Temple's Pierce not a standout at NFL combine

INDIANAPOLIS - Bernard Pierce said he wanted to "turn a couple of heads" with his speed and prove that he's faster than people think.

The Temple junior also hoped to show scouts at the NFL combine that he's a better pass-catcher than his numbers suggest. His opportunity didn't go well Sunday, according to NFL Network draft analyst Mike Mayock.

"I didn't think he had a great day today, and I like him, and he's a Philly guy so I want to like him," Mayock said. "He's a big back with good feet. I think he struggled a little bit catching the ball today."

Pierce, a Glen Mills School graduate from Ardmore, was a standout runner in college, but caught just 19 passes in three seasons. He ran a 4.49-second 40-yard-dash, tied for seventh among running backs.

Mayock projected him as a fourth-round pick.

Baylor's Robert Griffin III, already the star of the weekend, opened eyes even wider when he ran the 40-yard dash in 4.41 seconds, the second-fastest time ever for a quarterback at the combine. (An unofficial timer initially had Griffin at 4.38, but that was revised.)

Texas A&M's Reggie McNeal covered 120 feet in 4.35 seconds in 2006 for the best time ever for a quarterback. Michael Vick did not run at the combine in 2001, but reportedly clocked a 4.33-second 40 on his pro day that year.

Quarterback Andrew Luck, the likely top pick in the draft, ran the 40 in 4.67 seconds and excelled in the combine's physical tests, showing athleticism that has been overlooked.

Penn State wide receiver Derek Moye ran the 40 in 4.52 seconds, placing him in the middle of the pack among receivers. He ranked near the bottom of the class in the bench press, broad jump, and vertical jump. . . . Baylor's Kendall Wright, a speed receiver who some have touted as a potential replacement if the Eagles lose DeSean Jackson, ran a disappointing 4.61 in the 40. Jackson clocked in at 4.35 at the combine in 2008.