2026 Elite Combine: Top Defensive Line Performers

<!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>There were a lot of athletic defensive linemen who attended the 2026 Elite Combine. Many of them were young and look ready to have breakout seasons to put their names on the map. Here are some of the top performers on the day. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='1600981' first='Malachi' last='Johnson'] I 2028 I Lift For Life I<br>6'3" 205-Is one of the most athletic young defensive line/EDGE prospects in the state. Johnson really showed up in testing with a 4.8 laser forty, 10'1" broad jump, and 4.2 pro agility. He has the kind of athleticism and speed that could translate well to linebacker as well. He was a blur coming off the edge in one on ones with his explosive first step. Look for a breakout season as his technique continues to improve. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='2142843' first='Jackson' last='Wooden'] I 2027 I Hallsville I<br>6'5" 211 - This defensive end has good length and a great first step he uses to get past opposing offensive tackles in one on ones. He has a good frame that can easily hold another 40-50 pounds and keep his athleticism. He tested very well with a 5.0 laser forty, 9'5" broad jump, and 27" vertical. Jackson has picked up multiple D1 offers since his impressive showing at the combine. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='1590206' first='Kona' last='Notestine'] I 2027 I Lee's Summit I <br>6'3" 221 -Another impressive defensive end at the combine. Showed a great motor and solid athleticism in testing running a 4.9 laser forty, 4.3 pro agility, and showing impressive power with a 9'7' broad jump. He was quick and agile in one on ones putting his skills and his athletic ability together to win most of his battle. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='1758461' first='Elijah' last='Hensley'] I 2028 I Lutheran North I <br>6'3" 270 - The sophomore defensive tackle had a very good day at the combine. He has good size and is still lean with the frame to add additional weight and keep his athleticism he showed in drills, one on one's an testing. He has a quick first step and good strength. Elijah displayed a good motor and uses his hands well to battle blockers. His 5.2 laser forty and 4.5 pro ability were impressive.</p> <!-- /wp:paragraph --> <!-- wp:paragraph --> <p>[player_tooltip player_id='1741587' first='Mykell' last='Forbes'] I 2029 I Lee's Summit North I<br>6'1" 211 -More linebacker size, but Forbes came in an competed at a DE/EDGE and held his own against offensive linemen almost 100lbs heavier with his very impressive speed, quickness and explosive athletic ability. He had a big day testing running a 4.88 laser forty, lightning quick 4.09 pro agility, and a big 30" vertical. In one on ones his speed and quickness was a tough match up for O-lineman to deal with. Excited to see what he does his sophomore season. </p> <!-- /wp:paragraph -->