Short Arms, Big Upside: Day 1 NFL Combine Reorders Edge and Linebacker Stock
Day 1 of the NFL Combine featured a mix of red flags and breakout displays for edge-rushers and linebackers: Rueben Bain Jr. and Cashius Howell posted among the shortest arm lengths for the position, raising questions about their ability to create separation despite strong tape; Arvell Reese’s measurements suggest he may be better suited as a high-end off-ball linebacker. LT Overton and Lee Hunter posted disappointing explosiveness numbers, potentially tempering early-round momentum. On the upside, Malachi Lawrence, Sonny Styles, Caleb Banks, Demonte Capehart, and Kyle Louis delivered elite athletic marks (Styles: 4.46 40, 43.5" vertical, 10' broad, 10.00 RAS), signaling serious upside and pushing some into Day 2/Day 1 consideration despite positional questions. In short, Day 1 deepens the arm-length vs. athleticism debate while highlighting several players with standout burst.