NFL Combine watch list: Best prospects set to shine in Indianapolis

The 2026 NFL Scouting Combine is almost here, and with it comes the first major stage where draft prospects can differentiate themselves in front of every NFL decision-maker. With 319 invitees set to arrive in Indianapolis for interviews, medical evaluations and athletic testing, several players stand out as worthy of extra attention, either because they’re projected first-round picks, have something to prove, or could dramatically improve their stock with a strong showing.

Here are the most exciting prospects to watch as the Combine gets underway.

2026 NFL Combine players to watch

Quarterbacks - The signal-caller showcase

Fernando Mendoza, QB (Indiana)

Although widely projected as the likely No. 1 pick in April’s draft, Mendoza is officially at the Combine and will go through interviews and tests, even if he does limited throwing drills, a common choice for top signal callers with pro days on the horizon.

Ty Simpson, QB (Alabama)

A dual-threat presence with prototypical size and mobility, Simpson will use Combine drills and interviews to prove durability and NFL-ready skill development after an up-and-down college career.

Carson Beck (Miami) and Jalon Daniels (Kansas)

Both are among the 15 QBs officially invited, offering contrast in style - Beck with pocket polish and Daniels with improvisational feel - and will be favorites for team interviews.

Edge Rushers - Impact pass-rush talent

NFL teams covet disruptive edge rushers, and the Combine is where scouts measure explosiveness and agility. Players to watch include:

Arvell Reese, OLB/EDGE (Ohio State)

Reese is a dynamic playmaker who could rise up draft boards with strong testing.

Rueben Bain Jr., EDGE (Miami)

Bain is a consistently productive defender with prototype size and burst.

Wide Receivers - Speed, size and separation

The 2026 class is deep at receiver, with plenty of intriguing prospects on the Combine list.

Malik Benson (Oregon)

Benson is a big-bodied receiver with contested-catch ability.

Chris Brazzell II (Tennessee)

Brazzell has shown ability to win vertically, and his drills have the potential to show elite burst.

J. Michael Sturdivant (Florida)

Sturdivant is a long, smooth route-runner who pairs size with athleticism.

Defensive Backs - Coverage versatility

Defensive back play is premium in today’s NFL, and the Combine gives cornerbacks and safeties a chance to show range and instincts.

Mansoor Delane, CB (LSU)

Delane is a physical, strong-coverage corner with length.

Domani Jackson, CB (Alabama)

Jackson boasts elite traits and high competitive instincts.

Caleb Downs, S (Ohio State)

Downs is a play-maker in the secondary with top coverage skills.

Offensive Line - Foundation pieces

Offensive linemen continue to be hot commodities, and several big bodies will show strength, footwork and athleticism.

Francis Mauigoa (Miami)

Mauigoa is a powerful tackle with a great balance of strength and mobility.

Kadyn Proctor (Alabama)

Proctor has a physical upside with massive frame and movement skills.

Caleb Lomu (Utah)

Lomu is a balanced lineman with starter instincts.

Connor Lew (Auburn, C)

Lew is a top interior prospect with leadership and technique.

Brian Parker II (Duke, C)

Parker is a versatile blocker who has impressed evaluators.

These OL prospects are officially invited and will be tested on everything from shuttle drills to bench press reps.

The importance of the Combine

The NFL Combine isn’t just about 40-yard dash times. It’s where teams dig into medical evaluations, interview prospects on and off the field, and assess testing that can confirm or raise questions about players’ athletic traits. For prospects in the middle rounds especially, a strong showing here can be the difference between early selection and a later pick.

With workouts scheduled to start on Thursday, February 26 after interviews and media sessions earlier in the week, a few days in Indianapolis could reshape draft boards and player narratives.

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