The 2026 NFL Draft will feature standout prospects from smaller schools, including potential first-round picks. Players like Trey McBride and Quinyon Mitchell exemplify how talent can emerge from less prominent programs.
Key points
2026 NFL Draft features small-school standout prospects
Trey McBride and Quinyon Mitchell exemplify success from smaller programs
Small-school players can be first-round picks
Power 4 conferences dominate the draft board
Talent can emerge from less recognized college programs
Mentioned in this story
Colorado StateToledo
Trey McBrideQuinyon Mitchell
You don’t have to be a Power 4 star to make it in the NFL.
The 2025 All-Pro team featured plenty of small-school standouts who have become the league’s best at their positions. Look no further than tight end Trey McBride out of Colorado State or cornerback Quinyon Mitchell out of Toledo.
Even in the era of NIL, which is powering an exciting transfer portal, prospects can outplay their college’s standing and make it to the NFL as first-round picks. Mitchell was a first-round selection in 2024 and Eagles fans are thrilled to have him.
The top of this year’s draft board is dominated by players from the Power 4 conferences. Stars from the Big Ten, SEC, Big 12 and ACC will hear their names called early and often come the first round of April’s NFL Draft. After the first 32 picks, that certainly won’t stop.
But there are prospects from more unheralded places who will hear their names called during the NFL draft, including one potentially in the first round. Here are the top small-school prospects to know in the 2026 NFL Draft:
On a defense already dotted with stars, Reese rose from an occasional contributor to a bona fide star in his first full season as a starter. The 6-4, 241-pound linebacker exhibited uncommon fluidity for a player of his size, finding equal comfort dropping back in coverage as bullying his way into the backfield. His pass-rush plan is still rather rudimentary at the moment, but he has the toolkit of a double-digit sack artist. In a league where defenses are constantly taxed against the pass and run, Reese displays a unique aptitude for detonating whatever play an offense might throw at him.
Q&A
Who are the top small-school prospects for the 2026 NFL Draft?
The top small-school prospects include players like Trey McBride from Colorado State and Quinyon Mitchell from Toledo.
What impact do small-school players have in the NFL Draft?
Small-school players can significantly impact the NFL Draft by being selected in early rounds, showcasing that talent can come from less recognized programs.
How did Quinyon Mitchell perform in the NFL Draft?
Quinyon Mitchell was a first-round selection in the 2024 NFL Draft, highlighting his success as a standout from a smaller school.
What conferences dominate the 2026 NFL Draft?
The 2026 NFL Draft is expected to be dominated by players from the Power 4 conferences: Big Ten, SEC, Big 12, and ACC.
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Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana
It's a testament to Mendoza's impeccable body of work that the pre-draft vivisection of his game has largely only turned up questions of how he'll fare operating from under center rather than in the shotgun.
No one will confuse the 6-5, 236-pound Heisman Trophy winner with the likes of Cam Ward or Drake Maye, as he's not particularly creative or dangerous when a play breaks down. But that's about the only phase in which Mendoza comes up short. He's as precise as any passer you'll find from the college ranks, and he comfortably works through progressions and manipulates coverages. His arm strength isn't otherworldly, but he can attack every level with suitable velocity on his throws. Forcing him off his spot can throw him off his rhythm, but Mendoza rarely loses his cool under pressure and still conjures solutions when things aren't going his way. Beyond the improvisational shortcomings, he's the picture of a top-tier quarterback prospect.
The hyperbole inherent to NFL draft evaluations doesn't seem so outlandish when it's being attached to Love. For the 6-0, 213-pound Heisman Trophy finalist, everything starts with his game-breaking speed, which allows him to turn the corner with ease or jet through even the narrowest of openings on the interior. And once he has a step on the defense, he's extremely unlikely to be caught. He's far from just a linear threat, however, as his distinct creativity shines through in the open field – particularly when he unleashes his spin move or hurdle. Operating in a different gear than everyone else has created some inconsistencies in his early pacing, but it's rarely something that derails him. His elite skill set also carries over to his work as a pass catcher, where he can further vex defenses that won't likely have an answer when he lines up in the slot or out wide. It's fair to hold onto questions of positional value for running backs, but Love is unquestionably among a select few who deserve to be seen as this class' difference-makers.
