Barkley impresses early at combine with top bench press mark

The 2018 NFL Scouting Combine saw its first set of physical drills Thursday as offensive linemen, running backs, and special teamers went through the bench press drill. Naturally, all eyes were on Saquon Barkley.

Expected to be the star of the combine, Barkley lived up to his reputation by putting up 29 reps of 225 pounds. However, he met his match in Georgia's Nick Chubb, who also tallied 29 to tie for the most among running back prospects.

Among offensive linemen, UTEP guard Will Hernandez led with 37 reps as Notre Dame guard Quenton Nelson and Auburn tackle Braden Smith tied for second with 35. Oklahoma tackle Orlando Brown Jr. - who stands 6-foot-8, 345 pounds - may have hurt his stock by posting just 14.

One of the more important occurrences of the day happened when top-rated center prospect Billy Price from Ohio State suffered an apparent injury. According to multiple reports, Price stopped his bench press after several reps and left the drill holding his left arm.