As the NFL Draft approaches each year, top college football players across the country look for every opportunity to showcase their athleticism, skill, and readiness for the next level. Two of the most significant events during the pre-draft process are the NFL Scouting Combine and college Pro Days. A common question among fans and aspiring players alike is: Can a draft prospect participate in both the Combine and their team’s Pro Day?
The Answer: Yes
NFL draft prospects are absolutely allowed to take part in both events — and many of them do. In fact, participating in both the Combine and a Pro Day is a widely used strategy to maximize exposure and fine-tune performances.
What Is the NFL Combine?
The NFL Scouting Combine is an invitation-only event held annually in Indianapolis, where around 300 of the top draft-eligible players are evaluated by all 32 NFL teams. Players go through a series of standardized drills — such as the 40-yard dash, bench press, vertical jump, and position-specific workouts — as well as medical exams and interviews with coaches and scouts.
It’s a high-pressure, highly publicized event that can significantly affect a player’s draft stock — for better or worse.
What Is a Pro Day?
A Pro Day is hosted by a college program, allowing its draft-eligible players to work out on their own campus in a familiar environment. Unlike the Combine, Pro Days are more private, attended by selected scouts and team representatives. Players may perform the same drills as they did at the Combine, or choose to only do certain exercises.
Pro Days offer a chance for athletes to:
- Improve on Combine results (e.g., run a faster 40-yard dash)
- Showcase skills they didn’t perform at the Combine due to injury or strategic choice
- Demonstrate chemistry with college teammates in position-specific drills
Why Participate in Both?
There are several strategic reasons why a prospect might participate in both events:
- Maximize Exposure: Not all scouts attend the Combine, and some prefer the more personal setting of Pro Days.
- Improve Scores: If a prospect underperforms at the Combine, they get another chance to shine.
- Show Consistency: Strong performances at both events show that a player is reliable under different conditions.
- Recovery from Injury: If a player was limited at the Combine due to injury, the Pro Day gives them a second chance to perform.
Final Thoughts
Participating in both the NFL Combine and a college Pro Day is not only allowed — it’s often encouraged for prospects looking to make the strongest impression possible. It’s an opportunity to control the narrative, demonstrate growth, and connect with more scouts and coaches.
For prospects chasing their NFL dreams, every rep counts — and doing both events can be the key to hearing their name called on draft day.