As the 2026 NFL Combine kicks off in Indianapolis, more than 300 college football players are set to showcase their talents in front of scouts from all 32 NFL teams. This annual event, a staple since 1982, is a crucial opportunity for prospects to boost their draft stock through a series of rigorous physical and mental evaluations.
Players from across the NCAA's Division I Football Bowl Subdivision, along with representatives from Notre Dame, UConn, and a few standout athletes from the Division I Football Championship Subdivision, will be participating. Notably, North Dakota State's quarterback Cole Payton and Incarnate Word's wide receiver Jalen Walthall are among those making an appearance.
The Combine's key drills are designed to test the limits of these athletes. From the number of reps they can bench press at 225 pounds to their speed in the 40-yard dash and the distance of their standing broad jump, every measurement is critical.
Iowa State's presence at the Combine includes former defensive lineman Domonique Orange. The Kansas City native, who earned All-Big 12 third-team honors in 2025, is looking to make an impression after a season highlighted by 4.5 tackles for loss and a sack. Last year, Iowa State sent five players to the Combine, with four hearing their names called during the draft.
Meanwhile, Iowa is well-represented with nine former Hawkeyes invited to the Combine:
- Logan Jones, Offensive Line
- Beau Stephens, Offensive Line
- Gennings Dunker, Offensive Line
- Drew Stevens, Kicker
- Kaden Wetjen, Wide Receiver
- Max Llewellyn, Defensive Line
- Karson Sharar, Linebacker
- Xavier Nwankpa, Safety
- TJ Hall, Defensive Back
In 2025, seven Hawkeyes attended the Combine, with five advancing to the NFL Draft.
Unfortunately, no players from Northern Iowa or Drake received invitations this year, leaving Iowa and Iowa State as the state's representatives.
The Combine runs from Thursday, February 26, to Sunday, March 1, with live coverage starting at 2 p.m. CT on Thursday and Friday, and at 12 p.m. on the weekend.
Here's a breakdown of the schedule for the week:
- Thursday, Feb. 26: Defensive linemen and linebackers
- Friday, Feb. 27: Defensive backs and tight ends
- Saturday, Feb. 28: Quarterbacks, wide receivers, and running backs
- Sunday, March 1: Offensive linemen
Special teams workouts, including those of Iowa kicker Drew Stevens-one of just seven specialists invited-won’t be filmed.
For fans eager to catch the action, the Combine is available to watch live, offering a glimpse into the future stars of the NFL.