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NFLFeature
Most popular landing spots for USC's Makai Lemon in 2026 NFL draft
TL;DR
Makai Lemon is projected to be a first-round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, with the New York Jets identified as a potential landing spot due to their need for a top receiver.
Key points
- Makai Lemon is projected as a first-round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.
- The New York Jets have a pressing need for a wide receiver.
- Experts believe Lemon could be a fit for both NFC and AFC teams.
- The Jets' receiver room was ranked the worst in the NFL last season.
- Lemon is considered quarterback-proof and a valuable asset.
Makai LemonNew York Jets
It is still uncertain where Makai Lemon will land, and it is guaranteed he will be picked in the first round. Many experts and analysts believe they have it figured out, stating him as either the choice of a top NFC team or a young team in the AFC.
Here are the most popular destinations for Makai Lemon:
New York Jets
The Jets have a clear gaping need at receiver to fill early in the draft, as last season their receiver room was the worst in the NFL. While there is uncertainty whether or not Aaron Glenn will be the coach for the future and who will be the quarterback, this team still needs blue-chip players. Makai Lemon is a perfect building block, and he is quarterback-proof. He might not be as productive in New York as he would be in other landing spots, but for the Jets, he would still be everything they need.
Cleveland Browns
Just like the Jets, there is a lot of uncertainty in Cleveland. Yet Makai Lemon solves a lot of issues for the Cleveland Browns' offense. If Shedeur Sanders is able to keep the job, getting a blanket and reliable receiver, as Lemon would be great for Sanders' development. Cleveland is the earliest Makai Lemon would land, but his impact will still be huge. Todd Monken would be able to carve out great success for Lemon, and in my opinion, he would be the best possible offensive weapon for the Browns to take in the first round.
Los Angeles Rams
The Rams have been the most popular landing spot for Makai Lemon heading into the draft. Puka Nacua is a bigger and more physical version of what Makai Lemon is in his short stature. Lemon breaks tackles. He can get yards after the catch, he can block, and he understands high-power offenses. Makai Lemon's skill set makes him a player the NFL does not want to see land with the Rams because he would be a perfect fit.
Q&A
What are the top landing spots for Makai Lemon in the 2026 NFL Draft?
The New York Jets are among the most popular destinations for Makai Lemon, along with other top NFC and young AFC teams.
Why do experts believe Makai Lemon will be a first-round pick?
Experts consider Lemon a top prospect due to his skills and the demand for receivers in the NFL, particularly for teams like the Jets.
What is the New York Jets' current need in the draft?
The Jets have a significant need for a wide receiver, as their receiving corps was ranked the worst in the NFL last season.
How might Makai Lemon perform with the New York Jets?
While Lemon may not be as productive in New York compared to other teams, he is seen as a crucial building block for the Jets' future.
