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We are in the midst of the all-star circuit as the Shrine Bowl wraps up, the Senior Bowl gets underway, and NFL Draft season is officially in full swing. With the NFL Combine right around the corner, things will begin to move quickly as we approach the 2026 NFL Draft, with Day 1 kicking off in Pittsburgh on April 23. With that in mind, it felt like the right time to release an updated NFL Mock Draft. A lot has changed since my last mock two months ago, most notably Dante Moore’s decision to stay at Oregon, which narrows the Day 1 quarterback pool to Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza and Alabama’s Ty Simpson. We also had to wait on several top underclassmen to finalize their draft decisions, which further shaped the board. This draft class is going to lean heavily toward the defensive side of the ball. I watched more defensive film this season than in any of the past few years, particularly at linebacker — a position that continues to evolve at the college level. The rise of hybrid defenders is evident, highlighted by Ohio State’s do-everything linebacker tandem of Arvell Reese and Sonny Styles. Another key name in this class is Ohio State safety Caleb Downs, whom I currently have graded as the top overall prospect. Downs is a true positionless chess piece and, in my view, warrants top-five consideration, especially in what is shaping up to be a lighter quarterback class at the top. Overall, this class is deeper than it’s often given credit for. I’d argue some of the skepticism comes from the fantasy football community, as this group isn’t as quarterback-driven as the 2024 class or the projected 2027 class. However, the wide receiver depth is real. I currently have at least four first-round wideouts, with a realistic path for five or even six to come off the board on Day 1. That group is led by Ohio State’s Carnell Tate, Arizona State’s Jordyn Tyson, and USC’s Makai Lemon. Other notes to consider: The Super Bowl will finalize picks 31 and 32. The all-star circuit is just getting started, and performances at the Senior Bowl and Shrine Bowl will impact draft stock. The NFL Combine will inevitably push some players up or down boards, so there’s still plenty of movement ahead. 2026 NFL Mock Draft (Senior Bowl Edition) 1. Las Vegas Raiders - Fernando Mendoza , QB, Indiana The Raiders reset at quarterback, selecting Heisman Trophy winner Fernando Mendoza after a historic season at Indiana. Mendoza clearly separated himself from the class, finishing with a 90.7 passing grade and elite red-zone efficiency (39 TDs, 0 INTs since 2024). His size, processing, and poise give the Raiders a true franchise-caliber QB to build around. 2. New York Jets - Rueben Bain Jr., EDGE, Miami With no quarterback worth forcing at No. 2, the Jets add the most dominant defensive edge player in the class. Bain posted a 92.8 PFF grade in 2025, ranking second among Power Four edge defenders and anchoring Miami’s playoff run. He gives New York a tone-setting pass rusher to headline a full defensive rebuild. 3. Arizona Cardinals - Spencer Fano , OT, Utah Arizona opts for stability up front, selecting one of the draft's cleanest offensive line prospects. Fano’s versatility across four OL spots and consistent run-blocking dominance make him a plug-and-play starter. With Kyler Murray’s future uncertain, protecting whoever plays quarterback becomes a priority. 4. Tennessee Titans - David Bailey, EDGE, Texas Tech Tennessee adds pure explosiveness off the edge to complement its interior defensive strength. Bailey’s first-step burst, bend, and finishing ability give the Titans a true difference-maker on passing downs. He fits cleanly as a hybrid EDGE who can tilt protections and close games late. 5. New York Giants - Arvell Reese , LB, Ohio State The Giants add a versatile front-seven chess piece in new head coach John Harbaugh's first season. Reese’s size, power, and versatility give New York a modern-day Swiss Army Knife linebacker who can align anywhere, rush the passer, set an edge, and disrupt pass protections. 6. Cleveland Browns - Caleb Downs , S, Ohio State Cleveland stays true to best player available, landing the most complete defensive back in the class. Downs owns 85.0+ PFF grades in all three collegiate seasons and brings elite instincts, processing, and versatility to a Browns defense that needs stability on the back end. He immediately elevates coverage integrity while giving Cleveland a movable chess piece to disguise looks. 7. Washington Commanders - Carnell Tate , WR, Ohio State Washington gives Jayden Daniels a high-efficiency, quarterback-friendly target to stabilize the offense. Tate turned 61 targets into 51 receptions for 875 yards and nine touchdowns in 2025. He’s a polished route-running technician who consistently creates natural separation and can win in contested-catch situations. Tate profiles as a reliable chain-mover with legitimate WR1 upside as the offense matures. 8. New Orleans Saints - Mansoor Delane, CB, LSU The Saints reinforce the secondary with one of the most scheme-diverse corners in the draft. Delane’s ability to thrive in press-man, match quarters, and off coverage gives New Orleans flexibility. He projects as a high ceiling Day 1 starter. 