The 2026 NFL Scouting Combine kicks off this week in Indianapolis, where 319 of the top college prospects will undergo medical evaluations, interviews, athletic testing and on-field workouts from February 23 through March 2 at Lucas Oil Stadium and the Indiana Convention Center.

The NFL logo appears on a goal post before the 2015 NFC Championship game between the Seattle Seahawks and the Green Bay Packers at CenturyLink Field in Seattle Jan. 18, 2015.
NFL

The annual event, long a cornerstone of the pre-draft process, provides NFL teams with critical data ahead of the April 23-25 draft in Pittsburgh. While the combine rarely reshapes entire draft boards, standout performances in the 40-yard dash, bench press and positional drills can elevate stock, and poor showings can raise questions.

This year's class features strong depth at several positions, particularly edge rushers, running backs and offensive linemen, though quarterback remains a point of intrigue with fewer elite options compared to recent years.

The combine begins Monday with arrivals, medical exams and initial media availabilities. General managers and head coaches from all 32 teams speak to reporters Tuesday and Wednesday, offering insights into team needs and draft strategies.

On-field workouts start Thursday, February 26, with defensive linemen, linebackers and kickers/ punters taking the field from 3 p.m. ET. Defensive backs and tight ends follow Friday at the same time. Quarterbacks, wide receivers and running backs showcase Saturday starting at 1 p.m., and offensive linemen close things out Sunday at 1 p.m.

NFL Network provides live coverage of workouts and interviews, with streaming available on NFL+ and the NFL app. Highlights and analysis follow daily on social media and league platforms.

A record 319 prospects received invitations, up slightly from recent years, reflecting a deep pool of talent. The event includes measurements, bench press (225 pounds for reps), vertical and broad jumps, three-cone drill, 20-yard shuttle, 60-yard shuttle for some and the marquee 40-yard dash.

Top prospects drawing attention include Ohio State linebacker/edge Arvell Reese, widely viewed as the class's premier talent regardless of position. Scouts praise his explosiveness, versatility and production, with many calling him a potential top-five pick.

Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love stands out as a dynamic playmaker with elite speed and receiving skills, potentially the best back in the class. Ohio State safety Caleb Downs brings elite range and ball skills, making him a sought-after defensive back.

Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza, a projected high pick for teams needing a franchise signal-caller, headlines the QB group. Though he may opt not to throw, his interviews and medicals will be scrutinized. Other QBs to watch include Penn State's Drew Allar, LSU's Garrett Nussmeier and Arkansas' Taylen Green.

Edge rushers Reuben Bain Jr. from Miami and Texas Tech's David Bailey offer pass-rush upside, while offensive linemen like Missouri's Armand Membou and Clemson's Blake Miller could solidify as first-round talents with strong testing.

Wide receivers feature speed threats like Mississippi State's Brenen Thompson, projected for a sub-4.35 40, and others such as Arizona's Jordyn Tyson and USC's Makai Lemon. Defensive backs include Tennessee's Jermod McCoy and Clemson's Avieon Terrell.

The class boasts notable depth in the trenches, with experts noting a stronger offensive line group than in recent drafts. Centers like Florida's Jake Slaughter and guards like Texas A&M's Chase Bisontis highlight interior talent.

Storylines abound: Teams like the Las Vegas Raiders, holding the No. 1 pick, face decisions on quarterback needs. The combine offers a platform for prospects to address character concerns, scheme fit and injury history in interviews.

Athletic testing often produces risers — a blazing 40 can push a Day 2 prospect into Round 1 — while struggles in agility drills or the gauntlet can prompt reevaluation.

Medical evaluations remain paramount, revealing injury histories that could alter draft stock more than any drill.

Indianapolis has hosted the combine since 1987, valued for its central location and facilities. The city will continue through 2028, with a potential revisit afterward.

As the league transitions post-Super Bowl 60, the combine launches the offseason in earnest. Free agency looms in March, but draft preparation dominates here.

Prospects aim to impress scouts, coaches and executives from all teams in one centralized setting. For many, it's the biggest stage before the draft.

With a talented yet positionally varied class, the 2026 combine promises compelling performances and insights shaping April's selections.