The 2026 NFL Scouting Combine has concluded in Indianapolis, showcasing the talents of two former players from Maryland, offensive lineman Alan Herron and defensive back Jalen Huskey. Both athletes had the opportunity to demonstrate their skills in front of NFL scouts and coaches.
Jalen Huskey was initially scheduled to participate in drills with his fellow defensive backs last Friday. However, he was among four invited defensive backs who ultimately did not take part in the 40-yard dash or other drills. He will have another opportunity to showcase his abilities at Maryland”s pro day, with the date still to be announced. Despite not competing in the drills, Huskey did take his official measurements, standing at 6 feet 1 inch tall and weighing 196 pounds. He received a Prospect Grade of 5.83, indicating he is viewed as an “average backup or special teamer” on the NFL”s grading scale.
On the other hand, Alan Herron measured in at 6 feet 5 inches and 308 pounds, earning a Prospect Grade of 5.67, which suggests he could be a candidate for the bottom of the roster or a practice squad position. Herron participated in nearly all of the offensive linemen drills on Sunday, opting out only of the broad jump. His performance in the 40-yard dash placed him 17th out of 39 offensive linemen, with Iowa”s Logan Jones leading the pack at a time of 4.90 seconds. Notably, Herron also ranked in the top half for his vertical leap, finishing 16th. He did not register an official bench press rep on Monday.
During his senior season, Huskey recorded 72 tackles, made four interceptions, and had two pass breakups, achieving an impressive 83.5 PFF pass coverage grade. Herron also garnered positive feedback from PFF, receiving an 80.3 pass-blocking grade while allowing only three sacks throughout the 2025 season.
This year”s representation from Maryland at the Combine was smaller than in previous years; the last time only two players were invited was in 2022. In the last three years, Maryland sent seven, four, and five prospects to the Combine, with 11 players being selected in the Draft during that span. However, the absence of more players does not eliminate the possibility of Huskey and Herron being drafted. For example, linebacker Ruben Hyppolite II was selected in the fourth round by the Chicago Bears last year despite not receiving an invitation to the Combine. Similarly, offensive lineman Spencer Anderson, who was also overlooked for the Combine, was drafted by the Pittsburgh Steelers in the seventh round of the 2023 NFL Draft, where he started the first three games of the 2024 season at left guard and has become a key rotational player.
The upcoming NFL Draft is scheduled to take place in Pittsburgh from April 23 to 25. Prior to that, Maryland”s pro day will provide Herron, Huskey, and other graduating players with another opportunity to impress scouts. Fans and scouts alike should stay tuned for the announcement of the pro day date and participant list.
