2026 NFL Combine Recap: DL, Edge & LBs
Digest
The podcast "40s and Free Agents" recaps the NFL Scouting Combine, highlighting standout performances and draft potential. Ohio State's Sonny Styles is praised for his exceptional speed and versatility as a linebacker or edge rusher, drawing comparisons to Fred Warner. Edge rusher Arryn Sipps is also identified as a top prospect with potential landing spots like the Commanders or Bengals. Other promising linebacker prospects like Anthony Hill Jr. and Jake Golday are discussed. The episode also touches on defensive tackle performances from Kayla Banks and Zane Durant, and intriguing defensive linemen like DeMonte Kpart and Lee Hunter. David Bailey and Malachi Lawrence are noted for their athleticism as edge rushers, while bench press and arm length are analyzed for other defensive linemen. Finally, the defensive back preview mentions Brandon Sorsay as a potential first-round pick.
Outlines
NFL Offseason and Combine Highlights
Introduction to "40s and Free Agents" podcast covering the NFL offseason, free agency, combine, and draft. Day 1 of the combine showcased impressive speed and explosiveness, particularly from Ohio State players.
Standout Linebacker and Edge Rusher Prospects
Sonny Styles' exceptional combine performance (4.46 40-yard dash, 43.5 vertical, 11'2" broad jump) is detailed, highlighting his versatility as an off-ball linebacker or edge rusher, with comparisons to Fred Warner. Arryn Sipps is considered a strong top-5 prospect, with potential landing spots like the Washington Commanders and Cincinnati Bengals discussed. Anthony Hill Jr. and Jake Golday are also highlighted for their athleticism and playmaking ability.
Defensive Line and Defensive Back Previews
Kyle Pitts' unique role and draft projection are explored. Eric Gentry's length is analyzed for its potential impact. Defensive tackle prospects Kayla Banks and Zane Durant are discussed for their size and speed. DeMonte Kpart and Lee Hunter are noted for their athleticism and character. David Bailey and Malachi Lawrence show promise as edge rushers. Bench press and arm length for defensive linemen are reviewed, and Brandon Sorsay is highlighted as a potential first-round defensive back.
Keywords
Sonny Styles
A highly athletic linebacker prospect from Ohio State, known for his exceptional speed, vertical leap, and broad jump. His versatility allows him to play off-ball linebacker or edge rusher, making him a top draft prospect.
Arryn Sipps
A talented edge rusher with strong combine results, considered a top prospect in the NFL draft. Potential landing spots include teams needing defensive line help, like the Commanders or Bengals.
NFL Scouting Combine
An annual event where college football players perform physical and mental tests to showcase their athletic abilities and skills for NFL scouts and coaches. It significantly influences draft stock.
Linebacker
A defensive position responsible for stopping the run, rushing the passer, and covering receivers. Modern linebackers require speed, agility, strength, and versatility to succeed in the NFL.
Defensive Tackle
An interior defensive lineman whose primary role is to stop the run and pressure the quarterback. Key attributes include size, strength, and the ability to penetrate the offensive line.
Edge Rusher
A defensive player who lines up on the edge of the defensive line, primarily focused on rushing the passer. Speed, agility, and pass-rushing technique are crucial for this position.
Athleticism
The physical capabilities of an athlete, including strength, speed, agility, and endurance. Exceptional athleticism is a key factor in evaluating NFL prospects, especially at positions like linebacker and defensive back.
Draft Stock
A player's projected position in the NFL Draft, influenced by their performance in college, at the combine, and during interviews. High draft stock indicates a player is expected to be selected early.
Q&A
Who are the standout linebacker prospects discussed in the podcast?
Sonny Styles and Arryn Sipps are highlighted for their exceptional athleticism and versatility. Anthony Hill Jr. and Jake Golday are also mentioned for their playmaking abilities and strong combine performances.
What makes Sonny Styles such a highly-rated prospect?
Sonny Styles possesses elite speed (4.46 40-yard dash), a high vertical leap, and an impressive broad jump. His versatility allows him to be effective as an off-ball linebacker or an edge rusher, making him a valuable asset.
Which defensive tackle prospects showed impressive physical traits at the combine?
Kayla Banks stood out with his size (6'6", 327 lbs) and decent speed (5.04 40-yard dash). Zane Durant impressed with his speed for a defensive tackle (4.75 40-yard dash) and penetrating ability.
How does a player's performance at the NFL Scouting Combine impact their draft stock?
The combine allows players to showcase their physical abilities, speed, and agility. Exceptional performances can significantly boost a player's draft stock, while poor showings or injuries can lower it, influencing team evaluations.
Show Notes
On this episode of Move the Sticks, Bucky Brooks and Rhett Lewis are live from NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis, breaking down all the action from Day 1 of on-field workouts.
The guys recap the standouts among the defensive linemen, edge rushers and linebackers, diving into who boosted their draft stock, whose testing numbers jumped off the page and which prospects translated their tape to the field during Thursday’s drills.
Move the Sticks is part of the NFL Podcasts Network.
See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
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