The 2026 NFL Scouting Combine kicked off with a bang, showcasing some of the top defensive prospects set to make waves in this year's draft. Ohio State linebacker Sonny Styles was the standout performer, with his teammate, linebacker/edge rusher Arvell Reese, not far behind. Reese solidified his status as a top 5 pick, while Styles likely boosted his stock into the top 10.
But they weren’t the only ones turning heads. Texas Tech’s dynamic duo, edge rusher David Bailey and defensive lineman Lee Hunter, also impressed.
Meanwhile, Florida’s Caleb Banks, despite dealing with injuries last season, showcased elite measurables and a strong performance that likely secured his spot as a first-round pick. Other names like Zane Durant, Gracen Halton, Malachi Lawrence, and DeMonte Capehart also made their presence felt.
Ohio State LB Sonny Styles
Sonny Styles might have just delivered one of the most remarkable workouts ever seen from a linebacker-or any defensive prospect, for that matter. At 6-5 and 244 pounds, Styles recorded a jaw-dropping 43.5-inch vertical, an 11’2” broad jump, a 7.09 3-cone drill, and a blazing 4.46 40-yard dash. These numbers are staggering for someone of his size.
Before the Combine, hopes of Styles slipping down to the Broncos were slim, and his performance has likely cemented his place in the top 10, if not the top 5. He’s not just about raw athleticism; his game tape backs up his potential. Drawing comparisons to Nick Emmanwori’s impact for the Seahawks, Styles could be a game-changer for any defense.
Texas A&M EDGE David Bailey
David Bailey entered the Combine as a top 5 prospect and might leave as a frontrunner for the second overall pick. With Miami’s Rueben Bain facing questions about arm length, Bailey’s all-around impressive showing might just give him the edge. The Jets, having traded Jermaine Johnson, are in the market for an edge rusher, and Bailey’s performance may have put him at the top of their list.
Ohio State EDGE/Linebacker Arvell Reese
Arvell Reese came into the Combine with a top 5 ranking, but questions lingered about his NFL position. His performance showcased his elite athleticism, affirming his top 5 status.
Whether as an off-the-ball linebacker or a full-time edge rusher, Reese proved he can excel. At 6-4, 241 pounds, and with a 4.46 40-time, he’s likely to be a force off the edge.
Florida Defensive Tackle Caleb Banks
Despite a foot injury limiting his 2025 season, Caleb Banks has risen in the draft ranks thanks to a strong Senior Bowl and Combine. Standing at 6-6 and 327 pounds, Banks ran a 5.04 40-time and recorded a 32-inch vertical. His combination of size, athleticism, and potential makes him a coveted first-round prospect.
Other Notable Performers
- UCF EDGE Malachi Lawrence: At 6-4 and 253 pounds, Lawrence ran a 4.52 40-time with a 40-inch vertical and a 10’10” broad jump, setting himself up for an early draft pick.
- Texas Tech Linebacker Jacob Rodriguez: Known for his college production, Rodriguez impressed with a 4.57 40-time and a 38.5-inch vertical, solidifying his place as an early second-round pick.
- Clemson Defensive Tackle DeMonte Capehart: Capehart’s 6-5, 313-pound frame and 4.85 40-time will have teams taking notice. His performance ensures he won’t be overshadowed by his Clemson teammates.
- Oklahoma Defensive Tackle Gracen Halton: At 6-3 and 293 pounds, Halton’s 4.82 40-time showcased his athleticism, reinforcing his strong game tape and potentially boosting his draft position.
The Combine has set the stage for an exciting draft, with these defensive prospects ready to make their mark in the NFL.