The 2026 NFL Combine is set to begin this week, and LSU will once again be well represented in Indianapolis. LSU’s disappointing 7-6 season looked vastly different than other teams that sent double-digit players to Indianapolis. But the Tigers had 11 players invited to the combine, good for third in the country.
Fortunately for those invited, the NFL recognized the talent that was on an underachieving team. However, it’s not enough to simply show up. Each player representing LSU will arrive with a chance to raise their stock. We examined each LSU participant and determined how they can help themselves at the combine.
LSU at the Combine
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After a lopsided, dominant defensive performance by the Seahawks in the Super Bowl, the value of effective pass rushers has never been more evident. Three of the 11 Tigers in Indianapolis will play on the edge at the next level, even if it’s in a situational capacity. On that note, we’ll start with Harold Perkins.
Injuries and staff indecisiveness surrounding his position prevented Perkins from ever matching his dominant freshman season, but his speed of the edge won’t be questioned. This week will provide an opportunity for Perkins to show his strength and underrated ability to flip his hips in coverage. Although his hand usage improved in shedding blocks, he still has work to do as a complete linebacker. Regarding his strengths, the combine provides the ideal setting for his athleticism and explosiveness to shine.
Defensive ends Patrick Payton and Jack Pyburn came to LSU in 2025 to raise their stock at what was considered a program on the rise. Payton intended to regain his sophomore form, which resulted in seven sacks. But that total proved much tougher to achieve without Jared Verse on the opposite edge. Payton’s length will intrigue, but he’ll need to flash the burst and bend of an edge rusher who can get to the quarterback.
Pyburn’s best quality could be his versatility. Approaching 270 pounds, he could realistically add bulk and play inside in certain schemes. Verified length and an impressive bench showing could raise some eyebrows. He’s already proven to be a force in setting the edge against the run.
Air Raiders
Garrett Nussmeier bounced back from a disappointing senior season to look more like himself during the week of the Senior Bowl. Nussmeier has now had even more time to heal. If his health has improved since the Senior Bowl, he could easily stand out in a relatively thin group of quarterbacks.
Somehow, LSU’s 61st-ranked passing offense sent four receivers to the combine, the most of any school in the nation. Each wideout will face different challenges this week. Aaron Anderson is NFL-ready as a slot receiver, but teams will want to know that he’s not as injury-prone as he has appeared to be.
Barion Brown could be the most well-rounded LSU receiver at the combine, but he didn’t get to prove it during the season. Sure hands and a versatile route tree are at the top of the list for Brown to show scouts. Chris Hilton’s speed and vertical jump will turn heads. He must keep the positive momentum going from his four (yes, four) all-star games in proving that he’s more than a one-trick pony. While Zavion Thomas’s return ability adds to his value, it’s also important for him to present himself as a complete receiver.
Tight End Bauer Sharp had a few miscues in 2025, but he’s a legitimate receiving threat. This is his chance to remind scouts that the LSU offense was the bigger problem last year than his ability as a pass catcher.
Defensive Back Duo
Cornerback Mansoor Delane came to LSU in 2025 and elevated himself as an NFL prospect. He was consistently dominant and positioned himself as the best cornerback available on some draft boards. Delane doesn’t have to set any records in this setting; it will be more about verifying what the scouts think they see on tape. A forty time that avoids the high 4.5’s should cement his standing in the top half of the first round.
LSU also picked up an elite safety in its 2025 transfer class, and AJ Haulcy competes with a deep safety group at the combine. Haulcy has production on his side with 10 interceptions and over 350 tackles during his career. His ball skills are sufficient, and his football IQ is superb. Scouts will watch his speed closely to ensure he’s more than a box safety.
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