The NFL Combine is a crucial event where top college football players showcase their skills, and the Big Ten Conference is no stranger to producing standout talent. This year, the spotlight shines on the 2026 Big Ten prospects, with a focus on the defensive line and offensive line, as well as the quarterbacks, running backs, receivers, and defensive backs who are poised to make an impact in the NFL. Here's a breakdown of what to expect from these standout players.
Quarterbacks
The Big Ten boasts a strong group of quarterbacks, led by the Heisman Trophy winner, Indiana's Fernando Mendoza. Ohio State's Julian Sayin, a Heisman finalist and second-team All-Big Ten, is a rising star who completed 77% of his passes for 3,610 yards and 32 touchdowns in his sophomore season. His accuracy and intelligence make him a standout.
Oregon's Dante Moore and USC's Jayden Maiava also earned third-team honors. Moore, a junior, flirted with the NFL Draft, but his leadership and statistics (3,565 passing yards, 30 touchdowns) showcase his potential.
Running Backs
The running back position is well-represented with Antwan Raymond (Rutgers), Bo Jackson (Ohio State), and Jordan Marshall (Michigan) returning after receiving second-team All-Big Ten honors. These players' consistency and versatility make them a force to be reckoned with.
Receivers
Ohio State's Jeremiah Smith, a unanimous first-team All-American, is a top prospect for 2027. His size, speed, and physicality make him a challenging matchup, and he's expected to be a first-round pick in the NFL Draft.
Other notable receivers include Rutgers' KJ Duff and Northwestern's Griffin Wilde.
Offensive Line
The offensive line is a key area for the Big Ten, with Indiana's Carter Smith, a consensus first-team All-American, returning for one more year. His leadership and skills make him a standout.
Oregon's Iapani 'Poncho' Laloulu and Oregon guard Dave Iuli, as well as Iowa's Kade Pieper and Trevor Lauck, are also expected to excel.
Defensive Line
Ohio State's defensive line is a force to be reckoned with, featuring high-level prospects like Kenyatta Jackson, who had 6.5 sacks and chose to return. Former Buckeyes defensive end Caden Curry praises Jackson's dedication and potential.
Minnesota's Anthony Smith, a first-team All-Big Ten selection, also announced his return, leading the Big Ten with 12.5 sacks.
Linebackers
The linebacker position is seeing significant turnover, with top prospects like Ohio State's Arvell Reese and Sonny Styles projected as potential top-10 picks. Indiana's Aiden Fisher and Oregon's Bryce Boettcher are also standout defenders.
Defensive Backs
Oregon's Brandon Finney Jr., a freshman All-American, and Iowa's Zach Lutmer, a second-team All-Big Ten selection, are defensive backs to watch. Their versatility and leadership make them valuable assets.
The Big Ten's defensive backs, including Ohio State's Jaylen McClain and Jermaine Mathews, are poised to make an impact in the NFL.
