Biggest Winners and Losers from the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine
The NFL Scouting Combine once again reshaped the outlook for the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft as more than 300 prospects gathered at Lucas Oil Stadium to showcase their athleticism and football skills.
Several prospects significantly boosted their draft stock through elite testing and strong positional drills, while others left Indianapolis with questions that could push them toward later rounds. With pro days and team visits still ahead, the combine results have already influenced how teams are evaluating the 2026 draft class.
Biggest Winners
Brenen Thompson, WR, Mississippi State
Brenen Thompson delivered one of the most memorable moments of the combine by running a 4.26-second 40-yard dash, the fastest time recorded at the 2026 event and one of the quickest in combine history.
The performance highlighted Thompson’s elite speed and big-play potential. After entering the combine as a mid-round projection, his testing numbers could move him into the Day 2 conversation for teams seeking vertical threats at wide receiver.
Kenyon Sadiq, TE, Oregon
Few prospects had a better overall performance than Kenyon Sadiq.
The Oregon tight end ran a 4.39-second 40-yard dash, the fastest ever recorded by a tight end at the combine since official electronic timing began.
Sadiq also posted elite jumping numbers, reinforcing his reputation as one of the most athletic tight end prospects in recent years. His performance likely solidified his status as a first-round candidate.
Jeremiyah Love, RB, Notre Dame
Jeremiyah Love entered the combine already viewed as one of the top offensive prospects in the class and did little to change that perception.
Love ran a 4.36-second 40-yard dash, one of the fastest times among running backs, while also impressing scouts during positional drills.
The Notre Dame standout remains widely projected as a top-10 selection in the draft after finishing third in the 2025 Heisman Trophy voting.
Lorenzo Styles Jr., DB, Ohio State
Ohio State defensive back Lorenzo Styles Jr. recorded a 4.27-second 40-yard dash, the second-fastest time of the combine regardless of position.
The speed demonstrated the type of athletic range teams seek in modern defensive backs and likely improved his draft outlook.
Prospects Facing Questions
While several players raised their draft stock, others left Indianapolis with more to prove during the pre-draft process.
Inconsistent Quarterback Evaluations
Quarterbacks often face the most scrutiny during the combine’s throwing sessions. While some signal callers displayed arm strength and mobility, others struggled with timing and accuracy during scripted drills.
Because combine throwing sessions are conducted with unfamiliar receivers and limited preparation time, many quarterbacks attempt to address those concerns during their college pro days, where they can run full offensive concepts with their own teammates.
Skill Players with Average Testing
Several wide receivers and running backs who were expected to produce elite testing numbers delivered more average results. In a draft class filled with speed and explosiveness, even solid performances can be overshadowed by record-setting athletes.
For these prospects, strong pro day performances — particularly improved 40-yard dash times and sharper route running — could help restore their draft momentum.
Why Pro Days Matter
With the combine complete, attention now shifts to college pro days across the country. These events give prospects another opportunity to perform position drills, improve testing numbers and meet directly with NFL coaches and executives.
For players who struggled in Indianapolis, pro days often serve as the final chance to reshape their draft outlook before teams finalize their boards for the 2026 NFL Draft.
As the pre-draft process continues, the biggest winners from the combine will try to maintain their momentum, while others look to prove their best football is still ahead.
