The first day of on-field workouts at the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis did not disappoint. Several players made a strong case for themselves, showcasing impressive athleticism that could catch the attention of the Los Angeles Chargers. Here are four potential targets who stood out during the event.
Caleb Banks, a defensive tackle from Florida, has positioned himself as a top candidate for the Chargers if they choose to bolster their defensive line in the first round. Standing at 6 feet 6 inches and weighing 327 pounds, Banks displayed remarkable speed with a 5.04-second 40-yard dash, along with a 32-inch vertical jump. His wingspan, which ranks in the 99th percentile among defensive tackles at the Combine since 1999, adds to his appeal. Notably, he also made waves at the Senior Bowl, garnering attention from head coach Jim Harbaugh.
Malachi Lawrence, an edge rusher from UCF, is another name to watch as the Chargers consider enhancing their pass rush. Lawrence excelled with a 4.52-second 40-yard dash, a 40-inch vertical, and a broad jump of 10 feet 10 inches, all of which were among the best for edge rushers. His explosive playing style translates well on the field, making him a valuable prospect whether the team opts to retain players like Odafe Oweh or Khalil Mack.
Gracen Halton, representing Oklahoma, could provide the Chargers with a much-needed boost in interior pass rush. Halton achieved a remarkable 36.5-inch vertical jump, the third-best by a defensive tackle in over two decades, along with a solid 4.82-second 40-yard dash. During his final two seasons with the Sooners, he recorded 8.5 sacks and 59 quarterback pressures, highlighting his disruptive capabilities.
Dani Dennis-Sutton from Penn State made a significant impact with his performance, measuring 6 feet 5 inches and weighing 256 pounds. He achieved a 9.93 Relative Athletic Score, ranking as one of the top defensive ends since 1987. Dennis-Sutton”s impressive 6.9-second 3-cone drill dispelled concerns about his agility and lower-body quickness. His last season at Penn State was productive, culminating in 8.5 sacks and 12 tackles for loss.
As the Chargers approach the upcoming draft, the performances from these players not only enhanced their stock but also provided the team with potential avenues to strengthen their roster.
