As the 2026 NFL Combine approaches, excitement is building around the opportunity for college football prospects to enhance their draft stock ahead of the April selections. Scheduled from February 23 to March 2 in Indianapolis, the combine will showcase 319 athletes, including 16 quarterbacks, all under the watchful eyes of NFL coaches, scouts, and front office personnel.
In previous years, several players have leveraged the combine to propel themselves up draft boards through impressive workouts and interviews. While testing results are not the final word, they help NFL teams form a well-rounded understanding of a prospect’s athletic potential and fit within their organization.
Here are ten standout players to watch closely at Lucas Oil Stadium as they aim to make notable impacts during the combine:
Garrett Nussmeier, quarterback from LSU, showcases first-round potential when on point, but inconsistency has marred his collegiate career. After a decline from projected top selection to a likely Day 2 pick, Nussmeier will need to demonstrate his capabilities at the combine to reassure evaluators. Last season, playing behind a struggling offensive line, he faced considerable challenges that led to detrimental plays.
Meanwhile, Texas A&M’s KC Concepcion has emerged as a versatile slot receiver who can create big plays, having averaged 15.1 yards per catch in his junior season after transferring from NC State. While he faces competition from other wide receivers, Concepcion’s dynamic playmaking ability could earn him a first-round grade if he performs well in Indianapolis.
Oregon tight end Kenyon Sadiq also stands out for his consistent reliability in crucial situations, especially in scoring opportunities. With a team-leading 51 receptions and exceptional athleticism, Sadiq’s performance in the combine will likely solidify his status among the top tight ends available.
South Carolina safety Jalon Kilgore seeks to follow in the footsteps of former teammate Nick Emmanwori, who was a surprise second-round pick. Kilgore’s strong athletic skills and coverage abilities position him well, projecting him as a mid-round selection with the potential for a significant rise.
Penn State’s Drew Allar, a quarterback renowned for his arm strength and size, needs to address questions surrounding his performance ceiling following a season interrupted by injury. After solidifying his reputation as a five-star recruit, Allar’s aim at the combine will be to justify early-round projections.
TCU safety Bud Clark, although not an explosive athlete, has a proven track record of making impactful plays on the field, including 11 career interceptions. His solid showing at the Senior Bowl may help warrant higher consideration from teams during the draft.
Georgia linebacker CJ Allen earned the trust of his coach and demonstrated prowess in play diagnosis, making him a standout for the Bulldogs. With minor concerns regarding coverage, Allen’s performance at the combine will have a significant effect on his draft standing.
Among the edge rushers, Indiana’s Mikail Kamara saw his sack total decline after a strong 2024 season. Standing at 6-foot-1 and weighing 265 pounds, his agility and adaptability in combine drills could shift perceptions about his draft value.
Arkansas quarterback Taylen Green showcases durability and processing skills stemming from his RPO-heavy college offense. With solid athleticism and physical attributes, Green presents an intriguing option for teams searching for a depth-chart selection.
Lastly, Ohio State cornerback Davison Igbinosun boasts an impressive three-year starting record without allowing a single touchdown pass last season. While he needs to refine his technique to avoid penalties, his size and experience could lead to him making significant strides at the combine.
As the prospects gear up for their combines, the spotlight is on them for the chance to impress and elevate their opportunities ahead of the draft. Fans and analysts alike are eager to see which players will rise to the occasion.