9. Kansas City Chiefs - Francis Mauigoa, OT, Miami Kansas City invests up front to help extend the Patrick Mahomes window. Mauigoa allowed just two total hits/sacks across 500+ pass-blocking snaps during the 2025 season, pairing elite movement skills with power and balance. He gives the Chiefs a long-term cornerstone who fits both zone and gap concepts. 10. Cincinnati Bengals - Sonny Styles, LB, Ohio State Cincinnati adds a true front-seven multiplier to a defense that lacked speed and flexibility in 2025. Styles’ transition from safety shows up in his range, coverage instincts, and ability to carry routes, while his size allows him to play downhill, blitz through interior gaps, and set edges when needed. He profiles as a true “joker” defender who lets the Bengals stay in nickel and dime without sacrificing run integrity. 11. Miami Dolphins - Jermod McCoy , CB, Tennessee Miami targets a true CB1 to fit Jeff Hafley’s aggressive coverage philosophy. McCoy’s press-man discipline, recovery speed, and ball skills give the Dolphins a corner who can challenge receivers at the line and finish plays on the ball. If medicals check out, he brings immediate starter value to a secondary in need. 12. Dallas Cowboys - Makai Lemon , WR, USC Dallas adds a high-IQ slot separator to its embarrassment of offensive riches while insulating itself against future turnover at receiver. Lemon’s short-area quickness, route pacing, and big-play after-catch ability make him a natural fit alongside CeeDee Lamb and George Pickens. 13. Los Angeles Rams (via ATL) - Colton Hood, CB, Tennessee The Rams reload the secondary with a physical, scheme-versatile corner as multiple starters near free agency. Hood’s speed, length, and route recognition allow him to hold up in press-man while still fitting zone-match principles. He projects as an immediate rotational contributor with long-term starting upside. 14. Baltimore Ravens - Kayden McDonald, IDL, Ohio State Baltimore reinforces its defense with the best interior run defender in the class. McDonald led all interior defenders with a 91.2 run-defense grade and 30 run stops, giving the Ravens a true early-down anchor. He fits cleanly as a nose or shaded interior defender who occupies doubles and frees linebackers to flow cleanly and make plays. 15. Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Cashius Howell, EDGE, Texas A&M Tampa Bay addresses its pass-rush issues by adding one of the most productive edge defenders in the SEC. Howell posted a 90.0+ PFF pass-rush grade in three straight seasons and led the conference with 12 sacks in 2025, pairing production with a relentless motor. 16. New York Jets (via IND) - Avieon Terrell, CB, Clemson After landing Rueben Bain Jr., the Jets continue to rebuild the defense with a competitive, scheme-ready boundary corner. Terrell’s quick feet, fluid hips, and physical run defense give New York a reliable outside CB who can hold up in press-man and zone-match. He brings immediate starter traits to a secondary that still lacks long-term stability. 17. Detroit Lions - Caleb Lomu, OT, Utah Left tackle Taylor Decker could be on the way out this offseason. Even if Decker returns for another year, Detroit benefits from adding a clear succession plan. Utah’s Caleb Lomu brings balance, recovery athleticism, and pass-protection consistency, projecting as a high-floor tackle with the versatility to kick inside if needed. 18. Minnesota Vikings - Jeremiyah Love, RB, Notre Dame Minnesota adds an explosive offensive weapon to help out a young J.J. McCarthy. Love’s burst, vision, and receiving ability give the Vikings a true three-down back who thrives in wide-zone concepts. He immediately raises the ceiling of the offense while reducing pressure on the passing game. 19. Carolina Panthers - Jordyn Tyson, WR, Arizona State Carolina completes its receiver room by adding a true vertical separator with WR1 traits. Tyson’s ability to win off the line, stretch the field, and finish through contact gives Bryce Young another reliable target alongside Tetairoa McMillan. 20. Dallas Cowboys (via GB) - Akheem Mesidor, EDGE, Miami After addressing wide receiver earlier, Dallas capitalizes here by bolstering it's defensive pass rush. Mesidor’s burst, hand usage, and alignment flexibility give the Cowboys an immediate third-down disruptor with high level upside. He fits cleanly in multiple fronts and helps offset long-term uncertainty along the defensive line. 21. Steelers - Ty Simpson, QB, Alabama Pittsburgh finally invests in a long-term answer at quarterback, with Simpson fitting a developmental timeline if Aaron Rodgers returns for one more season under new head coach Mike McCarthy. Simpson’s 81.4 PFF passing grade and FBS-leading 30 big-time throws highlight his ability to operate efficiently within structure. 22. Chargers - Olaivavega Ioane, IOL, Penn State With Joe Alt and Rashawn Slater locked in on the edges, the Chargers stabilize the interior with a plug-and-play guard. Ioane posted an 80.0 PFF grade and did not allow a sack over the past two seasons, offering immediate pass-protection reliability. His power, anchor strength, and experience at both guard spots fit exactly what the Chargers need. 23. Eagles - Dillon Thieneman, S, Oregon Philadelphia adds a high-IQ safety capable of playing single-high or rotating post-snap. Thieneman brings elite tackling production, range, and ball skills, with over 300 career tackles and 8 interceptions in his three years at both Purdue and Oregon. His versatility allows Vic Fangio to disguise coverage while maintaining discipline against explosive plays. 