National Football League Combine Research Articles

Predicting Sprint Performance From the Vertical and Horizontal Jumps in National Football League Combine Athletes.

Agar-Newman, DJ, MacRae, F, Tsai, M-C, and Klimstra, M. Predicting sprint performance from the vertical and horizontal jumps in National Football League Combine athletes. J Strength Cond Res 38(8): 1433-1439, 2024-Identifying fast athletes is an important part of the National Football League (NFL) Combine. However, not all athletes partake in the 36.58-m sprint, and relying on this single test may miss potentially fast athletes. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to determine whether sprinting times can be predicted using simple anthropometric and jumping measures. Data from the NFL Combine between the years 1999-2020 inclusive were used (n = 4,149). Subjects had a mean (±SD) height = 1.87 ± 0.07 m and body mass = 111.96 ± 20.78 kg. The cross-validation technique was used, partitioning the data into a training set (n = 2,071) to develop regression models to predict time over the 9.14-, 9.14- to 18.29-, 18.29- to 36.58-m, and 36.58-m segments using vertical jump, broad jump, height, and mass as the independent variables. The models were then evaluated against a test set (n = 2,070) for agreement. Statistically significant (p < 0.01) models were determined for 9.14-m time (adjusted R2 = 0.76, SEE = 0.05 seconds), 9.14- to 18.29-m time (adjusted R2 = 0.74, SEE = 0.04 seconds), 18.29- to 36.59-m time (adjusted R2 = 0.79, SEE = 0.07 seconds), and 36.58-m time (adjusted R2 = 0.84, SEE = 0.12 seconds). When evaluated against the test set, the models showed biases of -0.05, -0.04, -0.02, and -0.02 seconds and root-mean-square error of 0.07, 0.05, 0.07, and 0.12 seconds for the 9.14-, 9.14- to 18.29-, 18.29- to 36.58-m, and 36.58-m segments, respectively. However, 5-6% of the predictions lay outside of the limits of agreement. This study provides 4 formulae that can be used to predict sprint performance when the 36.58-m sprint test is not performed, and practitioners can use these equations to determine training areas of opportunity when working with athletes preparing for the NFL Combine.

The Relationship Between the National Football League Scouting Combine and Game Performance Over a 5-Year Period.

Cook, J, Ryan, GA, Snarr, RL, and Rossi, S. The relationship between the National Football League scouting Combine and game performance over a 5-year period. J Strength Cond Res 34(8): 2492-2499, 2020-There has been doubt on the ability of the National Football League (NFL) Scouting Combine to predict successful future game performance. This study analyzed data from athletes who participated in the Combine between 2013 and 2017 (n = 1,537) and their subsequent year's performance in the NFL. Data from 6 athletic measures were normalized for each athlete when compared with all other athletes (avgCZ) and athletes of the same position (avgPZ). Correlational analysis was used to ascertain whether the physical performance tests were associated with subsequent year's game performance (avgS). A multiple linear regression was performed to examine whether individual event Combine performance could predict the subsequent year's avgS in the NFL. Of the 35 correlations found when examining relationships, only 2 correlations were found to be moderately strong, avgCZ-avgS2 (r = 0.320), avgPZ-avgS2 (r = 0.332), whereas most were found to be weak (r < 0.3). Furthermore, data analysis suggests that Combine measures can only explain approximately 2.6% of the variance in avgS 1 year after the Combine when using 3 (vertical jump, bench press, and PRO) performance tests as predictors. The primary results of this study suggest that the NFL Combine lacks predictive ability when examining first year game performance. Furthermore, it also lacks correlational strength when examining relationships between performance and subsequent 5-year performance in the NFL. Caution should be used if coaches, general managers, and other front office staff are considering the use of Combine data as a possible selection for the upcoming NFL Draft.

A 10-year Evaluation of the NFL Combine. Do Combine Results Correlate with Career Longevity for NFL Offensive players?

Abstract Background: The National Football League (NFL) combine has been found to play a significant role in NFL draft decisions. Previous studies have demonstrated correlations between a player’s combine metrics

Recurrent Anterior Cruciate Ligament Tears in the National Football League: A Case-Control Study.

