5 Edge Rushers Shine at 2026 NFL Combine

Top performers from the edge rusher group at the 2026 NFL Combine

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

The edge rushers stole the show at the 2026 NFL Combine, with several players putting up impressive athletic numbers and strong performances in on-field drills. This article highlights the top 5 winners from the edge rusher group, including Clemson's Myles Parker, Oregon's Jaxon Bailey, Florida State's Bryce Faulk, Michigan's Darius Dennis-Sutton, and Oklahoma's Trent Lawrence.

Why it matters

The edge rusher position is a key need for many NFL teams, including the Detroit Lions, so the standout performances from this group at the Combine will have a significant impact on their draft stock and where they are selected in the upcoming NFL Draft.

The details

Myles Parker from Clemson had a top-5 athleticism score, showcasing his speed, explosiveness, and fluidity in drills. Jaxon Bailey from Oregon also tested as an elite athlete and demonstrated his powerful burst, controlled spin moves, and ability to bend the edge. Bryce Faulk from Florida State opted out of testing but impressed with his length, body control, and pass-rushing technique. Darius Dennis-Sutton from Michigan dropped weight and posted the second-best athleticism score, while also showing promise as a smooth, violent base end. Trent Lawrence from Oklahoma had the top athleticism score and looked the part of a versatile, explosive edge rusher in drills.

  • The 2026 NFL Combine took place from February 24-27, 2026.

The players

Myles Parker

A defensive end from Clemson University who impressed with his athleticism and technical skills at the 2026 NFL Combine.

Jaxon Bailey

An edge rusher from the University of Oregon who tested as an elite athlete and showcased his powerful burst and pass-rushing ability at the Combine.

Bryce Faulk

A defensive end from Florida State University who opted out of testing but stood out with his length, body control, and pass-rushing technique in on-field drills.

Darius Dennis-Sutton

A defensive end from the University of Michigan who dropped weight and posted the second-best athleticism score among edge rushers, while also demonstrating promise as a smooth, violent base end.

Trent Lawrence

An edge rusher from the University of Oklahoma who had the top athleticism score in the group and looked the part of a versatile, explosive pass rusher in drills.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”

— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)

“Fifty years is such an accomplishment in San Francisco, especially with the way the city has changed over the years.”

— Gordon Edgar, grocery employee (Instagram)

The takeaway

The standout performances from this group of edge rushers at the 2026 NFL Combine will have a significant impact on their draft stock, with several players likely cementing themselves as early-round selections. Teams in need of pass-rushing help, like the Detroit Lions, will be closely evaluating this group as they prepare for the upcoming draft.