NFL Scouting Pro Days and Morse’s Morsels

Mark Morse

3 years ago at 5:00 am ET

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Posted Under: Patriots News

Jerry Lai - USA TODAY Sports

The First Pro Day was already conducted for the likely 1^st overall pick, Clemson QB Trevor Lawrence.  I have seen mixed results from his workout. 

He had a scripted 55 throws to his own receivers.  He threw every throw the Pro Scouts wanted to see.  He was very accurate.  However, there were quite a few drops by his wide receivers.  At the end of the workout, Lawrence also underthrew several of his targets. 

The reason that Lawrence had an individual workout was that he was scheduled to undergo shoulder surgery on his non-throwing shoulder.  This was done early so he would be available for the regular season.  The Patriots sent two scouts to view the workout along with scouts from 16 other teams.  Atlanta sent 4 scouts, according to Albert Breer.

Pro Days are taking on a bigger importance under COVID protocols.  Teams are not allowed to speak to the players working out and all contact must be made via ZOOM or other such media.  Here are the Pro Days I have been able to gather so far:

 
EXOS Training is one of the largest combine training organizations with three locations in Florida, Texas and Arizona.  They have 130 draft eligible players working out at their facilities.  They will be performing the 1^st of several mini combines Feb 26-27.  These are replacing the NFL Combine in Indianapolis.  Medical Teams will be examining players like they did in Indy.  Team can send only two medical personnel to witness this.  They will then perform all the drills they usually would do in Indy, except there is no scouts in attendance.  Each team will be sent the results and video.  I wonder if the general public will get access to these numbers?

Teams starting to cut players

Houston is in Cap jail and released longtime star player JJ Watt.  That did not go over well in Houston, but the move came after the veteran asked for his release. Not only was Watt a great player but he was adored by the fans.  His generosity, especially during the floods in Houston will never be forgotten.  Watt is a free agent and can sign where he wants.  It is thought he wants to sign with a team that has a legitimate shot of winning the Super Bowl.  I wouldn’t be surprised if he signs with Pittsburgh to play with his brothers.

Houston still has an ongoing problem with DeShaun Watson.  He has made it clear that he does not want to play in Houston anymore.  They should be able to get a haul of players and picks for what I think is one of the best QBs in the league.  This is a tough way to start for new GM Nick Caserio.  He also has the cloud of Jack Esterby to deal with.

Another name that has been released is Kawaan Short DT formerly of Carolina.  He is a vastly underrated run-stuffing DT at 6’3” 305 lbs.   He has missed most of the last two seasons with shoulder issues.  He would be worth the risk on a low-paying, show me type of contract.  Both Butler and Guy are UFAs and I think signing Short would be good insurance in the chance we lose one or both of our DTs.

Russel Wilson’s name has been bantered about as wanting a trade out of Seattle.  I can’t see that happening but if available I think the Pats should be in on him.