The 2026 NFL scouting combine once again transformed Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis into the epicenter of the offseason, with over 300 top prospects set to participate.
The invitation-only showcase gives players the chance to perform in front of team executives, coaches and evaluators, testing their speed, strength and explosiveness in drills such as the 40-yard dash, bench press and vertical leap.
It also means bright lights and nonstop cameras, documenting every rep, reaction and raw moment — from laser-focused stares to split-second expressions that quickly become near-unforgettable.
As the next NFL hopefuls made their case in Indianapolis, here are some of the most memorable images from the 2026 combine.
Day 1: Thursday
The Texas Tech defensive tackle clocked a 5.18-second 40-yard dash. The Mobile, Alabama, native also posted a 21.5-inch vertical jump and an 8-foot, 4-inch broad jump.
In between drills, he showed just as much comfort in front of the cameras as he did on the field, flashing personality and soaking in the spotlight.
.@TexasTechFB DT Lee Hunter absolutely loves the camera
2026 NFL Combine on @nflnetwork
Stream on @NFLPlus pic.twitter.com/xU2GfNa4q2— NFL (@NFL) February 26, 2026
Penn State defensive tackle Zane Durant turned heads with his speed in Indianapolis, running a 4.75-second 40-yard dash.
For context, Durant’s time in the 40 was faster than the marks once posted by quarterbacks Patrick Mahomes and Dak Prescott — not bad company for a defensive tackle.
The South Carolina native and Clemson standout defensive tackle delivered a steady combine showing, running a 4.85-second 40-yard dash. Capehart, who started just 12 games in six seasons (57 appearances) added a 33.5-inch vertical and an 8-foot, 11-inch broad jump at 6-foot-5, 313 pounds.
