The 2026 NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis has been a thrilling showcase, especially for the defensive tackle group, which has emerged as one of the most compelling position groups this year. As teams hunt for players to solidify their defensive fronts, these prospects are proving that size, strength, and athleticism can indeed coexist.
Starting off at Lucas Oil Stadium, the defensive tackles have been put through their paces in various drills, from the 40-yard dash to vertical jumps. This testing gives teams a comprehensive look at how these interior powerhouses might perform at the next level. Take Penn State’s Zane Durant, for example, who clocked one of the fastest 40-yard dash times for his position, showcasing exceptional speed for a big man.
Florida’s Caleb Banks has been a standout, turning heads with his rare blend of size and athletic prowess. Measuring in at 6-foot-6 and 327 pounds, with 10 ⅞-inch hands, 35-inch arms, and an 85 ¾-inch wingspan, Banks boasts the longest wingspan among defensive tackles at the Combine in nearly 25 years.
On the field, Banks posted a remarkable 5.05-second 40-yard dash, a testament to his uncommon burst for an interior lineman, which could significantly boost his draft stock. His 32-inch vertical jump, matching that of Bronny James Jr., further highlights his explosive capabilities despite his size.
Banks opted out of completing all drills due to sore feet but plans to participate in Florida’s pro day next month.
With the Combine ongoing, the defensive tackle group continues to generate buzz. Performances like Banks’ highlight the depth of talent in this class, from robust run defenders to dynamic interior pass rushers, making this a group that teams will be watching closely as the draft approaches.
Here’s a snapshot of some key players:
- Peter Woods (Clemson): 6-foot-2 ½, 298 pounds
- Lee Hunter (Texas Tech): 6-foot-3 ½, 318 pounds, 5.18-second 40-yard dash
- Kayden McDonald (Ohio State): 6-foot-2 ⅛, 326 pounds
- Keldric Faulk (Auburn): 6-foot-5 ⅞, 276 pounds
- Christen Miller (Georgia): 6-foot-3 ¾, 321 pounds
- Jaishawn Barham (Michigan): 6-foot-3 ½, 240 pounds
- Chris McClellan (Missouri): 6-foot-4, 313 pounds, 5.05-second 40-yard dash
- Rayshaun Benny (Michigan): 6-foot-3, 298 pounds
- Domonique Orange (Iowa State): 6-foot-2, 322 pounds
- Dontae Corleone (Cincinnati): 6-foot ⅝, 340 pounds
- Nick Barrett (South Carolina): 6-foot-3, 312 pounds, 5.10-second 40-yard dash
- **Darrell Jackson Jr.
(Florida State):** 6-foot-5 ⅝, 315 pounds
- LT Overton (Alabama): 6-foot-3, 274 pounds
- Kaleb Proctor (SE Louisiana): 6-foot-2, 291 pounds, 4.79-second 40-yard dash
- Tim Keenan (Alabama): 6-foot-1, 327 pounds, 5.31-second 40-yard dash
- Zxavian Harris (Ole Miss): 6-foot-8, 330 pounds
- Skyler Gill-Howard (Texas Tech): 6-foot-1, 280 pounds
- Gracen Halton (Oklahoma): 6-foot-2 ⅝, 293 pounds, 4.82-second 40-yard dash
- DeMonte Capehart (Clemson): 6-foot-5, 313 pounds, 4.85-second 40-yard dash
- Albert Regis (Texas A&M): 6-foot-1, 295 pounds, 4.88-second 40-yard dash
- Tyler Onyedim (Texas A&M): 6-foot-3 ½, 292 pounds
- Bryson Eason (Tennessee): 6-foot-2, 323 pounds, 5.09-second 40-yard dash
- David Gusta (Kentucky): 6-foot-2, 308 pounds, 4.88-second 40-yard dash
- Brandon Cleveland (NC State): 6-foot-3, 307 pounds, 5.12-second 40-yard dash
- Damonic Williams (Oklahoma): 6-foot-2, 305 pounds
- Gary Smith III (UCLA): 6-foot-1, 319 pounds
- Cameron Ball (Arkansas): 6-foot-4, 310 pounds, 5.13-second 40-yard dash
- Bobby Jamison-Travis (Auburn): 6-foot-3, 328 pounds
- Jackie Marshall (Baylor): 6-foot-2 ½, 293 pounds, 4.88-second 40-yard dash
- Deven Eastern (Minnesota): 6-foot-5, 315 pounds
As the Combine continues, these performances are setting the stage for an exciting draft season, with teams eager to secure the next big star on their defensive lines.