NFL Combine 2026: Texas A&M defensive standouts shine as Albert Regis, Cashius Howell turn heads on Day 1

The NFL Combine 2026 is in full swing in Indianapolis, and players wasted no time showing off their skills. On Feb. 26, the spotlight fell on Texas A&M Aggies football defensive stars.

Among them, Albert Regis and Cashius Howell delivered performances that caught the eyes of scouts and analysts alike, giving a glimpse of what could be coming to the next NFL season.

Texas A&M defenders make a statement on Day 1 as Albert Regis and Cashius Howell gave stunning performances

Albert Regis, the Aggies’ senior defensive lineman, immediately drew attention with his explosive 40-yard dash. At 6-foot-1 and 295 pounds, Regis ran the distance in 4.88 seconds, posting a 1.72-second 10-yard split. He also recorded a 34-inch vertical and a 9-foot-8 broad jump, demonstrating strength, speed, and lower-body explosiveness in Indianapolis.

His quickness in drills showed why scouts consider him a versatile interior lineman who can impact both the run and the pass.

Meanwhile, star-DE Cashius Howell put his own stamp on the Combine. Howell, listed at 6-foot-2½ and 253 pounds, clocked a 4.59-second 40-yard dash with a 1.58-second 10-yard split, one of the fastest among edge rushers on Day 1. He added a 32.5-inch vertical and a 9-foot-7 broad jump, combining speed with explosiveness.

Reports from the event indicate that the New England Patriots have already expressed astrong interest in Howell following his performance at the Combine.Other Texas A&M defenders also delivered solid results. Tyler Onyedim, another DL, showcased a 32-inch vertical and a 9-foot-3 broad jump. LB Taurean York turned heads with a 7.23-second three-cone drill and 4.48-second 20-yard shuttle, showing agility and quickness.

Scooby Williams measured in at 6-foot-2 and 231 pounds but opted out of on-field drills on Thursday.Day 1 performances suggest Texas A&M has multiple defenders ready to compete at the next level. Regis’ speed and Howell’s edge rush potential stand out the most, giving scouts a clear reason to watch their upcoming pro days. With the Combine continuing, teams will dig deeper into both offensive and defensive prospects, but the Aggies’ defensive stars have already made their mark.In Indianapolis, Texas A&M proved that its defensive unit can turn heads. Albert Regis’ 40-yard run and Howell’s pass-rush display delivered excitement, and scouts left the first day talking about two names they will not forget.