Northwestern Trio Shines at 2026 NFL Combine

Defensive lineman Aidan Hubbard and offensive linemen Evan Beerntsen and Caleb Tiernan represent the Wildcats' return to prominence.

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

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As the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine kicks off in Indianapolis, three players from Northwestern University are making their mark. Defensive lineman Aidan Hubbard and offensive linemen Evan Beerntsen and Caleb Tiernan are showcasing the program's renewed pipeline of pro-caliber talent, a significant development after a brief lull. The trio is looking to build on strong collegiate careers and impress NFL scouts with their athleticism, technique, and winning pedigree.

Why it matters

Northwestern has long been known as a 'factory' for producing elite offensive and defensive linemen, and this group is continuing that tradition. Their success at the combine will help restore the program's reputation as a destination for NFL-ready talent, which is crucial for recruiting and maintaining the team's competitiveness in the Big Ten.

The details

Hubbard, a graduate defensive lineman, leaves Evanston as the program's fifth all-time sack leader (20.5) and is coming off a dominant 2025 season. Beerntsen, a transfer from South Dakota State, proved his game could translate to the Big Ten by not allowing a single sack or quarterback hit in 13 starts at right guard. Tiernan, a long-time left tackle, is viewed as a technically sound prospect with the size and footwork to excel at the next level.

  • The 2026 NFL Scouting Combine is taking place in Indianapolis from February 27 to March 5.
  • Northwestern's annual Pro Day is scheduled for March 17 in Evanston.

The players

Aidan Hubbard

A graduate defensive lineman who leaves Northwestern as the program's fifth all-time sack leader (20.5). He is known for his explosive athleticism and technical 'pro-ready' hand-fighting style that fits perfectly in a 4-3 defensive end role.

Evan Beerntsen

A transfer from South Dakota State who proved his game could translate to the Big Ten by not allowing a single sack or quarterback hit in 13 starts at right guard for Northwestern in 2025. He brings a championship pedigree and a 'blue-collar' durability that NFL offensive line coaches covet.

Caleb Tiernan

A long-time left tackle for the Wildcats who is viewed as a prototype for the modern NFL tackle, combining massive size with the footwork of a dual-sport athlete. He earned All-Big Ten Second Team honors in 2025 and is widely seen as a Day Two selection who can start early in a zone-blocking scheme.

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What’s next

On March 17, the focus will return to Evanston for Northwestern's annual Pro Day, where the three combine participants and other draft-eligible Wildcats will look to build on their performances in Indianapolis.

The takeaway

Northwestern's return to prominence as a pipeline for NFL-caliber offensive and defensive linemen is a significant development for the program. The success of Hubbard, Beerntsen, and Tiernan at the combine signals that the Wildcats have reclaimed their identity as a factory for pro-ready talent, which will be crucial for recruiting and maintaining their competitiveness in the Big Ten.