The 2026 NFL combine in Indianapolis featured more than 300 prospects showcasing their skills through on-field drills, 40-yard dashes, and medical testing. While not every player participated in workouts, several prospects significantly improved their draft outlook with standout performances. Mike Washington Jr. of Arkansas emerged as a major riser, running a 4.33-second 40-yard dash that tied for the fastest among players weighing at least 220 pounds over the past 20 combines.

Wide receivers also made strong impressions, with Chris Brazzell II of Tennessee running a 4.37 at 6-foot-4, pushing himself into first-round consideration. Georgia's Zachariah Branch demonstrated elite speed and explosion with a 4.35-second 40 and 38-inch vertical, while his sure hands in the gauntlet drill stood out. On the offensive line, Alabama's Kadyn Proctor impressed by slimming down to 352 pounds and running a 5.21-second 40, showcasing the athleticism that could land him in the mid-to-late first round.

Defensive prospects also shined, with Penn State's Dani Dennis-Sutton solidifying his Day 2 status through elite testing numbers including a 4.63-second 40 and 39½-inch vertical. UCF's Malachi Lawrence and BYU's Jack Kelly emerged as Day 2 linebackers after impressive combine performances. Cornerbacks D'Angelo Ponds and Charles Demmings both posted elite vertical jumps, with Ponds' 43½-inch vert tying for fifth best among corners since 2003.