Background:Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries are common in American football players. The risk of subsequent ACL reinjury to either the ipsilateral or the contralateral knee in National Football League (NFL) draftees with a history of successful ACL reconstruction before entering the NFL remains unknown.Hypothesis:NFL athletes with a history of successful ACL reconstruction before being drafted will likely demonstrate increased risk of subsequent ACL injury when compared with a control cohort consisting of players of similar positions and draft class.Study Design:Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.Methods:Detailed orthopaedic evaluations of NFL Combine participants from 2006 to 2012 were obtained to identify players entering the NFL draft with a history of successful ACL reconstruction. A control cohort was created in a 2:1 ratio, consisting of players matched by position and draft class.Results:Of the 2016 players invited to the NFL Combine during the study period, 100 met the inclusion criteria. A total of 26 subsequent ACL reinjuries (12 ipsilateral, 14 contralateral) occurred in 25 players (25%) while playing in the NFL, with injuries occurring at a mean of 22.1 months after the NFL draft. In comparison, 18 of the 200 (9%) carefully matched cohort players without history of prior ACL injury sustained a new ACL injury during this time period (P < .001).Conclusion:NFL athletes with a history of successful ACL reconstruction before being drafted into the NFL have a significantly higher rate of subsequent ACL reinjury while playing in the NFL when compared with a carefully matched cohort of players without a history of prior ACL injury.

A Systematic Review of the Orthopaedic Literature Involving National Football League Players

Background:Orthopaedic injuries of National Football League (NFL) players can have a deleterious effect on their health, with minimal to no high-level evidence on the management of these injuries.Purpose:To summarize all data published between January 1980 and March 2018 on orthopaedic injuries experienced by NFL candidates and professional players in the NFL.Study Design:Systematic review; Level of evidence, 4.Methods:A literature search of studies examining orthopaedic injuries in the NFL was performed through the PubMed, Embase, and CINAHL databases. The review included studies of orthopaedic injuries in college football recruits attending the NFL Combine as well as professional NFL players. Excluded were studies of nonorthopaedic injuries, such as concussions, traumatic brain injury, facial injuries, and vascular injuries, as well as case reports.Results:A total of 147 articles met the inclusion criteria and were divided into 11 topics based on anatomic site: general (16%), spine (13%), shoulder (13%), elbow (3%), hand and wrist (3%), trunk (0.7%), hip and pelvis (7%), thigh (3%), knee (24%), ankle (5%), and foot (12%). Of these studies, 74% were of level 4 evidence. Most studies obtained data from the NFL Combine database (26%), by searching the internet (24%), and via the NFL Injury Surveillance System (22%). Studies using internet search methods to identify injuries consistently found fewer participants than studies using the NFL Injury Surveillance System.Conclusion:This systematic review provides National Collegiate Athletic Association and NFL team physicians with a single source of the most current literature regarding orthopaedic injuries in NFL players. Most research was published on knee, spine, shoulder, and foot injuries and consisted of level 4 evidence. A substantial portion of the published literature was based on data obtained from internet searches and may not accurately represent the NFL population.

Increasing Incidence of Pectoralis Major Ruptures in NFL Players

Objectives: Pectoralis major ruptures are considered an uncommon injury in football. A previous study showing that only 10 compete ruptures occurred in the NFL between the years 2000-2010. The purpose of the study is to report the incidence of pectoralis ruptures in National Football League (NFL) players from 2010-2017 and identify any characteristics that could have contributed. We hypothesized that incidence of pectoralis major ruptures would increase over the past eight years. Methods: Using publicly available reports from websites such as ESPN.com and NFL.com, pectoralis major injuries in professional football players were identified during the years 2010-2017. Details about age, position played, injury setting, performance enhancing drug (PED) suspensions, and combine performance were obtained from NFL Combine and compared to peers at the same workout. Results: During the eight years analyzed 51 separate NFL players suffered a total of 55 pectoralis major ruptures. Defensive players accounted for 82% (42 of 51) of the injured players. The ruptures happened at the average age of 26±1 years, and 76.4% (42 of 55) of them occurred during games. After the rupture, 87.3% (48 of 55) required surgery, while definitive treatment could not be determined for the remaining seven injuries. For athletes that received playing time before injury and had their rupture occur prior to the most recent 2017 season, 85.4% (41 of 48) returned to play in a game. When comparing athletes at the combine who later ruptured their pectoralis major to peers at their position, those who tore their pectoralis major tendon on-average ranked in the 63 rd percentile for bench press (N=40), 50th percentile for arm length (N=14), and 52nd percentile for 20-yard shuttle (N=20). When the NFL suspension records were examined, only 5.9% (3 of 51) of players with a pectoralis major rupture had been suspended for (performance-enhancing drug) PED use before or after the injury. Conclusion: The total number of pectoralis major ruptures has drastically risen from 10 cases between 2000-2010 to 55 cases from 2010-2017. The reason behind this increase remain uncertain but appears to be independent of relative strength, agility, and arm length, and suspension for PED use.