Rueben Bain Jr., DE, Miami
No defender in college football broke open games last season quite like Bain, who led the Football Bowl Subdivision with 83 pressures, according to Pro Football Focus. The 6-2, 263-pounder frequently took the shortest path possible to the quarterback, uprooting anyone who stood in his way. Bain's atypical build for an edge rusher – including his short arms – invited plenty of scrutiny about how he might translate to the pro ranks, but he's already demonstrated he can mitigate the concern. If he's neutralized, it seems unlikely that it'll become a common occurrence.
Sonny Styles, LB, Ohio State
After arriving at Ohio State as an elite athlete searching for a true position, Styles departs Columbus having developed an unparalleled proficiency for the intricacies of linebacker play. The 6-5, 244-pound former safety could be counted on to be in the right place to plug the run at all times, and he still has room to grow in coverage and as a blitzer. Clean in everything he does, Styles can help be a standard-bearer for whatever defense he joins.
Caleb Downs, S, Ohio State
From his first snaps at Alabama as a five-star freshman to his final push at Ohio State, Downs put himself in a class all his own at safety. The two-time unanimous All-American repeatedly snuffed out plays before they could get started, particularly against the run or near the line of scrimmage. While he doesn't measure up as a physical marvel like Kyle Hamilton or Derwin James, he could have the same bottom-line effect for a defense, even if he doesn't match their ball production. His position might prevent him from cracking the top five, but he'll force offenses to account for him on every down.
David Bailey, OLB/DE, Texas Tech
Right off the snap, Bailey gets offensive linemen on their toes. The 6-4, 251-pound edge rusher's explosion off the ball can get blockers off balance in an instant, at which point Bailey can attack them by changing course or unleashing a spin move. Bailey's lean frame can result in him being eradicated in the run game at times, but players who can derail opposing passers with his level of efficiency can't be ignored. It shouldn't be long into his NFL transition before his pressure rate ticks up and he takes his place as one of the league's most threatening matchups off the edge.
Carnell Tate, WR, Ohio State
He was never the WR1 in the Buckeyes' loaded receiver room, but Tate stands above the rest of the pass-catching options in this class. With subtle shifts in his tempo and sudden breaks in his routes, the 6-2, 192-pound target creates separation without much strain. He settles into open spaces against zone and skies over defensive backs to haul in difficult passes down the sideline. He might not look the part of a go-to target, but he measures up to the title in almost every respect.
Mansoor Delane, CB, LSU
Not long into his foray into the Southeastern Conference, the Virginia Tech transfer made clear to opponents that he was not to be tested. Delane rapidly earned the title of shutdown corner, with teams almost universally opting to avoid throwing his way. At the next level, he figures to draw comparisons to Trent McDuffie – another cornerback who doesn't let his size or limited ball production prevent him from being recognized as a first-tier cover man.
Makai Lemon, WR, USC
In an earlier era, Lemon might have been dismissed as a slot receiver not capable of being an offensive focal point. Now, however, there shouldn't be much doubt about how much the Biletnikoff Award winner can shoulder. Lemon is a maestro when it comes to getting open underneath, and he can be counted on to vacuum up any throw that approaches his area. And teams that underestimate his downfield credentials could end up paying if they try to sit on short and intermediate throws.
Jermod McCoy, CB, Tennessee
A torn anterior cruciate ligament suffered last January kept McCoy out of commission for all of last season and clouded his pre-draft process. But in a stellar pro day showing, the 6-1, 188-pound corner served up a reminder that he has all the trappings of a top-tier cover man. With superlative ball skills and ample tools to stick with receivers throughout their routes, McCoy can grow into a standout in any defensive scheme.
