2026 NFL Combine Guide: Key Players, 40-Yard Dash Records, and Workout Schedule

Everything you need to know about the upcoming NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis.

Feb. 27, 2026 at 6:55pm

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The 2026 NFL Scouting Combine is set to take place from February 23 to March 2 in Indianapolis, where hundreds of NFL Draft prospects will participate in workouts, medical evaluations, and interviews in front of league executives and decision-makers. The event will feature key drills like the 40-yard dash, 3-cone drill, and 10-yard split, with several players looking to make a name for themselves. The full list of 319 invitees includes top prospects like Indiana QB Fernando Mendoza, Miami edge rusher Rueben Bain Jr., and Ohio State WR Carnell Tate.

Why it matters

The NFL Combine is a crucial part of the pre-draft process, allowing teams to get an up-close look at prospects and evaluate their athletic abilities and potential. While many top players now opt to skip certain workouts, the combine still provides an opportunity for lesser-known players to boost their draft stock through standout performances.

The details

The on-field workouts at the combine that tend to draw the most attention are the 40-yard dash, 3-cone drill, and broad jump. The 40-yard dash, in particular, is a marquee event for skill position players like running backs and wide receivers. Last year, Kansas City's Xavier Worthy set the record with a blistering 4.21-second time. This year, players like Wake Forest RB Demond Claiborne, LSU WRs Chris Hilton Jr. and Barion Brown, and Toledo CB Andre Fuller will look to challenge that mark.

  • The 2026 NFL Scouting Combine will take place from February 23 to March 2 in Indianapolis.
  • On-field workouts for defensive linemen, linebackers, and kickers will be held on Thursday, February 26.
  • Defensive backs and tight ends will participate in on-field workouts on Friday, February 27.
  • Quarterbacks, running backs, and wide receivers will have their on-field workouts on Saturday, February 28.
  • Offensive linemen will take the field on Sunday, March 1.

The players

Fernando Mendoza

A quarterback from Indiana University who is one of the top prospects in this year's NFL Draft class.

Rueben Bain Jr.

An edge rusher from the University of Miami who is expected to be a high draft pick.

Carnell Tate

A wide receiver from Ohio State University who is considered one of the top pass-catchers in this year's draft.

Demond Claiborne

A running back from Wake Forest University who will look to impress with his speed in the 40-yard dash.

Andre Fuller

A cornerback from the University of Toledo who is aiming to showcase his athleticism at the combine.

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What they’re saying

“This class has a lot more good than great in it, and it also has a real lack of consensus among talent evaluators at just about every position.”

— Nate Tice, NFL Draft Analyst (Yahoo Sports)

What’s next

After the combine, teams will continue their pre-draft evaluations, including private workouts and interviews with prospects, as they finalize their draft boards ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft in April.

The takeaway

The 2026 NFL Scouting Combine will provide a crucial opportunity for prospects to showcase their skills and athleticism in front of league decision-makers. While the top names may limit their participation, the event remains an important part of the pre-draft process, with lesser-known players having a chance to boost their draft stock through standout performances.