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As the NFL 2017 NFL draft inches closer and closer, prospects are trying to increase their draft stock by partaking in private workouts with teams. Except for Stanford running back Christian McCaffrey, who has declined all private workout requests.
Teams don’t seem to be complaining about him declining to workout privately. They’re not complaining anonymously to media about it at any rate.
There’s less incentive for him to use the private workouts to elevate his draft stock since he’s projected to be a high first-round pick. Since February, McCaffrey’s seen his stock rise from a fringe first-round pick to a potential top-10 selection (the eighth overall pick in SB Nation’s latest mock draft). Given the risk of injury, there’s more at risk for him in taking the private workouts than declining them.
McCaffery dominated the combine, showcasing his speed, pass-catching abilities, and agility. He ran a 4.48 in the 40-yard dash and recorded a 37.5-inch vertical. At Stanford’s pro day, he wowed scouts again working out as a return man and at wide receiver.
“I feel like a lot of people don't give me credit for my skills and talents,” McCaffrey said. “That's just the way it is. But I also don't really care too much. I don't feel like I'm crazy disrespected. I have a chip on my shoulder at all times.”
Versatility has always been McCaffrey’s calling card. A Heisman runner-up, he broke Barry Sanders’ NCAA record for all-purpose yardage during the 2015 season with 3,496 yards. During his three-year stint with Stanford, McCaffery racked up 3,922 rushing yards and 21 touchdowns, along with 1,206 receiving yards and 10 receiving touchdowns. He had another 1,859 yards returning kicks and punts.
Workouts haven’t been on the agenda, but McCaffrey has taken plenty of visits with teams, including the Broncos, where his father won two Super Bowls during a nine-year with the team.