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As we enter the month of April, the 2026 NFL Draft is approaching quickly, marking the final update to the Football Scout 365 Big Board. This version reflects our full-scope evaluation process, built on a tiered grading system that remains consistent across all film study and projection work. While the overall rankings may appear stable, movement within the board is driven by refined film regrades, along with verified testing data from the NFL Combine and the pro day circuit. The process is detailed and time-intensive, but consistency in methodology remains the foundation of our evaluations. At the top sit two Elite prospects - Jeremiyah Love and Caleb Downs - rare, immediate-impact players with true difference-making ceilings. Just behind them, a strong Near Elite tier defines the class. Fernando Mendoza headlines a thin quarterback group, while defenders like Rueben Bain Jr., David Bailey, Arvell Reese, and Sonny Styles anchor a deep, scheme-versatile group of front-seven defenders. Offensively, Spencer Fano and Vega Ioane provide plug-and-play trench stability, while Carnell Tate, Makai Lemon, and Jordyn Tyson lead a deep, versatile wide receiver group. Overall, the 2026 NFL Draft class profiles as a roster-building cycle defined by depth-building pieces on offense and high-end defensive versatility across all three levels. Football Scout 365 Big Board Grade Scale Each prospect on the Top 100 is evaluated through our proprietary film-based grading model and placed into one of the following tiers. Grades reflect long-term NFL projection, positional value, athletic profile, and developmental trajectory. Draft projections are aligned to historical valuation trends entering the 2026 NFL Draft. Click and go to the tier Elite  – Top 5–10 Picks (1st Round) Near Elite  – Mid-to-Late (1st Rou nd ) High-End Starter Potential  – 2nd–3rd Round Mid-Level Starter Potential  – 4th–5th Round 2026 NFL Draft Big Board Elite Tier Rare, franchise-altering talent with top-of-draft value and immediate impact projection. 1) Caleb Downs, S, Ohio State (6’0”, 205) Elite processor with rare positional flexibility, capable of rotating post-snap, erasing matchups in split-safety or big nickel structures, and functioning as the defensive quarterback with true All-Pro ceiling. 2) Jeremiyah Love, RB, Notre Dame (6’0”, 214) Explosive three-down playmaker whose acceleration, receiving value, and zone-run instincts project as an immediate RB1 and potential franchise-altering offensive weapon. Near Elite Tier High-end impact prospects with early Round 1 value and Pro Bowl-caliber upside who project as foundational starters within their first two seasons. 3) Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana (6’5”, 225) Precision-based pocket passer who wins with anticipation and processing, projecting as a high-floor timing-system starter with limited off-script creation. 4) Rueben Bain Jr., EDGE, Miami (6’3”, 275) Compact, powerful EDGE with advanced hand usage and rush sequencing, projecting as a scheme-diverse, every-down impact defender with top-tier upside. 5) Arvell Reese, LB, Ohio State (6’4”, 243) Hybrid front-seven weapon with inside-out versatility and pass-rush value, projecting as a disruptive three-down linebacker in pressure-heavy schemes. 6) Sonny Styles, LB, Ohio State (6’4”, 243) Size-speed hybrid defender with coverage and blitz versatility, projecting as a modern “joker” linebacker in multiple-front defenses. 7) David Bailey, EDGE, Texas Tech (6’3”, 250) Explosive edge rusher with bend and a deep pass-rush arsenal, projecting as an immediate third-down difference-maker with Round 1 ceiling. 8) Carnell Tate, WR, Ohio State (6’3”, 191) Refined perimeter receiver with advanced route detail and body control, projecting as a high-volume, quarterback-friendly target at all three levels. 9) Kenyon Sadiq, TE, Oregon (6’3”, 250) Alignment-versatile tight end with burst and two-phase value, projecting as a matchup weapon in play-action and spacing-based offenses. 10) Olaivavega “Vega” Ioane, IOL, Penn State (6’4”, 330) Power-based interior presence with elite anchor and displacement ability, projecting as a plug-and-play starting guard in gap-heavy schemes. 11) Spencer Fano, OT, Utah (6’5”, 304) Technically polished tackle with run-game dominance and positional flexibility, projecting as a Day 1 starter with long-term upside on either side. 12) Akheem Mesidor, EDGE, Miami (6’3”, 280) Polished pass rusher with burst and interior reduction versatility, projecting as an immediate-impact defender in multiple-front systems. 13) Francis Mauigoa, OT, Miami (6’6”, 315) High-end athlete with rare movement skills and developing power, projecting as a Day 1 starter with long-term All-Pro upside. 