INDIANAPOLIS -- The workouts at the 2013 NFL Scouting Combine saw a significant bump in speed on Sunday as the running backs and wide receivers took to the field at Lucas Oil Stadium for their chance to impress NFL decision makers. The quarterbacks also got an opportunity to make a statement in one of the most anticipated workouts of the week. Here were the 10 best performances from Sunday's workout.
WR Marquise Goodwin, Texas: Goodwin was outstanding from start to finish and was the fastest receiver on the field, clocking an official time of 4.27 seconds in the 40-yard dash. Goodwin consistently outran passes delivered by the strongest armed quarterbacks. He continues to build on the momentum he started at the Senior Bowl last month.
WR Cordarrelle Patterson, Tennessee: Patterson excelled in all areas of his workout, posting impressive testing results then displaying outstanding pass catching skills. Throughout the workout, Patterson practiced as and showed terrific quickness running routes. He did nothing to diminish the belief that he's the top receiver in April's draft.
WR Tavon Austin, West Virginia: Austin was second-fastest among the receivers, clocking 4.34 seconds in the 40 and caught most everything thrown his way. The ability to run to the deep throw was impressive and he's now being mentioned as a potential first-round pick.
QB Geno Smith, West Virginia: Smith proved today why he's the draft's top quarterback. He displayed athleticism, a strong arm and most of all, consistent accuracy throughout the passing workout. Smith's performance today will secure his place in the top 12 selections of April's draft.
RB Kerwynn Williams, Utah State: Williams was the most complete back on the field and excelled in all areas. He tested well, showed incredible lateral movement and looked great catching passes. He grades as one of the better third-down backs available in April's draft.
RB Jonathan Franklin, UCLA: Franklin also displayed skill in all areas today. He was quick throughout position drills and was fine tuned in all areas. Many are now comparing him to All-Pro running back Frank Gore.
QB EJ Manuel, Florida State: Manuel had some of the most impressive moments of any quarterback at the Scouting Combine. He was physically imposing and threw strikes down the field. The combination Manuel's physical skills plus the progress he displayed will put him into the draft's second day.
QB Matt Scott, Arizona: Scott's draft grade has been ascending since September and he looked comfortable and confident on the field Sunday, delivering his passes with speed and accuracy. General managers around the league are excited about Scott's potential after his workout.
WR DeAndre Hopkins, Clemson: Hopkins was not the fastest receiver at the Combine but looked the most natural catching the ball. He ran terrific routes, plucked the ball from the air and displayed terrific concentration.
WR Ryan Swope, Texas A&M: Swope was one of college football's most consistent receivers last season, but scouts thought he was void of athletic ability. He posted a 40 time of 4.34 seconds, almost two-tenths faster than most expected. Surpassing expectations may push Swope into the late part of round two.
RB Christine Michael, Texas A&M: Michael was in the coach's doghouse for much of his senior campaign, but elevated his draft stock on Sunday. His vertical jump of 43 inches was outstanding as was his broad jump of 10-5. During position drills, Michael looked impressive in all the exercises and cemented a place for himself in the draft's third round.
Tony Pauline is the editor of DraftInsider.net and is also a contributor for USA Today. For the latest buzz surrounding the NFL Draft follow him on Twitter @TonyPauline*
