The 2025 NFL Combine has drawn criticism from fans and analysts, with many questioning its importance as top prospects continue to opt out of on-field drills. Instead of participating in workouts, many high-profile players attended solely for medical evaluations and team interviews, raising concerns about the Combine’s relevance.
Despite the growing skepticism, former NFL quarterback Cam Newton insists that the event still holds value-just not in the way most people think.
The real value of the Combine is behind closed doors
During a recent episode of his 4th & 1 with Cam Newton podcast, Newton pushed back against claims that the Combine is losing its purpose. He explained that while fans focus on the televised workouts, the most significant part of the event happens behind closed doors.
“If you ask any NFL scouts, could they do the draft today? I guarantee they already know who they want,” Newton said. “The Tennessee Titans already know who they want. And if you think I’m lying, ask a Tennessee Titans scout or an executive.”
Newton emphasized that the interviews and psychological evaluations conducted at the Combine carry more weight than any workout. He pointed out that teams use this time to assess a player’s mindset, work ethic, and ability to handle pressure.
“You still need the Combine to be able to ask the Shedeur Sanders, the Cam Wards, to go into these meetings,” Newton continued. “[But] they already got you picked. They just want to see how you answer certain questions. This is their first time being around you, and they want every reason to choose you, unless you give them a reason not to.”
Despite ongoing concerns about the declining participation of top players, the NFL remains committed to keeping the Combine an essential part of the pre-draft process. In late 2024, league officials confirmed that the event would remain in Indianapolis and maintain its traditional format.
It should be noted that earlier this month, one of the most talked-about prospects, Shedeur Sanders, decided against working out at the 2025 NFL Scouting Combine.
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