On March 18, Ole Miss Football conducted its 2026 Pro Day at the Manning Center, drawing the attention of numerous NFL scouts. Seventeen players from the Rebels demonstrated their athletic abilities in front of 38 scouts representing 30 NFL teams and one from a Canadian Football League organization.
Among the participants, senior safety Kapena Gushiken emerged as a significant highlight. The Hawaii native, who stands at 6 feet and weighs 185 pounds, had not been invited to the NFL Combine held in Indianapolis earlier this year. Nevertheless, he clocked an impressive 40-yard dash time of 4.35 seconds, which would have ranked him in the 95th percentile at the Combine. Additionally, Gushiken recorded a 41-inch vertical leap and managed 17 repetitions on a 225-pound bench press, potentially placing him among the top performers in those categories.
While Gushiken was not initially expected to be drafted, his standout measurements may have elevated his status into late-round consideration. Wide receivers De”Zhaun Stribling and Harrison Wallace III, both of whom attended the Combine, participated in throwing drills. Stribling showcased his physicality by making several impressive catches, while Wallace demonstrated agile footwork along the sidelines.
Defensive tackle Zxavian Harris, who was also present at the NFL Combine a few weeks prior, faced challenges during the event. The 6-foot-8, 330-pound player arrived at the Manning Center on a scooter, sporting a cast on his right foot. The details regarding his injury remain unclear, and it could adversely affect his draft prospects.
The 2026 NFL Draft is scheduled to take place in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, from April 23 to 25. It will be broadcasted by ESPN and NFL Network, allowing fans to follow the future careers of these aspiring athletes.
