Kids playing in sandlots often simulate the style of their favorite NFL players.

It could be the twisting and slashing of Detroit running back Barry Sanders or the high stepping of San Francisco cornerback Deion Sanders.

As they imitate these moves, they all dream about showcasing their own skill in the NFL.

For Penn State football players Kyle Brady, Ki-Jana Carter, Kerry Collins, Bucky Greeley, Phil Yeboah-Kodie and Willie Smith, that dream is within reach.

Beginning today and continuing through Monday, those six Lions and other invited collegiate players who have declared their eligibility for the draft will participate in the annual NFL Combine Workouts in Indianapolis.

"It's satisfying to be going out there," Greeley said. "It's been a dream to play in the NFL, and now I'm one step closer to that dream."

The scouting combines serve as a measuring stick for the NFL draft on April 22-23 at the Paramount Theater in New York City.

At these workouts, players are given an extensive physical. They also participate in several drills, including the 40-yard dash, bench press, vertical leap and broad jump.

"The most important part of the workouts is the medical aspect," said Cincinnati Bengals' scout Jim Lippincott. "Each player goes through a physical examination so a doctor can get a clear picture of where they stand physically and so you don't take chances on guys who may become injured."

Otho Davis, Philadelphia Eagles head athletic trainer, said players are given an orthopedic exam and blood, urine and other medical tests.

The combines are the first opportunity for scouts and coaches to judge players outside of the college setting. But scouts and coaches are not only looking for a player that is athletic.

"We look for a smart kid, one that can adapt easily," said Todd Brunner, Northeast college scout for the Philadelphia Eagles, "and one that can pick up the offensive or defensive system."

The combines represent a chance for the players to evaluate themselves and see how they stack up to other athletes.

"It allows you to see where other players are in accordance to what you can do," said Brian Adams, an area scout for the Cleveland Browns.

A strong performance at the combines could enhance a player's draft position. But for some established athletes, a good effort is not necessary for maintaining a high selection in the draft.

"A bad combine for a player like Ki-Jana Carter won't affect his draft position," Brunner said.

But for Greeley, the combines could be the difference in whether he is drafted.

"I'm going out there to give it my best effort," Greeley said. "I have no idea where I will be drafted, if I am. If I'm not, fine. If I'm drafted, great."

But even with a great combine, there are other factors to consider.

"I think whoever is involved in the drafting of players is careful not to overreact to anything that happens at the combines," Lippincott said. "The bottom line is still what happens on the football field."