14) Mansoor Delane, CB, LSU (6’0”, 190) Scheme-versatile corner with fluid movement and strong processing, projecting as a perimeter starter in press-man and match coverage systems. 15) Makai Lemon, WR, USC (5’11”, 195) Tempo-driven slot receiver with elite separation and ball skills, projecting as a high-volume interior target with Pro Bowl upside. 16) Jordyn Tyson, WR, Arizona State (6’1”, 195) Advanced route technician with three-level separation ability, projecting as a high-floor starter with WR1 upside if medicals clear. 17) Jermod McCoy, CB, Tennessee (6’0”, 195) Press-man specialist with elite mirror ability and recovery speed, projecting as a true CB1 with high-end ball production potential. High-End Starter Potential Tier Clear NFL starters with strong physical tools and long-term impact value, projecting as multi-year foundational pieces within their first few seasons. 18) Monroe Freeling, OT, Georgia (6’7”, 315) Prototype left tackle frame with high-end athletic traits, projecting as a developmental blindside starter with long-term upside in pass-heavy systems. 19) Dillon Thieneman, S, Oregon (6’0”, 207) Instinctive, multi-alignment safety with strong range and coverage awareness, projecting as a three-down starter in disguise-heavy, zone-based defenses. 20) Omar Cooper Jr., WR, Indiana (6’0”, 200) Explosive, RAC-oriented playmaker with vertical burst and versatility, projecting as a dynamic WR2 in motion-based offensive systems. 21) Kadyn Proctor, OT, Alabama (6’7”, 369) Massive, power-driven tackle with rare size and physical tools, projecting as a high-upside starter with franchise left tackle potential. 22) Colton Hood, CB, Tennessee (6’0”, 195) Competitive, scheme-versatile corner with strong ball skills and recovery speed, projecting as an early-impact perimeter starter. 23) Max Iheanachor, OT, Arizona State (6’6”, 330) Traits-heavy tackle with rare movement ability for his size, projecting as a high-upside starter in outside-zone or multiple-run schemes. 24) Jalon Kilgore, S, South Carolina (6’1”, 211) Explosive defensive back with strong zone instincts and downhill trigger, projecting as a versatile sub-package defender with starter upside. 25) Denzel Boston, WR, Washington (6’4”, 210) Physical boundary receiver with elite catch-point strength, projecting as a reliable possession target with red-zone value. 26) Peter Woods, IDL, Clemson (6’3”, 315) Twitchy interior disruptor with elite first-step quickness, projecting as a penetrating 3-technique in attacking defensive fronts. 27) Caleb Lomu, OT, Utah (6’5”, 295) mooth, technically refined tackle with strong pass-protection balance, projecting as a long-term blindside starter in zone-based systems. 28) Avieon Terrell, CB, Clemson (5’11”, 180) Twitchy, competitive corner with strong mirror ability and tackling production, projecting as an aggressive boundary starter in man-match schemes. 29) Kayden McDonald, IDL, Ohio State (6’3”, 326) Power-based interior anchor with elite strength and leverage, projecting as a tone-setting nose tackle in odd or hybrid fronts. 30) Ty Simpson, QB, Alabama (6’2”, 208) Rhythm-based passer with solid processing and mechanics, projecting as a developmental starter in timing-based offensive systems. 31) Emmanuel McNeil-Warren, S, Toledo (6’2”, 202) Downhill, physical safety with robber and box value, projecting as a defined-role starter in zone-heavy defensive structures. 32) T.J. Parker, EDGE, Clemson (6’3”, 265) Power-based edge defender with strong hands and edge-setting ability, projecting as a dependable three-down starter in multiple fronts. 33) Caleb Banks, IDL, Florida (6’6”, 325) Rare size-athleticism combination with elite get-off and alignment versatility, projecting as a penetrating interior disruptor with high-end pass-rush upside. 34) Chris Johnson, CB, San Diego State (6’0”, 185) Disciplined, zone-savvy corner with strong ball skills and route recognition, projecting as a reliable perimeter starter in off-man and match-heavy systems. 35) KC Concepcion, WR, Texas A&M (5’11”, 187) Quick-twitch slot playmaker with burst and run-after-catch ability, projecting as a high-volume target in spacing-based offenses. 36) Lee Hunter, IDL, Texas Tech (6’4”, 325) Massive interior presence with elite strength and leverage, projecting as a tone-setting nose tackle in power-based defensive fronts. 37) Derrick Moore, EDGE, Michigan (6’3”, 258) Power-based edge defender with strong speed-to-power conversion, projecting as a rotational rusher with starting upside in multiple fronts. 38) D’Angelo Ponds, CB, Indiana (5’9”, 170) Instinct-driven nickel defender with quick feet and strong zone awareness, projecting as a high-impact slot corner in match-zone schemes. 