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NFL Combine Aftermath: Who’s Rising and Who’s Falling?

By David Harrison

Feb 29, 2016; Indianapolis, IN, USA; A general view of Lucas Oil Stadium during the 2016 NFL Scouting Combine. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports
Feb 29, 2016; Indianapolis, IN, USA; A general view of Lucas Oil Stadium during the 2016 NFL Scouting Combine. Mandatory Credit: Brian Spurlock-USA TODAY Sports /
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Jan 1, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes wide receiver Braxton Miller (1) runs the ball against Notre Dame Fighting Irish linebacker Jaylon Smith (9) in the first quarter during the 2016 Fiesta Bowl at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 1, 2016; Glendale, AZ, USA; Ohio State Buckeyes wide receiver Braxton Miller (1) runs the ball against Notre Dame Fighting Irish linebacker Jaylon Smith (9) in the first quarter during the 2016 Fiesta Bowl at University of Phoenix Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-USA TODAY Sports /

FALLING:  Jaylon Smith – LB – Notre Dame

The star linebacker from Notre Dame is in a situation no player ever wants to be in; surrounded by question marks, and no way to answer them.

Injured in the Fiesta Bowl against Ohio State, Jaylon Smith is in the process of recovering and rehabbing from a devastating knee injury which has left him months – if not a full year – away from showing the NFL his talents.

Many thought of Smith as a top-10 pick despite the injury, but speculation Smith may not be able to play at all in 2016 has certainly damaged his draft stock.

Teams in search of linebacker depth will certainly be watching the process to see if Smith suffers any setbacks or miracle advancements, but at this time, Smith’s hopes of getting drafted sit squarely on the shoulders of teams willing to wait a year before showcasing one of this group’s best defensive stars.

Teams like the Broncos and Panthers may take the gamble, but don’t be surprised if he slips into Day 2.

Next: OT - Jason Spriggs

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