24. Browns (via JAX) - Denzel Boston, WR, Washington Cleveland adds size and red-zone reliability to a receiver room that needs perimeter presence. Boston’s 6’4” frame gives the Browns a true boundary target who can win above the rim and expand the strike zone for their quarterback. He fits best in a play-action-based offense that leverages size mismatches and intermediate windows. 25. Bears - Emmanuel McNeil-Warren, S, Toledo Chicago targets an ascending safety with size, range, and explosive playmaking ability. McNeil-Warren brings downhill physicality and ball production, offering flexibility as a box defender or interchangeable safety in sub-packages. 26. Bills - C.J. Allen, LB, Georgia Buffalo addresses linebacker with Matt Milano and Shaq Thompson headed for free agency after a season in which the defense ranked 28th against the run. Allen brings the range, trigger speed, and physicality to immediately upgrade the second level. He can run and hit, but also offers the instincts and leadership profile to anchor the defense as a three-down MIKE/WILL in nickel-heavy looks. 27. 49ers - Kenyon Sadiq, TE, Oregon San Francisco reloads its offensive core with a true hybrid weapon built for Kyle Shanahan’s system. Sadiq’s elite burst, competitive blocking, and alignment versatility allow him to function as a Kittle–Juszczyk chess piece across formations. He gives the 49ers mismatch flexibility as they prepare for turnover at receiver. 28. Texans - Kadyn Proctor, OT, Alabama Houston continues to rebuild the offensive line with a mammoth blindside presence in Kadyn Proctor. The 6’7”, 360-pound tackle ranked fourth among qualified FBS tackles in PFF grading in 2025 and was one of just seven linemen to earn high-level grades as both a pass protector and run blocker. Proctor’s size, anchor strength, and improving footwork give the Texans a long-term left tackle option capable of stabilizing a unit that struggled throughout the season. 29. Rams - Monroe Freeling, OT, Georgia Georgia’s Monroe Freeling has climbed draft boards after a significant leap in pass protection grading in 2025, where he was charted as only giving up three sacks on the season. At 6’7”, 315 pounds, his length, movement skills, and improving anchor give him prototype left tackle tools, even if his technique remains inconsistent. He profiles as a high-ceiling developmental starter. 30. Broncos - Keldric Faulk, EDGE, Auburn Denver snags an interior disruptor in Clemson’s Peter Woods. At roughly 6’3”, 310–315 pounds, Woods brings elite first-step explosiveness, violent hands, and functional power, giving the Broncos high-level interior depth with long-term upside. While he experienced a down season in 2025, he earned PFF grades above 83.0 in each of the two prior years, reinforcing that his evaluation is trait- and impact-driven rather than box-score dependent. 31. New England Patriots - T.J. Parker, EDGE, Clemson New England lands a tone-setting edge defender who plays with the violence and effort profile they’ve historically valued. Parker hit a down year in 2025 (five sacks) along with much of Clemson’s defense, but his three-year body of work is the separator — 24 sacks over the past three seasons with PFF grades of 80.0+ in each of the last two. He wins with power, heavy hands, and finishing ability, projecting as an early-down edge who can grow into a primary closer as his pass-rush plan tightens up. 32. Seattle Seahawks - Brandon Cisse, CB, South Carolina Seattle closes the first round by betting on traits at cornerback with Brandon Cisse, a high-end athlete who fits the Seahawks’ man-coverage profile. At 6’0”, 190 pounds, Cisse brings elite speed, fluid hips, and press-man ability, and he’s expected to test extremely well during the pre-draft process. With potential turnover looming in the secondary, Cisse offers a long, athletic outside corner who can compete early while refining his zone awareness and tackling consistency.

After the conclusion of the 2026 College Football Playoff (congratulations to the Indiana Hoosiers), we are now full throttle into the all-star game circuit, with the Shrine Bowl already underway and the Senior Bowl on the horizon. That makes this the ideal checkpoint to update the 2026 NFL Draft Top 50 Big Board and accompanying positional rankings. As always, these rankings will evolve. It is still early in the pre-draft process, but after a full college football season, I’ve worked through countless hours of film study to establish this updated draft board. While no early ranking is ever perfect, this list will be continuously refined as more film is reviewed, all-star game evaluations are completed, and the NFL Combine process unfolds. My goal, as always, is to expand this board to 100 draftable prospects before April. With that said, the top five has undergone meaningful changes since the last update. Caleb Downs remains a near bell-to-bell No. 1 overall prospect, but Fernando Mendoza is now ranked