The National Football League Combine 40-yd Dash: How Important is Maximum Velocity?

Clark, KP, Rieger, RH, Bruno, RF, and Stearne, DJ. The NFL combine 40-yard dash: how important is maximum velocity? J Strength Cond Res 33(6): 1542-1550, 2019-This investigation analyzed the sprint velocity profiles for athletes who completed the 40-yard (36.6 m) dash at the 2016 National Football League (NFL) Combine. The purpose was to evaluate the relationship between maximum velocity and sprint performance, and to compare acceleration patterns for fast and slow athletes. Using freely available online sources, data were collected for body mass and sprint performance (36.6 m time with split intervals at 9.1 and 18.3 m). For each athlete, split times were used to generate modeled curves of distance vs. time, velocity vs. time, and velocity vs. distance using a monoexponential equation. Model parameters were used to quantify acceleration patterns as the ratio of maximum velocity to maximum acceleration (vmax/amax, or τ). Linear regression was used to evaluate the relationship between maximum velocity and sprint performance for the entire sample. In addition, athletes were categorized into fast and slow groups based on maximum velocity, with independent t-tests and effect size statistics used to evaluate between-group differences in sprint performance and acceleration patterns. Results indicated that maximum velocity was strongly correlated with sprint performance across 9.1, 18.3, and 36.6 m (r of 0.72, 0.83, and 0.94, respectively). However, both fast and slow groups accelerated in a similar pattern relative to maximum velocity (τ = 0.768 ± 0.068 seconds for the fast group and τ = 0.773 ± 0.070 seconds for the slow group). We conclude that maximum velocity is of critical importance to 36.6 m time, and inclusion of more maximum velocity training may be warranted for athletes preparing for the NFL Combine.

Athletes With Musculoskeletal Injuries Identified at the NFL Scouting Combine and Prediction of Outcomes in the NFL: A Systematic Review.

Background:Prior to the annual National Football League (NFL) Draft, the top college football prospects are evaluated by medical personnel from each team at the NFL Scouting Combine. On the basis of these evaluations, each athlete is assigned an orthopaedic grade from the medical staff of each club, which aims to predict the impact of an athlete’s injury history on his ability to participate in the NFL.Purpose:(1) To identify clinical predictors of signs, symptoms, and subsequent professional participation associated with football-related injuries identified at the NFL Combine and (2) to assess the methodological quality of the evidence currently published.Study Design:Systematic review; Level of evidence, 3.Methods:A systematic review was conducted in accordance with the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guidelines. We reviewed all studies that examined musculoskeletal injuries identified among athletes at the NFL Combine and associated outcomes. Data on signs, symptoms, and subsequent NFL participation were collected, and the methodological quality of the studies was assessed.Results:Overall, 32 studies, including 30 injury-specific studies, met the inclusion criteria. Twenty studies analyzed data collected at the NFL Combine from 2009 and later. When compared with matched controls, athletes with a history of a cervical or lumbar spine injury, rotator cuff repair, superior labrum anterior-posterior repair, anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction, full-thickness chondral lesions of the knee, or Lisfranc injury played in significantly fewer games early in their NFL careers. Additionally, athletes with a history of a cervical or lumbar spine injury, rotator cuff repair, and navicular injury had decreased career lengths versus controls. Defensive players and linemen were found to have decreased participation in the NFL for several injuries, including prior meniscectomy, anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction, and shoulder instability. Career length follow-up, measures of athletic participation, and matching criteria were highly variable among studies.Conclusion:For medical professionals caring for professional football athletes, this information can help guide orthopaedic grading of prospects at the NFL Combine and counseling of athletes on the potential impact of prior injuries on their professional careers. For future studies, improvements in study methodology will provide greater insight into the efficacy of current treatments and areas that require further understanding.

Performance Following Operative Versus Nonoperative Management of Labrum Pathology in Collegiate Football Players Entering the National Football League (NFL) Combine

To analyze the potential risks and benefits of operative vs nonoperative management of labrum pathology in elite college football players transitioning to the NFL.

Radiographic Analysis of National Football League Players' Fifth Metatarsal Morphology Relationship to Proximal Fifth Metatarsal Fracture Risk.