Dillon Thieneman, S, Oregon
After his impressive performance at the NFL scouting combine, Thieneman rocketed into the discussion of this draft's premier defensive backs. Easy coverage instincts extend his already expansive range, and vigilance is required for any passing attack that throws to his area of the field. He can't measure up to Downs or some of the other safeties in this class when operating closer to the line of scrimmage, but he shouldn't be asked to serve in that capacity too frequently anyway.
Olaivavega Ioane, G, Penn State
Even with everything crumbling around him in Penn State's calamitous season, Ioane still held firm. The 6-5, 320-pound left guard is a brick wall in pass protection, but where he really shines is in his forceful displacements in the run game. Ioane will have to figure out a way to handle quick-twitch defensive tackles who will test his fluidity, but he's one of the more reliable prospects in this class.
Francis Mauigoa, OT/G, Miami
Solid to the core, the former five-star recruit holds his ground against the pass and forces opposing linemen out of the way with his strong first contact. But while there's not much mystery to the 6-6, 329-pounder's play, there are several unknowns about his projection. A move inside could be in his future to safeguard against concerns that he'll be beaten by rangy edge rushers, but the skill set is there to hang at right tackle.
Spencer Fano, OT, Utah
Smooth movements allow Fano to conjure answers for even the speediest edge rushers. He still could have trouble with rangier defenders, however, as well as ones who can convert speed to power and knock him off base. Like many offensive tackles in this class, he'll face questions of whether he belongs at the position, with some question of whether he should head to center.
Monroe Freeling, OT, Georgia
From his massive frame (6-7, 315 pounds) to his quickness, Freeling checks off some of the most notable boxes for a high-end left tackle. As a one-year starter, his technique is still a work in progress, with some bad habits sapping his efficacy. But he's clearly on an upward trajectory, and teams might be eager to buy on an ascendant blocker.
KC Concepcion, WR, Texas A&M
Few receivers are true separators at all three levels. Concepcion qualifies as just that, with more than enough quickness and speed to free himself from coverage at any point on the field. Drops have dogged him, but he could shake the issue in short order. Versatile and dynamic, Concepcion is more refined than he gets credit for, and he could become a vital part of an aerial attack with more polish.
Kenyon Sadiq, TE, Oregon
The ultimate seam threat, Sadiq accelerates in a manner not seen from 6-3, 241-pound pass catchers. Though he's proven himself after the catch, much of his value remains somewhat theoretical, as his experience and workload in the downfield passing game haven't aligned with his capabilities. But as an instant mismatch creator and aggressive run blocker, he can change the complexion of whatever offense he joins.
Denzel Boston, WR, Washington
Some will see a 6-4, 210-pound body and assume Boston relies on pulling down jump balls in close quarters. But while tilting those throws in his favor is his best feature, it's far from his only one. Boston has impressive fluidity for a player with his physical make-up, and his tracking and midair adjustments make him an even more confounding coverage assignment.
Emmanuel McNeil-Warren, S, Toledo
Though he might not be an all-around coverage maven, McNeil-Warren is comfortable exerting his will from several different vantage points. He rallies to the ball in a hurry in run support, working his way through traffic to deliver big hits. And though his 6-4, 201-pound build limits his comfort zone in coverage, he can give both quarterbacks and receivers pause on attempting any throws over the middle.
Jordyn Tyson, WR, Arizona State
Once seen as the clear-cut favorite to be the first receiver selected, Tyson now might be the most polarizing pass catcher in this class. Quick and crisp when he's dialed in, he has a robust set of maneuvers to beat man coverage from various spots. But medical concerns from various ailments muddle his draft outlook, and he can be inefficient with his footwork.
Akheem Mesidor, DE, Miami
Having just turned 25 with an extensive injury history, Mesidor enters the draft with red flags that might tank other prospects' stock. Teams that look past those issues, however, will see an advanced and unrelenting pass rusher with a deep bag of tricks to beat blockers. Mesidor might be one of the most divisive prospects in this class in his projection, but there's not much to object to with the on-field product.
