2/24- Illini Defenders Put Up Strong Numbers at NFL Combine

INDIANAPOLIS, Ind - Three former University of Illinois defensive players showcased their talent today at Lucas Oil Stadium for 600 NFL scouts, coaches and general managers at the 2009 Combine. The defensive linemen concluded their workouts with both Will Davis and Derek Walker ranking among the top performers. The defensive back group began their session with the bench press, a showcase for Illinois Vontae Davis. Walker, an end from Glendale Heights, Ill., put up numbers among the top-10 defensive linemen in the vertical jump (37.5 inches / 5th); broad jump (97" / 8th), three-cone drill (7.31 / T9th) and the shuttle (4.41 / 9th). Will Davis, of Greenbelt, Md., posted an identical broad jump with Walker of 97" to place eighth. An NFL early entrant, Vontae Davis, took part in the bench press of 225 pounds along with his fellow defensive backs, putting up 25 reps, the best among cornerbacks. He is slated to continue workouts tomorrow in the combine finale. Derek Walker, DE Vertical Jump - 37.5; 5th Broad Jump - 97"; 8th Three-Cone - 7.31; T9th 20-yard shuttle - 4.41; 9th Will Davis, DE Broad Jump - 97"; 8th Vontae Davis, CB Bench Press - 25; 1st