The NFL Scouting Combine has officially kicked off, and Indianapolis is buzzing with excitement. This annual event is a pivotal moment for draft prospects as they undergo medical evaluations, team interviews, media sessions, and on-field workouts at Lucas Oil Stadium. It's a whirlwind of activity, with players moving through various stations, all while teams gather essential information ahead of April's draft.
For fans, it's an immersive experience. Those in Indianapolis can witness the on-field drills and enjoy other NFL-related events around the city. For those at home, live coverage is available on television and streaming platforms, ensuring no one misses out on the action.
Key Details of the Combine:
When and Where: The 2026 NFL Scouting Combine runs from February 22 to March 2 at Lucas Oil Stadium, home of the Indianapolis Colts.
While the stadium hosts the on-field workouts, measurements and media interviews are held at the Indiana Convention Center, and medical testing occurs at nearby hospitals. Indianapolis has been the combine's home since 1987 and will continue to be through at least 2028.
Schedule Highlights:
- Thursday, Feb.
26: Defensive linemen, linebackers
- Friday, Feb.
27: Defensive backs, tight ends
- Saturday, Feb.
28: Quarterbacks, wide receivers, running backs
- Sunday, March 1: Offensive linemen
Broadcast: Catch the action on NFL Network or stream it on fuboTV.
Draft Order Insights: With the draft just months away, the combine often reshapes perceptions of top prospects. Here's a snapshot of the current top 10 picks:
- Las Vegas Raiders (3-14): After a tumultuous season, including firing head coach Pete Carroll, the Raiders are looking to rebuild with an early draft pick.
- New York Jets (3-14): Despite a tough season, the Jets have set themselves up for a potential turnaround with five first-round picks over the next two years.
- Arizona Cardinals (3-14): With changes at head coach and potential moves regarding Kyler Murray, the Cardinals are at a crossroads.
- Tennessee Titans (3-14): Despite a disappointing end to the season, Cam Ward's late surge provides hope for the Titans.
- New York Giants (4-13): The Giants, under new coach John Harbaugh, are optimistic about Jaxson Dart's future impact.
- Cleveland Browns (5-12): Moving on from Kevin Stefanski, the Browns are in search of their future quarterback.
- Washington Commanders (5-12): With Jayden Daniels' return, Washington aims to address roster needs and bounce back.
- New Orleans Saints (6-11): Tyler Shough's emergence as a starting quarterback brings renewed optimism to New Orleans.
- Kansas City Chiefs (6-11): Entering next season as underdogs, the Chiefs need youthful talent to complement Patrick Mahomes.
- Cincinnati Bengals (6-11): Despite Joe Burrow's efforts, the Bengals need defensive improvements to support their playoff ambitions.
Prospect Rankings: This year's draft class may lack top-end blue-chip talent, but depth in positions like wide receiver, edge rusher, and cornerback could define the first round. Notably, Indiana's Fernando Mendoza leads the quarterback prospects, with Alabama's Ty Simpson potentially climbing into the first round with a strong showing.
Top prospects include:
- Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana
- Rueben Bain Jr., EDGE, Miami
- Arvell Reese, EDGE, Ohio State
- Kadyn Proctor, OT, Alabama
- Spencer Fano, OG, Utah
As the combine unfolds, these prospects will look to make their mark and elevate their draft stock, setting the stage for an exciting draft season.