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NFL Combine's 'medal winners'

There's a lot of debate about how well the 40-yard dash and other tests that measure speed, agility and strength at the NFL Scouting Combine translate into production on the football field.

But one thing for certain is that the nation's top draft-eligible college prospects delivered some very impressive performances at this year's annual event at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis.

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Kent State running back Dri Archer's 4.26 in the 40 was the fastest at the Combine.
If the Combine was conducted like the Olympic Games, two players would have "medaled" in three of the seven events.

According to NFL.com, Oregon State receiver Brandin Cooks finished first in the 20-yard shuttle run (3.81) and the 60-yard shuttle (10.72) and second in the 40 (4.33). Nicknamed "Sonic Boom," the 5-10, 186-pounder won the Biletnikoff Award as the nation's best receiver in 2013, setting Pac 12 records with 128 receptions and 1,730 yards while catching 16 touchdown passes.

Louisville receiver Damian Copeland finished second in the three-cone drill (6.53) and the 20-yard shuttle (3.90) and third in the 60-yard shuttle (10.84). Last season the 6-1, 182-pounder had 58 receptions for 780 yards and five touchdowns.  

Two other prospects placed in the top three in two events. BYU safety Daniel Sorensen finished first in the three-cone drill (6.47) and second in the 60-yard shuttle (10.80). NFL.com predicts that the 6-1, 205-pounder will not be drafted and describes him as a "classic overachiever with enough size, straight-line speed and intelligence to function as a backup and special teams performer."

Baylor running back Lache Seastrunk finished first in the broad jump (11'2") and tied for second in the vertical jump (41'5"). The 5-9, 201-pounder, who transferred to Baylor from Oregon, was selected first-team All-Big 12 last season after rushing for 1,177 yards in 11 games.

The fastest time in the 40 was produced by Kent State running back Dri Archer, who ran a blazing 4.26. The 5-8, 173-pounder is projected by NFL.com as a second- or third-round pick who likely will make his biggest impact as a rookie as a return specialist.

The top performer in the bench press was North Carolina center Russell Bodine, who produced 42 reps of 225 pounds. No other prospect put up more than 36 reps. NFL.com describes the 6-3, 310-pounder as a "top-heavy, barrel-chested, thick-bodied, short-area blocker" who plays with "a gritty football demeanor."  

Ohio State outside linebacker Ryan Shazier won the "gold" in the vertical jump (42'0"). The 6-1, 237-pounder was named first-team All-Big 10 each of the past two seasons and is projected as a first-round draft pick.

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