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Five prospects who can boost their stock at the 2026 NFL Combine

The NFL has released the entire list of players invited to the 2026 NFL Combine in Indianapolis. The combine is one of the most unique events in sports, as it is not only a huge media event, but the future of the league is broadcast live.

​Not only that, but prospects can really make or break their chances to boost their stock. They can do this through athletic testing, measureables, and interview meetings with teams during the week.

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​Every year, we see a name capture the eye of NFL teams and fans. Here are five prospects you will see have a big opportunity to boost their stock.

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Oct 4, 2025; Pasadena, California, USA; Penn State Nittany Lions quarterback Drew Allar (15) warms up before the game against the UCLA Bruins at Rose Bowl. Mandatory Credit: Kiyoshi Mio-Imagn Images

Drew Allar, QB Penn State

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​Probably the most polarizing prospect in the NFL Draft. Allar seems to have what teams look for: high upside and tools, prototypical size, and three plus years as a starter. Last year, he almost declared for the draft. He probably should have.

​After returning in 2025, Allar and Penn State’s season underwhelmed. The senior quarterback suffered a season-ending injury–capping off a miserable year. However, those tools and upside didn’t disappear.

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​He still had moments where his arm strength, mobility, and toughness were on display. The problem with Allar is consistency and playing in big moments. He will get a chance to wow teams at the combine in drills and interviews.

​Kenyon Sadiq, TE Oregon

​An athletic freak, Sadiq is a prospect who could solidify himself into first-round or early second-round conversation. He is a little bit on the lean side for his position, but that doesn’t mean he can’t play at the next level.

​His testing and interviews will be crucial. If he blows away testing results and makes a good impression on teams up close, he could be taken sooner rather than later. Some drills to watch would involve blocking drills on the sleds.

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​Desmond Reid, RB Pitt

Pitt RB Desmond Reid is undersized for high-volume touches, but his effectiveness in the passing game is valuable.

Listed as 5'8 175. He will be a rotational & role-specific player. pic.twitter.com/DiGvrbPDvN

— Damian Parson💰 (@DP_NFL) February 7, 2026

​Reid is an intriguing prospect who is seen as a role player. After two years at Western Carolina, he transferred to Pittsburgh. His 2024 season was impressive. His 2025 season was cut short by injury.

​He can do what you need him to do with the ball–catching, running, and could be a returner as well. However, his size can be seen as limiting in pass protection and as a three-down back. He needs a lot to go right at the combine to help him state his case.

​Bud Clark, S TCU

​After a standout week in Mobile, Clark is headed to Indianapolis. He is projected to go anywhere from the third-round to being a late-day three pick. After impressing at the Senior Bowl, he could continue to impress this week.

​Clark’s frame is a concern, but his ability to ball hawk simply is not. He made numerous plays at TCU with 11 career interceptions. If he continues to stand out in this phase of the draft evaluations, he might raise his draft floor significantly.

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Apr 26, 2025; Iowa City, IA, USA; Iowa defensive lineman Max Llewellyn (48) looks to the sideline during a spring NCAA football open practice at Kinnick Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Joseph Cress/For the Register

​Max Llewellyn, DL Iowa

​Another player whose outlook is more of a role player, Llewellyn is someone teams are intrigued by his athletic ability and size. He won’t be mistaken for a nose tackle, but he can play along the line of scrimmage.

​Iowa has produced some strong defensive contributors, such as the Steelers’ Yahya Black and Eagles’ Cooper Dejean. Llewellyn will have an opportunity to show his testing and drills while also meeting with those who probably saw him when they scouted some of his teammates.

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