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NFL Draft 2018: What we learned from Sam Darnold’s pro day

By Chris Langone

LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Sam Darnold #14 of the USC Trojans scrambles out of the pocket during the second quarter against the UCLA Bruins at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum on November 18, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images)
LOS ANGELES, CA - NOVEMBER 18: Sam Darnold #14 of the USC Trojans scrambles out of the pocket during the second quarter against the UCLA Bruins at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum on November 18, 2017 in Los Angeles, California. (Photo by Harry How/Getty Images) /
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After declining to throw at the NFL Combine, Sam Darnold’s much-anticipated pro day concluded in at USC on Wednesday. What did we learn?

After shining in USC’s pro day, Sam Darnold may have solidified himself as the first pick in the 2018 NFL Draft. Though he didn’t throw at the Combine, Darnold was able to make a lasting impression on NFL scouts, coaches and general managers at his pro day.

Cleveland Browns owner Jimmy Haslam, general manager John Dorsey and head coach Hue Jackson were among the several NFL decision-makers in attendance.

Darnold actually delayed his workout to wait for the rain to pour down on USC’s practice field. The California-native proved that he can play football in the elements, not just in the beautiful Pasadena sun. The weather didn’t seem to phase the former Trojan as he made accurate throws all over the field during his workout.

Darnold was widely considered the unanimous choice for the No. 1 overall selection in the draft entering his sophmore season at USC. However, with a less-than-spectacular campaign, Darnold left the door open for others to claim that spot.

But thanks to an excellent pro day, Darnold may have reclaimed that position.

The biggest knock on Darnold is his turnovers and lack of ball security. And while that’s still a concern, his pro day, at the very least, made NFL teams undervalue that aspect of his game. Darnold threw nearly 60 times during his workout and made accurate and precise throws throughout the day.

During a post-workout interview, Darnold said he had dinner Monday night with the Giants, and Tuesday night with the Browns. It seems at this point, those are the only two teams in contention for Darnold, barring any trades before the draft.

Next: NFL Mock Draft: Unexpected first-round picks post-FA

With Darnold’s long-awaited pro day in the books, it seems like the 2018 NFL draft finally has a player leading the pack for No. 1 overall. In a crowded quarterback class, Darnold may have done enough to stand alone.

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