston was confident and charismatic during his session. In terms of his physique, I couldn’t help think of his potential to be a replacement for Denzel Ward eventually.

CB Bilhal Kohn

Kohn has good size and physique, to the point you might look at him and think he’s a safety. I haven’t had a chance to watch any of his tape yet so I’m excited to see how he tests later today.

QB Tyler Shough

Shough looked confident and comfortable at the podium. It’s easy to think that the Browns might like his professional business demeanor. There are a few high-profile talent evaluators that already have him rated very high and I could see that trend continue as he interviews with more teams.

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Do you think these guys have the potential to be future Browns? Let us know your thoughts in the comments below.