The 2026 NFL Scouting Combine officially kicked off today in Indianapolis, and while the on-field drills at Lucas Oil Stadium won't begin until later this week, the hallways are already buzzing with blockbuster news. As over 300 prospects arrive for medical evaluations and team interviews, two major storylines have immediately hijacked the news cycle: the Las Vegas Raiders' sky-high asking price for star pass rusher Maxx Crosby, and the strategic decision by projected No. 1 overall pick Fernando Mendoza to holster his arm during throwing sessions.

Maxx Crosby on the Block: Raiders Want a "Micah Parsons Package"

The biggest bombshell dropping on day one of the Combine involves one of the league's premier defensive talents. Sources close to the situation report that the Las Vegas Raiders have signaled they are open to moving three-time Pro Bowl edge rusher Maxx Crosby—but the price tag is astronomical. Early reports indicate the Raiders, under the new leadership of General Manager John Spytek and Head Coach Klint Kubiak, are seeking a return package that starts with at least two first-round picks.

The friction appears to stem from the end of the 2025 season, where Crosby was reportedly frustrated after being shut down for meniscus surgery while the team was still mathematically in the hunt. With the Raiders potentially looking to hit the reset button, trading the 28-year-old superstar could fast-track their rebuild. However, the asking price has given pause to potential suitors like the Detroit Lions and Chicago Bears. "They want the Micah Parsons treatment," one AFC executive told reporters regarding the compensation demands. "If you want Maxx, you're mortgaging your next two drafts."

Can the Raiders Actually Move Him?

Despite the high demands, Crosby's production remains elite. He posted 10 sacks in just 15 games last season before his injury. The question looming over Indianapolis is whether a contender believes Crosby is the final piece to a Super Bowl puzzle and is willing to meet Las Vegas's steep price before the new league year begins in March.

Fernando Mendoza Skips Throwing Drills to Preserve No. 1 Status

On the prospect side, the presumptive top pick in the 2026 NFL Draft has made his first big business move. Fernando Mendoza, the Indiana Hoosiers quarterback who shocked the world by leading his team to a National Championship and winning the Heisman Trophy in 2025, has officially informed teams he will not participate in throwing drills at the Combine.

Mendoza's decision follows a trend set by recent top quarterback prospects who opt to let their game tape speak for itself. Standing at 6'5" and 225 lbs, Mendoza's physical tools are already well-documented. By skipping the throwing session, he avoids the risk of an off-day affecting his stock while forcing scouts to focus on his incredible 2025 campaign, where he threw for over 3,500 yards and 41 touchdowns after transferring from Cal.

"Whatever he needs to show, he showed it against Alabama and Georgia in the playoffs," an NFC scout noted. Mendoza will still participate in team interviews and medical checks, which are arguably more critical for his evaluation given his clean mechanics and proven production.

The Quarterback Domino Effect

Mendoza's absence from the field puts the spotlight on the other top signal-callers vying for top-10 consideration. All eyes now turn to Alabama's Ty Simpson and LSU's Garrett Nussmeier, both of whom are expected to throw on Saturday. A standout performance from Simpson could potentially narrow the gap between him and Mendoza, especially for teams unconvinced by Mendoza's one year of elite production at Indiana.

2026 NFL Combine Schedule: What to Watch Next

While the front office rumors churn, the on-field action is set to begin later this week. Here is the schedule for the positional workouts at Lucas Oil Stadium:

  • Thursday, Feb. 26: Defensive Linemen and Linebackers (The Maxx Crosby replacements?)
  • Friday, Feb. 27: Defensive Backs and Tight Ends
  • Saturday, Feb. 28: Quarterbacks, Wide Receivers, and Running Backs
  • Sunday, March 1: Offensive Linemen

As the week progresses, expect the Crosby trade talks to intensify. If a team is going to make a move for the Raiders' star, the foundation of that deal will likely be laid in the steakhouses of Indianapolis over the next 48 hours.