Why Lincoln Riley Says Former USC Star Makai Lemon Stands Out in NFL Draft

In just a few days, former USC star wide receiver Makai Lemon will know where the next chapter of his football career with begin.

Lemon is projected to be a first-round pick on Thursday. He is the reigning Biletnikoff Award winner and led the Big Ten last season with an average of 96.3 yards per game. Lemon also recorded 79 receptions for 1,156 yards and 11 touchdowns last season.

Feb 28, 2026; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Southern California wideout Makai Lemon (WO29) during the NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images

Lincoln Riley Highlights Lemon’s Biggest Strength

Lemon spent all three seasons of his collegiate career at USC under head coach Lincoln Riley.

Riley said one of Lemon’s biggest strengths is his versatility.

“I think this guy’s the most versatile receiver in the country. I think he’s a scheme fit. You could make an argument that there’s really not a scheme in the league that he would not fit in with well. He can play in the slot, he can play outside, he’s good after the catch, his contested catches are as good as anybody I’ve ever coached. Route running ability it’s all there, and he’s also a really dominant special teams player on top of it,” Riley said on The Jim Rome Show.

Multiple teams have been connected to Lemon throughout the draft process. One team that has consistently been linked to Lemon is the Los Angeles Rams, who have the No. 13 pick in the draft. The Rams could use Lemon as a long-term partner for star wide receiver Puka Nacua and replacement for veteran Davante Adams after he retires.