second overall, not simply due to positional value, but because he is a legitimate top-10 talent in this class. He is followed closely by edge rushers Rueben Bain Jr. and David Bailey, two prospects whose rankings are largely interchangeable depending on team preference and scheme fit. Rounding out the top five is Arvell Reese, the do-everything linebacker from Ohio State who continues to separate himself as one of the most versatile defensive players in the draft. Top 50 Prospects Rankings - 2026 NFL Draft Class 1. Caleb Downs, S, Ohio State (6’0”, 205) Downs is the prototype modern-day safety with elite processing, communication skills, and positional versatility. He can align deep, in the slot, in the box, or as an overhang without compromising structure. Best suited for split-safety, match-zone, and big nickel systems where he can function as a coverage eraser and on-field communicator. 2. Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana (6’5”, 225) Fernando Mendoza is a prototypical pocket passer with advanced processing speed, poise, and consistent short-to-intermediate ball placement. He plays on schedule, throws with anticipation, and shows strong command in RPO and play-action structures, regularly winning with timing and leverage recognition. While not an elite athlete, he has functional mobility to extend plays and handle pressure with toughness and composure. 3. Rueben Bain Jr., EDGE, Miami (6’3”, 275) Bain is a refined, high-motor EDGE who wins with leverage, violent hands, and a polished pass-rush plan. He offers alignment flexibility as a 4-3 end, reduced 5-tech, or interior rusher on passing downs. The production and tape both point to immediate NFL impact with every-down value. 4. David Bailey, EDGE, Texas Tech (6’3”, 250) Bailey is an explosive, bendy pass rusher coming off a true breakout season. He wins with first-step quickness, closing speed, and a deep rush toolbox. Best deployed as a 3-4 OLB or hybrid EDGE, with run-game strength being the final piece separating him from full three-down dominance. 5. Arvell Reese, LB, Ohio State (6’4”, 243) Reese is a modern hybrid linebacker who thrives as a MIKE/SAM/EDGE chess piece in multiple fronts. His power, length, and inside-out versatility allow him to stress protections and finish plays downhill. While not a pure coverage linebacker, his pressure value and three-down utility are real. 6. Jeremiyah Love, RB, Notre Dame (6’0”, 210) Love is a dynamic, two-phase running back with elite acceleration and one-cut burst. He thrives in wide-zone concepts and offers real mismatch value as a receiver in space. Continued refinement in pass protection and workload sustainability will dictate how quickly he becomes a full-time NFL feature back. 7. Carnell Tate, WR, Ohio State (6’3”, 191) Tate is a polished route runner with advanced spatial awareness and strong contested-catch reliability. He consistently separates in the intermediate areas and expands throwing windows with body control and wingspan. Projects best as a high-volume target in timing-based and West Coast systems. 8. Jordyn Tyson, WR, Arizona State (6’1”, 195) Tyson brings WR1-caliber traits with vertical speed, alignment flexibility, and reliable separation. He can win on the boundary or from the slot and finishes well through contact. Press-man releases and durability will be key checkpoints moving forward. 9. Sonny Styles, LB, Ohio State (6’4”, 243) Styles is a hybrid defender with the size and movement skills to impact multiple phases. A former safety, he offers coverage fluidity, blitz value, and alignment versatility. Refinement in block shedding and technique will determine whether he reaches his high-end starter ceiling. 10. Spencer Fano, OT, Utah (6’5”, 304) Fano is a high-floor offensive tackle with polished technique and consistent run-blocking leverage. He has the athleticism to play either tackle spot and operate in zone or gap schemes. Added functional strength and refined hand timing versus power rushers will dictate his long-term ceiling. 11. Makai Lemon, WR, USC (5’11”, 195) Lemon is a high-IQ slot receiver with elite short-area quickness and advanced route pacing. He consistently separates against man and zone using leverage manipulation and spatial awareness. 12. Francis Mauigoa, OT, Miami (6’6”, 315) Mauigoa is a naturally gifted right tackle with rare movement skills and balance for his size. He shows Day 1 starter traits with scheme versatility in both zone and gap systems. 13. Peter Woods, IDL, Clemson (6’3”, 315) Woods is an explosive interior defender with elite first-step quickness and leverage control. He consistently disrupts the line of scrimmage as a penetrating 3-technique. 14. Jermod McCoy, CB, Tennessee (6’0”, 195) McCoy is a press-man eraser with elite mirror ability and disciplined hand usage. He consistently eliminates separation and converts coverage into ball production. 15. Mansoor Delane, CB, LSU (6’0”, 190) Delane is a complete, scheme-diverse corner with strong anticipation and fluid transitions. He thrives in both man-match and zone structures with starting-caliber consistency. 16. Kenyon Sadiq, TE, Oregon (6’3”, 250) Sadiq is a true two-phase tight end with elite explosiveness and functional inline strength. He stresses defenses vertically while maintaining blocking value on early downs. 