The NFL Scouting Combine brings in dozens more prospects than will be chosen in the 2016 NFL Draft, but there are always players drafted that were not at the combine. As well, a strong college career doesn't always guarantee a spot in Indianapolis for the event. Here are some of the most notable college players that weren't invited this year. For the full list of combine participants, click here.
Navy ATH Keenan Reynolds
He's undersized, he's out of position, and he's scored more rushing touchdowns (88) than anyone in NCAA history. NFL clubs will have to reconcile those factors in determining whether Reynolds is worthy of a draft pick, but they won't get any help from the combine in doing so. The former Navy quarterback is trying to convert to running back and/or return specialist -- whatever it takes to get a shot at the NFL -- but he'll have to wait until his pro day event to show scouts what he's capable of in the 40-yard dash and other agility drills. He looked good early in the week of East-West Shrine Game practices until a back injury sidelined him.
Michigan LB Joe Bolden
The Wolverines' team captain led Michigan with 83 tackles, and had some impressive moments the week of the East-West Shrine Game in St. Petersburg, Fla., three weeks ago. Not lacking for toughness or instincts, it's athleticism that's the primary draft question on Bolden.
Louisville LB James Burgess
The senior had a big year for the Cardinals, piling up 92 tackles with 9.5 tackles for loss and four pass breakups. It might be enough to merit a late draft pick or a camp invitation, but it wasn't enough for a trip to Indianapolis. His father, James Sr., is a former Miami Hurricanes linebacker who played briefly with the San Diego Chargers (1997-98).
Wisconsin DB Michael Caputo
The leader of the Badgers secondary broke up eight pases and intercepted two others as a senior. He's better known for his run-stopping ability (106 tackles as a junior), but it's his coverage skills and special teams contribution that will have more influence on his NFL hopes.
Baylor WR Jay Lee
After posting the best season of his college career (19.9 yards per catch, eight TDs), Lee drew an invitation to the Reese's Senior Bowl. At 6-3, 215 pounds and with impressive speed, he's got the physical traits NFL clubs look for. Baylor's unorthodox offense doesn't just make for a tough transition to the NFL for quarterbacks, however; it's a trick for wide receivers, as well.
Alabama QB Jake Coker
A national championship doesn't punch a combine ticket; that's the lesson learned for the Crimson Tide quarterback who will instead prepare for UA's heavily scouted pro day. With all the size and arm strength NFL clubs look for, the scouting concerns on Coker surround his relative lack of college experience, a slow delivery and slow field reads.
Wisconsin FB Derek Watt
The younger brother of Houston Texans star J.J. Watt finds himself in a difficult position, trying to appeal to as many NFL clubs as possible at a position that the league has made less room for over the years. Watt's hopes for an NFL career figure to be strongly tied to his ability to contribute on multiple special teams at the next level.
*Follow Chase Goodbread on Twitter **@ChaseGoodbread*.
