5 under the radar NFL Draft risers

TL;DR

Several under-the-radar NFL Draft prospects are expected to rise in the rankings, potentially being selected earlier than anticipated. Factors such as viral highlights and impressive pro-day performances contribute to their increased visibility.

Key points

NFL Draft night is approaching with rising prospects.
Some players may jump multiple rounds in the draft.
Viral clips and pro-day performances influence rankings.

Mentioned in this story

USC

Makai Lemon

Welcome to NFL Draft night. Where the prognostication fades, and the team boards start talking. Every year, a handful of names jump a round – maybe multiple rounds. Sometimes it’s because clips go viral (hello, Tristan Wirfs). Sometimes it’s because the pro-day reps jump off the tape. Whatever the reason, the hype machine gets rolling. If you’re treating these guys like later value, you’re already behind.

Here are a few under-the-radar risers who could hear their names called earlier than people expect once the first wave of picks starts draining position tiers.

MORE: Stop overlooking 2026 NFL Draft’s most proven first-round prospects

Makai Lemon – WR, USC

Makai Lemon

Lemon is showing up everywhere, and that’s the clue. Teams aren’t treating him like a gadget – they’re treating him like a Day 2 receiver who can contribute quickly, especially in a class where the WR tiers blur fast. NFL Network’s draft tracker has Lemon among the higher-graded receivers, and he keeps popping in the visit chatter.

Chris Brazzell II – WR, Tennessee

Brazzell has been on a full tour – Panthers, Colts, Cardinals, then Packers, Commanders, and 49ers in a tight stretch. That volume doesn’t happen unless teams think he’s going earlier than expected. It signals a real appetite for bigger outside receivers with vertical ability and enough polish to play early.