Fractures of the proximal fifth metatarsal are one of the most common foot injuries in athletes. Repetitive stresses endured by the fifth metatarsal can lead to stress fracture, delayed union, and refracture, making optimal treatment challenging. A radiographic analysis of fifth metatarsal morphology and foot type in National Football League (NFL) players was performed to investigate morphologic risk factors for these injuries. This was a case-control study that looked at NFL players treated between 1992 and 2012, as well as participants at the NFL Combine. Ninety-six feet (51 athletes) were included. Fractures were present in 15 feet. Two reviewers assessed fifth metatarsal morphology and foot type on anteroposterior, lateral, and oblique radiographs. Differences in foot type and metatarsal morphology between athletes with and without fractures were determined. On anteroposterior radiographs, significant differences in apex medullary canal width, 4-5 intermetatarsal angle, fifth metatarsal angle, and talar head uncovering were observed between fractured and non-fractured feet ( P = .001, .003, .004, .008, respectively). On lateral radiographs, significant differences in the fifth metatarsal length, distance to apex, apex height, fifth metatarsal angle, and talocalcaneal angle were observed between fractured and nonfractured feet ( P = .04, .01, .02, .01, .01, respectively). On oblique radiographs, a significant difference was observed in apex height between fractured and nonfractured feet ( P = .002). Individuals with long, narrow, and straight fifth metatarsals with an adducted forefoot were most at risk for fifth metatarsal fractures. With this insight, attempts at fracture prevention can be implemented via footwear modifications, orthoses, and off-loading braces that account for those aforementioned morphologic attributes that place athletes at risk. Level III, retrospective comparative study.

Effect of Posterior Glenoid Labral Tears at the NFL Combine on Future NFL Performance.

Background:Posterior labral injuries have been recognized as a particularly significant clinical problem in collision and contact athletes.Purpose:To evaluate the effect that posterior labral tears have on early National Football League (NFL) performance based on position, associated injuries, and operative versus nonoperative management.Study Design:Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.Methods:A retrospective review of all participants in the NFL Combine from 2009 to 2015 was performed using medical and imaging reports documented at the combine. Magnetic resonance imaging scans were analyzed for tear location, associated injuries, and evidence of previous surgical interventions. Each player’s NFL draft position, as well as number of games played, number of games started, and snap percentage in his first 2 NFL seasons were collected for performance analysis and were compared with a control group of uninjured counterparts.Results:Players with posterior labral tears were selected significantly later in the draft than those in the control group (draft position, 171.6 vs 156.1, respectively; P = .017). Although no single individual position was significantly affected by posterior labral tears, linemen (both offensive and defensive) with posterior labral tears were drafted significantly later than those without tears (draft position, 164.0 vs 137.7, respectively; P = .018) and had a significantly lower percentage of snaps in their first NFL season (23.8% vs 27.7%, respectively; P = .014). Players who underwent surgical management before the combine had a significantly higher percentage of snaps in their second NFL season than those who were managed conservatively (31.4% vs 22.3%, respectively; P = .022). None of the concomitant injuries recorded (superior labral anterior-posterior tears, glenoid bone loss, reverse Hill-Sachs lesions, rotator cuff tears, reverse humeral avulsions of the glenohumeral ligament, and posterior labral tears combined with anterior tears) significantly affected the draft position, number of games played, number of games started, or snap percentage for the cohort as a whole or any specific position.Conclusion:Posterior labral tears did negatively and significantly affect early NFL outcomes for collegiate football players across several different metrics, especially among linemen. While operative management did not produce significantly superior performance in most outcome measures, it may allow for better longevity of the shoulder and warrants further investigation. Concomitant shoulder injuries did not significantly affect early NFL outcomes in this cohort.

The Epidemiology of Ankle Injuries Identified at the National Football League Combine, 2009-2015.

