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As the football world descends upon Lucas Oil Stadium for the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine, the Northwestern connection is finally back in the spotlight. For the first time since 2023, multiple Wildcats are making their presence felt on the turf in Indianapolis. This is a significant signal that the program’s developmental pipeline is flowing at full strength once again.
Leading the charge are defensive lineman Aidan Hubbard and offensive linemen Evan Beerntsen and Caleb Tiernan. This trio represents more than just individual talent, as they are also the standard-bearers for a program that has reclaimed its identity as a factory for pro-caliber linemen.
For these three, the road to Indy didn’t start with a flight to Indiana. It began in the film rooms of Evanston and hit high gear in January at the collegiate all-star circuit. Now, with draft buzz reaching a fever pitch, the league is officially on notice. Here’s a brief breakdown on the combine ‘Cats.
Aidan Hubbard: The Record-Breaker Under the Lights
For Hubbard, the combine is the culmination of a relentless pursuit of the quarterback. The graduate defensive lineman leaves Evanston as the program’s No. 5 all-time sack leader (20.5), a feat made more impressive by his late-career surge. In 2025, he notched a career-high 7.5 sacks and 10 tackles for loss, proving he could maintain elite production even as the focal point of opposing scouting reports.
Hubbard arrives in Indianapolis with legitimate momentum from the East-West Shrine Bowl in Frisco, Texas. Representing the West team, Hubbard put on a masterclass in versatility. Scouts saw him rush from both a two- and three-point stance, drop into coverage and even flash high-motor traits on special teams.
The Prospect Profile: Hubbard is the first Wildcat since Joe Gaziano (2018-19) to post back-to-back seasons of 6+ sacks. His calling card is explosive athleticism combined with a technical “pro-ready” hand-fighting style that fits perfectly in a 4-3 defensive end role.
Caleb Tiernan: The Anchor with Day Two Pedigree
If Hubbard is the disruptor, Caleb Tiernan is the stabilizer. The long-time left tackle, who logged 43 career starts, has emerged as one of the most technically sound tackle prospects in a deep 2026 class.
Tiernan’s 2025 season was statistically dominant. He earned All-Big Ten Second Team honors while posting an 84.3 PFF pass-blocking grade (third in the Big Ten, ninth nationally). His consistency is his greatest asset. In 2024, he allowed zero sacks in eight of nine conference games.
The Prospect Profile: Tiernan is a prototype for the modern NFL tackle, combining massive size with the footwork of a dual-sport athlete. With a career-best 88.9 pass-block grade on his resume and experience neutralizing elite Big Ten edge rushers, he is widely viewed as a Day Two selection who can start early in a zone-blocking scheme.
Evan Beerntsen: From FCS Champion to Big Ten Powerhouse
The most unique journey in this group belongs to Evan Beerntsen. After helping South Dakota State capture back-to-back FCS National Championships, Beerntsen transferred to Northwestern for the 2025 season. Many wondered if his game would translate to the Big Ten; Beerntsen answered by not allowing a single sack or quarterback hit across 13 starts at right guard.
Ranking 11th nationally among guards with an 80.2 PFF grade, Beerntsen brings a championship pedigree and a “blue-collar” durability (over 3,100 career college snaps) that NFL offensive line coaches crave.
The Prospect Profile: Beerntsen is the ultimate “high-floor” interior prospect. His flawless 2025 statistical profile (zero sacks allowed) combined with his experience at both the FCS and Power Four levels makes him a favorite for teams seeking a versatile, high-IQ guard who understands winning cultures.
What’s Next: Beyond the Combine
The work doesn’t end in Indianapolis. On March 17, the focus will return to Evanston for Northwestern’s annual Pro Day. While the three will look to build on their numbers, they will be joined by other draft-eligible Wildcats, including former signal-caller Preston Stone and Senior Bowl standout Fred Davis II.
Regardless of where they land, the “Indy Trio” has successfully put Northwestern football back on the NFL’s radar. Hubbard, Tiernan and Beerntsen have proven that the program’s transition into the David Braun era has not slowed the production of elite talent. Even after the drills conclude at Lucas Oil Stadium, one thing will remain certain: the NFL is once again watching the Wildcats.