Colton Hood, CB, Tennessee
With McCoy sidelined, Hood did a commendable job of filling in as the Volunteers' primary asset in coverage. The Colorado transfer kept the competitive juices flowing in shutting down tight-window throws as well as making his presence felt against the run. He can't match McCoy in overall fluidity, but he still sizes up as a meaningful counter in man coverage for bigger receivers.
Omar Cooper Jr., WR, Indiana
Other receivers are sure to be more vexing coverage matchups than the 6-0, 199-pound target. Cooper, however, has a truly distinct aptitude for slipping tacklers in the open field. His penchant for racking up yards after the catch should carry over to the NFL and endear him to his future quarterback, as should his aggressive approach to fighting through contact and operating in traffic.
Caleb Lomu, OT, Utah
In a class rife with right tackles and expected guard converts, Lomu stands out as a true blindside protector. Bulking up will be an essential step for the 6-6, 313-pounder to hold his own against more powerful edge rushers, but there's considerable room for growth on top of the enticing glimpses of his potential he's already displayed.
1 / 25
Ranking top 25 prospects for 2026 NFL Draft
Arvell Reese, LB/DE, Ohio State
On a defense already dotted with stars, Reese rose from an occasional contributor to a bona fide star in his first full season as a starter. The 6-4, 241-pound linebacker exhibited uncommon fluidity for a player of his size, finding equal comfort dropping back in coverage as bullying his way into the backfield. His pass-rush plan is still rather rudimentary at the moment, but he has the toolkit of a double-digit sack artist. In a league where defenses are constantly taxed against the pass and run, Reese displays a unique aptitude for detonating whatever play an offense might throw at him.
1 / 25
Ranking top 25 prospects for 2026 NFL Draft
Arvell Reese, LB/DE, Ohio State
On a defense already dotted with stars, Reese rose from an occasional contributor to a bona fide star in his first full season as a starter. The 6-4, 241-pound linebacker exhibited uncommon fluidity for a player of his size, finding equal comfort dropping back in coverage as bullying his way into the backfield. His pass-rush plan is still rather rudimentary at the moment, but he has the toolkit of a double-digit sack artist. In a league where defenses are constantly taxed against the pass and run, Reese displays a unique aptitude for detonating whatever play an offense might throw at him.
2 / 25
Ranking top 25 prospects for 2026 NFL Draft
Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana
It's a testament to Mendoza's impeccable body of work that the pre-draft vivisection of his game has largely only turned up questions of how he'll fare operating from under center rather than in the shotgun.
No one will confuse the 6-5, 236-pound Heisman Trophy winner with the likes of Cam Ward or Drake Maye, as he's not particularly creative or dangerous when a play breaks down. But that's about the only phase in which Mendoza comes up short. He's as precise as any passer you'll find from the college ranks, and he comfortably works through progressions and manipulates coverages. His arm strength isn't otherworldly, but he can attack every level with suitable velocity on his throws. Forcing him off his spot can throw him off his rhythm, but Mendoza rarely loses his cool under pressure and still conjures solutions when things aren't going his way. Beyond the improvisational shortcomings, he's the picture of a top-tier quarterback prospect.
The hyperbole inherent to NFL draft evaluations doesn't seem so outlandish when it's being attached to Love. For the 6-0, 213-pound Heisman Trophy finalist, everything starts with his game-breaking speed, which allows him to turn the corner with ease or jet through even the narrowest of openings on the interior. And once he has a step on the defense, he's extremely unlikely to be caught. He's far from just a linear threat, however, as his distinct creativity shines through in the open field – particularly when he unleashes his spin move or hurdle. Operating in a different gear than everyone else has created some inconsistencies in his early pacing, but it's rarely something that derails him. His elite skill set also carries over to his work as a pass catcher, where he can further vex defenses that won't likely have an answer when he lines up in the slot or out wide. It's fair to hold onto questions of positional value for running backs, but Love is unquestionably among a select few who deserve to be seen as this class' difference-makers.
