The NFL scouting combine has officially commenced this week, marking a significant event for college football players aspiring to join the professional ranks.
A total of 329 standout athletes have been invited for evaluation, with the process beginning on Thursday. During this initial phase, defensive linemen and linebackers will have their performance assessed at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis.
This year presents an unusual draft scenario, as there is no consensus number one pick for the three-day event that kicks off on April 24 in Green Bay.
Tennessee Titans currently hold the first overall pick. They face a strategic decision: selecting a potential star player or trading the pick for additional assets.
Curious about how to watch it all unfold? The NFL Network will provide live television coverage along with streaming services, launching at 3 p.m. EST on Thursday and concluding on Sunday.
Attention will be on several prominent prospects including Heisman Trophy winner Travis Hunter, who intrigues teams with his potential as either a cornerback, a receiver, or possibly both roles at the professional level.
Penn State’s Abdul Carter is also making headlines, confidently asserting that he deserves the top draft selection and will have the opportunity to demonstrate this at the combine.
Contenders for the top quarterback position include Cam Ward from Miami and Shedeur Sanders of Colorado, with the latter having the notable distinction of being the son of Buffaloes coach and legendary Hall of Famer Deion Sanders.
Boise State’s dynamic Ashton Jeanty, standing at 5-foot-9, is anticipated to be the leading running back picked in the approaching draft season.
Will Johnson, returning from an injury-shortened final season at Michigan, could significantly boost his chances of securing a top-10 draft position with a notable 40-yard dash performance on the Indianapolis turf.
At the combine, participants undergo a series of tests evaluating their speed, strength, and agility. In addition, they engage in interviews with NFL teams, who seek to understand their football acumen and potential fit within their organizations.
