The USC Trojans are making waves in the 2026 NFL Draft cycle, with seven players earning coveted invitations to the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis from February 23 to March 2, 2026. This impressive showing underscores the talent development under head coach Lincoln Riley and positions USC as a premier NFL pipeline program.
In a recent video breakdown from the USC LAFB YouTube channel titled “Fight On To The NFL Combine: 7 USC Stars Invited – Makai Lemon Could Be First WR Off The Board”, host Ryan Dyrud dives deep into each invitee, their standout 2025 season stats, draft projections, and what they’ll need to accomplish at the combine to elevate their stock ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft (April 23-25 in Pittsburgh).
Why the 2026 NFL Combine Matters For USC Trojans
The NFL Scouting Combine is the ultimate pre-draft showcase, where prospects undergo athletic testing (40-yard dash, vertical jump, bench press), on-field drills, medical evaluations, interviews, and psychological assessments.
For the USC Trojans, sending seven players highlights the program’s depth on both offense and defense after a strong 9-3 regular season in 2025. It also reinforces “Wide Receiver U” status while proving that defensive talent is emerging.
Check Out Our Custom USC Trojans Merch!
This group represents a mix of high-upside playmakers and versatile defenders, giving Lincoln Riley’s staff plenty of bragging rights as they recruit and build for future Big Ten success.
The 7 USC Trojans Invited To The 2026 NFL Combine
Here’s a detailed look at each player, based on their college production and early draft buzz:
- Makai Lemon (WR)
The headliner and Biletnikoff Award winner (best college wide receiver). As a consensus All-American, Lemon exploded in 2025 with 79 receptions for 1,156 yards and 11 touchdowns. Many mock drafts project him as a first-round pick—potentially the first wideout selected. At the combine, expect him to focus on interviews and limited drills (common for top prospects), but his route-running, separation, and play speed already make him a WR1 contender in the class. - Ja’Kobi Lane (WR)
A reliable No. 2 option who posted 49 catches for 745 yards and 4 TDs in 2025. Despite his injury history, his strong Senior Bowl performance boosted his stock. Mid-round upside with potential to climb higher if he tests well in speed and explosiveness drills. - Lake McRee (TE)
An athletic tight end with 30 receptions for 450 yards and 4 touchdowns. Ranked among the top TEs nationally, McRee excels as a route-runner and blocker. He’s a solid mid-to-late round prospect who could rise with strong athletic testing. - Anthony Lucas (DE/EDGE)
Physical edge rusher with 37 tackles and 3 sacks. His traits shine despite past injuries—combine medicals and on-field work could address concerns and solidify Day 2/3 potential. - Eric Gentry (LB)
A towering 6’6″ linebacker who recorded a career-high 76 tackles, 5 forced fumbles, and 3 sacks. His frame and production draw significant buzz; a big combine could push him into earlier rounds. - Kamari Ramsey (S)
Limited snaps but high-end traits: top-10 safety prospect potential with Day 2 draft upside. Explosive in coverage and run support—testing numbers will be key. - Bishop Fitzgerald (S)
Consensus All-American with 51 tackles and 5 interceptions. His ball skills stand out; a strong combine performance could lead to a significant rise.
Key Takeaways And Draft Outlook
Players like Makai Lemon and Bishop Fitzgerald enter as All-Americans with high floors, while others (Lane, Gentry, Ramsey) have massive upside if they dominate drills and interviews. The combine offers a chance for risers—especially in athletic testing and one-on-one interactions with NFL scouts and GMs.
The USC Trojans’ strong representation at the 2026 NFL Combine bodes well for the program’s reputation. As Lincoln Riley continues to recruit elite talent to Los Angeles, expect more Trojans to hear their names called in future drafts.
Who do you think will have the biggest breakout performance in Indy? Drop your predictions below, and stay tuned for more USC Trojans NFL Draft coverage!