Several Oregon Ducks Boost NFL Draft Stock at Combine

Multiple Ducks players shine at annual pre-draft showcase event in Indianapolis

Published on Mar. 2, 2026

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Several players from the University of Oregon football team improved their NFL draft stock with strong performances at the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis. Tight end Kenyon Sadiq, linebacker Bryce Boettcher, cornerback Jadon Canady, and safety Dillon Thieneman were among the Ducks who stood out and earned praise from NFL analysts for their athletic testing and on-field drills.

Why it matters

The Ducks' strong showing at the combine is a positive sign for the program, as it demonstrates the development and talent of their players, which can help with future recruiting efforts. Additionally, several of these players are projected to be high draft picks, which brings prestige to the university and could lead to increased exposure and opportunities for the football program.

The details

Kenyon Sadiq, the Ducks' star tight end, was named to the NFL.com all-combine team after posting impressive numbers, including a 4.39-second 40-yard dash and a 43.5-inch vertical jump. Linebacker Bryce Boettcher and cornerback Jadon Canady also received honorable mentions on the all-combine team, while safety Dillon Thieneman was praised for his elite testing results, including a 4.35-second 40-yard dash and a 41-inch vertical jump.

  • The 2026 NFL Scouting Combine took place in Indianapolis from February 27 to March 5, 2026.

The players

Kenyon Sadiq

A tight end for the Oregon Ducks who impressed scouts with his athleticism at the NFL Combine, including a 4.39-second 40-yard dash and a 43.5-inch vertical jump.

Bryce Boettcher

A linebacker for the Oregon Ducks who received an honorable mention on the NFL.com all-combine team for his performance in Indianapolis.

Jadon Canady

A cornerback for the Oregon Ducks who received an honorable mention on the NFL.com all-combine team, showcasing his versatility and potential at the defensive back position.

Dillon Thieneman

A safety for the Oregon Ducks who impressed with his elite testing results at the combine, including a 4.35-second 40-yard dash and a 41-inch vertical jump.

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What they’re saying

“Sadiq (who also recorded an absurd 43.5-inch vertical) the edge over Stowers because of Sadiq's combined results. He's an athletic freak, confirming the reputation he'd built up at Oregon, but consistency with his hands remains a question.”

— Nick Shook, NFL.com analyst (NFL.com)

“The former walk-on plays like the chip never left his shoulder. He's fearless in his downhill approach, which leads to feast-or-famine results in the run game. His size, speed and athleticism are average, but his competitive will and motor cover some of that up.”

— Lance Zierlein, NFL.com analyst (NFL.com)

What’s next

The NFL Draft will take place from April 24-26, 2026, where these Oregon players will look to be selected in the early rounds and continue their football careers at the professional level.

The takeaway

The strong performances by several Oregon Ducks players at the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine showcase the talent and development within the program, which could lead to increased visibility, recruiting success, and future NFL draft picks for the university.