UCF edge rushers Nyjalik Kelly and Malachi Lawrence were among 319 players invited to participate in the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine. The week-long event takes place at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis from Feb. 23 through March 2.
Lawrence finished this past season with a team-high in sacks (7) and tackles for loss (11), while Kelly was second with 3 sacks and 7.5 tackles for loss.
The duo is among 63 defensive linemen invited to participate in the event, which will be closely watched by NFL team scouts, general managers and coaches. It also includes the Wonderlic test, medical exams, team interviews and a variety of drills, such as the 40-yard dash and bench press.
Lawrence spent four seasons with the Knights, totaling 72 tackles, including 28 for a loss with 20 sacks and three forced fumbles. Kelly joined the program as a transfer in 2024 after two seasons at Miami, combining for 118 tackles with 22.5 for loss and 12.5 sacks, along with an interception.
Four players participated in last year’s NFL Combine, led by running back RJ Harvey, wide receiver Kobe Hudson and defensive backs BJ Adams and Mac McWilliams. Harvey was selected by the Denver Broncos in the second round of the 2025 NFL Draft, while McWilliams was picked in the fifth round by the Philadelphia Eagles.
This year’s NFL draft takes place in Pittsburgh on April 23-25.
Matt Murschel can be reached at mmurschel@orlandosentinel.com