4 / 25
Ranking top 25 prospects for 2026 NFL Draft
Rueben Bain Jr., DE, Miami
No defender in college football broke open games last season quite like Bain, who led the Football Bowl Subdivision with 83 pressures, according to Pro Football Focus. The 6-2, 263-pounder frequently took the shortest path possible to the quarterback, uprooting anyone who stood in his way. Bain's atypical build for an edge rusher – including his short arms – invited plenty of scrutiny about how he might translate to the pro ranks, but he's already demonstrated he can mitigate the concern. If he's neutralized, it seems unlikely that it'll become a common occurrence.
5 / 25
Ranking top 25 prospects for 2026 NFL Draft
Sonny Styles, LB, Ohio State
After arriving at Ohio State as an elite athlete searching for a true position, Styles departs Columbus having developed an unparalleled proficiency for the intricacies of linebacker play. The 6-5, 244-pound former safety could be counted on to be in the right place to plug the run at all times, and he still has room to grow in coverage and as a blitzer. Clean in everything he does, Styles can help be a standard-bearer for whatever defense he joins.
6 / 25
Ranking top 25 prospects for 2026 NFL Draft
Caleb Downs, S, Ohio State
From his first snaps at Alabama as a five-star freshman to his final push at Ohio State, Downs put himself in a class all his own at safety. The two-time unanimous All-American repeatedly snuffed out plays before they could get started, particularly against the run or near the line of scrimmage. While he doesn't measure up as a physical marvel like Kyle Hamilton or Derwin James, he could have the same bottom-line effect for a defense, even if he doesn't match their ball production. His position might prevent him from cracking the top five, but he'll force offenses to account for him on every down.
7 / 25
Ranking top 25 prospects for 2026 NFL Draft
David Bailey, OLB/DE, Texas Tech
Right off the snap, Bailey gets offensive linemen on their toes. The 6-4, 251-pound edge rusher's explosion off the ball can get blockers off balance in an instant, at which point Bailey can attack them by changing course or unleashing a spin move. Bailey's lean frame can result in him being eradicated in the run game at times, but players who can derail opposing passers with his level of efficiency can't be ignored. It shouldn't be long into his NFL transition before his pressure rate ticks up and he takes his place as one of the league's most threatening matchups off the edge.
8 / 25
Ranking top 25 prospects for 2026 NFL Draft
Carnell Tate, WR, Ohio State
He was never the WR1 in the Buckeyes' loaded receiver room, but Tate stands above the rest of the pass-catching options in this class. With subtle shifts in his tempo and sudden breaks in his routes, the 6-2, 192-pound target creates separation without much strain. He settles into open spaces against zone and skies over defensive backs to haul in difficult passes down the sideline. He might not look the part of a go-to target, but he measures up to the title in almost every respect.
9 / 25
Ranking top 25 prospects for 2026 NFL Draft
Mansoor Delane, CB, LSU
Not long into his foray into the Southeastern Conference, the Virginia Tech transfer made clear to opponents that he was not to be tested. Delane rapidly earned the title of shutdown corner, with teams almost universally opting to avoid throwing his way. At the next level, he figures to draw comparisons to Trent McDuffie – another cornerback who doesn't let his size or limited ball production prevent him from being recognized as a first-tier cover man.
10 / 25
Ranking top 25 prospects for 2026 NFL Draft
Makai Lemon, WR, USC
In an earlier era, Lemon might have been dismissed as a slot receiver not capable of being an offensive focal point. Now, however, there shouldn't be much doubt about how much the Biletnikoff Award winner can shoulder. Lemon is a maestro when it comes to getting open underneath, and he can be counted on to vacuum up any throw that approaches his area. And teams that underestimate his downfield credentials could end up paying if they try to sit on short and intermediate throws.
11 / 25
NFL mock draft: Big-name prospect drops in latest first-round projection
Jermod McCoy, CB, Tennessee
A torn anterior cruciate ligament suffered last January kept McCoy out of commission for all of last season and clouded his pre-draft process. But in a stellar pro day showing, the 6-1, 188-pound corner served up a reminder that he has all the trappings of a top-tier cover man. With superlative ball skills and ample tools to stick with receivers throughout their routes, McCoy can grow into a standout in any defensive scheme.
