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NFL Combine 2017: For top prospects, 40-yard dash can be more marathon than sprint

Many of Chris Godwin's defining moments as a football player unfolded at Beaver Stadium, where more than 100,000 fans often fixed their gaze in his direction and hollered everything from encouragement to vitriol.

But Friday, when the former Penn State wide receiver trots onto an NFL field for a performance that could leave a lasting imprint on his career, the seats will be nearly empty. Godwin will see a handful of scouts and fellow draft prospects strolling the field at Indianapolis' Lucas Oil Stadium -- but nothing else.

When he lines up for the 40-yard dash at the NFL scouting combine, Godwin will have to cope with an eerie, unfamiliar silence.