Saturday Stars: Who gained the most on Day 1?

WINNIPEG — While the numbers weren’t eye-popping, CFL.ca’s Marshall Ferguson called it an impressive first day of testing at the CFL Scouting Combine presented by adidas.

The day started with McMaster receiver Daniel Petermann earning the top 40 with a time of 4.54, and finishing under the bright lights of Winnipeg’s RBC Convention Centre with UBC offensive lineman Dakoda Shepley reaching 27 reps on the bench press.

“The athletic level of the group that’s been brought to Winnipeg is top notch,” said Ferguson, who provided commentary during the CFL’s live stream of the day’s events. “They’re impressive for a number of reasons depending on the position group, but there are a lot of positives in this draft class and that’s coming out as we go through the weekend.”

On a busy day that included not just the 40 and bench but also the short shuttle and three-cone drill, Marsh provides his three stars on the first day of testing:

Dakoda Shepley
OL | UBC

Shepley was the very last to take the bench on Saturday night in Winnipeg, and in the end he drew the loudest cheers after topping the field with 27 reps. He also led all offensive linemen in the 10-second portion of the 40, setting him up for a nice weekend if he can finish strong on Sunday.

For Ferguson, the one-on-one portion of the testing is where Shepley could shine the most.

“Dakoda’s an animal,” said Ferguson. “He’s tall, athletic and showed off a level of strength tonight that separated him from his peers. I think honestly the easiest part of this evaluation for him is in pads.

“I’m not surprised that he tested well, but he didn’t need to test well to stay as a highly-rated prospect but he did, so he only helped himself.”

Kene Onyeka
DL | Carleton

A projected first round pick along with his brother, Godfrey, Kene did what he needed to on Saturday at the national showcase — even if the numbers don’t jump off the page.

Kene Onyeka didn’t dominate in any one event, but he didn’t hurt himself, either, said Ferguson.

“Great mix of speed and power,” Ferguson said. “Not going to set records at any test through the combine process, but it’s the well-rounded nature of his game that allows him to get home to the quarterback at such a high level.

“A marquee matchup that coaches will probably ask for on Sunday is him and Shepley because they’ll look at them being 1A vs. 1B of line play and they’ll want to see him tackle as a defensive end.

“That’ll be worth watching.”

Daniel Petermann
WR | McMaster

Daniel Petermann was the star of the show on Saturday morning, running to a chart-topping 4.54 in the 40 while putting up impressive numbers in the three-cone and short shuttle as well.

In the evening, he was among the top receivers with 16 reps on the bench, flashing a solid blend of strength and speed and overall athleticism.

While Petermann was expected to flourish in the one-on-ones, his success in the testing portion of the combine has likely improved his stock.

“Dan Petermann opened a lot of eyes,” said Ferguson. “Special speed. I’ve always seen it on field but it’s nice to see it translate to the national combine stage.

“He finished the day by proving he’s not just one-dimensional. He ran well, he showed strength and I know he will impress in pads on Sunday.”