Background:American football is a leading cause of sports-related injuries, with the knee, ankle, and shoulder most commonly involved.Purpose/Hypothesis:The purpose of this study was to describe the epidemiology, characteristics, and imaging findings of ankle injuries in football players at the National Football League (NFL) Combine and determine the relationship to player position. We hypothesized that there would be a high relative incidence of ankle injuries in these players compared with other sports and that there would be a direct correlation between the incidence of ankle injuries and player position.Study Design:Cross-sectional study; Level of evidence, 3.Methods:A retrospective chart review of data collected from NFL Combine participants between 2009 and 2015 was performed. Patient demographics, history, physical examination results, and imaging findings were reviewed.Results:Of 2285 players, 1216 (53.2%) had a history of ankle injuries; of these, 987 (81.2%) had unilateral injuries, while 229 (18.8%) had bilateral injuries (total of 1445 ankles injured). This included 1242 ankle sprains (86.0% of ankle injuries): 417 (33.6% of sprains) high and 930 (74.9%) low. The most common soft tissue injuries were to the anterior talofibular ligament (n = 158, 12.7% of sprains) and syndesmosis (n = 137, 11.0%). Of all players at the NFL Combine with radiographs, 131 (10.9%) had evidence of an ankle fracture, all of which had healed. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) identified 66 players (28.9% of players at the combine who underwent MRI) with articular cartilage injuries: 62 involving the talus and 16 involving the tibia. Furthermore, 85 players (37.3% of players with MRI) with tendon injuries were identified: 26 Achilles, 55 peroneal, 3 flexor hallucis longus, and 19 posterior tibial. A total of 611 players (50.6% of players with radiographs) had signs of arthrosis on radiography. Running backs (61.9%), offensive linemen (60.3%), and tight ends (59.4%) had the highest rates of ankle injuries by position, while kickers/punters (23.3%) and long snappers (37.5%) had the lowest.Conclusion:Prior ankle injuries were present in more than 50% of elite college football players attending the NFL Combine. The rate of these ankle injuries varied by player position: offensive linemen, running backs, and tight ends had the highest overall rates, while special teams players had the lowest. Additional prospective work is needed to determine the impact of prior injuries on future playing career.

Prevalence of Shoulder Labral Injury in Collegiate Football Players at the National Football League Scouting Combine.

Background:Labral tears confirmed by magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) are a relatively common injury among collegiate athletes and can influence a player’s ability to compete at the professional level.Purpose:To determine the prevalence of MRI-confirmed shoulder labral injuries in collegiate football players entering the National Football League (NFL) Combine and to further describe these injuries by tear location, player position, history of surgical intervention, and associated concomitant shoulder injuries.Study Design:Descriptive epidemiology study.Methods:Data from 2009 to 2015 were retrospectively collected through review of the injury data registry available to the medical and training staff of all NFL teams following the completion of the NFL Combine. After players with potential labral tears were identified through history and examination, their MRIs were reviewed by 2 fellowship-trained orthopaedic sports medicine surgeons. Players diagnosed with a labral tear confirmed by MRI were separated for further analysis.Results:A total of 2285 players were analyzed for the presence of labral tears at the NFL Combine. Overall, 377 shoulders (in 340/2285 players; 14.9%) demonstrated MRI evidence of labral tear; whereas linebackers had the highest rate of labral tear (19.2%), linemen had significantly higher risk for labral injury in at least 1 shoulder (odds ratio, 1.31; 95% CI, 1.02-1.67; P = .029) compared with nonlinemen. Of the 377 shoulders analyzed, 115 (30.5%) exhibited an anterior labral tear, 131 (34.7%) had a posterior labral tear, and 131 (34.7%) had combined anterior and posterior tears. One hundred twenty (31.8%) shoulders had superior labral anterior-posterior (SLAP) tears. A total of 203 (53.8%) shoulders demonstrated evidence of previous surgical intervention on imaging.Conclusion:Injury involving the labrum is relatively common among participants at the NFL Combine, especially linebackers and linemen. Further investigation is necessary to determine the impact these injuries have on player draft position and NFL performance.

Effect of Anterior Glenoid Labral Tears and Glenoid Bone Loss at the NFL Combine on Future NFL Performance.

