DeAndre Hopkins may have solidified himself as a first-round pick in the 2013 NFL Draft during Clemson Pro Day on Thursday. Unofficially, he clocked in at 4.5 and a 4.41 in his two attempts at the 40-yard dash, which is a considerable improvement over the 4.57 he ran at the 2013 NFL Combine.
Hopkins is projected to go No. 12 overall to the Miami Dolphins, according to SB Nation's latest mock draft, due to his combination of size, body control and impeccable hands. Speed wasn't considered a particular strength until Hopkins proved Thursday that he has some jets. Unsurprisingly, he also performed well in position drills:
DeAndre Hopkins/WR is tearing it up during pass catching drills at Clemson pro-day..
— Tony Pauline (@TonyPauline) March 7, 2013
Pauline was also impressed with defensive lineman Malliciah Goodman during drills. He didn't participate in the bench press after putting up 26 reps of 225 pounds in Indianapolis. Goodman ran the 40, however, and unofficially posted a blistering time of 4.52 seconds. If that time is accurate, he could be making a big move up draft boards. Goodman wasn't exceptionally productive in college, but an NFL team may be willing to take a chance on his raw potential.
Jaron Brown reportedly ran the fastest 40 time of the day, clocking in at 4.29 seconds. He wasn't targeted often last season next to Hopkins, but his speed and 6'2 height make him an intriguing prospect.
The Tigers' third combine participant, running back Andre Ellington, did not take part in Thursday's Pro Day, and will instead hold his own separate workout on March 29.
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