OrthoArizona Brings NFL Combine Training to Arizona
OrthoArizona, noted as one of the nation's leading orthopedic groups and a reliable choice for elite athletes, has made an exciting announcement. The renowned organization is launching a revolutionary NFL Combine Preparation program in Arizona in partnership with Training HAUS, a distinguished performance brand in professional sports based in Minnesota. This new collaboration will enrich the training landscape for aspiring NFL athletes in the region.
Expanding Horizons: NFL Combine Prep in Arizona
Starting from December 26 and running through March, Training HAUS, powered by OrthoArizona, will host a comprehensive 12-week program tailored specifically for draft prospects and free agents. This immersive experience is designed to heighten athletes' speed, strength, biomechanics, explosiveness, and injury prevention strategies in preparation for the NFL Combine and the upcoming NFL Draft taking place in Pittsburgh, from April 23 to 26, 2026.
Dr. Rajan Bhatt, the CEO of OrthoArizona, expressed the significance of this partnership, stating, "This collaboration marks a turning point for OrthoArizona. We have invested years in creating one of the most extensive orthopedic and sports medicine platforms in the nation, and the addition of Training HAUS’ program to Arizona is a direct outcome of that commitment. To reach elite athletic performance, athletes require top-notch infrastructure, and OrthoArizona has developed the perfect environment to meet those needs."
The program features a cutting-edge performance lab equipped with state-of-the-art facilities aimed at optimizing peak athletic performance. Notable offerings include strength and conditioning sessions, specialized coaching for different positions, physical therapy, biomechanics analysis, nutrition planning with on-site dietitians, chef-prepared meals meeting nutritional standards, as well as pilates, yoga, and movement optimization practices.
Ideal Training Conditions in Arizona
Initially founded in Minnesota alongside Twin Cities Orthopedics, Training HAUS is extending its reach to warmer climates, allowing athletes who prefer training in milder weather to benefit from Arizona's more favorable conditions. With year-round training opportunities, recovery advantages, and elite sports medical facilities, Arizona shines as the ideal destination to complement the established program in Minnesota.
Bill Welle, the director of NFL Combine Prep at Training HAUS, has moved to Phoenix from Minnesota to manage this new initiative. With over three decades of experience in sports performance, Welle has a track record of developing prominent athletes, including NFL stars like Larry Fitzgerald, Travis Kelce, and Cris Carter. His extensive background provides the perfect foundation for aspiring athletes to thrive under his guidance.
In partnership with OrthoArizona, Welle has successfully recruited a talented team featuring Fitzgerald's pilates instructor, massage therapist, personal chef, and dietary expert. The program also welcomes former NFL offensive lineman Alex Boone, who will work closely with athletes training for offensive line positions—further enhancing the expertise available to participants.
Proven Success and Climate Considerations
Training HAUS prides itself on a well-established NFL Combine prep model, successfully producing numerous NFL Draft selections. However, Welle notes that climate constraints have often hindered athletes from reaching their full potential. "After discussions with the OrthoArizona team, it became evident that this partnership allows us to expand Training HAUS to the West while preserving the independent and physician-led philosophy that has been pivotal to our achievements in Minnesota," said Welle.
OrthoArizona was chosen as the Arizona partner for Training HAUS due to its solid reputation and longstanding relations within the NFL network. The connection is seamless, as Twin Cities Orthopedics serves as the team physician for the Minnesota Vikings while OrthoArizona attends to the medical needs of the Arizona Cardinals. This partnership creates a dynamic synergy between the two esteemed organizations, enhancing the overall athlete experience during training seasons.
Dr. Caleb Behrend, President of OrthoArizona, reinforced the need for elite medical oversight during these crucial training phases. He stated, "OrthoArizona's comprehensive sports medicine model equips athletes to prepare effectively, recover properly, and maintain their health during the combine prep process, making our collaboration with Training HAUS a perfect match."
A Legacy of Care in Musculoskeletal Health
Founded in 1994, OrthoArizona has grown to be one of the largest providers of musculoskeletal care in Arizona. With over 300 healthcare professionals, including nearly 100 orthopedic specialists, spread across more than 40 locations, OrthoArizona is dedicated to meeting all orthopedic needs. The physician-led group offers a variety of services, from advanced diagnostic imaging and interventional pain management to podiatric surgery and outpatient care, catering to elite athletes and major sports franchises.
To learn more about OrthoArizona's services, visit
orthoarizona.com.