NFL to keep Scouting Combine in Indianapolis in 2026

Nov. 14 (UPI) -- The annual NFL Scouting Combine will remain in Indianapolis through at least 2026, the league announced Thursday.

"Indianapolis and the NFL Combine have a proud history together, so we're thrilled to continue our longstanding partnership with Visit Indy, the Indianapolis Colts, and the local community for this 2026 event," NFL executive vice president Peter O'Reilly said in a news release.

"Our partners in Indy have successfully hosted the football evaluation process for decades, and recently, we've collectively worked to grow and evolve the in-person fan experience, bringing tens of thousands of fans closer to the league's future stars."

Held in Indianapolis since 1987, the combine features hundreds of draft-eligible college football prospects who meet with team executives and are mentally and physically tested in front of talent evaluators about a month before NFL franchises make draft selections.

The league announced in January that Indianapolis also would host the 2025 combine, with events held at the Indiana Convention Center and Lucas Oil Stadium, the home of the Indianapolis Colts. NFL team owners approved the one-year extension for 2026 in October.

"We appreciate the NFL's continued commitment and interest in Indy and the Colts ongoing partnership," said Chris Gahl, the executive vice president and chief marketing officer for Visit Indy.

"We know Indy is always on audition, striving to keep the event in our city. We are constantly looking to improve and grow the Combine to enhance the fan-facing experience for visitors and fans."

The 2025 Scouting Combine will be held from Feb. 27 through March 2.