Get ready for some NFL combine drama! The second day of the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine has just wrapped up, and it's time to talk about the players who are on the rise and those who might need a little extra work.
The Combine: Where Dreams Soar and Fall
At Lucas Oil Stadium, the defensive backs and tight ends took center stage, showcasing their skills and leaving scouts with plenty to talk about. Some athletes wowed with their speed, agility, and explosiveness, while others struggled to meet expectations. It's a make-or-break moment for these prospects, as their performance can determine their draft stock and future in the league.
But here's where it gets controversial... Some players exceeded all expectations, while others may have hurt their chances of being selected early on draft day. Let's dive into the details and uncover the stories behind these rising and falling stocks.
Stock Up: The Rising Stars
Georgia's Everette: A Speedster with a Surprise
Everette's game film from 2025 might not have been elite, but his performance at the combine was stellar. Running a 4.38-second 40-yard dash at 6-foot-1 and 196 pounds, he left scouts impressed. His vertical leap of 37.5 inches and solid hands during field drills further solidified his potential. If teams value his combine workout over his past tape, Everette could find himself picked in Round 2.
Wyoming's Gyllenborg: A Comeback Story
Gyllenborg, a known talent after his junior season, faced injuries in 2025. But he showed up at the combine, ready to prove himself. His 4.60-second 40 and a 10-foot-8 broad jump showcased his athleticism. With smooth movements and strong hands, Gyllenborg is expected to make an impact as a pass-catching tight end in his rookie season.
San Diego State's Johnson: The All-Around Impressario
Johnson had an outstanding workout, checking all the boxes. At 6-foot-0 and 193 pounds, he ran a solid 4.40-second 40 and jumped 38 inches vertically. His backpedal was smooth, and he showed exceptional agility, turning on a dime with ease. Despite a few dropped passes, Johnson's overall performance puts him in the top-50 conversation.
Missouri's Pride: The Competitive Cornerback
Pride needed a standout performance to separate himself from other potential Day 3 picks. And he delivered, running a CB-best 4.32 40 at 5-foot-10 and 185 pounds. While he struggled with catching and changing directions initially, Pride's competitive spirit shone through as he improved throughout the workout, restoring faith in his ball skills.
Oregon's Sadiq: A Vertical Threat
Sadiq's measurements and combine performance silenced any doubts. Standing at 6-foot-3, he jumped 43.5 inches vertically and broad jumped 11 feet. But the real highlight was his 4.39-second 40 at 241 pounds, the fastest time for a tight end since 2003. However, Sadiq chose not to participate in drills, which could leave some questions unanswered.
Ohio State's Lorenzo Styles: The Speedy Safety
With his brother, Sonny, dominating the previous day, Lorenzo had big shoes to fill. And he did just that, running a 4.27-second 40, the fastest by a safety since 2003. His vertical leap of 39 inches and good size for a defensive back (6-foot-0.5, 194 pounds) make him an intriguing prospect. However, his stiffness in movements might prevent him from climbing into Day 2 of the draft.
Oregon's Thieneman: The Athletic Safety
Thieneman lived up to expectations, starting with a 41-inch vertical and a 10-foot-5 broad jump. His 4.35 40 at 6-foot-0 and 201 pounds was impressive, and he showed exceptional agility during drills. With a productive college career, Thieneman seems destined for the first round after his combine display.
Stock Down: The Work in Progress
Ohio State's Igbinosun: Size Matters, But...
Igbinosun improved in coverage as a senior, but his combine performance might raise concerns. While he has the size teams desire (6-foot-2 with long arms), his 34-inch vertical and 1.58-second 10-yard split in the 40 suggest a lack of quickness. His movements were stiff, and he struggled with ball skills, which could impact his draft stock.
Ohio State's Klare: A Transfer Portal Mystery
Klare's production at Purdue made him a sought-after player, but his decision to enter the draft after a less productive season at Ohio State is intriguing. He chose not to run or jump at the combine, and his drill performance was average at best. In a competitive tight end group, Klare failed to stand out, and his pro day will be crucial to prove his worth as a top-75 pick.
Toledo's McNeil-Warren: Outshined by Elite Company
McNeil-Warren had a solid workout, but he was overshadowed by the exceptional performances of top safety prospects like Jalon Kilgore, Genesis Smith, and Thieneman. His 4.52 40, 35.5-inch vertical, and 10-foot-2 broad jump were good, but not enough to make him stand out. He needs to work on his change of direction and ensure he finishes drills with precision.
There you have it! The 2026 NFL Combine is full of surprises, and these players' stories are just beginning. Who will rise to the top, and who will need to work harder? The draft is approaching, and the pressure is on. Stay tuned for more combine updates and the exciting journey to the NFL draft!
