A day after offensive linemen and tight ends checked in to the 2012 NFL Combine, we finally get a chance to get some news. Players do not begin running their 40s and lifting weights until Saturday, but for now we have some height, weight, arm length measurements. For now it will only lead to speculation about draft status, but it is something to start with for now.
Stanford is represented today by offensive tackle Jonathan Martin, offensive guard David DeCastro and tight end Coby Fleener. None of the three surprised anybody with their measurements. Martin came in at just over 6'5, weighing 312 lbs with a 34 inch arm length. DeCastro came in at a tall 6'4 (and 7/10 of an inch), 316 lbs and with an arm length of 32 3/8. Fleener is 6'6, 247 lbs with arm length of 33 3/8 and hand size of 10 inches.
Martin declared he was better than USC OT Matt Kalil and believes he is the best tackle in the draft. Martin reportedly suffered food poisoning in recent days and will not lift or do field drills during the Combine. He will save that for his Pro Day in March.
The big question with DeCastro was where his arm length would come in. His 32 3/8 was about what was expected and likely leaves him a a guard at the next level. He could potentially play some tackle, but arm length is a sizable consideration at the next level when a player is out on that island. His work in the drills will help better clarify that situation.