Eight Nittany Lions Invited to NFL Combine

Penn State will have eight of its former players participate in the NFL Combine, assuming each accepts their invitation. Players receiving invites were safety Troy Apke, safety Marcus Allen, running back Saquon Barkley, linebacker Jason Cabinda, cornerback Christian Campbell, tight end Mike Gesicki, wide receiver DaeSean Hamilton and cornerback Grant Haley.

Saquon Barkley will be the most notable Penn State player at this year’s Combine. During his time at Penn State, Barkley set several school records in the weight room and could easily put up eye-popping numbers, perhaps even breaking some Combine records for the running back position. Current mock drafts have him going anywhere from the number one overall pick to number nine.

Campbell and Hamilton both received rave reviews from NFL personnel for their work leading up to the Senior Bowl. Hamilton also benefited from a strong week of practice leading up the the East-West Shrine Game. Gesicki has a chance to be the first tight end off the board, but is not expected to be drafted until the second or third round.

Somewhat of a surprise, invitations were not extended to offensive lineman Brendan Mahon and defensive tackles Curtis Cothran or Parker Cothren. All three prospects have extensive playing time as starters during the past several seasons. Wide receiver Saeed Blacknall never had the stats to really catch the attention of scouts, but has the measurable and ability to have a career in the NFL.

The Combine will occur February 27 through March 5 in Indianapolis.