BYU linebacker Jack Kelly and wide receiver Chase Roberts have been invited to the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine, giving both former Cougars an opportunity to showcase their abilities in front of NFL coaches, scouts and executives as the draft process intensifies.
This year’s NFL Scouting Combine will be held Feb. 23 through March 2 at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis, one of the most important evaluation events leading up to the NFL draft.
For Kelly and Roberts, the invitation signals recognition of their college production while opening the door to improve their draft outlook through testing, interviews and positional workouts.
Kelly developed into a key piece of BYU’s defense with his physical play style and consistent tackling presence.
His ability to move laterally and handle multiple defensive responsibilities made him a dependable option throughout his career. Scouts will closely evaluate his athletic testing numbers, particularly speed and change of direction, which often shape how linebackers are projected at the professional level.
Roberts established himself as a reliable target in BYU’s offense, earning a reputation for strong hands and toughness in traffic. His performance in route running drills and timed speed events will be important as teams evaluate how his skill set translates against NFL defensive backs.
BYU players have historically used the combine to elevate their draft standing. Linebacker Fred Warner delivered a strong all around performance in Indianapolis in 2018 that helped solidify his rise before becoming a third round selection and eventual All Pro with the San Francisco 49ers. Offensive lineman Brady Christensen improved his draft positioning after testing well during the 2021 pre draft process, leading to his selection by the Carolina Panthers.
The Combine has also benefited recent Cougars such as Blake Freeland, whose combine performance highlighted elite measurables that drew attention from NFL teams. Strong evaluations during the pre draft cycle have consistently helped BYU prospects transition from productive college players to legitimate professional candidates.
Kelly and Roberts now enter that same environment with a chance to strengthen their evaluations. A strong week in Indianapolis can influence scouting reports, create momentum and reshape expectations before the draft.
Their invitations continue BYU’s steady presence at the combine and provide another opportunity for Cougar players to prove they belong at the next level as draft season approaches.