12 / 25
Ranking top 25 prospects for 2026 NFL Draft
Dillon Thieneman, S, Oregon
After his impressive performance at the NFL scouting combine, Thieneman rocketed into the discussion of this draft's premier defensive backs. Easy coverage instincts extend his already expansive range, and vigilance is required for any passing attack that throws to his area of the field. He can't measure up to Downs or some of the other safeties in this class when operating closer to the line of scrimmage, but he shouldn't be asked to serve in that capacity too frequently anyway.
13 / 25
NFL mock draft: Big-name prospect drops in latest first-round projection
Olaivavega Ioane, G, Penn State
Even with everything crumbling around him in Penn State's calamitous season, Ioane still held firm. The 6-5, 320-pound left guard is a brick wall in pass protection, but where he really shines is in his forceful displacements in the run game. Ioane will have to figure out a way to handle quick-twitch defensive tackles who will test his fluidity, but he's one of the more reliable prospects in this class.
14 / 25
Ranking top 25 prospects for 2026 NFL Draft
Francis Mauigoa, OT/G, Miami
Solid to the core, the former five-star recruit holds his ground against the pass and forces opposing linemen out of the way with his strong first contact. But while there's not much mystery to the 6-6, 329-pounder's play, there are several unknowns about his projection. A move inside could be in his future to safeguard against concerns that he'll be beaten by rangy edge rushers, but the skill set is there to hang at right tackle.
15 / 25
Ranking top 25 prospects for 2026 NFL Draft
Spencer Fano, OT, Utah
Smooth movements allow Fano to conjure answers for even the speediest edge rushers. He still could have trouble with rangier defenders, however, as well as ones who can convert speed to power and knock him off base. Like many offensive tackles in this class, he'll face questions of whether he belongs at the position, with some question of whether he should head to center.
16 / 25
NFL mock draft: Big-name prospect drops in latest first-round projection
Monroe Freeling, OT, Georgia
From his massive frame (6-7, 315 pounds) to his quickness, Freeling checks off some of the most notable boxes for a high-end left tackle. As a one-year starter, his technique is still a work in progress, with some bad habits sapping his efficacy. But he's clearly on an upward trajectory, and teams might be eager to buy on an ascendant blocker.
17 / 25
Ranking top 25 prospects for 2026 NFL Draft
KC Concepcion, WR, Texas A&M
Few receivers are true separators at all three levels. Concepcion qualifies as just that, with more than enough quickness and speed to free himself from coverage at any point on the field. Drops have dogged him, but he could shake the issue in short order. Versatile and dynamic, Concepcion is more refined than he gets credit for, and he could become a vital part of an aerial attack with more polish.
18 / 25
Ranking top 25 prospects for 2026 NFL Draft
Kenyon Sadiq, TE, Oregon
The ultimate seam threat, Sadiq accelerates in a manner not seen from 6-3, 241-pound pass catchers. Though he's proven himself after the catch, much of his value remains somewhat theoretical, as his experience and workload in the downfield passing game haven't aligned with his capabilities. But as an instant mismatch creator and aggressive run blocker, he can change the complexion of whatever offense he joins.
19 / 25
Ranking top 25 prospects for 2026 NFL Draft
Denzel Boston, WR, Washington
Some will see a 6-4, 210-pound body and assume Boston relies on pulling down jump balls in close quarters. But while tilting those throws in his favor is his best feature, it's far from his only one. Boston has impressive fluidity for a player with his physical make-up, and his tracking and midair adjustments make him an even more confounding coverage assignment.
