Draft season is heating up with the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis this week, where teams will closely evaluate prospects through private interviews, news conferences, and workouts at Lucas Oil Stadium. Quarterbacks like USC’s Caleb Williams, North Carolina’s Drake Maye, and LSU’s Jayden Daniels are expected to be top picks, while a talented group of wide receivers including Ohio State’s Marvin Harrison Jr., LSU’s Malik Nabers, and Washington’s Rome Odunze will also be under scrutiny.
New head coaches such as the Chargers’ Jim Harbaugh and GMs like the Commanders’ Adam Peters will be in focus, along with the futures of quarterbacks Kirk Cousins, Russell Wilson, and Justin Fields. Our team of beat and national writers at The Athletic share their insights on what to watch for at the NFL combine.
The Cardinals are in need of upgrades at wide receiver, but they also have needs on the offensive and defensive lines. The Falcons will have to decide on a quarterback from Tier 2 prospects like Jayden Daniels, J.J. McCarthy, and Bo Nix. The Ravens need to address their pending free agents, while the Bills face challenges with cap space.
The Panthers’ Dave Canales and Dan Morgan will share their strategies at their first combine as team leaders, and all eyes will be on Caleb Williams as he handles the limelight. The Bengals are looking to solidify their defensive tackle position, and the Browns are evaluating wide receiver prospects due to their need for upgrades. The Cowboys’ focus is on Dak Prescott’s contract, while the Broncos may be ready to move on from Russell Wilson.