Top 5 Players Climbing Draft Boards Post-NFL Combine

Bassyonni

Published: March 4, 2026 5:18 PM ET

The 2026 NFL Scouting Combine showcased numerous talented players, helping several prospects rise significantly in the draft rankings. Here are the top five players whose performances have impressed scouts and fans, potentially altering their draft trajectories.

Top 5 Players Climbing Draft Boards Post-NFL Combine

Dani Dennis-Sutton, EDGE, Penn State

At 6 feet 6 inches and 255 pounds, Dani Dennis-Sutton exhibited exceptional athleticism at the combine. He recorded a 4.63-second 40-yard dash and achieved a remarkable 39.5-inch vertical jump, demonstrating both speed and explosiveness. Furthermore, his agility was highlighted by a 6.90-second time in the three-cone drill, placing him in the 93rd percentile for defensive ends.

Height: 6’6″
Weight: 255 lbs
40-Yard Dash: 4.63 seconds
Vertical Jump: 39.5 inches
Three-Cone Drill: 6.90 seconds

His strong performances have elevated his draft projection, with expectations for him to be selected within the top 75 picks.

Jacob Rodriguez, LB, Texas Tech

Jacob Rodriguez solidified his status as a leading linebacker, earning a 93.0 PFF overall grade this past season. This is notably the highest ever recorded for a Power Four linebacker. At the combine, he ran a 4.57-second 40-yard dash and showcased strong jumping ability with a 38.5-inch vertical leap.

Height: 6’1″
Weight: 230 lbs
40-Yard Dash: 4.57 seconds
Vertical Jump: 38.5 inches

Rodriguez answered queries regarding his athleticism, placing him in the top-50 draft conversation.

Omar Cooper Jr., WR, Indiana

Omar Cooper Jr. has transitioned into a frontrunner for wide receiver prospects after his impressive showing at the combine. Measuring 6 feet and weighing approximately 200 pounds, he recorded a 4.42-second 40-yard dash and a 37-inch vertical jump.

Height: 6’0″
Weight: 200 lbs
40-Yard Dash: 4.42 seconds
Vertical Jump: 37 inches

Cooper’s performance ensures considerations for a first-round selection after showcasing his athletic prowess.

Sam Roush, TE, Stanford

Sam Roush has emerged as an intriguing tight end option. Standing at 6 feet 6 inches and weighing 265 pounds, he recorded a 4.70-second 40-yard dash at the combine. He also performed well in the vertical jump and broad jump, recording 38.5 inches and 10 feet 6 inches, respectively.

Height: 6’6″
Weight: 265 lbs
40-Yard Dash: 4.70 seconds
Vertical Jump: 38.5 inches

Roush’s blend of blocking ability and newly showcased receiving potential makes him a desirable prospect in upcoming drafts.

Malachi Lawrence, EDGE, UCF

Malachi Lawrence has garnered attention for his explosiveness and speed. At the combine, he clocked a 4.52-second 40-yard dash and demonstrated exceptional jumping skills with a 40-inch vertical and a 10-foot 10 broad jump.

Height: Over 250 lbs
40-Yard Dash: 4.52 seconds
Vertical Jump: 40 inches
Broad Jump: 10 feet 10 inches

Lawrence’s performance positions him favorably for a Day 2 selection, as his skills translate well to the NFL.

These five prospects have made a significant impact at the NFL Scouting Combine, climbing the draft boards and enhancing their chances of entering the league as high picks.