Top Wide Receivers to Watch: Jordyn Tyson, Eric Singleton Jr. Headline an Explosive 2026 NFL Draft WR Class

The 2026 NFL Draft wide receiver class is defined more by projection than polish, featuring a mix of dynamic athletes, scheme-specific weapons, and a handful of high-upside perimeter threats. From inside-out separators like Jordyn Tyson and Eric Singleton Jr. to vertical mismatches like Denzel Boston and Malachi Fields, this group offers versatility across a range of offensive systems. Ohio State’s Carnell Tate brings a reliable, pro-ready profile, while Kevin Concepcion and Zachariah Branch stand out as space-creating specialists in modern spread schemes. At the top, several names could rise into Round 1 consideration with strong 2025 campaigns. 2026 NFL Draft Wide Receivers to Watch Below, we evaluate each prospect’s physical tools, draft projection, and long-term ceiling heading into the college football season. Jordyn Tyson, Arizona State Ht/Wt:  6’1”, 195 Class:  Senior Grade:  High-End Starter Potential (1st–2nd Round) Player Comparison:  Chris Olave Analysis: After sitting out 2023 due to transfer rules, Tyson exploded in 2024 with over 1,100 receiving yards and 10 touchdowns despite not playing in the CFB Playoff. A complete route runner with elite separation and advanced ball skills, he fits perfectly in spread systems emphasizing timing and vertical spacing. With better press technique and durability, he has WR1 potential. Eric Singleton Jr., Auburn Ht/Wt:  5’11”, 190 Class:  Junior Grade:  High-End Starter Potential (2nd Round) Player Comparison:  Brandin Cooks Analysis: A verified 4.3-speed burner and deep-ball savant, Singleton leads all returning Power Four receivers in deep yardage. His burst, route pacing, and tracking skills make him a threat at all three levels. He projects as a Z receiver in vertical or motion-heavy schemes with WR2 upside. Carnell Tate, Ohio State Ht/Wt:  6’3”, 191 Class:  Junior Grade:  High-End Starter Potential (2nd–3rd Round) Player Comparison:  Tyler Boyd Analysis: Tate is a polished technician with elite body control and route feel. He may lack top-end explosiveness, but his physicality and precision route running project him as a dependable NFL WR2 with room to develop into more in a rhythm-timing offense. Evan Stewart, Oregon Ht/Wt:  6’0”, 175 Class:  Junior Grade:  High-End Starter Potential (2nd–3rd Round) Player Comparison:  DeVonta Smith-lite Analysis: There is concern that Oregon star wide receiver Evan Stewart could miss the 2025 season after suffering a knee injury reported in early June. If not for the injury, Stewart—who was eligible for the 2025 NFL Draft—was considered a potential early Round 1 candidate in 2026 with a strong season. His ability to beat zone with tempo and separate against man coverage makes him a dangerous WR2-plus type. NFL teams will monitor his recovery closely. Nyck Harbor, South Carolina Ht/Wt:  6’5”, 235 Class:  Sophomore Grade:  Mid-Level Starter Potential (3rd–4th Round) Player Comparison:  D.K. Metcalf (raw version) Analysis: One of the most unique athletic profiles in football, Harbor has Olympic track speed in a tight end’s frame. He’s still raw in his route-running and hands but brings immense red-zone and vertical upside in the right developmental system. Zachariah Branch, Georgia Ht/Wt:  5’11”, 175 Class:  Junior Grade:  Mid-Level Starter Potential (3rd–4th Round) Player Comparison:  Tyreek Hill-lite Analysis: An elite returner and explosive slot threat, Branch can break a game open in one play. His short-area quickness and speed in motion schemes will entice offensive coordinators. Continued strength development will be key for unlocking Round 1 upside. Denzel Boston, Washington Ht/Wt:  6’4”, 210 Class:  Junior Grade:  Mid-Level Starter Potential (4th Round) Player Comparison:  Dorian Green-Beckham Analysis: Boston is a jump-ball artist and red-zone threat who showed out in Washington’s post-Odunze offense. He’ll need to improve suddenness and release work, but his size and contested catch skills give him WR2 upside in vertical schemes. Antonio Williams, Clemson Ht/Wt:  5’11”, 190 Class:  Junior Grade:  Mid-Level Starter Potential (3rd–4th Round) Player Comparison:  Amon-Ra St. Brown Analysis: Williams has elite route-running savvy and separation skills. With a cleaner bill of health and Cade Klubnik's emergence as a more consistent passer, he could rise quickly. Projects as a slot WR2 with big-time third-down utility. Elijah Sarratt, Indiana Ht/Wt:  6’2”, 210 Class:  Senior Grade:  Mid-Level Starter Potential (3rd–4th Round) Player Comparison:  Rashard Higgins Analysis: Sarratt’s production across three programs proves his reliability. While not flashy, he offers high floor value with excellent contested catch skills and subtle route feel. NFL-ready frame with plug-and-play WR3 traits. Malachi Fields, Notre Dame Ht/Wt:  6’4”, 220 Class:  Senior Grade:  Mid-Level Starter Potential (3rd Round) Player Comparison:  Allen Lazard Analysis: Fields brings rare physicality and red-zone prowess. A back-to-back 800+ yard producer, he’s now paired with presumptively better QB play at Notre Dame. He projects as a WR2 in pro-style offenses that need size on the outside. Kevin Concepcion, Texas A&M Ht/Wt:  5’11”, 187 Class:  Junior Grade:  Mid-Level Starter Potential (4th Round) Player Comparison:  Curtis Samuel Analysis: Concepcion thrives on short-area quickness, route IQ, and feel for zone. While not a deep threat or physical YAC machine, his route versatility and reliability in space offer high-floor WR3 value with upside in creative systems.