The combine is frequently referred to as a job fair for NFL prospects. They're asked to strip down to their underwear in front of a roomful of strangers who jot down their measurements and scrutinize their physiques. They're poked and prodded by doctors who examine each and every health concern and body part. And they're asked a variety of questions, some of which test their football knowledge, while others tend to get more personal.
"With the importance placed on the combine, you better have the right training," said Chris Weinke, the former NFL quarterback, Heisman Trophy winner and 2001 fourth-round pick who directs IMG's football-related activities. "Success comes from the preparation."
No detail is left to chance during the training period. The campus is set up so prospects never have to leave. After Kuechly gets out of bed in what he describes as condo-style living quarters, it's time for breakfast.
When he first got to Florida, Kuechly headed to Publix, a nearby grocery store, with his agent, Ryan Fodor, and IMG's nutritionist, Stephanie Wilson. The goal was to come up with an eating plan for Kuechly and educate him on which foods to buy - the right peanut butter, the right bread, nuts, snacks and so on.
"The way I explain it to them is if you eat like this for 12 weeks, it could make or break whether you get a $12 million contract, a $1 million contract or no contract at all," Wilson said. "I was pleasantly surprised with Luke's eating habits. It sounds like his mom did a good job shopping for him in the past."
