Marcus Mariota, as many expected, showcased his athletic ability at the NFL Scouting Combine on Saturday in Indianapolis.
The Heisman winner ran the quickest 40-yard dash (4.52) of any of the 15 quarterbacks. His time ranked higher than 10 of the wide receivers who participated in the event.
Mariota tied for third in both the vertical (36.0) and broad (121.0) jumps. Former Oregon quarterback Bryan Bennett, who transferred to Southeast Louisiana after losing the quarterback competition to Mariota before the 2012 season, finished in the top two of both events.
However, many scouts wanted to see how Mariota, after playing in a spread-option offense at Oregon, would perform under center. After observing Mariota throw a variety of routes, NFL Network analyst Mike Mayock said he was impressed.
“What I liked about Mariota was just his footwork,” Mayock said. “You can see (his athleticism) translate to his drop backs, a sense of urgency with his feet. I know he’ll be able to adapt to being able to get under center.”
Mayock also admitted that Mariota’s pocket presence can’t be evaluated until he steps onto an NFL field.
Jameis Winston, who is widely regarded as Mariota’s primary competition to be the first overall pick, took part in the combine as well.
After posting a time of 4.97 in the 40-yard dash and finishing in the bottom two of both jumping events, Winston dazzled spectators in the throwing events.
“He throws an extremely catchable ball,” said Mayock. “Naturally and innately, he gets it.”
Tony Washington and Arik Amrstead will work out with the linebackers on Sunday, while Troy Hill will participate in cornerback drills on Monday.
The 2015 NFL Draft begins April 30.
Follow Jack Heffernan on Twitter @JHeffy13