INDIANAPOLIS – Dreams and strategies will begin to solidify for numerous NFL teams as the league’s yearly scouting combine kicks off this week in Indianapolis.
The event promises plenty of debates and discussions, especially with no clear consensus on a standout No. 1 overall draft pick or a top quarterback. Scouts are particularly interested in Heisman Trophy winner Travis Hunter, evaluating his potential as either a dominant cornerback, an impactful receiver, or a dual-threat player.
This combine is an essential tool for teams, offering extensive evaluations of the 329 prospects who aim to be selected in the draft set for April 24-26 in Green Bay. Players arriving on Tuesday will have the ensuing practices until the workouts conclude on Monday.
Travis Hunter, who plays both cornerback and receiver for Colorado, stands out as perhaps the most captivating draft prospect due to his versatility. Some experts view Hunter as the top player in both positions he plays. He is scheduled to engage in workouts on Friday with the defensive backs; however, he has also received an invitation to stay an additional night to join the receivers’ workout on Saturday, marking him as the first authentic two-way player in combine history. Whether Hunter will bypass the on-field drills, as some prospects do, remains to be seen. The buzz could peak if he participates in both workouts. His schedule includes meeting with the media on Thursday, which might provide some clues on his plans.
In the quarterback domain, Cam Ward from Miami and Shedeur Sanders from Colorado return to share the spotlight, despite neither likely participating in Saturday’s field drills as they aim to be the first quarterback chosen in April. Ward boasts a unique backstory: from having a solitary college scholarship offer to excelling at FCS school Incarnate Word and then transferring to Washington State. Eventually, he moved to Miami, where his choice paid off. Ward established himself by breaking the NCAA career record with 158 touchdowns between his FCS and FBS performances, leading Miami to near playoff contention and securing a spot as a Heisman finalist.
Meanwhile, Sanders, known for being the son of Hall of Fame cornerback Deion Sanders, is recognized for his accuracy, mobility, strong arm, and vibrant personality. Scouts, however, may express concerns about his father’s potential influence in his career. Sanders is anticipated to skip the combine workout and instead participate during Colorado’s pro day next month.
Jalon Walker, a linebacker and edge rusher from Georgia, could top the edge rusher rankings in this year’s draft if circumstances align in his favor. The question is less about his skill — which is undeniable — and more about his fit within an NFL defense. Listed at 6 feet 2 inches and 245 pounds in college, Walker’s optimal role — either as a pass rusher or traditional linebacker — is debated and may be settled by his performance at the combine.
Ashton Jeanty from Boise State is poised to claim the position as the top running back in the draft after achieving the second-highest single-season rushing total in FBS history. His blend of power and agility is highly coveted. However, the value of running backs in the draft might impact when he is picked, especially given the trend of teams waiting for this position to slip to lower rounds.
Finally, Michigan’s cornerback Will Johnson faces scrutiny after an imperfect final college season hampered by injuries, including a bruised shoulder and turf toe, limiting him to eight games. When in top shape, he ranks among the elite at his position. Teams will prioritize evaluating his readiness to start in full health. A promising 40-yard dash time might boost him into the top 10 selections.