39) Christen Miller, IDL, Georgia (6’3”, 305) Leverage-based interior defender with disruptive traits and scheme flexibility, projecting as a steady 3-tech/4i starter with ascending value. 40) Keldric Faulk, EDGE, Auburn (6’6”, 290) Long, physical edge with inside-out versatility and power profile, projecting as a high-floor strong-side starter in multiple fronts. 41) Brandon Cisse, CB, South Carolina (6’0”, 190) Explosive press-man corner with high-end athletic traits, projecting as a developmental perimeter starter with near-elite upside. 42) A.J. Haulcy, S, LSU (6’0”, 222) Downhill, physical safety with strong instincts and box value, projecting as a robber or split-field defender in zone-heavy schemes. 43) Cashius Howell, EDGE, Texas A&M (6’2”, 250) Ascending edge rusher with burst and refined hand usage, projecting as a multiple-front starter with double-digit sack upside. 44) Jacob Rodriguez, LB, Texas Tech (6’1”, 230) High-IQ, downhill linebacker with strong instincts and tackling consistency, projecting as a MIKE/WILL in zone-match defensive structures. 45) Keionte Scott, CB, Miami (6’0”, 194) Versatile, high-energy nickel defender with blitz and run-support value, projecting as a sub-package playmaker in pressure-heavy defenses. 46) Blake Miller, OT, Clemson (6’6”, 315) Experienced right tackle with movement skills and durability, projecting as a starting-caliber option in zone or spread-based offenses. 47) Anthony Hill Jr., LB, Texas (6’3”, 235) Explosive, downhill linebacker with range and blitzing ability, projecting as a high-upside three-down defender with continued coverage development. 48) Keith Abney II, CB, Arizona State (6’0”, 190) Instinctive, competitive corner with strong route recognition and click-and-close ability, projecting as a reliable CB2 in zone and match-heavy systems. 49) Zakee Wheatley, S, Penn State (6’2”, 200) Rangy single-high safety with elite range and ball tracking, projecting as a true post defender in Cover 1 and Cover 3 structures. 50) Malachi Lawrence, EDGE, UCF (6’4”, 253) Explosive edge rusher with burst and bend, projecting as a high-upside pass-rush specialist with starter potential in attacking fronts. 51) Treydan Stukes, S, Arizona (6’2”, 195) Versatile nickel/safety hybrid with strong zone instincts and downhill trigger, projecting as a sub-package starter in multiple defensive systems. 52) Josiah Trotter, LB, Missouri (6’2”, 237) Downhill MIKE with strong run instincts and physical pop, projecting as an interior tone-setter in early-down defensive roles. 53) C.J. Allen, LB, Georgia (6’1”, 235) High-IQ linebacker with elite processing and tackling efficiency, projecting as a Day 1 MIKE starter in structured defensive systems. 54) Jake Golday, LB, Cincinnati (6’4”, 240) Explosive, size-driven linebacker with range and blitz value, projecting as a SAM or inside starter in aggressive fronts. 55) Kyle Louis, LB, Pittsburgh (6’1”, 220) Coverage-capable hybrid defender with space athleticism, projecting as a WILL or big nickel in sub-package-heavy defenses. 56) Jadarian Price, RB, Notre Dame (5’11”, 210) Instinctive zone runner with elite vision and tempo control, projecting as a high-floor early-down starter in outside-zone systems. 57) Chris Brazzell II, WR, Tennessee (6’5”, 200) Length-driven vertical threat with catch-radius advantage, projecting as an outside playmaker with red-zone value and developmental upside. 58) Bryce Boettcher, LB, Oregon (6’2”, 230) High-motor, coverage-oriented linebacker with fluid movement skills, projecting as a WILL and core special teams contributor early. 59) Zion Young, EDGE, Missouri (6’5”, 262) Power-based edge defender with strong edge-setting ability, projecting as a dependable strong-side starter in even or hybrid fronts. 60) Malik Muhammad, CB, Texas (6’0”, 190) Twitchy, competitive man-coverage defender with elite mirror ability, projecting as an early-impact starter in press-heavy schemes. 61) R. Mason Thomas, EDGE, Oklahoma (6’2”, 250) Speed-based edge rusher with burst and bend, projecting as a designated pass rusher with starter upside in odd fronts. 62) Ted Hurst, WR, Georgia State (6’3”, 185) Fluid vertical receiver with developmental upside, projecting as a boundary target with growth potential tied to physical refinement. 63) Chris Bell, WR, Louisville (6’2”, 220) Power-built receiver with YAC ability and catch-point strength, projecting as a scheme-fit WR2 in play-action-heavy offenses. 64) Logan Jones, IOL, Iowa (6’3”, 293) Highly athletic center with elite movement skills and processing, projecting as a Day 1 starter in zone-based offensive systems. 