Matt Kalil dazzles at Combine, Ladarius Green emerges as potential playmaker

USC offensive lineman Matt Kalil (6’7/306) cemented his status as a top prospect in this years draft after an exceptional Combine workout — posting a 4.99 forty-yard dash and eye-popping 1.70 ten yard split — as on lookers were continually impressed with his natural display of superb athletic ability.

Kalil, the brother of Carolina Panther Pro Bowl center Ryan Kalil, is by all accounts a top five pick in this years draft.

But he’ll have to wait a few minutes to hear his named called as the Colts, who hold the top overall pick, are expected to take Stanford’s Andrew Luck.

St. Louis selects next, but they are currently trying to shop the pick to whomever presents the best offer, as the quarterback starved Cleveland Browns and Washington Redskins are both in play to trade up and get into position to select Baylor’s Robert Griffin III.

But Kalil could here his named called with the third overall pick — slotted to the Minnesota Vikings — who are desperate for good offensive lineman after surrendering 49 sacks during the 2011 season.

Kalil, a certified left tackle, could be just the piece Minnesota needs to ensure that second year quarterback Christian Ponder stays on his feet and off his back as he continues to adjust to the pro game.

Running backs Adrian Peterson and Toby Gerhart probably wouldn’t complain either.

At USC Kalil spent the last two seasons at left tackle protecting the blindside of quarterback Matt Barkley, who threw for 3,528 yards and 39 touchdowns in 2011, as Kalil gave up zero sacks throughout the year.