NFL Combine 2016: Running Backs, Offensive Line Workout Schedule

The on-field workout portion of the 2016 NFL Scouting Combine gets underway on Friday. Here is the workout schedule for running backs and offensive linemen.

There might not be a better example of just how consuming the NFL is in the American sports landscape than the popularity of the NFL Combine. The annual event represents just a portion of the pre-draft process but the league has managed to turn it into hours and hours of television programming that many fans crave.

2016 NFL Draft prospects have arrived in Indianapolis over the last several days for medical checks, interviews and press conferences but the on-field workouts are the real television programming star of the event and those get underway today.

First up will be running backs, offensive linemen and special teams players. Workouts will be televised on NFL Network and streamed online at NFL.com.

The offensive line and running back groups make for an interesting first day of workouts for Detroit Lions fan to watch. There is no doubt the Lions could stand to improve the offensive line, particularly at right tackle. The draft represents an opportunity to do so but that doesn’t mean they will attempt to do so with an early pick. They could, particularly if they feel there is an upgrade over Riley Reiff available, but they could just as easily use a late day two or early day three pick as right tackle-only option.

Adding to the interest in the offensive line prospects is that the Lions have, at a minimum, a need for a backup center. Add in for consideration that Travis Swanson underwhelmed in his first season as the starting center and the Lions could hedge their bets by taking another young center to compete for the starting job or to serve as much-needed depth.

The release of Joique Bell also means that the Lions have snaps available at running back that need to be filled. Theo Riddick had a breakout season in 2015 but did so as a receiving threat from the slot as well as out of the backfield and Ameer Abdullah shouldn’t be looked upon as a workhorse back to absorb Bell’s touches on top of what he did as a rookie.

Next: Lions 7-Round Mock Draft

Zach Zenner returns from injury but remains unproven with his best film coming in limited action against suspect competition in preseason games. It would be prudent to add a running back to the roster rather than coming into the season counting on Zenner to step in for Bell. A low-cost veteran could be an option but so too could one of the players working out in Indianapolis this week.