2026 NFL Combine: Day 1 Stock Up/Stock Down Analysis
The 2026 NFL Combine's first day of workouts showcased a mix of impressive performances and areas for improvement. Here's a breakdown of the players who stood out and those who may need to step up their game.
Stock Up:
- Sonny Styles (Ohio State, LB, Senior): The son of former NFL linebacker Lorenzo Styles Sr. made a strong case for himself as a top-10 pick. His 4.47-second 40-yard dash, 40-inch vertical jump, and 11+ feet broad jump at 230+ pounds are historic for his size. Styles displayed excellent ball skills and agility in drills, further elevating his draft stock.
- Capehart (Clemson, DT, Senior): With impressive measurables (6-foot-5, 313 pounds, 10.25-inch hands, 33.75-inch arms), Capehart turned heads with a 4.85-second 40-yard dash and 33.5-inch vertical jump. His smooth movement skills and ability to use his length effectively in drills make him a top DT prospect.
- Elarms-Orr (TCU, LB, Senior): Elarms-Orr's 4.47-second 40-yard dash and 40-inch vertical jump at 6-2, 234 pounds showcased his speed and athleticism. His quickness in field drills and ability to play run defense make him a potential Day 3 pick.
- Halton (Oklahoma, DT, Senior): Despite having less-than-ideal arm length (31.125 inches), Halton impressed with a 4.82-second 40-yard dash and 36.5-inch vertical jump. His quick feet and tackling prowess in drills make him a strong candidate for the middle rounds.
- Lawrence (UCF, Edge, Senior): Lawrence stood out with a 4.52-second 40-yard dash, 10-foot-10 broad jump, and 40-inch vertical jump at 253 pounds. His speed, explosiveness, and 20 sacks in four seasons at UCF make him a Day 2 prospect.
Stock Down:
- McDonald (Ohio State, DT, Junior): McDonald's performance on Thursday didn't match his former teammate Tyleik Williams' impressive showing last year. He failed to showcase his strength holding the line of scrimmage and struggled with quick direction changes. This may impact his draft position.
- Overton (Alabama, Edge, Senior): Overton's 4.87-second 40-yard dash and stilted movements didn't impress scouts. His lack of participation in jumps and marginal change-of-direction skills may hinder his draft prospects.
- Thomas (Oklahoma, Edge, Senior): Thomas weighed in at 241 pounds, and his 4.67-second 40-yard dash (with a 1.63-second 10-yard split) was underwhelming compared to other edge rushers. His arm length and decision to skip jumps didn't help his case.
