The 2026 NFL Scouting Combine is wrapping up, and one name that’s been on everyone’s lips is Dani Dennis-Sutton. The Penn State defensive end delivered a performance that not only impressed scouts but also etched his name among the top defensive ends of the last four decades.
Dennis-Sutton's showcase at the Combine was nothing short of spectacular. His Relative Athletic Score (RAS), a key metric used to evaluate NFL prospects, came in at a jaw-dropping 9.96 out of 10.
This score places him 15th among all defensive ends since 1987, highlighting his exceptional athletic prowess. His explosive power and speed were rated as elite, though his size at six-foot-5.5 and 255 pounds didn't quite reach the same level.
In terms of raw numbers, Dennis-Sutton was a standout. He recorded a 39-5 vertical jump, a 10-11 broad jump, a 4.63-second 40-yard dash, an unofficial 2.67-second 20-yard split, a 1.64-second 10-yard split, and a 6.9-second 3-cone drill.
Among his peers, his broad jump was the best, his vertical jump ranked fourth, and his 40-yard dash was fifth. To put it in perspective, his 40-yard dash time was faster than what quarterbacks Patrick Mahomes and Dak Prescott clocked during their combines.
Dennis-Sutton’s performance at the Combine is a testament to his abilities, regardless of how Penn State’s 2025 season unfolded. His senior year stats speak volumes: 42 tackles, 12 tackles for loss, 8.5 sacks, three passes defensed, and three forced fumbles. The previous season, he matched those numbers with an additional interception and fumble recovery.
For Dennis-Sutton, the Combine was more than just an event; it was a stage to showcase that his talents transcend any single season. He’s proven that he’s a force to be reckoned with, and NFL teams are undoubtedly taking notice.