NFL Draft Prospects and the Scouting Combine

The scouting combine is a major milestone for NFL draft hopefuls, second only to their game footage. A standout performance at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis can completely transform a player’s career—potentially translating into millions of dollars. Conversely, if a candidate struggles during interviews or workouts, their stock can drop rapidly. Just look at Shedur Saunders as an example of this volatility.

As we approach the 2026 Combine, set to kick off on Thursday, February 26, and continue through Sunday, March 1, here are six offensive players who might just surprise NFL executives and significantly boost their financial prospects.

Some of you may not be household names right now, but I wouldn’t be surprised if that changes over the coming week.

Cole Payton, QB, North Dakota State

Payton, after spending years as a backup, finally got his chance to shine in 2025. He completed 161 out of 226 passes, yielding 2,719 yards with a passer rating of 127.8. Not only was he effective as a passer, but he also proved to be a threat with his legs, rushing for 894 yards and 13 touchdowns on 120 attempts. His ability to mix passing and running should attract attention during the combine.

With a proven throw, he managed to complete a notable number of long passes, completing 35 out of 56 attempts of 20 yards or more, which adds to his appeal. While he could face concerns about his single starting season and being a left-handed player, his athleticism could shine through in drills.

Emmett Johnson, RB, Nebraska

While Jeremiah Love might get the recognition, it’s Johnson who racked up impressive rushing stats, finishing last season with 1,450 yards and 13 rushing touchdowns. His versatility as a receiver also stands out, with 46 catches for 370 yards. I expect his speed and acceleration to catch many scouts’ eyes, especially when he tackles agility drills at the combine.

Brennen Thompson, WR, Mississippi State

Thompson has a remarkable speed profile, having been a top high school sprinter. His agility allows him to slip past defenders frequently. In 2025, he had 57 receptions for over 1,000 yards. His combination of speed and receiving skill could make him a hot commodity during the combine.

Chris Brazzell II, WR, Tennessee

Even though Tennessee’s offense may not align perfectly with the NFL’s style, Brazzell’s speed will grab attention. In 2025, he had 651 receiving yards and demonstrated his ability to stretch the field as a tall receiver. Due to his impressive speed, he should create some buzz during the combine, not just as a receiver but as a potential deep threat.

Thomas, WR

With 41 receptions last season, Thomas showcased potential that’s certainly not limited to his stats. He consistently demonstrated explosive speed and often exceeded 20 mph on runs, making his upcoming performance something to anticipate at the combine.

Kadin Proctor, OT, Alabama

Proctor is a massive 6-foot-7, 366-pound tackle, and he’s already drawing first-round considerations. His skill development over his college career has been impressive. What really stands out is his surprising speed for a player of his size, having recorded speeds over 16 mph during games. If he surprises everyone with a fast time at the combine, we might see a major shift in how teams rank their tackle prospects.