Bernard-Converse recorded the fastest 40-yard dash and highest vertical jump Wednesday. Versatile defensive back Jay Ward leapt 11 feet, 1 inch in the broad jump, an impressive measurement recognized by Senior Bowl executive director Jim Nagy. Bernard-Converse and Garner tied for the quickest shuttle. And Garner left with the fastest 3-cone drill at 6.88 seconds.
“I believe I made myself some money,” Garner said.
Garner has become an intriguing prospect because of his size. He measured 6-foot-2 and 212 pounds at the combine — LSU’s numbers listed him at just over 6 feet — which makes him possibly the biggest cornerback in the draft. He wanted to show that, despite his size, he can move like someone 20 pounds lighter.
Throughout the pre-draft process, teams have asked Garner about his willingness to play safety. After transferring from UL last year, Garner started 13 games at cornerback before opting out of the Citrus Bowl. He finished the season with 43 tackles, including 1½ for loss, with a team-high eight pass breakups.
“Coming in, I do want to play corner, but I’m obviously one of the most versatile players in this draft with how big I am and my frame,” Garner said. “I’m definitely open to playing whatever they want. Whatever gets me quickly on the field, I’m willing to play it.”
Bernard-Converse, a five-year starter between Oklahoma State and LSU, looked particularly smooth as the defensive backs went through a positional workout. He had 26 pass breakups and four interceptions during his career. Last season, he moved around the secondary when LSU occasionally needed his help at safety.
Without a combine invitation, Bernard-Converse has been waiting for significant feedback from NFL teams. He wanted to get through pro day first, and now he has provided the data points from an impressive workout.
“I’m going to go eat with my parents,” Bernard-Converse said before he left, “and enjoy this day.”
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