INDIANAPOLIS - Aiden Fisher, the defensive stalwart for Indiana football, has been a key figure in Bloomington for two seasons, embodying head coach Curt Cignetti’s ethos both on and off the field. Known for his leadership and dedication, Fisher often addressed the media in his Indiana gear, fresh from the action with eye black still marking his face.
But this week, at the NFL Scouting Combine inside the Indiana Convention Center, Fisher traded his Hoosiers attire for a sleek black New Era hoodie with “08” and “LB” boldly displayed. This marked a significant step in his journey - a dream he’s harbored for years.
“For me, I just want to take it all in,” Fisher shared, reflecting on his long-held aspirations. “I used to dream and pray about being in this position, so I'd be a fool not to sit down and smell the roses a little bit.”
Fisher played a pivotal role in Indiana’s remarkable 16-0 season, culminating in the program’s first national championship. His mantra of tackling each week with the same intensity, regardless of the opponent, became the team’s rallying cry. Whether facing underdogs or powerhouses like Oregon, Ohio State, Alabama, and Miami, the Hoosiers maintained their focus and discipline.
After their victory over Miami in the national title game, the team returned to Bloomington with no more games to prepare for, which Fisher described as an odd feeling. He spent a week in Bloomington before heading to Florida to gear up for the combine, allowing his body to recover from the intense College Football Playoff grind.
“It took me about a week or two to get my body back healthy and to get running again,” Fisher explained. “There was no rush, but it was all about getting as healthy as possible, as fast as possible.”
Preparing for the combine and Indiana’s Pro Day on April 1 in Bloomington is a different beast from the regular season. Instead of game-planning against Big Ten offenses, Fisher is honing his speed and agility, having started this training later due to Indiana’s extended season.
Throughout the week, Fisher has been meeting with teams and participating in drills at Lucas Oil Stadium, preparing for his next football chapter. His transition from high school to college at James Madison University in 2022 was challenging, as he adapted to defensive coordinator Bryant Haines’ intricate system, which went beyond basic play execution.
“It was never just about learning our system,” Fisher said. “We learned football as a whole, which has been incredible for my development.”
Moving from JMU to Indiana was another leap, but it bolstered his confidence. During his time at Indiana, he established himself as one of the nation’s premier linebackers and discovered a deeper purpose beyond the gridiron.
“Finding your purpose as to ‘why do you play football?’” Fisher pondered.
“Is it about being the best player, or using your platform to help others and lead? That’s what I’ve focused on.”
Now, Fisher is poised for his next transition: the NFL. Projected as a sixth-round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft in Pittsburgh, Fisher plans to spend draft day surrounded by family, awaiting the pivotal phone call.
“All immediate family, then grandparents, uncles, aunts, all just sitting in my house playing the waiting game,” he said. “It'll be a good experience, but for me, it's just all about having my family around me.”
Soon, Fisher will swap his Indiana colors for those of a new team, embarking on the next exciting chapter of his football career.