No run-of-mill running back

0 Comments | USA TODAY, April, 2008 | by Skip Wood

Before the NFL scouting combine this past February, most conversations about potential top picks in the April 26-27 draft included Darren McFadden, the dynamic running back from Arkansas.

Then he ran in Indianapolis.

Jaws dropped. Player personnel representatives gulped.

McFadden, who has been runner-up for the Heisman Trophy the last two seasons, ran a stunning 4.33 in the 40-yard dash.

Not sure what that means? Consider that former Olympic gold medal sprinter Justin Gatlin, who two years ago tied the world record in the 100-meter dash, has failed to beat or even match McFadden's 40 time the last couple of seasons while auditioning for several NFL teams.

Talk about separating yourself from the pack.

"He absolutely...