Local Prospects Invited to 2026 NFL Combine

Several players with Kansas City-area ties to showcase skills at annual event

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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A total of 319 players were invited to the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine, which takes place later this month in Indianapolis. Among them are several prospects with ties to the Kansas City area, including players from the University of Missouri, University of Kansas, Kansas State University, and various local high schools.

Why it matters

The NFL Scouting Combine is a crucial event for college football players looking to improve their draft stock and earn a spot in the NFL. Having a strong showing at the combine can significantly boost a player's chances of being selected in the upcoming NFL Draft.

The details

The local prospects invited to the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine include: Missouri - WR Kevin Coleman Jr., DT Chris McClellan, DB Toriano Pride Jr., OL Keagen Trost, LB Josiah Trotter, EDGE Zion Young; Kansas - QB Jalon Daniels, WR Emmanuel Henderson Jr.; Kansas State - OL Sam Hecht, DB VJ Payne. Additionally, several players who attended local high schools were also invited, including Wyoming TE John Michael Gyllenborg (Rockhurst High School), Iowa OL Beau Stephens (Blue Springs High School), Texas A&M EDGE Cashius Howell (Rockhurst High School), Iowa State DT Domonique Orange (North Kansas City High School), Arizona State LB Keyshaun Elliott (Richmond High School), Oregon WR Malik Benson (Lansing High School), and Tennessee TE Miles Kitselman (Lyndon High School).

  • The 2026 NFL Scouting Combine kicks off on February 23.

The players

Kevin Coleman Jr.

Wide receiver from the University of Missouri.

Jalon Daniels

Quarterback from the University of Kansas.

John Michael Gyllenborg

Tight end from Wyoming who attended Rockhurst High School.

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What’s next

Each of the invited players will have the opportunity to showcase their skills and abilities in front of NFL scouts and coaches at the upcoming Scouting Combine.

The takeaway

The strong representation of local prospects at the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine highlights the talent and potential of players from the Kansas City area. These players will have a chance to take a significant step towards their NFL dreams by performing well at the prestigious event.