INDIANAPOLIS — The 2025 NFL Scouting Combine kicked off today at Lucas Oil Stadium, marking the beginning of one of the most pivotal events of the NFL offseason. With the 2025 NFL Draft set to take place from April 24 to April 26, thousands of fans, scouts, and coaches from all 32 teams flocked to see some of the top prospects showcase their skills, undergo medical evaluations, and engage with team officials.
Today’s drills are centered around defensive linemen and linebackers, two position groups known for their physical dominance. Notable prospects include Jordan Burch from Oregon, who is noted for his explosive edge rushing, and Alabama’s Jihaad Campbell, who is expected to shine throughout today’s workout. Both players will be vying for favorable positions on myriad teams’ draft boards.
Another standout, Penn State’s Abdul Carter, the draft’s top-rated defensive prospect according to multiple analysts, unfortunately won’t be participating due to the recent discovery of a stress reaction in his right foot. He has opted not to undergo surgery and plans to showcase his skills at Penn State’s pro day on March 28. Moments after the news broke, Carter emphasized on social media, "You can’t stop GREATNESS! This just gonna make the movie more interesting! See y’all March 28th … Bring ya popcorn!" His determination stands as a notable characteristic as the combine continues.
Meanwhile, Travis Hunter, the standout two-way player from Colorado, made waves during media sessions by expressing his desire to continue his dual-role as both cornerback and wide receiver. “I want to play 100 percent on both sides,” Hunter declared. “But it’s up to the organization.” Hunter stood as one of the most sought-after prospects after leading his team with 96 receptions for 1,258 yards and 15 touchdowns last season. His versatility and athleticism make him one of the most fascinating prospects to watch.
The combine’s structure allows players to undergo rigorous testing through drills, including the 40-yard dash and bench press, among others. Each player is evaluated for their speed, agility, and overall fitness, paving the way for teams to make informed decisions about their draft strategy later this spring. The workouts not only allow scouts to gauge the physical capabilities of the prospects but also provide insights on how they may fit within their future teams.
Despite Hunter’s excitement, not all prospects are able to compete today. Colston Loveland, the standout tight end from Michigan, is still recovering from shoulder surgery performed as recently as January. He appeared at the podium sporting a sling, but confidently stated, “Surgery went great. Got some X-rays, they look really good. Just taking it day by day.” With hopes to be back for training camp, Loveland intends to demonstrate his talent throughout the recovery process, eager to prove his worth as one of the top tight ends available.
The high stakes of the combine not only rest on the shoulders of standout players like Hunter and Loveland but also on several others, including Michigan defensive tackle Mason Graham and cornerback Kenneth Grant, neither of whom will fully participate today due to injuries. Graham will be limited to the bench press, whereas Grant has opted out completely as he recovers from a hamstring strain. Their absence draws attention to the pressures athletes face as they prepare for such high-profile evaluations.
With the next few days filled with excitement, fans will also be tuning in to see how other offensive and defensive prospects perform over the course of the combine. According to the set schedule, defensive backs and tight ends will take the field tomorrow at 3 p.m. ET, followed by quarterbacks, wide receivers, and running backs on Saturday, and offensive linemen on Sunday.
For those wishing to catch the action, live coverage is provided on the NFL Network and streaming available via services like Fubo. From the moment the gates opened, the atmosphere has been electric with anticipation. Fans look forward to witnessing the next generation of NFL talent emerge from the combine, and the prospects have come prepared and motivated to leave their mark.
With every successful drill, the narrative of these young athletes' careers could change drastically, as each run and lift draws them closer to their lifelong dreams of playing professional football. The 2025 NFL Scouting Combine, after all, isn’t just about numbers and tests; it’s about futures being forged as young men take on the challenge of turning their dreams of NFL glory to reality.
Stay tuned as we provide live updates and coverage throughout the event, highlighting the performances and insights from the league’s brightest prospects. Who will rise to the occasion? Time will tell, as football fans across the nation sit back and watch the next stars of the NFL make their case for selection on one of football’s grandest stages.