Pro Day: Pouncey Shines, Black Does Not

Yesterday, scouts and coaches embarked on Gainesville, Fla., in order to put, who most consider to be the “best” interior offensive linemen, through the paces. The 6-foot-4, 310-pound Mike Pouncey decided not to sit on his combine numbers, and partook in Florida’s Pro-Day, participating in every drill and test asked of him.

Mike is the twin brother of Maurkice Pouncey, the center for the Super Bowl runner-up, Pittsburgh Steelers. He was selected 18th in the 2010 draft, so the bar is set high. Mike is looking to capitalize on his brothers success, and so far he is doing an excellent job at it.

NFL.com reports that the Gators stadium was filled with family and friends, current and ex teammates, all wearing “Team-Pouncey” t-shirts. With the support of his adherents, Pouncey and team executives approved of his Pro Day performance.

"“I did a great job. They loved me,” Pouncey said.”"

"“Jacksonville Jaguars general manager Gene Smith said, “He did a nice job out here today.”"

The big draw to Pouncey is his versatility. He played the majority of his college career at gaurd, but moved to center once his brother transitioned to the NFL. Like his brother, he can play all three  interior positions along the offensive line. Jaguars GM, Gene Smith also had this to say,

"“Both guys could play center or guard, and versatility equals value.”"

The draw doesn’t stop with Pouncey’s on-field attributes. Many scouts and coaches are pointing towards his leadership qualities. During the 2010 season, amongst a lot of youth and inexperience, Pouncey emerged as a bona-fide team leader and team captain.

"“You’ve got to love his confidence and his personality,” Jaguars offensive line coach Andy Heck said. “He’s got a magnetic personality. It’s clear that he’s got some leadership about him. I think that shines through.”"

Now that Pouncey has completed and excelled at the Scouting Combine and Florida’s Pro Day, he can set his sights on private visits to NFL team facilities. There, coaches will put him through their own workouts,  and spend quality time with him away from the field. NFL.com reports that his first visit is next Wednesday, with the Detroit Lions.

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Unlike Pouncey, Ahmad Black didn’t shine at Florida’s Pro Day. After running a 4.76 forty-yard dash at the Scouting Combine, Black was looking to use a fast field at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium to improve his time. Unfortunately, his times remained within the same 4.7 vicinity. Scouts love Blacks instincts and big play ability, but at his size and with his lack of speed, picking him high makes him a risk. CBS Sports Rob Rang spoke with an anoymous source who had this to say about Black,

"“The kid plays fast, there’s no question. But at that size and speed, it is going to be tough to convince a DB coach to get on board during [draft] meetings,”"

Sad but true, Black’s stock may be nose diving at a rapid pace. Once considered a second round prospect, he may find himself still on the board come the fourth round.