Long and Watson impressive at NFL combine

Saddleback was one of only two junior college programs in the country to have two players drafted into the NFL last year, and once again it looks as if it could happen again in 2013.  Both Kyle Long and Menelik Watson are projected to be picked in the first three rounds after a tremendous weekend at the NFL Scouting Combine.

Long (pictured) and Watson both looked good, drawing solid reviews from the analysts on the NFL Network.  Both players are expected to be drafted in the first three rounds according to draft experts, with the potential to go much earlier.

Long dazzled the crowd and analysts when he ran a 4.93-seconds in the 40-yard dash, the third fastest time among offensive linemen (VIDEO LINK).  He also ranked eighth in the 20-yard shuttle with a time of 4.63 seconds.  Long entered the combine as the No. 4 ranked guard for the upcoming draft by NFL.com's Mike Mayock.

Watson was very good at the individual drills on the field  (VIDEO LINK).  He ran the 40-yard dash in 5.29 seconds, and had a 24.5-inch vertical jump.  He is considered the No. 5 offensive tackle by Mayock.

Long and Watson both played for Saddleback on the 2011 team that finished 8-3 and ranked No.  17 in the nation by JCGridiron.com.  Long was considered the No. 2 junior college offensive tackle prospect for the class of 2012 by JCGridiron.com while Watson was No. 9. 

Long continued his career at Oregon in 2012, where he played both tackle and guard, starting 10-of-12 games for the Ducks.  Watson was the starting right tackle at Florida State for the entire 2012 campaign and was an honorable mention All-ACC selection following the season.

Long graded out at the combine with a score of 77, which they list as an eventual starter in the NFL and a second to third round pick in the draft.  Watson had a very similar score of 76.

The 2013 NFL Draft will be held in New York City at the famous Radio City Music Hall from April 25-27.