Top Edge Rushers Shine: 5 Standout Winners from 2026 NFL Combine
The 2026 NFL Combine showcased an impressive group of edge rushers, highlighting their athleticism and skill. Several players stood out during on-field drills, drawing attention from scouts and analysts alike. Here are the top five standout winners from this year’s Combine.
Top Edge Rushers Shine at 2026 NFL Combine
T.J. Parker – Clemson
T.J. Parker, measuring 6-foot-4 and weighing 263 pounds, delivered an impressive performance. His 1.61/4.68 split in the 10/40 yard dash, coupled with a 34-inch vertical jump and a 10-foot broad jump, placed him among the top five athletes in the event. Parker’s agility and strong technique in passing drills calmed earlier doubts stemming from a subpar season at Clemson.
David Bailey – Texas Tech
At 6-foot-4 and 251 pounds, David Bailey emerged as a top prospect. He recorded a 1.62/4.50 split, a 35-inch vertical, and a 10-foot-9 broad jump, securing the third-best athletic score at the Combine. Bailey’s quick feet and powerful changes of direction impressed scouts, solidifying his projection as a potential top 10 pick.
Keldric Faulk – Auburn
Keldric Faulk, 6-foot-6 and 276 pounds, opted out of measurable testing but excelled in on-field drills. His length and body control were evident, particularly during the “hoop drill.” Although he occasionally appeared stiff, his strong initial punch and ability to drop into linebacker drills showcased his versatility.
Dani Dennis-Sutton – Penn State
Standing 6-foot-5.5 and weighing 256 pounds, Dani Dennis-Sutton dropped weight before the Combine, which improved his agility. He achieved a 1.63/4.64 split alongside a 39.5-inch vertical and a 10-foot-11 broad jump, marking him second in athletic scores. Despite challenges in bending and spinning, his explosive moves and violent hands drew attention.
Malachi Lawrence – UCF
Malachi Lawrence, at 6-foot-4 and 253 pounds, surprised many with outstanding metrics, recording a 1.58/4.52 split and a 40-inch vertical jump. His skills continued to improve throughout the day, particularly in change-of-direction drills and bending techniques. Lawrence’s strong hands and linebacker drop skills further enhanced his appeal among scouts.
Additional Notable Performances
While there were smaller edge rushers such as Keyron Crawford (Auburn), Romello Height (Texas Tech), and Cashius Howell (Texas A&M) who performed commendably, their fit for starting roles in certain schemes, including the Lions’, may be questionable. All are projected as Day 2 picks or higher, but their contributions may be limited unless a scheme change occurs.
Overall, the edge rushing group at the 2026 NFL Combine demonstrated depth and talent, potentially reshaping teams’ draft strategies this season.
