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The National Football League (NFL) has confirmed that the Scouting Combine will continue to be hosted in Indianapolis through at least 2026, extending a tradition that dates back to 1987. This announcement, made on Thursday, marks a significant milestone in the event's long-standing relationship with the city. Although there have been occasional discussions about relocating the combine to other cities, the league has decided to maintain its partnership with Indianapolis for the foreseeable future.
A proud partnership with Indianapolis
Peter O’Reilly, the NFL's Executive Vice President of Club Business, International, and League Events, expressed his enthusiasm for the extension. “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,” O’Reilly said in a press release.
He also highlighted the success of Indianapolis in hosting the combine over the years, noting how both the NFL and the city have worked to enhance the experience for fans.
“The 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,” O'Reilly added.
Why Indianapolis works for the Combine
Indianapolis is uniquely equipped to host the Scouting Combine due to its centralized infrastructure. The city offers a combination of venues, including a stadium, convention centre, hotels, and restaurants, all located near each other. This convenient layout makes it easier for participants and fans to navigate the event, ensuring smooth logistics.
A key factor in the city's suitability is its ability to handle the medical requirements of the combine. The close proximity of hospitals and medical facilities plays a crucial role in supporting the physical exams and medical evaluations of the draft hopefuls, which is a major part of the event.
What happens at the Combine?
The NFL Scouting Combine, held annually in late February or early March, serves as a critical evaluation process for roughly 300 prospective NFL players. During the event, participants undergo a series of physical drills, interviews, and medical exams, all aimed at determining their readiness for the professional league.
Indianapolis’ established infrastructure and its successful track record make it the ideal location for this highly anticipated event, ensuring both participants and fans continue to have a seamless experience year after year.
