Timing
Just about the entire NFL route tree is about timing. That ball must arrive on the out pattern as soon as the receiver arrives. The ball must arrive at the top of that double move. It must be at the apex of the slant on a slant route. If the timing is off these passes will turn into incomplete passes and sometimes interceptions. The timing between quarterback and wide receiver has to be perfect.
So how do we determine this while watching today? Watch the out routes, for example. Look to see if the quarterback is throwing the ball prior to the receiver making his break. If he is waiting until the receiver makes his break, he is more concerned with the scouts seeing a completed pass than good timing. It may look better in the moment but the skill won’t translate as well onto the NFL field. That is the ultimate goal, of course.
Next: The case to make Powell the every down back
You must watch the NFL Combine carefully. The 40 yard dash is fun but really doesn’t mean much on a week to week basis in the NFL. The position specific drills are the most important and they have to be watched very analytically. These are just three elements to watch when these guys take the field later today. Enjoy the action.