17. Kayden McDonald, IDL, Ohio State (6’3”, 326) McDonald is a powerful interior anchor with elite play strength and leverage. He consistently resets the line of scrimmage and controls gaps as an early-down nose. 18. C.J. Allen, LB, Georgia (6’1”, 235) Allen is a rangy off-ball linebacker with strong diagnostics and tackling efficiency. He triggers downhill quickly and thrives in zone-heavy defensive structures. 19. Caleb Lomu, OT, Utah (6’5”, 295) Lomu is a smooth, technically refined pass protector with elite balance and recovery ability. He excels in movement-based blocking schemes that emphasize footwork and control. 20. Keldric Faulk, EDGE, Auburn (6’6”, 290) Faulk is a power-based edge defender with inside-out alignment versatility. He wins with length, leverage, and speed-to-power rather than pure bend. 21. Colton Hood, CB, Tennessee (6’0”, 195) Hood is an ascending perimeter corner with speed, length, and strong route recognition. He consistently stays in phase in press-man and zone-match coverage with reliable ball skills. 22. Avieon Terrell, CB, Clemson (5’11”, 180) Terrell is a twitchy, ultra-competitive corner who plays bigger than his frame. He thrives in press and match coverage with elite tackling effort and advanced instincts. 23. Cashius Howell, EDGE, Texas A&M (6’2”, 250) Howell is an explosive edge defender with strong speed-to-power conversion and an advanced rush plan. He creates disruption with first-step quickness, motor, and inside counters. 24. Caleb Banks, IDL, Florida (6’6”, 325) Banks is a rare interior athlete with elite length and pass-rush upside for his size. He flashes disruptive ability from multiple alignments as a penetrating interior defender. 25. Akheem Mesidor, EDGE, Miami (6’3”, 280) Mesidor is a polished, high-motor pass rusher with strong hand usage and rush sequencing. He offers immediate third-down value with inside-out alignment flexibility. 26. Olaivavega Ioane, IOL, Penn State (6’4”, 330) Ioane is a powerful interior lineman with elite anchor strength and grip power. He thrives in gap and inside-zone schemes as a tone-setting run blocker and firm pass protector. 27. T.J. Parker, EDGE, Clemson (6’3”, 265) Parker is a heavy-handed, power-based edge defender who consistently collapses pockets. He wins with strength, leverage, and finishing ability rather than pure speed. 28. Ty Simpson, QB, Alabama (6’2”, 208) Simpson is a rhythm-based quarterback with strong processing speed and timing accuracy. He operates efficiently within structure and thrives in progression-based passing systems. 29. Kadyn Proctor, OT, Alabama (6’7”, 369) Proctor is a massive, power-oriented left tackle with rare size and raw strength. He fits best in gap-heavy schemes but flashes enough athleticism to survive in zone concepts. 30. Christen Miller, IDL, Georgia (6’3”, 305) Miller is a disruptive interior defender with strong leverage, effort, and play strength. He consistently impacts the run game and flashes pass-rush upside in hybrid fronts. 31. Brandon Cisse, CB, South Carolina (6’0”, 190) Cisse is a competitive coverage corner with strong mirror ability and closing speed. He stays in phase and consistently attacks the catch point in man and zone looks. 32. Monroe Freeling, OT, Georgia (6’7”, 315) Freeling is a long, athletic tackle with smooth footwork and pass-set balance. He fits best in zone-based schemes that emphasize movement and recovery ability. 33. Denzel Boston, WR, Washington (6’4”, 210) Boston is a big-bodied boundary receiver with strong hands and red-zone production. He wins with size, body control, and contested-catch ability rather than separation. 34. Zion Young, EDGE, Missouri (6’5”, 262) Young is a long, power-based edge defender with disciplined run fits. He sets a firm edge and offers developing pass-rush value with inside-out versatility. 35. Anthony Hill Jr., LB, Texas (6’3”, 235) Hill is an explosive, rangy linebacker with elite burst, range, and closing speed. He brings three-phase value as a blitzer, run defender, and space-capable coverage linebacker. 36. R. Mason Thomas, EDGE, Oklahoma (6’2”, 250) Thomas is a twitchy speed rusher with excellent first-step quickness and bend. He wins early in reps and profiles as a situational pass-rush specialist. 37. A.J. Haulcy, S, LSU (6’0”, 222) Haulcy is a physical safety with strong downhill instincts and tackling presence. He fits best in box, robber, or split-field roles that allow him to trigger aggressively. 38. Kevin Concepcion, WR, Texas A&M (5’11”, 187) Concepcion is a polished route runner with strong feel for spacing and leverage. He consistently separates underneath and adds value after the catch. 39. Keith Abney II, CB, Arizona State (6’0”, 190) Abney is a fluid corner with balanced man-zone traits and competitive play strength. He plays with sound eye discipline and stays connected through route stems. 40. Eli Stowers, TE, Vanderbilt (6’4”, 225) Stowers is an explosive move tight end with receiver-like athleticism and YAC ability. He creates matchup stress from detached alignments rather than inline usage. 41. Omar Cooper Jr., WR, Indiana (6’0”, 200) Cooper is an explosive, compact receiver with strong contact balance and RAC ability. He stresses defenses on crossers, motion looks, and vertical shots with speed and physicality. 