Debunking NFL Combines: Insights on True Player Assessment

Segment Spotlight: Quick Hits From Outspoken With Dan Sileo

Critical Views on NFL Combines and Quarterback Development

Dan Sileo shared his skepticism regarding the value of NFL combines, referring to them as "underwear Olympics" where players' physical performances can mislead coaches and scouts. He recalled an instance where someone highlighted a player's impressive 40-yard dash time, but questioned how well the player's game tape demonstrated his abilities. Sileo reminisced about a conversation with former coach Jimmy Johnson, who mentioned he could determine a player's ability just by watching a short segment of their gameplay, emphasizing the importance of actual game performance over combine results.

Moreover, Sileo discussed how the combines could lead players to shoot up in draft boards based on their physical performances despite their game tapes indicating otherwise. He pointed out the discrepancy between a player's speed in drills versus their actual gameplay, affirming that game tapes are more reliable than combines.

Additionally, Sileo touched on the evolution of quarterback training and development with insights from Bernie Kosar, who believes that technology, specifically in-helmet communications, has degraded the skill of reading defenses. Kosar stated that quarterbacks now rely too much on technology for pre-snap reads, which negates the need to analyze defenses independently. Sileo agreed to some extent but mentioned the limitations of in-helmet communication, advocating for the use of wristbands to save time and enhance on-field decisions.

Sileo and Kosar both value the traditional skills of quarterbacking, such as post-snap reading, which they view as a lost art in today's technology-driven approach to football.