The NFL announced the full list of 319 combine invites and one Badger was notably missing. While Vinny Anthony II and Mason Reiger could scroll and find thier names, starting tackle Riley Mahlman's name won't be found.
Considering Mahlman's track record as a starting offensive lineman in the Big Ten and his ideal size and frame for the position, it's extremely curious to see the 6-foot-8, 300-pound tackle left off the list. He was a three-year starter for the Badgers and was a participant in the East-West Shrine Game earlier this year.
Former Badger Riley Mahlman's confusing combine snub needs some explaining
Related: NFL Mock Draft suddenly has Wisconsin's Vinny Anthony II on the board
Fans were quick to point out Mahlman's snub, and without a combine invite, he'll have to rely on a strong pro day for a chance to be drafted. While Mahlman never quite developed into the tackle most thought he could become, he still has nearly 3,000 snaps of starting experience at Offensive Lineman U, so to not receive an invite feels odds to say the least.
After 2024, Mahlman was widely considering a top-10 tackle in the conference and there was chatter that with a solid 2025 season he could turn into a first or second-round pick. While 2025 wasn't necessarily a masterclass, he played fairly well despite making the switch from right to left tackle after the first game of the season. Now though, Mahlman's chances of getting drafted have taken a serious hit.
Meanwhile, his teammates Mason Reiger and Vinny Anthony II will get their chance to showcase their skills in Indinapolis. Both Reiger and Anthony are currently projected as Day 3 picks, but between the combine and Wisconsin's eventual pro day, could still improve their stock.
The combine will be held from February 23 to March 2 while the NFL Draft will take place from April 23 to 25.