This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2013, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.
Utah defensive tackle Star Lotulelei can solidify his status as one of the top five projected picks of the upcoming NFL Draft.
BYU defensive lineman Ziggy Ansah can put a cap on his meteoric rise from unknown to potential first-rounder.
Utah State's Will Davis can prove once and for all that he's one of the top cornerbacks making the leap to professional football. Utah defensive end Joe Kruger can simply prove he belongs.
The NFL Combine takes place beginning Thursday in Indianapolis — the premier annual pre-draft event that can make or break the stock of an NFL hopeful.
All told, six local players will compete in the four-day event, with at least five having a solid hope of being drafted.
In addition to the four listed above, USU running back Kerwynn Williams will compete, as will BYU offensive lineman Braden Brown.
If all goes well, this should be a good year for the local talent. Lotulelei is a premier prospect. Ansah, with his upside, can get into the first round. Davis had a standout season with the Aggies and is projected to go somewhere in the first day. Kruger and Williams are expected to be drafted.
Beyond those six, people like USU wide receiver Matt Austin and Southern Utah quarterback Brad Sorensen are expected to be heavily evaluated at their respective pro days. —
Locals at the Combine
Ziggy Ansah • BYU, defensive end, 6-6/270
Braden Brown • BYU, offensive lineman, 6-6/300
Joe Kruger • Utah, defensive end, 6-7/280
Star Lotulelei • Utah, defensive tackle, 6-4/320
Will Davis • Utah State, cornerback, 6-0/185
Kerwynn Williams • Utah State, running back, 5-8/189