Background:Anterior glenohumeral instability is a common abnormality in the young, athletic population, especially in those participating in contact or collision sports.Purpose:To examine the effect of anterior labral tears, their associated injuries, and their management on future National Football League (NFL) performance.Study Design:Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.Methods:A retrospective review of all NFL Combine participants from 2009 to 2015 was performed using medical and imaging reports compiled at the NFL Combine. These notes and images were reviewed and analyzed for involved structures, associated injuries, and evidence of previous surgical interventions. The respective NFL draft position, number of NFL games played, number of NFL games started, and NFL snap percentage for each player’s first 2 seasons were collected and compared with a control group and within subgroups.Results:Of the 2285 players at the NFL Combine between 2009 and 2015, there were 206 (9%) anterior labral tears confirmed by magnetic resonance imaging, 20 of which were bilateral, for a total of 226 affected shoulders. There were 908 players who fit the criteria for inclusion in the control group. Overall, there were no significant differences between players with anterior labral tears and the control players in terms of draft position (P = .259), games played in their first 2 NFL seasons (P = .391), games started in their first 2 NFL seasons (P = .486), or snap percentage in their first (P = .268) and second (P = .757) NFL seasons. In general, sustaining a concomitant injury with an anterior labral tear (superior labrum from anterior to posterior [SLAP] tear, glenoid bone loss, Hill-Sachs lesion, rotator cuff tear, humeral avulsion of the glenohumeral ligament, and anterior tear combined with posterior tear) negatively affected a player’s NFL draft position when compared with those with an isolated anterior labral tear (P = .003). There was no significant difference between operative and nonoperative management for anterior labral tears in terms of any performance metric.Conclusion:A history of anterior labral tears was not significantly associated with future NFL performance. While players with isolated injuries were drafted significantly earlier than those with concomitant injuries, combined injuries did not affect players’ games played, games started, or snap percentage in their first 2 NFL seasons. Glenoid bone loss did significantly decrease draft position; however, the severity of bone loss did not affect draft position, and there were no significant associations between glenoid bone loss and games played, games started, or snap percentage.

Medial Collateral Ligament Injuries Identified at the National Football League Scouting Combine: Assessment of Epidemiological Characteristics, Imaging Findings, and Initial Career Performance.

Background:The medial collateral ligament (MCL) is one of the most commonly injured structures in the knee, especially in young athletes. The impact of MCL injury on National Football League (NFL) performance in elite collegiate athletes has not yet been described in the literature.Purpose:We aim to (1) describe the prevalence and severity of MCL injuries in NFL Combine participants, (2) detail injury management, and (3) analyze the impact of MCL injury on NFL performance in terms of draft position, games played, games started, and snap percentage.Study Design:Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.Methods:A retrospective review of all NFL Combine participants from 2009 to 2015 was performed by reviewing medical records and imaging reports from the combine to identify all players with MCL injuries. A control group was developed from the players evaluated at the combine without MCL injury. For each affected knee, the MCL injury was classified by location and severity based on results of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Each player’s respective NFL draft position, number of NFL games played, number of NFL games started, and NFL snap percentage for the first 2 seasons in the league were collected through the use of NFL.com and Pro-Football-Focus, which are web-based, publicly accessible, comprehensive sports statistics databases.Results:A total of 2285 players participated in the NFL Combine between 2009 and 2015. Three hundred one athletes (13.2%) were identified as having MCL injuries; 36 (12%) of the athletes with MCL injury presented with bilateral injuries, for a total of 337 MCL injuries. Additional soft tissue injury was identified on 187 of 337 (55%) MRIs. Players with a history of MCL injury were more likely to play at least 2 years in the NFL compared with those in the control group (P = .003). Players who had isolated MCL injury performed significantly better compared with athletes who had combined injuries with regard to draft position (P = .034), proportion playing at least 2 seasons in the NFL (P = .022), games played (P = .014), and games started (P = .020) in the first 2 years. No significant difference was found between players who underwent operative versus nonoperative management of their MCL injury.Conclusion:A relatively high percentage of players at the NFL Combine had evidence of MCL injury (13%). A prior history of MCL tear had no negative impact on an athlete’s NFL performance. Players who had isolated MCL injury performed significantly better compared with athletes who had combined injuries with regard to draft position, proportion playing 2 seasons or more in the NFL, and games played and started in the first 2 years.

Jones Fractures Identified at the National Football League Scouting Combine: Assessment of Prognostic Factors, Computed Tomography Findings, and Initial Career Performance

