The NFL Combine is more than just a scouting event for teams, it has quietly become a betting spectacle for fans. Every spring, top college prospects gather in Indianapolis to showcase their athletic skills in front of NFL coaches, executives, and scouts. For sportsbooks, this week-long showcase isn’t just about bench presses and 40-yard dashes, it’s an opportunity to post unique betting markets that attract both casual fans and sharp bettors.
Betting on the NFL Combine is different from wagering on regular-season games. Instead of focusing on spreads and totals, bettors wager on measurable performances: how fast a player runs, how high he jumps, or how many times he can push 225 pounds on the bench press. It’s a niche market, but one with growing popularity, especially as more US states legalize online sports betting.
Also Read: How to bet on boxing: Moneyline, round props, and method of victory
If you’re wondering how to bet on the NFL Combine and what markets exist, this guide breaks down everything you need to know, from common betting options to strategies that can help you find value.
Why bet on the NFL Combine?
- Early edge in NFL futures: Combine results often shift draft odds and player props.
- Unique markets: Sportsbooks offer bets you won’t see anywhere else, making it a fun change of pace.
- Public bias: Casual bettors love to bet the “over” on athletic tests, creating value on the other side.
- Timing: It fills the betting gap between the Super Bowl and the NFL Draft.
Popular NFL Combine betting markets
1. 40-yard dash times
- Bet on whether a player runs faster or slower than a set time.
- Some books offer markets on the fastest 40-yard dash overall.
Example: “Will any player run under 4.30 seconds?”
2. Bench press reps (225 pounds)
- Bettors wager on how many reps a prospect will complete.
- Overs are popular, but linemen usually dominate this drill.
3. Vertical jump and broad jump
- Simple over/under markets on jump height or distance.
- Wide receivers and defensive backs are heavily bet in these categories.
4. Position-specific props
- Some books post head-to-head matchups: which wide receiver runs the fastest 40, or which quarterback posts the highest vertical.
5. Record-breaking props
- Will a Combine record be broken in any drill?
- These markets attract casual bettors looking for excitement.
6. Draft-related markets
- Performance at the Combine directly impacts draft stock.
- Sportsbooks often tie markets to draft props:
- “Will Player X be drafted in the first round?”
- “Which quarterback will be drafted first?”
Betting strategies for the NFL Combine
- Do your homework: Study college stats and past athletic performances before the event.
- Watch line movement: Odds shift quickly as rumors from scouts circulate.
- Fade the hype: Public bettors love overs (fast times, high jumps). Unders often hold more value.
- Know positional trends: Linemen dominate bench press; skill players dominate speed drills.
- Track medical and injury updates: Players sometimes skip drills or underperform if recovering from injuries.
Also Read: NFL Draft betting guide: First pick odds, player props, and surprises
FAQs
Q1: Can you legally bet on the NFL Combine in the US?
Yes, but it depends on your state. Some sportsbooks offer full markets, while others restrict Combine betting. Always check local regulations.
Q2: Which sportsbooks offer NFL Combine betting?
Major US sportsbooks like DraftKings, FanDuel, and BetMGM usually post Combine props, though availability varies by state.
Q3: Are NFL Combine bets easier to win than game bets?
Not necessarily. While the markets are smaller, sportsbooks still price them carefully. However, bettors who research player measurables can gain an edge.
Q4: When are NFL Combine betting odds released?
Typically a week or two before the event, with props updated as official lists of participants are confirmed.
Q5: Do NFL Combine results affect future betting lines?
Yes. Strong Combine performances often shift NFL Draft odds and rookie season prop bets, making the Combine an important event for futures bettors.