42. Gennings Dunker, OT, Iowa (6’5”, 316) Dunker is a powerful, tone-setting lineman with strong grip strength and finishing mentality. He projects best as a guard at the next level due to limited lateral range. 43. Emmanuel Pregnon, IOL, Oregon (6’5”, 318) Pregnon is a physical interior blocker with explosive pop and strong hand placement. He generates movement in the run game and holds firm against power rushers. 44. Chris Johnson, CB, San Diego State (6’0”, 185) Johnson is a fluid cover corner with smooth hips and natural mirror ability. He excels in off-man and quarters coverage with strong ball tracking. 45. Chris Bell, WR, Louisville (6’2”, 220) Bell is a power-built wideout with vertical acceleration and strong YAC traits. He wins through contact and adds value on schemed touches and in-breaking routes. 46. D’Angelo Ponds, CB, Indiana (5’9”, 170) Ponds is a highly instinctive, competitive defensive back with elite eyes and anticipation. He profiles best as a nickel defender with ball production and quick-trigger ability. 47. Lee Hunter, IDL, Texas Tech (6’4”, 325) Hunter is a heavy-handed interior defender with strong anchor ability and play strength. He excels as an early-down run stopper in gap-control fronts. 48. Germie Bernard, WR, Alabama (6’1”, 204) Bernard is a reliable, versatile receiver with strong hands and functional athleticism. He wins with route discipline, toughness, and consistency across alignments. 49. Emmanuel McNeil-Warren, S, Toledo (6’2”, 202) McNeil-Warren is a rangy safety with good closing speed and tackling discipline. He fits best in split-field or single-high zone roles. 50. Keionte Scott, CB, Miami (6’0”, 194) Scott is a physical, versatile defensive back with strong short-area quickness and competitive coverage traits. He fits best as a nickel or boundary corner in man-match and zone-heavy schemes. Pre Senior Bowl Positional Rankings Top 5 Quarterbacks Fernando Mendoza, Indiana Ty Simpson, Alabama Garrett Nussmeier, LSU Carson Beck, Miami Trinidad Chambliss, Ole Miss Top 5 Running Backs Jeremiyah Love, Notre Dame Jadarian Price, Notre Dame Jonah Coleman, Washington Emmett Johnson, Nebraska Nick Singleton, Penn State Top 10 Wide Receivers Carnell Tate, Ohio State Jordyn Tyson, Arizona State Makai Lemon, USC Denzel Boston, Washington Kevin Concepcion, Texas A&M Omar Cooper Jr., Indiana Chris Bell, Louisville Germie Bernard, Alabama Elijah Sarratt, Indiana Zachariah Branch, Georgia Top 5 Tight Ends Kenyon Sadiq, Oregon Eli Stowers, Vanderbilt Michael Trigg, Baylor Max Klare, Ohio State Tanner Koziol, Houston Top 5 Offensive Tackles Spencer Fano, Utah Francis Mauigoa, Miami Caleb Lomu, Utah Kadyn Proctor, Alabama Monroe Freeling, Georgia Top 5 Interior Offensive Linemen Olaivavega Ioane, Penn State Emmanuel Pregnon, Oregon Connor Lew, Auburn Jake Slaughter, Florida Pat Coogan, Indiana Top 10 Edge Rushers Rueben Bain, Miami David Bailey, Texas Tech Keldric Faulk, Auburn Cashius Howell, Texas A&M Akheem Mesidor, Miami T.J. Parker, Clemson Zion Young, Missouri R. Mason Thomas, Oklahoma Romello Height, Texas Tech Dani Dennis-Sutton, Penn State Top 5 Interior Defensive Linemen Peter Woods, Clemson Kayden McDonald, Ohio State Caleb Banks, Florida Christen Miller, Georgia Lee Hunter, Texas Tech Top 5 Linebackers Arvell Reese, Ohio State Sonny Styles, Ohio State C.J. Allen, Georgia Anthony Hill Jr., Texas Jacob Rodriguez, Texas Tech Top 10 Cornerbacks Jermod McCoy, Tennessee Mansoor Delane, LSU Colton Hood, Tennessee Avieon Terrell, Clemson Brandon Cisse, South Carolina Keith Abney II, Arizona State Chris Johnson, San Diego State D’Angelo Ponds, Indiana Keionte Scott, Miami Daylen Everette, Georgia Top 5 Safeties Caleb Downs, Ohio State Dillon Thieneman, Oregon Kamari Ramsey, USC Emmanuel McNeil-Warren, Toledo A.J. Haulcy, LSU

The Draft Starts in Mobile The Senior Bowl remains the premier college football all-star event and the official first step in the NFL Draft process. For more than 76 years, Mobile, Alabama, has served as the permanent home of the game, making it the longest continually running all-star showcase in football and a foundational evaluation stop for NFL decision-makers. The 2026 version will be played on Saturday, January 31, 2026, at Hancock Whitney Stadium, home of the University of South Alabama. Coverage will air nationally on NFL Network, with additional radio coverage via Fox Sports Pensacola and SiriusXM. Fan Fest activities will take place earlier in the day, leading into a 1:30 PM CT kickoff in Mobile. NFL-Driven Roster Construction and Evaluation Model The Senior Bowl reaffirmed its standing as the league’s most trusted all-star event with the release of its initial 130-plus accepted invitations for the 2026 game. While late additions and roster movement are expected as the process unfolds, the core roster is largely set heading into Senior Bowl week. Under the direction of Drew Fabianich, the Senior Bowl roster is built to mirror an NFL draft board rather than a traditional all-star selection model. Fabianich, a longtime NFL evaluator with nearly two decades of experience helping construct draft boards at the professional level, utilizes a positional vertical board approach—stacking prospects