OU Football Stars Shine at NFL Combine

Sooners' draft prospects impress scouts with standout performances in Indianapolis

Mar. 2, 2026 at 7:31pm

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Ten former University of Oklahoma football players showcased their skills at the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis over the weekend. Wide receiver Deion Burks, tight end Jaren Kanak, defensive lineman Gracen Halton, and safety Robert Spears-Jennings were among the Sooners who turned heads with impressive performances that boosted their draft stock ahead of the 2025 NFL Draft.

Why it matters

The NFL Combine is a crucial event for college football players looking to improve their draft position and earn a spot on an NFL roster. Strong showings by OU's prospects could lead to higher draft selections and lucrative professional contracts for the Sooners, while also generating positive publicity for the university's football program.

The details

Burks, Kanak, Halton, and Spears-Jennings all stood out with standout results in various drills and tests. Burks' 40-yard dash time ranked third among receivers, while Kanak's speed and vertical jump impressed scouts. Halton's 36.5-inch vertical jump was the third-highest mark ever recorded by a defensive tackle at the combine. Spears-Jennings clocked a blazing 4.32-second 40-yard dash, the second-fastest time among safeties.

  • The NFL Scouting Combine took place from February 28 to March 6, 2026 in Indianapolis.
  • The NCAA officially denied linebacker Owen Heinecke's appeal for another year of eligibility on Tuesday, March 4, 2026.

The players

Deion Burks

A wide receiver who caught 57 passes for 620 yards and 4 touchdowns in the 2025 season.

Jaren Kanak

A tight end who caught 44 passes for 533 yards in 2025.

Gracen Halton

A defensive lineman who recorded 7 tackles for loss, 3.5 sacks, and 7 quarterback hurries in 2025.

Robert Spears-Jennings

A safety whose 40-yard dash time of 4.32 seconds was the second-fastest among safeties at the combine.

Owen Heinecke

A linebacker whose appeal for another year of NCAA eligibility was denied on March 4, 2026.

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What’s next

The judge in Heinecke's case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow him to file a lawsuit and pursue another year of NCAA eligibility.

The takeaway

The strong performances by OU's NFL prospects at the combine showcase the talent and potential of the Sooners' football program, which continues to produce top-tier talent for the professional ranks.