Five former Utes are stepping into the spotlight at the 2026 NFL Combine in Indianapolis this weekend, marking a significant milestone in their journey toward a professional football career.
The combine is a pivotal event where scouts, general managers, and coaches from every NFL team converge to evaluate prospects through a series of drills and interviews. These activities provide invaluable insights into the players' potential, with standout performances often boosting draft stock.
Prospects will tackle a variety of drills, including the bench press, 40-yard dash, vertical jump, broad jump, three-cone drill, and 20-yard shuttle. Each drill is a chance to showcase athleticism and skill, potentially moving players up the draft boards.
First up on Thursday are linebacker Lander Barton and defensive end Logan Fano. Tight end Dallen Bentley takes the stage on Friday, while offensive tackles Spencer Fano and Caleb Lomu wrap things up on Sunday.
Let’s dive into the profiles of these former Utes, exploring their rankings and scouting insights as they gear up for the combine.
Spencer Fano, Offensive Tackle
2025 Highlights:
- PFF Grade: 84
- No sacks allowed, only five pressures
Accolades:
- Outland Trophy winner
- Unanimous first-team All-American
- Polynesian College Football Player of the Year
- Big 12 Offensive Lineman of the Year
- All-Big 12 first team
Rankings:
- PFF Big Board: 18
- Mel Kiper’s Positional Rank: No. 2
- NFL.com Prospect Grade: 6.44 (will eventually be a plus starter)
Scouting Insight:
Fano is praised for his loose hips, quick feet, and high-end athleticism, making him adept at handling speed rushers and maintaining pocket integrity.
While he needs to refine certain techniques, his athletic profile suits move-based blocking schemes. His success in the NFL will likely hinge on scheme fit and matchups.
Caleb Lomu, Offensive Tackle
Scouting Insight:
A two-year starting left tackle, Lomu is still developing but shows promise.
While his run blocking lags behind his pass protection, improved pad level and a more aggressive approach could bridge the gap. His ability to control rushers with quick, well-timed punches is a highlight, though strength gains and coaching could elevate his game further.
Dallen Bentley, Tight End
2025 Highlights:
- PFF Grade: 76.9
- 48 catches for 620 yards and six touchdowns
Accolades:
- All-Big 12 third team
Rankings:
- PFF Big Board: 181
- Mel Kiper’s Positional Rank: No. 3
- NFL.com Prospect Grade: 5.84 (average backup)
Scouting Insight:
Bentley’s breakout season in 2025 was unexpected, given his limited early career production.
While he has the size for an in-line tight end, he must enhance his blocking tenacity and refine his route running to excel at the next level. His NFL future may depend on these improvements.
Logan Fano, Defensive End
2025 Highlights:
- PFF Grade: 78.7
- 44 tackles, 4.5 sacks, 7.5 tackles for loss, two pass deflections
Accolades:
- All-Big 12 second team
Rankings:
- PFF Big Board: 262
- Mel Kiper’s Positional Rank: Just missed top 10
- NFL.com Prospect Grade: 6.36 (average backup)
Scouting Insight:
Fano brings pro size and strength to the edge, capable of impacting the game both standing up and with a hand down.
While his intensity is a strength, it sometimes leads to impatience. Improving his rush plan and technique could transform him into a more consistent three-down player.
Lander Barton, Linebacker
Scouting Insight:
Barton experienced a slight dip in performance in 2025, but he remains a viable backup prospect.
His agility and quickness need refinement, and improving his technique against blocks could ease his path to success. His versatility might also offer additional roster flexibility.
As these former Utes take the next step in their football journey, their performances at the combine will be crucial in shaping their NFL futures.