Micah Huff's seven-round USC mock NFL draft for 2026

TL;DR

Micah Huff presents a seven-round mock NFL draft for 2026, projecting USC Trojans' prospects. Notably, he predicts Makai Lemon to be selected 13th overall by the Los Angeles Rams.

Key points

Micah Huff presents a seven-round mock NFL draft for 2026
Makai Lemon is projected to be selected 13th overall by the Los Angeles Rams
Lemon is considered the best receiver in college football
Sean McVay's coaching style could maximize Lemon's potential
Lemon could be a favorite for Offensive Rookie of the Year

Los Angeles RamsMakai Lemon

Until next Thursday, mock NFL drafts will continue to flood the internet. Many experts and analysts will provide their predictions. We are waiting to see which experts got it wrong, and why. That is what makes the NFL draft a spectacle; even if a player seems like a sure thing, it is never a guarantee. Now it is my time to take a swing at projecting the landing spots for each of the USC Trojan prospects.

Here is my NFL mock draft and projection for where all the USC Trojans will land:

Round 1, pick 13 - Los Angeles Rams - Makai Lemon

Makai, even after being named the best receiver in college football and having the numbers to back up what type of player he can be in the NFL, is still getting overlooked. There shouldn't be a doubt that he is the best receiver in this class. If he lands with the Rams, there will be no doubt who the best receiver in this draft class is. His skillset would be maximized at its fullest potential with a team like the Rams, who have shown they know exactly how to use receivers. In LA, Sean Mcvay would not have him solely lined up in the slot. Matthew Stafford has played a part in the best receiver seasons in the NFL. I think Lemon would dominate in LA. Even with a crowded receiver room, I think he could be an offensive rookie of the year favorite with the Rams.

Round 3, pick 74 - Kansas City Chiefs - Kamari Ramsey

The Chiefs lost multiple key players in their secondary. I believe they will look to address the back end in the draft. Kamari Ramsey fits the mold for a Steve Spagnuolo defense, and I think he will thrive in a culture like . The Chiefs have done a great job developing talent. I think Ramsey would be at his best in a winning organization like the Chiefs. Would not be surprised if he ended up starting early if they select him in the draft with his great intangibles.

Q&A

Who is projected to be the first USC player selected in the 2026 NFL Draft?

Makai Lemon is projected to be the first USC player selected, expected to go 13th overall to the Los Angeles Rams.

What makes Makai Lemon a top receiver in the 2026 NFL Draft?

Makai Lemon is considered the best receiver in college football due to his impressive performance and skillset, which could be maximized with the Rams.

How does Sean McVay's coaching style benefit Makai Lemon?

Sean McVay's coaching style is expected to fully utilize Makai Lemon's skills, allowing him to excel beyond just a slot receiver role.

What impact could Makai Lemon have as a rookie with the Rams?

Makai Lemon could be a strong candidate for Offensive Rookie of the Year if he joins the Rams, given their history of developing top receivers.