Notes on a trip to the NFL Scouting Combine.Tulane senior running back Matt Forte lost a lot of money when a bunch of junior running backs declared for the NFL draft. But he has a chance to make a lot of money back in Indianapolis in the coming days.
Forte, who is generally considered the best senior running back prospect but a bit below juniors Darren McFadden, Rashard Mendenhall and Jonathan Stewart, thinks he's going to demonstrate the kind of versatile player he is during Combine workouts this week.
Forte said he expects to surprise NFL scouts with a 40 time in the low 4.4-second range: "They want to see what my speed is going to be here at the combine," he said. "For some reason people think I'm not as fast."
Forte's agent handed me a glossy booklet detailing all the reasons that Forte is the most complete running back prospect in this year's draft, and although glossy booklets from agents don't exactly provide the most objective analysis around, I have to say it makes an impressive case for him: His size, speed (assuming he does turn in that 40-yard dash time) and statistical output on the field compare favorably with those of many college running backs who became NFL stars.
More importantly, Forte makes an impressive case for himself. He's a smart, likable young man who bragged about the academics at Tulane and credited his mother, Gilda Forte, and father, former Tulane captain Gene Forte, for instilling in him the work ethic to become an NFL player. The team that drafts Forte won't be disappointed.
Previously on FanHouse:
Matt Forte: NFL Draft's #3 Running Back?
Browns Hope to Re-sign Jamal Lewis; if Not, Tulane's Matt Forte Could Be in the Plans
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Reader Comments ( Page 1 of 1)
1. Forte is from my home town. He and his family are class acts. He is a true student of the game and a model student and a good young man. He will be a great asset to any NFL team.
Posted at 4:51PM on Feb 21st 2008 by scott
2. Forte also is from my home town. I agree with everything the above said about him. His smarts and down-to-earth nature will go a long way in impressing the bigwigs at the next level. Not to mention his talent.
Posted at 2:38PM on Feb 22nd 2008 by The Hazean
3. I played football with Matt since we were younger and ever since then he has been one hell of an athlete. Matt is probably the best all around back in the draft this year and he will prove that at the combine. I just wish him the best of luck.
Posted at 8:25PM on Feb 22nd 2008 by abhdwayne
4. Hey, Matt I hope you remember my son is George Menhal and I. I've watched you play as a boy. I always knew you had talent. It has been a joy to watch you. God bles you. I wish you nothing but the best. I know Gene is proud of you. You will do good in the NFL. You have worked hard for this, you deserve it. good luck ! Dottie
Posted at 1:45PM on Mar 16th 2008 by dottie menhal