Former NFL & CFL Veteran David Arnold Brings Decades of Experience to 2026 National Scouting Combine

Naples, Florida — Paradise Coast Sports Complex

The National Scouting Combine is proud to welcome David Arnold to its coaching and evaluation staff for the 2026 National Scouting Combine, taking place January 6–9 at Paradise Coast Sports Complex in Naples, Florida.

Arnold brings an extensive football résumé that spans professional leagues, major college programs, and decades of elite-level coaching. His experience includes time in the National Football League (NFL) with the Pittsburgh Steelers and Houston Oilers, the Canadian Football League (CFL) with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats, and international professional football with the Scottish Claymores. He has also served as a long-time instructor at premier football camps, including University of Michigan summer camps, while coaching and coordinating defenses at multiple collegiate programs nationwide.

For athletes attending the National Scouting Combine, Arnold represents a coach who has played the game professionally, coached it at nearly every level, and evaluated talent with a seasoned, experienced eye.

A Defensive Philosophy Built on Physicality, Discipline, and Fundamentals

Arnold’s coaching philosophy has remained consistent throughout his career: play physical, play smart, and play together.

“My defenses will always be very physical,” Arnold said. “We will outhit our opponent. We will play smart football, avoid stupid penalties, and never give up big plays. We stress being inside and in front of the football — because when the ball gets outside or behind the defense, bad things happen.”

At the core of his system is accountability and effort. Arnold emphasizes all 11 players relentlessly pursuing the football and mastering fundamentals — traits he believes translate from college to professional football.

Proven Results as a Defensive Coordinator

Arnold’s résumé includes documented success as a defensive coordinator, most notably at Bethany College, where he engineered one of the most dramatic defensive turnarounds in the conference. After ranking last, Bethany’s defense climbed to first in the PAC across nearly every major defensive category, including scoring defense, total defense, rushing defense, and third-down efficiency.

“What was missing was unity,” Arnold explained. “There has to be trust, accountability, and real commitment to the guy sitting next to you. As coaches and evaluators, we have to put athletes in positions where they can succeed.”

Evaluating the Complete Athlete

Having coached on both offense and defense, Arnold brings a rare, well-rounded perspective to player evaluations. His experience allows him to assess athletes beyond measurables — focusing on football IQ, technique, and situational awareness.

“When I’m watching wide receivers, I’m asking what coverage they saw, what the defensive back was trying to do, and whether the player had a plan of attack,” Arnold said.

When it comes to separating players who advance to professional football from those who do not, Arnold is direct.

“The difference is discipline,” he said. “Mental toughness, attitude, sacrifices, and habits — D.A.S.H. Those four things matter in football and in life.”

What Arnold Looks for at the Combine

In a fast-paced environment like the National Scouting Combine, Arnold values athletes who can process information quickly and apply it immediately.

“You have to be able to learn on the run,” he said. “There’s not a lot of time to repeat things. Body language, character, and first impressions matter just as much as physical tools.”

A Coach Focused on Mentorship and Perspective

Arnold views the National Scouting Combine as an opportunity to teach more than just football.

“If these guys are traveling across the country, they’re serious,” he said. “I want to give them everything I can — and also remind them there’s life after football. Don’t put all your eggs in one basket.”

National Scouting Combine Leadership Perspective

National Scouting Combine Founder and CEO Jimmy Kibble emphasized the value Arnold brings to the event.

“Coach Arnold has been there at every level of the game,” Kibble said. “From professional leagues to college sidelines, his experience and honesty resonate with athletes. He understands what it takes to move forward — and what it takes to last.”

As the 2026 National Scouting Combine approaches in Naples, the addition of David Arnold further strengthens a staff built on experience, credibility, and athlete development.