Mixed Reviews for USC Running Backs

The University of Southern California held its Pro-Day workouts Sunday, and to no one's surprise, top-ranked Reggie Bush did nothing to hurt his draft status. However, the same can't be said for bruising runner LenDale White.

Bush was clocked in the forty-yard dash anywhere from 4.33 to 4.41 seconds depending on who you talk to, and he looked smooth and quick in all the agility drills. White, on the other hand, might as well have stayed home because the only event he performed in was the bench press. And he was less than impressive in that area to say the least, managing to push the bar up just 15 times. He appeared somewhat out of shape, and didn't run or perform any agility tests because of a lingering hamstring injury he has battled since the NFL combine.

White also made comments that could be construed as complacent by front-office personnel. "I'm the only true big back in the first round, and people who want the physical runner are going to have to look at me," he told reporters.

The problem is, White has yet to run for scouts. And, although he ran well between the tackles in college, his power numbers Sunday did nothing to enhance his image as a power runner. And if teams feel he is leaning on his status as the top-ranked power back to coast into a high first-round selection, they'll be even more inclined to pass on him.

Don't be surprised if Mr. White slips to the end of the first round unless he puts together a decent workout at some point before the draft.