During the NFL Combine on Friday, cornerbacks showcased their skills during the on-field testing, proving to be a key focus for teams heading into the offseason. The Indianapolis Colts, in particular, find themselves in a strong position with their cornerback lineup.
As the Colts prepare for 2026, Charvarius Ward is expected to remain a significant part of the team, accompanied by notable players such as Kenny Moore, Sauce Gardner, and Justin Walley. Head coach Shane Steichen is eager to have Walley back on the field, confident in the depth provided by players like Johnathan Edwards, Mekhi Blackmon, and Jaylon Jones.
The Combine highlighted standout performances from cornerbacks in various events. Toriano Pride Jr. from Missouri led the pack with an impressive 4.32-second finish in the 40-yard dash. He was followed closely by Daylen Everette from Georgia at 4.38 seconds, and Chris Johnson from San Diego State, who clocked in at 4.40 seconds. Several others matched that time, including Chandler Rivers from Duke and Tacario Davis from Washington.
In the vertical jump category, D’Angelo Ponds from Indiana took the top spot with a remarkable jump of 43.50 inches, showcasing his explosive athletic ability. Charles Demmings from Stephen F. Austin and Will Lee III from Texas A&M also excelled, each reaching a height of 42.00 inches.
The broad jump results saw Julian Neal from Arkansas leap an impressive 11 feet 2 inches, placing him at the top alongside Demmings and Lee, who both achieved jumps of 11 feet.
Further demonstrating agility and speed, Latrell McCutchin Sr. from Houston stood out in the 3-cone drill with a time of 7.00 seconds and also topped the shuttle run with a 4.18-second finish. These performances throughout the Combine not only spotlight individual talent but also exemplify the depth and competitiveness within the cornerback position group.
As the draft approaches, the exceptional performances at the NFL Combine signal a new wave of talent that NFL teams, including the Colts, might be eager to integrate into their rosters, further bolstering their defensive capabilities for the upcoming season.