The NFL Scouting Combine returns to Lucas Oil Stadium this week, and Indianapolis is once again the center of the football universe. From February 27 through March 2, 323 of the top college football players in the country will run, jump, and interview their way toward the NFL Draft.

But this year, Hoosier fans have extra reason to pay attention. Several players from Indiana, Notre Dame, and Purdue are among the invitees hoping to improve their draft stock in front of hometown crowds.

Indiana, Notre Dame, and Purdue Prospects to Watch

This year is historic for the state of Indiana, with a record number of local players making the trip to Lucas Oil Stadium.

Indiana Hoosiers (The National Champs)

Coming off their perfect season, IU has a record-breaking 9 invites this year.

• Fernando Mendoza (QB): The Heisman winner is the projected #1 overall pick. Note to Fans: Mendoza will be at the Combine for interviews but has announced he will not throw until IU’s Pro Day on April 1.

• Elijah Sarratt & Omar Cooper Jr. (WR): Both are projected early-round picks. Watch for Sarratt's 40-yard dash to see if he can push into the 1st round.

• D’Angelo Ponds (CB): A lockdown defender who many scouts believe is the most "pro-ready" corner in this class.

• Roman Hemby (RB): The explosive back who fueled the Hoosiers' run game.

Notre Dame Fighting Irish

• Jeremiyah Love (RB): Widely considered the RB1 of the 2026 class. Saturday is his day to shine—he is a legitimate threat to break the 4.3s mark in the 40-yard dash.

• Malachi Fields (WR): A physical, big-bodied target who scouts are watching for his vertical leap and contested catch ability.

• Eli Raridon (TE): Climbing up draft boards as a premiere red-zone threat.

Regional "Boilermaker" Ties

• Max Klare (TE): While Klare finished his career at Ohio State, the former Purdue standout is a top-3 TE prospect and a familiar face for Indiana fans.

2026 NFL Combine Schedule: When to Watch

The on-field workouts are open to fans and free with registration. Here's the full schedule:

Saturday is the marquee day. That's when you'll see the 40-yard dash times that dominate ESPN for weeks. QBs throwing, receivers catching, running backs cutting.

How to Get Free NFL Combine Tickets

Admission is free, but you must register through the NFL OnePass app ahead of time.

1. Download the NFL OnePass app (iOS or Android)

2. Create an account or sign in

3. Register for the day(s) you want to attend

4. Your digital ticket will appear in the app

Entry is first-come, first-served, so arrive early. The NFL's clear bag policy is strictly enforced, so leave the backpack at home.

NFL Combine Experience: Fan Activities

Beyond the workouts, the NFL sets up a free fan festival featuring:

• Interactive games and challenges

• Photo ops with the Lombardi Trophy

• NFL Legend appearances

• Team merchandise and giveaways

• Kids zone activities

It's family-friendly and a great way to spend a few hours between drill sessions.

Where to Eat and Drink Near Lucas Oil Stadium

Downtown Indianapolis handles Combine crowds like a pro. Here are the best spots within walking distance:

Upscale

• St. Elmo Steak House (127 S Illinois St) - The legendary shrimp cocktail is worth the reservation

Game Day Atmosphere

• Kilroy's Bar & Grill (201 S Meridian St) - Classic sports bar, big screens everywhere

• Slippery Noodle Inn (372 S Meridian St) - Indiana's oldest bar, live blues on weekends

Local Craft Beer

• Sun King Brewing (135 N College Ave) - Indianapolis craft beer institution

• Indiana City Brewing (24 Shelby St) - Walkable from the stadium

Quick Bites

• Punch Bowl Social (Circle Centre Mall) - Games, food, drinks

• The Tamale Place (5226 Rockville Rd) - Best tamales in the city, worth the trip

Pro Tips for NFL Combine Weekend

Parking: Lots fill fast. Park north of downtown and walk, or take the IndyGo Red Line to the convention center stop.

Weather: Late February in Indianapolis is unpredictable. Check the forecast and layer up.

Arrive early on Saturday: This is the most popular day. Lines form well before the 1:00 PM start.

Cheer for the locals: The crowd gets loud when Notre Dame, IU, and Purdue players run. Be part of it.

Stay for the interviews: NFL Network broadcasts live from the Combine. You might catch a prospect interview happening nearby.

Why Indianapolis Hosts the NFL Combine

Indianapolis has hosted the NFL Scouting Combine since 1987, and it's not going anywhere. The combination of Lucas Oil Stadium, the Indiana Convention Center, and downtown's compact walkability makes it the perfect host city.

Everything is connected. Players can move from medical evaluations to on-field drills to team interviews without ever stepping outside. For fans, it means restaurants, hotels, and the stadium are all within a few blocks.

Key Dates for NFL Combine 2026

• February 24-26: Medical evaluations, measurements, team interviews (closed to public)

• February 27 - March 2: On-field workouts (open to fans)

• April 24-26: 2026 NFL Draft (Green Bay, Wisconsin)

The 2026 NFL Combine runs February 24 through March 2 at Lucas Oil Stadium. On-field workouts begin Thursday, February 27. Register for free tickets via the NFL OnePass app.