20 / 25
Ranking top 25 prospects for 2026 NFL Draft
Emmanuel McNeil-Warren, S, Toledo
Though he might not be an all-around coverage maven, McNeil-Warren is comfortable exerting his will from several different vantage points. He rallies to the ball in a hurry in run support, working his way through traffic to deliver big hits. And though his 6-4, 201-pound build limits his comfort zone in coverage, he can give both quarterbacks and receivers pause on attempting any throws over the middle.
21 / 25
Ranking top 25 prospects for 2026 NFL Draft
Jordyn Tyson, WR, Arizona State
Once seen as the clear-cut favorite to be the first receiver selected, Tyson now might be the most polarizing pass catcher in this class. Quick and crisp when he's dialed in, he has a robust set of maneuvers to beat man coverage from various spots. But medical concerns from various ailments muddle his draft outlook, and he can be inefficient with his footwork.
22 / 25
Ranking top 25 prospects for 2026 NFL Draft
Akheem Mesidor, DE, Miami
Having just turned 25 with an extensive injury history, Mesidor enters the draft with red flags that might tank other prospects' stock. Teams that look past those issues, however, will see an advanced and unrelenting pass rusher with a deep bag of tricks to beat blockers. Mesidor might be one of the most divisive prospects in this class in his projection, but there's not much to object to with the on-field product.
23 / 25
Ranking top 25 prospects for 2026 NFL Draft
Colton Hood, CB, Tennessee
With McCoy sidelined, Hood did a commendable job of filling in as the Volunteers' primary asset in coverage. The Colorado transfer kept the competitive juices flowing in shutting down tight-window throws as well as making his presence felt against the run. He can't match McCoy in overall fluidity, but he still sizes up as a meaningful counter in man coverage for bigger receivers.
24 / 25
Ranking top 25 prospects for 2026 NFL Draft
Omar Cooper Jr., WR, Indiana
Other receivers are sure to be more vexing coverage matchups than the 6-0, 199-pound target. Cooper, however, has a truly distinct aptitude for slipping tacklers in the open field. His penchant for racking up yards after the catch should carry over to the NFL and endear him to his future quarterback, as should his aggressive approach to fighting through contact and operating in traffic.
25 / 25
Ranking top 25 prospects for 2026 NFL Draft
Caleb Lomu, OT, Utah
In a class rife with right tackles and expected guard converts, Lomu stands out as a true blindside protector. Bulking up will be an essential step for the 6-6, 313-pounder to hold his own against more powerful edge rushers, but there's considerable room for growth on top of the enticing glimpses of his potential he's already displayed.
Johnson brings ideal size and speed at a premium position. At 6-foot and 193 pounds, Johnson hit 4.40 seconds in the 40-yard dash and 10 feet, six inches in the broad jump at the NFL combine. He hit 17 bench press repetitions, tied for the most among all cornerbacks, showing his mix of speed and strength.
Johnson stayed with the Aztecs in 2025 and took a step forward in coverage. He allowed just 18 receptions on 43 targets and none of them ended in a touchdown, per Pro Football Focus (PFF). He set a career-best in passer rating allowed when targeted at 16.1 with four interceptions and five pass breakups. In a league looking for shutdown corners on the outside, Johnson has the makings of a small-school gem.
Caleb Downs and Dillon Thieneman are locks for the first round but Toledo’s latest top defensive back prospect won’t be too far behind them. McNeil-Warren combines good size (6-foot-3, 32 ⅛ inch arms) with solid speed (4.52 40-yard dash).
In run defense, he’s a solid tackler who could use some improvement on his footwork to make sure his hard hits bring opposing ball-carriers down. But that power converted well to turnovers; McNeil-Warren has 11 career forced fumbles, per PFF. He’s a rangy cover man who uses his length to disrupt passes. He notched five pass breakups in 2025 alone and two interceptions. Penalties are not a concern with that length, though, with just one in his college career.
The younger brother of former No. 3 overall pick Trey, the latest Bison star with the surname Lance, was one of the top athletic performers at the NFL combine. He measured in at over 6-foot-3 and 204 pounds and ran the 40-yard dash in 4.34 seconds. His broad jump of 11 feet, one inch and his 41½-inch vertical jump were among the best at the position.
