Jan 1, 2018; Atlanta, GA, USA; Auburn Tigers quarterback Jarrett Stidham (8) is sacked by Central Florida Knights linebacker Shaquem Griffin (18) in the second quarter in the 2018 Peach Bowl at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Photo Credit: Brett Davis-USA TODAY Sports
INDIANAPOLIS — What can’t Shaquem Griffin do?
His inspirational story added yet another chapter Sunday when the 6-foot-1, 227-pound linebacker from Central Florida was clocked at a staggering 4.38 seconds in his first running of the 40-yard dash — one day after using a prosthetic on his amputated left hand to record 20 repetitions of 225 pounds in the bench press.
NFL Network host Rich Eisen said the unofficial time of 4.38 was the fastest time for a linebacker since at least 2003.
Although Griffin’s second attempt at the 40 was unofficially clocked at 4.58, he remains the feel-good story of the Combine.
Despite winning the American Athletic Conference’s Defensive Player of the Year for UCF (the only undefeated FBS team in the country last season), Griffin was not even among the initial 300-plus players invited to the Combine. He received a late call-up only after wowing scouts at the Senior Bowl.
During workouts that week in late January, the former safety/linebacker/defensive end impressed scouts with his versatility, instincts and raw athleticism.
Though it seems illogical that a player with only one arm could be an effective defender, Griffin has adapted wonderfully, using his forearm to fend off opponents. Offensive linemen are taught to grab the wrist and pull defenders down if they are successful in reaching their chest. Griffin’s narrow limb, however, gives opponents a comparatively small, blunt target, which — combined with his agility — makes it very difficult for blockers to keep him contained for long.
He entered the Combine as a fourth- to fifth-round prospect — and rising — according to NFLDraftScout.com.
