What tests are done at the NFL Combine?

The NFL Scouting Combine is the ultimate proving ground for college football players aiming to make their mark in the NFL. Every year, hundreds of elite prospects gather in Indianapolis to showcase their physical and mental abilities in front of scouts, coaches, and executives from all 32 teams. But what exactly does the Combine entail? Let's break down the key tests performed at this high-stakes event.

The Physical Drills

The NFL Combine is renowned for its grueling physical tests, each designed to evaluate a player's athleticism, speed, strength, and agility. Here are the core physical tests every participant undergoes:

40-Yard Dash

Perhaps the most famous event at the Combine, the 40-yard dash is a test of pure speed. Athletes sprint 40 yards as fast as possible, with times measured at 10-yard, 20-yard, and 40-yard splits. A fast 40-yard dash can boost a player's draft stock significantly, particularly for wide receivers and cornerbacks. The current record? Xavier Worthy ran an electrifying 4.21 seconds in 2024, surpassing John Ross's previous record of 4.22.

Bench Press (225-Pound Reps)

This test measures upper body strength by determining how many times a player can lift a 225-pound barbell. It's especially important for offensive and defensive linemen, as well as linebackers, who need raw power to dominate in the trenches. Stephen Paea holds the record with an astonishing 49 reps in 2011.

Vertical Jump

The vertical jump is all about explosiveness. Players stand still and jump as high as they can, testing lower-body power. Wide receivers and defensive backs use this test to demonstrate their ability to reach for high passes and defend against jump balls.

Broad Jump

Similar to the vertical jump, the broad jump evaluates lower-body strength, but through horizontal movement. It's a key drill for positions that require powerful leg drive, such as running backs and linebackers.

3-Cone Drill

This agility test requires players to sprint and change direction quickly while weaving around three cones set in an L-shape. It measures acceleration, flexibility, and footwork-crucial for almost every position, particularly edge rushers.

20-Yard and 60-Yard Shuttle

Both shuttle drills assess quickness and lateral movement. The 20-yard shuttle (also known as the short shuttle) consists of quick lateral bursts, while the 60-yard shuttle is a longer version that requires greater endurance.

The Medical Evaluations

Before any drills take place, players undergo extensive medical testing. Each team's medical staff evaluates past injuries, current health conditions, and overall durability. MRIs, X-rays, and physical examinations ensure that teams invest in players with minimal long-term health risks.

Cognitive and Psychological Evaluations

The Wonderlic test, once a standard measure of intelligence at the Combine, has officially been phased out. In 2026, teams rely on more specialized cognitive assessments, such as the S2 Cognition test, to better gauge a player's decision-making speed, problem-solving under pressure, and mental toughness.

Position-Specific Drills

Beyond the standard physical tests, players participate in drills tailored to their positions. Quarterbacks throw to receivers, running backs perform cutting drills, and defensive linemen showcase their pass-rushing skills. These exercises give scouts a real-time look at how prospects execute football-specific tasks.

Interviews: The Mental Test

The Combine isn't just about physical performance. Players meet with team executives for 15-minute interviews where they are grilled on their football IQ, personal background, and character. These conversations help teams determine how well a player will handle the pressures of professional football.

The Evolution of the Combine

The NFL Combine continues to evolve. In recent years, the league has integrated advanced tracking technologies, such as RFID chips in jerseys, to measure real-time movement data. Additionally, there's been a greater emphasis on comprehensive mental health assessments to ensure players are fully prepared for the pros.

As the 2026 NFL Combine unfolds this week in Indianapolis, expect new records, surprises, and plenty of debate over which players truly stand out. While some will solidify their draft status with jaw-dropping performances, every test-from the 40-yard dash to the final interview-plays a role in determining who has what it takes to succeed at the next level.