His speed isn’t sudden, more long speed that takes some time to gather up. His jumps and overall strength make him a threat in contested catch situations. He can’t be a top one or two targets in a passing game yet, though, because he needs to improve his releases and overall route-running at the next level.
If Hurst played at an SEC school, there’s a chance he’s a top-50 selection. Like Lance, he’s got size at 6-foot-4 and 206 pounds with good long speed (4.42-second 40-yard dash). He’s more agile than Lance but less proven in contested-catch scenarios.
Hurst’s footwork shows up against press coverage to shake defenders off and bodes well for his progression as a route runner. It may take some time but Hurst could grow into a reliable No. 2 wide receiver on the outside for an NFL team.
This offensive tackle class is top-heavy, as teams will likely use a top-50 pick to secure their favorite prospects in the group. Casey falls out of that range but offers a lot for teams to like.
His three years of starting left tackle experience and frame at 6-foot-6 and 310 pounds is a good place to start. His average athleticism and length may ultimately require a move to the inside, similar to what happened with fellow small-school left tackle Grey Zabel in the 2025 NFL Draft. Casey can deploy his strong hands in the run game well and could contend for a starting role sooner than later.
Draft projection: Late Round 4/early Round 5
DT Kaleb Proctor, Southeastern Louisiana
Proctor is slightly undersized for the position at 6-foot-2 and 291 pounds but came to the NFL Combine and did exactly what an undersized small-school player needs to make noise. He showed off his elite athleticism with a 1.69-second 10-yard split in the 40-yard dash, a 33-inch vertical jump and nine feet, five inches in the broad jump.
In the position drills, he showed off his bend which should make him a potential plus pass rusher from the interior. His smaller frame may be tough against NFL-sized offensive linemen, specifically in run defense, but he’s tailor-made for stunts and inside games.
Draft projection: Late Round 5/early Round 6
Edge Nadame Tucker, Western Michigan
Tucker is one of the older prospects in the class at his position and is undersized at 6-foot-2 and just 247 pounds. Like Proctor, that smaller frame may show up more against NFL offensive lineman than his college competition.
Still, Tucker has great bend, burst and overall footwork to be a rotational pass rusher for a team looking for smaller bodies off the edge. He could struggle against NFL length but has enough tools to warrant an investment on Day 3.
Draft projection: Round 6
Las Vegas Raiders – Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana
New York Jets – David Bailey, OLB/DE, Texas Tech
Arizona Cardinals – Arvell Reese, LB/DE, Ohio State
Tennessee Titans – Sonny Styles, LB, Ohio State
New York Giants – Jeremiyah Love, RB, Notre Dame
Cleveland Browns – Carnell Tate, WR, Ohio State
Washington Commanders – Caleb Downs, S, Ohio State
New Orleans Saints – Makai Lemon, WR, USC
Kansas City Chiefs – Mansoor Delane, CB, LSU
Cincinnati Bengals – Jermod McCoy, CB, Tennessee
Miami Dolphins – Francis Mauigoa, OT/G, Miami (Fla.)
Dallas Cowboys – Rueben Bain Jr., DE, Miami (Fla.)
Los Angeles Rams (from Atlanta Falcons) – Monroe Freeling, OT, Georgia
Baltimore Ravens – Kenyon Sadiq, TE, Oregon
Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Keldric Faulk, DE, Auburn
New York Jets (from Indianapolis Colts) – Omar Cooper Jr., WR, Indiana
Detroit Lions – Kadyn Proctor, OT, Alabama
Minnesota Vikings – Dillon Thieneman, S, Oregon
Carolina Panthers – Spencer Fano, OT, Utah
Dallas Cowboys (from Green Bay Packers) – Avieon Terrell, CB, Clemson
Pittsburgh Steelers – Olaivavega Ioane, G, Penn State
Los Angeles Chargers – Akheem Mesidor, DE, Miami (Fla.)
Philadelphia Eagles – Max Iheanachor, OT, Arizona State
