The 2026 NFL Combine kicked off in Indianapolis, a pivotal moment for over 300 former college players aiming to catch the eyes of coaches, general managers, and scouts ahead of the NFL Draft in April. This annual showcase at Lucas Oil Stadium is where dreams can start to become reality.
The event began with defensive linemen and linebackers stepping up to the mic at the Indianapolis Convention Center. Among them were Ohio State standouts Arvell Reese, Sonny Styles, Caden Curry, and Kayden McDonald. The following day, defensive backs and tight ends took their turn, featuring Buckeyes like Davison Igbinosun and Caleb Downs.
Once the interviews wrapped up, it was time for the defensive linemen and linebackers to hit the field for workouts and official measurements. Arvell Reese came in at 6-foot-4 and 241 pounds, slightly lighter than his listing on Ohio State's 2025 roster.
His measurements included a 79.5-inch wingspan and 9.5-inch hands. Reese's transition from defensive end to linebacker paid off in a big way, as he notched 69 tackles, 10 tackles for loss, and 6.5 sacks last season, earning consensus All-American honors.
Sonny Styles, standing at 6-foot-5 and 244 pounds, matched his previous Buckeyes listing almost to the letter. With a wingspan of nearly 81 inches and 10-inch hands, Styles has been a versatile force. After reclassifying to join Ohio State early, he moved from nickel to safety and eventually to linebacker, racking up 82 tackles and earning All-American status in his senior year.
Caden Curry measured at 6-foot-3 and 257 pounds, maintaining his height while shedding a few pounds from his Scarlet and Gray days. With 30.125-inch arms and 9.375-inch hands, Curry made a significant leap as a senior, recording 66 tackles, 16.5 tackles for loss, and 11 sacks, which secured him a spot on the first-team All-Big Ten.
Kayden McDonald, at 6-foot-2 and 326 pounds, showed consistency in his weight from his Ohio State roster days. His 32.25-inch arms and 9.75-inch hands complement his role on the defensive line. McDonald emerged as a key player in his third year, tallying 65 tackles, nine tackles for loss, and three sacks, earning unanimous All-American recognition.
As the Combine progresses, these athletes are not just showcasing their physical prowess-they're making a case for why they should be the next big thing in the NFL. Each drill, measurement, and interview is a step toward their professional dreams. Keep an eye on these names; they could be making headlines come draft day.