Which 5 NFL rookies are in the best position to succeed in 2026?

TL;DR

Five NFL rookies are highlighted for their strong potential to succeed in 2026, with the right team dynamics playing a crucial role. Makai Lemon from USC is among those identified as well-positioned for success.

Key points

Five NFL rookies are highlighted for potential success in 2026
Makai Lemon is one of the rookies mentioned
Being in the right situation with a good team is crucial for success
Makai Lemon plays as a wide receiver
He was drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles

USCMakai LemonPhiladelphia Eagles

Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

Being in the right situation with the right NFL team makes all the difference. Here are five rookies who are best positioned to succeed in their first year:

5. Makai Lemon, WR, Philadelphia Eagles

College: USC

Drafted: No. 20 overall

Let’s assume A.J. Brown will be traded soon, which seems reasonable given the Philadelphia Eagles’ offseason moves and Brown’s complaints about the offense. Makai Lemon is joining a loaded offense that underperformed last season for several reasons. The Eagles remain a run-first team, and with opponents selling out to stop Saquon Barkley, Lemon should see plenty of opportunities in single coverage. With DeVonta Smith moving into the WR1 slot, Lemon will face less pressure.

4. Jordyn Tyson, WR, New Orleans Saints

College: Arizona State

Drafted: No. 8 overall

If — and that’s a big if — Jordyn Tyson is healthy, he’s landing in a promising situation. The Saints have the makings of a strong 2026 offense. Quarterback Tyler Shough finished second in the Offensive Rookie of the Year voting. Chris Olave (100 catches, 1163 yards, nine touchdowns) is coming off a career-best season. The Saints also added free-agent running back from the . Tyson will be surrounded by other good skill players, which should make it easier for him to fit into Kellen Moore’s offense. His is the biggest concern.