The LSU Tigers might not have had the season they were hoping for - finishing 7-5 in the regular season - but when it comes to NFL talent, they’re still one of the premier pipelines in college football. That much is clear heading into the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine, where LSU will be sending 11 players to Indianapolis, tied for the third-most of any program in the country.
A Strong LSU Contingent in Indy
From February 23 to March 2, NFL front offices will have their eyes on 319 of the nation’s top prospects at Lucas Oil Stadium. Among them, 11 former LSU Tigers will get the chance to showcase their skills, athleticism, and football IQ in front of scouts, coaches, and general managers. Only Texas A&M (13) and Alabama (12) are sending more players, with LSU and Ohio State each sending 11.
What stands out about LSU’s group is the balance - talent on both sides of the ball, from a quarterback with something to prove to explosive receivers and playmakers on defense. Here's the full list of Tigers headed to the Combine:
- QB Garrett Nussmeier
- WR Aaron Anderson
- WR Barion Brown
- WR Chris Hilton
- WR Zavion Thomas
- TE Bauer Sharp
- EDGE Patrick Payton
- EDGE Jack Pyburn
- **LB Harold Perkins Jr. **
- CB Mansoor Delane
- **S A.J.
Haulcy**
This group isn’t just deep - it’s loaded with upside. Whether it's raw speed, versatility, or high football IQ, each player brings a unique trait that NFL teams will be dissecting over the course of the week.
Mansoor Delane: First-Round Buzz
Leading the way is cornerback Mansoor Delane, who’s drawing serious first-round attention. In fact, in a recent mock draft, he’s projected to go as high as No. 5 overall to the New York Giants. Delane's combination of length, instincts, and fluid movement in coverage makes him a prototypical modern-day corner - and that kind of profile is always in demand at the top of the draft.
Garrett Nussmeier: Redemption Arc in Motion
Then there’s Garrett Nussmeier, a quarterback who came into the 2025 season with first-round expectations - maybe even top-10 potential. But injuries derailed his final year in Baton Rouge, cutting it short and putting his draft stock in limbo.
That said, Nussmeier made a big statement at the Senior Bowl, earning MVP honors and reminding everyone why he was so highly regarded in the first place. The Combine gives him another shot to climb back up draft boards.
Wide Receiver Depth on Display
LSU is sending four wide receivers to Indianapolis - Aaron Anderson, Barion Brown, Chris Hilton, and Zavion Thomas - each with a different skill set. Whether it's Brown's home-run speed, Thomas' shiftiness in space, or Hilton’s vertical ability, this group has the kind of depth and versatility that could make a splash during the 40-yard dash and positional drills.
Defensive Playmakers to Watch
On defense, LSU has some serious disruptors. Harold Perkins Jr. is a name that jumps off the page - a linebacker with sideline-to-sideline range and a knack for making impact plays.
Edge rushers Patrick Payton and Jack Pyburn will look to showcase their explosiveness off the line, while A.J. Haulcy brings physicality and instincts to the safety position.
Altogether, it’s a defensive group that can appeal to a wide range of NFL schemes.
Looking Ahead: The Kiffin Era Begins
While this Combine class is a reflection of LSU’s recent recruiting and development success, it’s also a bridge to the future. New head coach Lane Kiffin is already making waves in Baton Rouge. Five of his players from the 2025 Ole Miss squad are Combine-bound themselves, and Tiger fans are eager to see how his offensive mind and recruiting chops elevate the program moving forward.
Next Stop: Pittsburgh
The 2026 NFL Draft kicks off on April 23 in Pittsburgh, and between now and then, these 11 Tigers have a chance to climb - or cement - their spots on draft boards. For some, it’s about proving consistency.
For others, it’s about reminding teams of their upside. But for all of them, the Combine is a critical step in the journey from Baton Rouge to the big leagues.
LSU’s season may have ended quietly, but don’t let that fool you - the NFL is still watching, and this Tiger crop is ready to roar.