Blue-Grey National Kicking Combine: Scouting Report
A first of its kind gathering took place this past weekend as the inaugural Blue-Grey National Kicking Combine inside of Dallas Cowboys’ AT&T Stadium exceeded expectations despite the relative infancy of the two-day event located in the Lone Star State.
NFL veteran Jeff Wolfert and his staff from KCKicking, including Trey Barrow and Dalton Parks, ran a well-organized workout. The first leg of things was on June 27 at Arlington Heights (TX) and the Top 10 specialists advanced to the biggest stage around.
Once there, on June 28 over at Jerry’s World, the venue somewhat playfully named after longtime NFL owner Jerry Jones, several of the nation’s top kickers and punters stepped out on the field and delivered more than a few memorable moments for fans.
What follows are highlights of multiple individuals who left a lasting impression on the coaches in attendance. Also, with good efforts when given the opportunity, a pair of prospects secured roster spots for the Blue-Grey All-American Bowl.
A.J. Reed, K, Prattville (AL): A Duke commit, the 6-foot-1 and 180-pound senior-to-be was the most well-known national name and he did nothing to tarnish his growing reputation. He remains on the radar for the All-American Bowl.
Wolfert Evaluation: Reed is a pure ball-striker and has a fluid swinging motion. He went a perfect 8-for-8 on field goals during the first day of work. He is a great pick-up for the Blue Devils.
Tommy Park, K, Mount Vernon (WA): The 5-11 and 160-pound senior-to-be showed off his strong leg and displayed plenty of versatility with an ability to punt. In doing so, he earned his way on the team for the All-American Bowl.
Wolfert Evaluation: Park is a dual threat who is ready for NCAA Division I. His technique is nearly flawless and expect he will push for a starting position early in his collegiate career.
Noah Pearl, K, Horizon (AZ): Similar to his counterpart, Pearl locked up an all-important role for the All-American Bowl with a steady effort. From start to finish, that is. He got the job done and did not shy away from the spotlight.
Wolfert Evaluation: Pearl was one of our most consistent performers at the combine. His swing is repeatable and he demonstrated the ability to transition well from a block to the ground.
Jack Dinneen, K, Ballard (WA): The 5-11 and 170-pound senior-to-be had one of the biggest legs. That fact, of course bodes well for the future. Jacob Farni from Murphy (AL) and Julius Duarte from Forest (FL) are other names to remember.
Wolfert Evaluation: Dinneen was one our top performers. He delivers under pressure and proved that with a 55-yard hit. He drives his kickoffs deep, that will transition at the next level.
Robert Fish, P, Warren (OH): Safe to say the 6-2 and 220-pound senior-to-be was a workhorse. He did, after all, take reps at linebacker during the Blue-Grey Super Combine held at the exact same time. His effort was impressive, to be sure.
Wolfert Evaluation: Fish has one of the most explosive legs we’ve ever seen. He is capable of hitting 4.7 seconds-plus of hang time. With some technique refining, he could be a top punter.