12 potential future fantasy stars to track at the NFL combine

A new Super Bowl champion was crowned just two weeks ago, but the NFL is a 365-day operation. Sports fans begin looking forward to the next season long before the confetti is removed and the Lombardi Trophy is hoisted. Between blockbuster trades, free agency and a mix of rookie talent, the glory of the gridiron remains in constant motion.

Staying ahead of the league’s calendar is not as burdensome as one might assume. like not with professionals matt bowen And the ESPN fantasy team provides must-know information throughout the offseason. Bowen, a seven-year NFL vet, serves as one of ESPN’s draft experts. His experience and eye for talent has made him one of the most trusted analysts in the field.

Together, we’ve put together a list of talent to track at the NFL Combine. These are rookies who can make a splash in Indianapolis and move up the board during the draft process, such as lad mcconkey And RJ Harvey In recent years. There will be plenty of time in the coming months to sift through the tape, research the data, and debate the merits. However, for now, sit back, take note of the names below, enjoy the preview, and let’s start pondering Pigskin.

quarterback

Fernando MendozaIndiana

A Cinderella story with elite processing speed, accuracy and sleight of hand talent, Mendoza has all the markings of a first choice. The Miami native ranked 72nd among QBs in his high school class of 2022. He committed to Cal, transferred to Indiana and defeated the Hurricanes in the national championship game just four years later. A highly productive and accurate passer, Mendoza’s playing style reflects his journey, full of toughness and focus. A throwing session in Indy would allow scouts to better examine the Heisman Trophy winner’s technique and overall mechanics, but the 22-year-old has decided to skip all on-field drills, opting to work out at Indiana’s Pro Day instead. However, he plans to attend the combine, where he will ask questions and likely generate a lot of discussion. Keep an eye out for any quotes from Clint Kubiak. It seems like the two are destined to unite in Sin City.

ty simpsonalabama

A cerebral signal-caller who is smart in the pocket, Simpson is a difficult evaluation. His numbers tell a tale of two seasons. He managed four outings with three or more passing scores, but beginning with an opening contest against Oklahoma in mid-November, he struggled significantly, throwing four of his five picks. The son of an accomplished college head coach (Jason Simpson), Ty knows the ball, but his arm strength and build are average. He’s only started 15 games, which, given the history of the position in recent years, may leave teams in need of a break. The 23-year-old Simpson is expected to participate in all of the Combine’s practices, potentially overcoming intimidation and tempting teams with his undeniable talent. He guesses it will give a good look pittsburgh steelers And New York Jets.

run behind

game

Can Jeremiah Love solve the Chiefs’ RB issue?

Mike Tannenbaum, Dan Graziano and Bart Scott debate whether the Chiefs should draft Jeremiah Love or try to acquire an established running back in the offseason.

jeremiah loveNotre Dame

A threat to score every time he touches the ball, Love is a fantastically explosive and creative back. He is also a capable pass catcher who can serve as a slot threat in the receiving game. Last season’s Doak Walker Award winner rushed for 1,372 yards (fourth most in Notre Dame history) and found the end zone 21 times (third most in FBS) in 2025. A former high school track standout, Love is ready to light up the 40-yard dash in Indy. he can also show off Jahmir Gibbs-Like the skill set during pass-catching practice. Fantasy managers should expect a 20-year-old player to drop kansas city chiefs At number 9 position.

jadarian priceNotre Dame

Price has slowly bounced back from the devastating Achilles tear that cost him his true freshman campaign in 2022. Although injuries could raise concerns, Price returned to health and shook off the rust, exploding for 11 rushing scores in 2025. A decisive downhill runner with excellent contact balance, the Texas native shared the field with Love, which limited his opportunities, especially as a receiver. Therefore, scouts will likely take a close look at his ability to run various routes out of the backfield. Bowen believes the 22-year-old Price can excel in Rico DowdleA similar role at the next level, especially if he masters pass-catching drills and manages a 40-yard dash time in the sub-4.55 range. Price presents as a Day 2 prospect with legitimate fantasy appeal.