round by round in the same manner NFL teams evaluate their own classes. “We’ve got a positional vertical board, just like you would, round by round, for an NFL team,” Fabianich said. That philosophy continues to translate directly to draft outcomes. The 2025 Senior Bowl produced 106 NFL Draft selections, accounting for 41% of all drafted players, including seven first-round picks and 50 selections in the first three rounds. As a result, NFL front offices consistently treat Senior Bowl week as an extension of their draft rooms, with heavy general manager, head coach, and coordinator presence throughout practices and meetings. Senior Bowl by the Numbers The Senior Bowl’s impact on the NFL Draft remains unmatched among postseason all-star events: 47 more Top-3 Round selections  than any other All-Star Game 100% of NFL teams  selected at least one Senior Bowl participant 99% of 2025 participants  were drafted or signed as undrafted free agents As former NFL head coach Jon Gruden has stated, Mobile has become a proving ground for professional opportunity: “This is where players come — Mobile, Alabama. Guys get discovered here.” -Jon Gruden Best of the Best, From Every Level The 2026 Senior Bowl roster includes athletes from every level of college football, bringing together the nation’s top draft-eligible prospects to form the National and American teams. From Power Five programs to Group of Five and FCS standouts, the event offers a unified evaluation environment designed to identify players who can translate to the NFL level. What follows is a position-by-position breakdown of accepted player invites, providing a clear view of how the 2026 Senior Bowl roster is shaping up as the NFL Draft process begins in Mobile. Quarterback Luke Altmyer, Illinois Taylen Green, Arkansas Garrett Nussmeier, LSU Diego Pavia, Vanderbilt Cole Payton, North Dakota State Sawyer Robertson, Baylor Running back Kaytron Allen, Penn State Jonah Coleman, Washington Rahsul Faison, South Carolina Seth McGowan, Kentucky Jam Miller, Alabama Le'Veon Moss, Texas A&M Adam Randall, Clemson Nick Singleton, Penn State J'Mari Taylor, Virginia Mike Washington Jr., Arkansas Wide receiver Aaron Anderson, LSU Vinny Anthony II, Wisconsin Lewis Bond, Boston College Romello Brinson, SMU Barion Brown, LSU Deion Burks, Oklahoma Josh Cameron, Baylor Kevin Coleman Jr., Missouri KC Concepcion, Texas A&M Caleb Douglas, Texas Tech Malachi Fields, Notre Dame Jordan Hudson, SMU Ted Hurst, Georgia State Caullin Lacy, Louisville Ja'Kobi Lane, USC Elijah Sarratt, Indiana Brenen Thompson, Mississippi State Reggie Virgil, Texas Tech Harrison Wallace III, Mississippi Tight end Nate Boerkircher, Texas A&M Will Kacmarek, Ohio State John Michael Gyllenborg, Wyoming Joshua Cuevas, Alabama Justin Joly, N.C. State Tanner Koziol, Houston DJ Rogers, TCU Sam Roush, Stanford Dan Villari, Syracuse Offensive linemen Austin Barber, Florida Jude Bowry, Boston College Parker Brailsford, Alabama Fernando Carmona Jr., Arkansas Kage Casey, Boise State Dametrious Crownover, Texas A&M JC Davis, Illinois Gennings Dunker, Iowa Jalen Farmer, Kentucky Alex Harkey, Oregon Sam Hecht, Kansas State Max Iheanachor, Arizona State Delby Lemieux, Dartmouth Emmanuel Pregnon, Oregon Keylan Rutledge, Georgia Tech Drew Shelton, Penn State Jake Slaughter, Florida Beau Stephens, Iowa Logan Taylor, Boston College Carver Willis, Washington Jeremiah Wright, Auburn Trey Zuhn III, Texas A&M Defensive line Rueben Bain, Jr, Miami Cameron Ball, Arkansas Caleb Banks, Florida Nick Barrett, South Carolina Rayshaun Benny, Michigan Zane Durant, Penn State Bryson Eason, Tennessee Deven Eastern, Minnesota Gracen Halton, Oklahoma Lee Hunter, Texas Tech Tim Keenan III, Alabama Jeffrey M'Ba, SMU Chris McClellan, Missouri Domonique Orange, Iowa State Vincent Anthony Jr., Duke David Bailey, Texas Tech Keyron Crawford, Auburn Dani Dennis-Sutton, Penn State Logan Fano, Utah Romello Height, Texas Tech Quintayvious Hutchins, Boston College Gabe Jacas, Illinois Max Llewellyn, Iowa Akheem Mesidor, Miami Derrick Moore, Michigan LT Overton, Alabama T.J. Parker, Clemson Jack Pyburn, LSU Cian Slone, N.C. State Nadame Tucker, Western Michigan Zion Young, Missouri LINEBACKER Bryce Boettcher, Oregon Kendal Daniels, Oklahoma Kaleb Elarms-Orr, TCU Keyshaun Elliott, Arizona State Owen Heinecke, Oklahoma Jack Kelly, BYU Kyle Louis, Pitt Jacob Rodriguez, Texas Tech Xavian Sorey, Arkansas Scooby Williams, Texas A&M CORNERBACK Tacario Davis, Washington Charles Demmings, Stephen F. Austin Thaddeus Dixon, North Carolina Daylen Everette, Georgia TJ Hall, Iowa Davison Igbinosun, Ohio State Chris Johnson, San Diego State Will Lee III, Texas A&M Hezekiah Masses, Cal Jalen McMurray, Tennessee Julian Neal, Arkansas D'Angelo Ponds, Indiana Ephesians Prysock, Washington Chandler Rivers, Duke Treydan Stukes, Arizona Collin Wright, Stanford SAFETY Bud Clark, TCU Jalon Kilgore, South Carolina AJ Haulcy, LSU Emmanuel McNeil-Warren, Toledo VJ Payne, Kansas State Kamari Ramsey, USC DeShon Singleton, Nebraska Genesis Smith, Arizona Michael Taaffe, Texas Jakobe Thomas, Miami Zakee Wheatley, Penn State

