The 2026 NFL Combine kicked off in Indianapolis, drawing over 300 former college stars eager to catch the eye of coaches, general managers, and scouts ahead of the upcoming NFL Draft. Lucas Oil Stadium is buzzing with talent, and the stakes couldn't be higher.
Thursday saw defensive backs and tight ends take the spotlight at the Indianapolis Convention Center. Among the notable names were Ohio State's Davison Igbinosun, Caleb Downs, Lorenzo Styles Jr., Max Klare, and Will Kacmarek. By Friday, wide receivers and running backs, including Buckeyes Carnell Tate and CJ Donaldson, were ready to make their mark.
After media sessions, the defensive backs and tight ends hit the field for workouts and received their official measurements. Igbinosun, standing at 6-foot-2 and weighing in at 189 pounds, slightly bulked up since his Scarlet and Gray days. His impressive wingspan of nearly 33 inches and hands over 9 inches make him a formidable presence.
Igbinosun's journey began at Ole Miss, where he played 13 games as a freshman before transferring to Ohio State. His rapid rise to starting cornerback, alongside Denzel Burke, culminated in a senior season as the Buckeyes' top corner. With 194 tackles, 27 passes defended, and a first-team All-Big Ten nod, his college career was nothing short of stellar.
Caleb Downs, another standout, measured 6 feet and 206 pounds. His transition from Alabama to Ohio State was seamless, playing a crucial role in their national championship win. A two-time unanimous All-American, Downs racked up 257 tackles, 16 tackles for loss, and six interceptions, cementing his status as a defensive powerhouse.
Lorenzo Styles Jr. measured just over 6 feet and weighed 194 pounds. After a stint at Notre Dame as a wide receiver, Styles found his groove at Ohio State, eventually becoming the starting nickel. His college stats include 47 tackles and seven passes defended, showcasing his versatility and adaptability.
Max Klare, a towering 6-foot-4 and 246 pounds, made waves at Purdue before transferring to Ohio State. His senior year was a breakout, earning first-team All-Big Ten honors. With 116 receptions for 1,329 yards and six touchdowns, Klare's offensive contributions were significant.
Will Kacmarek, standing at 6-foot-5 and weighing 261 pounds, rounds out the group. His journey from Ohio to Ohio State was marked by a national championship win and a solid career with 65 catches for 761 yards and four touchdowns.
As the Combine continues, these athletes are not just showcasing their physical prowess but also telling the story of their college journeys. With their sights set on the NFL, they are ready to take the next big step in their careers.