Jonah ColemanWashington

Coleman followed Jedd Fish from Arizona to Washington and led the Huskies in rushing attempts (156), rushing yards (758) and rushing touchdowns (15) in 2025. Compactly built at 5-foot-9 and 228 pounds, the Stockton, California native is a physical runner and possesses superb cutback ability and ample lower body agility. He can differentiate himself as a top-three ranked pick by demonstrating soft hands and an understanding of diverse route trees. Although he lacks top speed, a 40-yard dash in the sub-4.6 range should be enough to convince potential contenders of his Day 2 ability. Coleman has the stuff to thrive as a lead runner in the backfield rotation, which makes landing spots crucial to his fantasy demand.

wide receiver

jordan tysonarizona state

Despite numerous injuries from 2022 to 2025 (knee, collarbone, hamstring), Tyson has a chance to become the first receiver in this year’s class. A versatile player who can thrive at all levels of the field, Tyson led Arizona State in receptions (61), receiving yards (711) and scores (eight) in 2025. Coached by two-time Super Bowl champion Hines Ward (ASU’s wide receivers coach and associate head coach), Tyson’s ball skills and route running set him apart. He projects to excel in the gauntlet drill at the combine. Although his game speed works on tape, a 40-yard dash in the sub-4.5 range will be key to raising his draft stock.

carnell tateOhio State

Possibly the most prepared receiver in this year’s class, Tate is a fluid route runner who can stretch the field and regularly win in contested situations. His ball-tracking talent is evident on tape and reflected in the stat sheet, as he exploded for four games of 100 or more yards in 2025. However, he will need to prove his speed in Indy. If he can achieve a tenth or more of his expected 4.6 40-yard dash, the Chicago native could surpass Tyson as the first wide receiver selected in April. Solid scores in the broad (10.8 range) and vertical jump (upper 30s) could also push Tate up the draft board, potentially allowing him to join fellow Ohio State alumni. Chris Olave In New Orleans.

corn lemonUSC

Lemon plays well above his size (5-11,195 pounds), regularly using advanced passing technique and patience after the catch to gain yards. A native of SoCal who emerged as a true freshman for the Trojans, Lemon began his college career as a two-way player before being locked in as a full-time receiver in 2024. His presence among the position’s elite became evident in 2025 when he averaged the third-most receiving yards per game in the FBS (96.3). Recording only three drops on 175 targets in two seasons, Lemon’s sticky hands and ability to get open make him the quarterback’s best friend. His excellent lower body quickness figures will be on display in the three-cone (sub-seven seconds) and short shuttle (sub-four seconds) drills. He would be a great addition to either Washington Commanders Or Baltimore Ravens.

denzel bostonWashington

A savvy receiver whose game exudes intelligence and subtlety, Boston spent his time waiting patiently in Washington Rome Odunze, Jalen McMillan And Jailyn Polk. The learning experience proved valuable as Boston exploded in 2025 with 11 receiving scores (fourth-most by any player in the Big Ten). While he’s not a burner on tape, Boston’s catch radius and ball tracking knowledge make him an intriguing prospect. Bowen believes Boston’s deployment could mirror that with the right coaching staff puka nakua‘S. A 40-yard dash time in the lower 4.5 zone would be necessary to keep the Washington native ranked in the top five selections.

Casey ConcepcionTexas A&M

A Paul Hornung Award winner (given to the most versatile player in major college football), Concepcion gets a chance to serve primarily as a slot receiver at the next level. With legitimate lower body juice and quick footwork, the 21-year-old Concepcion displays blazing speed, deep movement and superb post-catch skills. He recorded nine receiving TDs (tied for most in the SEC) for the Aggies in 2025. He is expected to shine in change-of-direction drills (three cones and short shuttle) and the 40-yard dash, where he could flirt with a sub-4.4 time. Interestingly, ESPN’s Field Yates projects Concepcion san francisco 49ers at its most recent mock draft. That type of landing spot would provide immediate fantasy value to the North Carolina native.

tight end

kenyon sadikoregon

After refining his skill set and changing his frame over his first two seasons at Oregon, Saadiq performed in spectacular fashion, leading the Ducks in receptions (51) and receiving TDs (eight) in 2025. A versatility who can serve as a receiver and a traditional in-line tight end, Saadiq’s calling card is his speed. Per Bowen: “I haven’t seen a tight end get loose at this rate on seam routes in a long time.” A long-footer who can reach the third level, the Idaho native should crush the 40-yard dash. A time in the 4.5 range could boost his stock. That’s an interesting possibility for tampa bay buccaneers monitor, given Baker MayfieldWith his aggressive throwing style and cad oton Heading into free agency.

Ellie StowersVanderbilt

Stowers’ journey to the tight end position has been anything but traditional. The Texas native initially committed to A&M as a quarterback before transferring to New Mexico State, where he worked hard. Stowers followed offensive coordinator Tim Beck to Vanderbilt after one season in Las Cruces. Stowers emerged as a Commodore, collecting 62 grabs (the most by any Vandy player) and winning the John Mackey Award in 2025. A state-leading high jumper, Stowers knows how to achieve long, high-pointing passes with almost impossible ease. Expect him to impress in the vertical leap, potentially topping 40 inches. Although his testing numbers should surprise, Stowers remains a raw prospect, likely to be courted for his qualities and advancement rather than polish.