Objectives:Jones fractures, which result in loss of playing time and subsequent dysfunction, remain a significant issue for elite contact athletes. The objectives of the present study are to (1) describe the epidemiology, surgical treatment, and impact on early National Football League (NFL) career of Jones fractures identified at the NFL Scouting Combine and (2) establish the value of computed tomography (CT) to determine healing following a Jones fracture in prospective NFL players.Methods:All players who attended the NFL Scouting Combine (2009-2015) were retrospectively reviewed to identify those who previously sustained a Jones fracture with position of play, treatment method, and number of missed collegiate games recorded. Overall mean draft pick, number of games started and played, snap percentage, and position-specific performance scores (Fantasy Score) were compared between Jones fracture athletes and controls without any major injury prior to the NFL Combine and during first three years of NFL career. A classification system, based on the grading of four individual quadrants (plantar, dorsal, medial, lateral), was applied by three orthopaedic surgeons.Results:Overall, the number of Jones fractures among athletes who attended the NFL Combine (2009-2015) was 72/2285 (3.2%) with all athletes treated via intramedullary (IM) screw fixation. Position-specific performance scores for players with a previous Jones fracture were lower than controls across all positions with a significant difference in running backs and defensive linemen. Subgroup CT scan analysis demonstrated a mean overall score of 2.5±1.3 with kappa values of 0.6 and 0.64 for inter- and intra-observer reliability, respectively. 16 Jones fractures (50%) were healed or nearly healed,12 (37.5%) were partially healed, and 4 (12.5%) showed little or no healing. The plantar cortex demonstrated least healing (56%), followed by the lateral cortex (46.9%).Conclusion:Although infrequent, Jones fractures are encountered at the NFL Combine with the highest prevalence at the tight end position and lowest at the running back position. Based on CT, 50% of all players with a previous Jones fracture demonstrate inhealing with least healing at the plantar and lateral cortices. Moreover, position-specific performance scores demonstrate worst performance at all positions for players with a previous Jones fracture versus controls.

What is the Value of a National Football League Draft Pick? An Analysis Based on Changes Made in the Collective Bargaining Agreement.

Kraeutler, MJ, Carver, TJ, Belk, JW, and McCarty, EC. What is the value of a National Football League draft pick? An analysis based on changes made in the collective bargaining agreement. J Strength Cond Res 32(6): 1656-1661, 2018-The purpose of this study was to analyze and compare the value of players drafted in early rounds of the National Football League (NFL) Draft since the new collective bargaining agreement began in 2011. The NFL's player statistics database and database of player contract details were searched for players drafted in the first 3 rounds of the 2011 to 2013 NFL Drafts. Performance outcomes specific to each position were divided by each player's salary to calculate a value statistic. Various demographics, NFL Combine results, and total number of games missed because of injury were also recorded for each player. These statistics were compared within each position between players selected in the first round of the NFL Draft (group A) vs. those drafted in the second or third round (group B). A total of 147 players were included (group A 35, group B 112). Overall, players in group A were significantly taller (p ≤ 0.01) and heavier (p = 0.037) than players in group B. Group B demonstrated significantly greater value statistics than group A for quarterbacks (p = 0.028), wide receivers (p ≤ 0.001), defensive tackles (p = 0.019), and cornerbacks (p ≤ 0.001). No significant differences were found between groups with regard to number of games missed because of injury. Players drafted in the second or third rounds of the NFL Draft often carry more value than those drafted in the first round. NFL teams may wish to more frequently trade down in the Draft rather than trading up.

A History of Anterior Cruciate Ligament Reconstruction at the National Football League Combine Results in Inferior Early National Football League Career Participation

To evaluate whether players with a history of an anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (ACLR) before the National Football League (NFL) Combine played or started fewer games and/or participated in fewer eligible snaps compared with NFL Combine participants without a history of knee injury or surgery. We performed a retrospective review of all players who participated in the NFL Combine between 2009 and 2015 and who had a history of an ACLR. NFL Combine participants were included if they had a previous ACLR or combined anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury and nonoperatively managed medial collateral ligament injury. The number of games started, number of games played, draft number, overall draft pick, and snap percentage for each position were determined. The mean value of each outcome metric was compared between case and control players. We identified 110 players who had an ACL injury (n= 76) or a combined ACL and medial collateral ligament injury (n= 34). Players in the ACLR group had a significantly worse mean draft pick number (difference of 30.2, P= .002) and mean draft round (difference of 0.8, P=.019) versus controls. Compared with control players, players in the ACLR group started and played significantly fewer games in both season 1 (difference of 2.7 games started, P < .001; difference of 2.7 games played, P < .001) and season 2 (difference of 7.4 games started, P < .001; difference of 3.0 games played, P= .003) and had a significantly lower snap percentage in both season 1 (difference of 23.1%, P < .001) and season 2 (difference of 24.0%, P < .001). Athletes at the NFL Combine who previously underwent an ACLR had significantly lower early-career NFL player metrics, including fewer games started, fewer games played, and a lower snap percentage, than uninjured controls. Defensive linemen, defensive backs, and linebackers were the 3 most affected positions. Players with a prior ACLR and combined meniscal-chondral pathology had significantly lower numbers of games started and games played in seasons 1 and 2 and a significantly lower season 2 snap percentage. Level III, case-control study.