The Football Scout 365 NFL Draft Big Board elevates player rankings with an innovative approach. We offer individual film-based player grades, tailored assessments of scheme fit, comprehensive player comparisons, and more to provide you with a thorough understanding of each prospect's potential. Top of Page NFL DRAFT BIG BOARD YEAR OFF/DEF POS 2026 1 S Caleb Downs Ohio State PROFILE 2 QB Fernando Mendoza Indiana PROFILE 3 ED Rueben Bain Miami PROFILE 4 ED David Bailey Texas Tech PROFILE 5 LB Arvell Reese Ohio State PROFILE 6 RB Jeremiyah Love Notre Dame PROFILE 7 WR Carnell Tate Ohio State PROFILE 8 WR Jordyn Tyson Arizona State PROFILE 9 LB Sonny Styles Ohio State PROFILE 10 OT Spencer Fano Utah PROFILE 11 WR Makai Lemon USC PROFILE 12 OT Francis Mauigoa Miami PROFILE 13 IDL Peter Woods Clemson PROFILE 14 CB Jermod McCoy Tennessee PROFILE 15 CB Mansoor Delane LSU PROFILE 16 TE Kenyon Sadiq Oregon PROFILE 17 IDL Kayden McDonald Ohio State PROFILE 18 LB C.J. Allen Georgia PROFILE 19 OT Caleb Lomu Utah PROFILE 20 ED Keldric Faulk Auburn PROFILE 21 CB Colton Hood Tennessee PROFILE 22 CB Avieon Terrell Clemson PROFILE 23 ED Cashius Howell Texas A&M PROFILE 24 IDL Caleb Banks Florida PROFILE 25 ED Akheem Mesidor Miami PROFILE First Prev Page 1 Next Last

Football Scout 365 provides NFL Draft analysis, player rankings, player grades, advanced stats, fantasy football analysis, and more. 2026 NFL Draft Early Declarations: How the Process Works and Why It Matters As the college football postseason begins, the 2026 NFL Draft early declaration window opens for eligible underclassmen. This guide breaks down how the NFL Draft early declaration process works, including eligibility rules, declaration deadlines, and why early entrants can significantly shape draft boards, all-star game invitations, and the overall 2026 NFL Draft class. 2026 NFL Draft: Early Team Needs for All 32 Teams Complete early team needs for all 32 NFL teams ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft, including positional priorities, roster holes, and key pending 2026 free agents. 1 S Caleb Downs Ohio State VIEW PROFILE 3 ED Rueben Bain Miami VIEW PROFILE 5 LB Arvell Reese Ohio State VIEW PROFILE 7 WR Carnell Tate Ohio State VIEW PROFILE 9 LB Sonny Styles Ohio State VIEW PROFILE 2 QB Fernando Mendoza Indiana VIEW PROFILE 4 ED David Bailey Texas Tech VIEW PROFILE 6 RB Jeremiyah Love Notre Dame VIEW PROFILE 8 WR Jordyn Tyson Arizona State VIEW PROFILE 10 OT Spencer Fano Utah VIEW PROFILE TOP 10 NFL DRAFT PROSPECTS VIEW ALL RANKINGS Rueben Bain Jr. NFL Draft Scouting Report Play Video D’Angelo Ponds Is ELITE & UNDERRATED #foryou #shorts Play Video Carson Beck 2026 NFL Draft Scouting Report Play Video Carson Beck’s RISING NFL Draft Stock 🚀 #foryou #shorts Play Video Play Video Play Video Facebook Twitter Pinterest Tumblr Copy Link Link Copied Close FEATURED CONTENT 2026 East-West Shrine Bowl: Event Overview and Player Invites Brandon Lundberg 5 days ago Carson Beck NFL Draft Scouting Report Brandon Lundberg Jan 17 Elijah Sarratt NFL Draft Scouting Report Brandon Lundberg Jan 15 Peter Woods NFL Draft Scouting Report Brandon Lundberg Dec 16, 2025 2026 NFL Draft Early Declarations: How the Process Works and Why It Matters Brandon Lundberg Dec 16, 2025 2026 NFL Draft: Early Team Needs for All 32 Teams Brandon Lundberg Nov 25, 2025 Omar Cooper Jr. NFL Draft Scouting Report Brandon Lundberg Nov 19, 2025 Chris Bell NFL Draft Scouting Report Brandon Lundberg Nov 19, 2025 VIEW ALL ANALYSIS

< Back Spencer Fano Utah HT: 6050 WT: 304 YR: JR POS: OT OVR RK 10 POS RK CEILING POTENTIAL Near Elite OVR RK PLAYSTYLE & SCHEME FIT Fano is among the cleanest and highest-floor offensive tackle prospects in the 2026 class, combining run-blocking dominance with relentless effort, polished technique, and NFL-level athleticism. He is expected to be a Day 1 starter with versatile ability to play either tackle position, and he has the athletic profile to move inside to guard if needed. His ability to fire off the ball, climb to the second level, and sustain blocks makes him a strong run blocker right away, and his consistent performance gives evaluators confidence in his projection. The main questions concern a slightly lean frame and occasional hand-timing in pass protection, which might cause some teams to see him as a potential early guard conversion until he adds more functional strength. Overall, Fano projects as a first-round talent with Pro Bowl potential if he continues to develop his lower-body strength and refines his strike timing against power rushers. CEILING GRADE ANALYSIS Near Elite (70-74) A high-caliber prospect who is expected to become a significant contributor by Year 2. These players have outstanding physical tools and strong football IQ, with only minor flaws in their game. They demonstrate consistency at a high level and project as future Pro Bowl-caliber players if properly developed. Primary scout: Brandon Lundberg KEY STRENGTHS Elite Run Blocking Athleticism in Space Position Versatility KEY WEAKNESSES Functional Strength Punch Timing Positional Fit Debate PLAYER COMPARISONS Peter Skoronski Rueben Bain Jr. NFL Draft Scouting Report Play Video D’Angelo Ponds Is ELITE & UNDERRATED #foryou #shorts Play Video Carson Beck 2026 NFL Draft Scouting Report Play Video Carson Beck’s RISING NFL Draft Stock 🚀 #foryou #shorts Play Video Play Video Play Video Facebook Twitter Pinterest Tumblr Copy Link Link Copied Close