Gary Compton Brings AF1 Talent Evaluation to the 2026 National Scouting Combine

As the official combine and scouting partner of Arena Football One (AF1), the National Scouting Combine is proud to welcome Gary Compton, AF1 Director of Player Personnel, to the 2026 National Scouting Combine, taking place January 6–9 at the Paradise Coast Sports Complex in Naples, Florida.

Compton will be on site alongside AF1 coaches representing teams across the league, actively evaluating talent, engaging with free agents, and identifying players who fit the fast-paced demands of arena and indoor football as AF1 prepares for its upcoming season.

Evaluating Proven Talent at the National Scouting Combine

Having attended the 2025 National Scouting Combine, Compton saw firsthand the caliber of athletes the event attracts.

“This was an extremely talented group that was at the combine last year,” Compton said. “We were able to get a great evaluation on all of the players and even able to sign some of them to the AF1 last season.”

That real-world success underscores the role the National Scouting Combine plays as a legitimate evaluation platform — one that produces actionable results for professional leagues like AF1.

What Translates to the Arena Game

When evaluating athletes transitioning from outdoor football to arena football, Compton emphasizes one trait above all else: quickness.

“It’s the quickness in our game that really translates,” he explained. “We obviously play on a smaller field, so it is imperative that you look for players that have that ability.”

He also points to the arena game’s reputation for sharpening players’ instincts and decision-making.

“Kurt Warner said when he went from the indoor game to the outdoor game it seemed to slow down for him.”

That speed and spatial awareness make arena football not only a destination league, but a powerful development environment.

How the National Scouting Combine Fits AF1’s Player Pipeline

Compton credits the National Scouting Combine for consistently bringing together the right mix of talent — from draft-eligible prospects to free agents ready to play immediately.

“You guys have done a great job with the talent that you bring in for evaluation,” he said. “Not only the draft eligible players, but also the free agent players that are looking immediately to get placed somewhere.”

With the AF1 season beginning before the NFL Draft, timing matters.

“All guys are hopeful for that call,” Compton noted. “And when that call doesn’t come, now they need a home.”

The Combine allows AF1 decision-makers to evaluate players early, track draft-eligible athletes throughout the process, and be ready to move when opportunities arise.

Advice for Athletes Attending the 2026 Combine

For players looking to earn an AF1 opportunity, Compton offers a grounded and honest message.

“Talent is everywhere,” he said. “If you are talented, someone will find out regardless of what professional league it is. Use this as a platform for yourself to build your resume.”

He also emphasized AF1’s foundational values — pillars he believes every professional athlete should embody.

“We have three pillars that we instill in the AF1: Character, Commitment, and Community. These pillars also translate into the type of athlete that we want to bring into the AF1.”

A Direct Pathway to Professional Opportunity

With AF1 coaches and league personnel on site throughout Combine week, the 2026 National Scouting Combine provides athletes with direct exposure to decision-makers shaping the future of arena and indoor football.

Gary Compton’s presence in Naples reinforces the Combine’s role as a true gateway — connecting prepared athletes with professional opportunities, and giving AF1 access to talent ready to make an immediate impact.