Body Mass Index Versus Body Fat Percentage in Prospective National Football League Athletes: Overestimation of Obesity Rate in Athletes at the National Football League Scouting Combine.

Provencher, MT, Chahla, J, Sanchez, G, Cinque, ME, Kennedy, NI, Whalen, J, Price, MD, Moatshe, G, and LaPrade, RF. Body mass index versus body fat percentage in prospective national football league athletes: overestimation of obesity rate in athletes at the national football league scouting combine. J Strength Cond Res 32(4): 1013-1019, 2018-Obesity has been previously noted as a major issue in the National Football League (NFL), where it has been shown that 97% of all players demonstrate a body mass index (BMI) of ≥25.0 with a reported obesity rate of 56% (BMI ≥ 30.0). However, BMI does not take into account body composition by mass, and may overestimate prevalence of obesity. The purposes of this study were (a) to determine the validity of BMI as a measure of body fat percentage and obesity in athletes at the NFL Combine, (b) to define the obesity rate based on body fat percentage compared with BMI, and (c) to determine the relationship between draft status and body composition. It was hypothesized that the rate of obesity, as measured by air displacement plethysmography (ADP), would be less than the rate of obesity as measured using BMI. Athletes who competed at the 2010 through 2016 NFL Combines were included in this study. Air displacement plethysmograph testing at the Combine was performed through BOD POD Body Composition Tracking System with collection of the following metrics: body fat percentage (%), and compared with BMI based on weight and height. In addition, the metrics were evaluated for differences over the 7-year study period to determine temporal changes and to determine draft status based on position relative to BOD POD calculations. A total of 1,958 NFL Combine participants completed ADP body composition testing. Based on BMI (≥30.0), the obesity rate was 53.4% versus an 8.9% obesity rate when using ADP. Drafted players demonstrated a significantly lower body fat percentage than undrafted players (p ≤ 0.05), with the exception of quarterbacks and running backs. All 8 positions of play, with the exception of defensive linemen, demonstrated a decrease in body fat percentage between 2010 and 2017. However, total body mass by position of play remained relatively constant with no significant change noted in any position. In conclusion, the obesity rate in prospective athletes at the NFL Combine was overestimated when calculated based on the BMI. Body fat percentage was more valid for determining an NFL player candidate's true body composition. Drafted players demonstrated a significantly lower body fat percentage in 6 of 8 positions compared with undrafted players. This is important to recognize for a strength and conditioning professional to use the correct metric when evaluating NFL players who could have been erroneously categorized in the obese population by their BMI. Furthermore, a higher percentage of fat translates to lower chances of becoming drafted.

Prevalence and Impact of Hip Arthroscopic Surgery on Future Participation in Elite American Football Athletes.

Background:Intra-articular injuries to the hip in elite athletes represent a source of significant pain and disability. Hip arthroscopic surgery has become the gold standard for the treatment of disorders involving the hip joint.Purpose:To examine the incidence of and abnormalities treated with hip arthroscopic surgery as well as the impact on future participation in American football athletes invited to the National Football League (NFL) Scouting Combine with a history of hip arthroscopic surgery.Study Design:Cohort study; Level of evidence, 3.Methods:Athletes invited to the NFL Combine from 2012 to 2015 were evaluated for a history of hip arthroscopic surgery. Athlete demographics, imaging findings, and physical examination results were gathered using the NFL Combine database. Information on prospective participation in the NFL with regard to draft status, games played, games started, and current status was gathered using publicly available databases and compared against all other athletes participating in the combine.Results:Fourteen athletes (15 hips) had a history of arthroscopic hip surgery. Acetabular labral tears were treated in 93% (14 hips), with femoroacetabular impingement decompression performed in 33% (5 hips). Compared with athletes who had no history of hip arthroscopic surgery, those undergoing arthroscopic surgery did not possess a lower likelihood of being drafted (66% vs 71%, respectively; P = .78) or of being on an active roster (52% vs 43%, respectively; P = .44) after their first season in the NFL. Moreover, there was no significant difference in the number of regular-season games played (10.9 ± 4.8 with arthroscopic surgery vs 11.0 ± 5.1 without; P = .96) or started (7.0 ± 3.6 with arthroscopic surgery vs 7.1 ± 5.3 without; P = .98).Conclusion:American football athletes invited to the NFL Combine with a history of hip arthroscopic surgery were not at risk for diminished participation when compared with all other athletes during their first season in the NFL.