Christian McCaffrey, Solomon Thomas display versatility at Stanford pro day

STANFORD, Calif. -- Both of Stanford's top 2017 NFL draft prospects touted their versatility at the Cardinal's pro day on Thursday afternoon.

Running back Christian McCaffrey fielded kicks and punts in front of scouts. He then ran a variety of pass patterns.

"I did all my running back stuff at the [NFL] combine," McCaffrey said. "Today, I wanted to make sure they knew I could run routes from the slot, run routes from the outside, and catch kicks and punts. I just wanted to show them that I really believe I can do anything."

McCaffrey invited Chris Bonner, a quarterback for the Tampa Bay Storm of the Arena Football League, to throw to him during pro day. The two have been working out this offseason near McCaffrey's home in the Denver area.

Stanford defensive lineman Solomon Thomas also used the session to highlight his adaptability. He participated in agility drills that tested his fluidity, hand violence and ability to stay low while fighting through contact.

Both McCaffrey and Thomas are in similar situations: Scouts have raved about their diverse physical skill set, but there are questions about exactly which position the two will fit into at the next level.

"It's an advantage to be versatile," Thomas said. "It's an advantage that I can fit into any system. I can play in a 3-4, I can play in a 4-3. I can excel as a 3-tech, I can excel as a 5-tech. I can work anywhere from a 3-tech inside all the way to a 9 [edge rushing from the outside]. I can stand up or have my hand in the dirt."

Thomas is projected as the No. 2 overall pick going to the San Francisco 49ers in Mel Kiper's latest mock draft, while McCaffrey is projected to be picked at No. 17 by the Washington Redskins.

Neither of the two players ran the 40-yard dash at Stanford's pro day. McCaffrey posted a 4.48 in that measurement at the NFL combine, while Thomas registered a 4.69.

"It's been a big job interview," McCaffrey said. "But I look at every single day as a job interview. You've got to come out here and earn your spot. So I'm just trying to continue to perfect my craft."