
As the hype surrounding the 2026 NFL Draft continues to grow, Duke Blue Devils’ fans are eager to see where the program’s best players will land during the massive three-day event in April.
However, before they hear their names called at the highly anticipated event, the former Duke standouts will have to show out at the 2026 NFL Combine, which is set to take place next week in Indianapolis, IN.
This year, the Blue Devils are set to send four of the program’s top playmakers from the 2025 season to the NFL Combine:
Bob Donnan-Imagn ImagesOne of the biggest names from the program that will be at the combine is cornerback Chandler Rivers, as he will look to increase his draft stock before April.
The stout defensive back was a key piece on Diaz’s defense last season, racking up a total of 59 tackles, eight pass deflections, three tackles for losses, and two interceptions. At 5-foot-10, 180 lbs., there are plenty of concerns regarding Rivers' size, but a strong showing next week could significantly boost his draft stock.
Another key playmaker on the defensive side of the ball in 2025 was EDGE Vincent Anthony Jr., who is coming off an incredible season with the Blue Devils.
Last year, Anthony was a force on the defensive line, finishing his final college season with 34 tackles, 13 tackles for losses, and 7.5 sacks. Standing at 6-foot-6, 250 lbs., the talented pass rusher has an excellent blend of size and power, making him a potential sleeper in the later rounds of the upcoming draft.
Joining Anthony in Indianapolis next week is fellow defensive end Wesley Williams, who is also beginning to gain traction before the NFL Draft. While his numbers were not similar to his counterpart in Anthony (43 tackles and two sacks), Williams showed enough flashes in 2025 to stir up some hype before the combine.
On the offensive side of the ball, star tackle Brian Parker II is the lone player from the offense who received an invite to this year’s combine. Parker is projected to be the second Duke player selected in the 2026 NFL Draft, and an impressive showing next week, paired with his outstanding 2025 season, could help his stock.
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