65) Keyshaun Elliott, LB, Arizona State (6’2”, 235) Physical, downhill linebacker with strong play strength and run instincts, projecting as an early-down MIKE or SAM in power-based defensive fronts. 66) Chase Bisontis, IOL, Texas A&M (6’5”, 315) Technically sound, movement-capable interior lineman with strong balance and leverage, projecting as a long-term starter in zone or multiple schemes. 67) Skyler Bell, WR, Connecticut (5’11”, 185) Route-polished inside/outside receiver with tempo control and short-area burst, projecting as a reliable slot/Z target in timing-based offenses. 68) Jonah Coleman, RB, Washington (5’9”, 229) Compact, power-driven runner with elite contact balance and vision, projecting as a high-floor early-down starter in zone-based run schemes. 69) Elijah Sarratt, WR, Indiana (6’2”, 210) Physical possession receiver with strong body control and catch-point reliability, projecting as a boundary chain-mover with red-zone value. 70) Dani Dennis-Sutton, EDGE, Penn State (6’5”, 272) Long, power-based defensive end with strong edge-setting ability, projecting as a rotational-to-starting presence in multiple fronts. 71) Connor Lew, IOL, Auburn (6’3”, 300) Athletic, high-IQ center with strong movement skills and processing, projecting as a zone-scheme starter pending full medical clearance. 72) LT Overton, EDGE, Alabama (6’5”, 283) Power-based, multi-front defensive lineman with strong edge-setting traits, projecting as a base starter with interior versatility. 73) Zachariah Branch, WR, Georgia (5’11”, 175) Explosive slot weapon with elite acceleration and open-field ability, projecting as a dynamic motion-based playmaker with return value. 74) Antonio Williams, WR, Clemson (5’11”, 190) Tempo-driven slot receiver with advanced route manipulation and spatial awareness, projecting as a high-volume target in spacing-based systems. 75) Gabe Jacas, EDGE, Illinois (6’3”, 275) Power-oriented edge defender with speed-to-power traits and inside counters, projecting as a rotational rusher with starter upside. 76) Emmanuel Pregnon, IOL, Oregon (6’5”, 318) Powerful, tone-setting interior lineman with strong anchor and grip strength, projecting as a plug-and-play starting guard in gap or multiple schemes. 77) Germie Bernard, WR, Alabama (6’1”, 204) Versatile, route-polished receiver with strong intermediate production, projecting as a reliable WR2/3 with alignment flexibility. 78) Genesis Smith, S, Arizona (6’2”, 202) Long, rangy safety with true centerfield range, projecting as a split-field or single-high defender in zone-heavy systems. 79) Daylen Everette, CB, Georgia (6’1”, 190) Press-man boundary corner with length and vertical speed, projecting as a scheme-dependent starter in man-heavy defenses. 80) Chandler Rivers, CB, Duke (5’11”, 180) Instinctive, zone-savvy defensive back with strong route anticipation, projecting as a nickel or boundary starter in match-zone schemes. 81) Malachi Fields, WR, Notre Dame (6’4”, 220) Physical boundary receiver with catch-point strength and frame control, projecting as a possession-based X with red-zone value. Mid-Level Starter Potential Tier Defined-role starters with developmental traits and long-term rotational value who project as reliable contributors within structured systems. 82) Gennings Dunker, IOL, Iowa (6’5”, 316) Power-based interior lineman with strong play strength and physicality, projecting as a guard starter in gap-heavy run schemes. 83) Caleb Tiernan, OT, Northwestern (6’7”, 325) Technically polished lineman with strong hand usage and leverage, projecting as a swing tackle with guard flexibility and starting upside. 84) Jaishawn Barham, EDGE, Michigan (6’4”, 248) Twitchy hybrid defender with pass-rush upside and versatility, projecting as a SAM or pressure-package contributor in multiple fronts. 85) Garrett Nussmeier, QB, LSU (6’2”, 200) Aggressive, rhythm-based passer with anticipation and touch, projecting as a high-floor backup with spot-start value in timing-based offenses. 86) Romello Height, EDGE, Texas Tech (6’3”, 240) Bend-driven edge rusher with burst and flexibility, projecting as a rotational pass-rush specialist in wide-alignment fronts. 87) Bryce Lance, WR, North Dakota State (6’3”, 209) Size-speed receiver with vertical ability and developmental upside, projecting as a boundary target with growth potential in pro-style offenses. 88) Jalen Farmer, IOL, Kentucky (6’5”, 320) Power-based guard with strong anchor and displacement ability, projecting as a rotational starter in downhill, gap-oriented schemes. 89) Taurean York, LB, Texas A&M (6’0”, 235) Instinct-driven linebacker with elite tackling consistency, projecting as a MIKE/WILL in zone-heavy defensive structures. 90) Domonique Orange, IDL, Iowa State (6’4”, 325) Massive nose tackle with gap-control strength, projecting as an early-down interior anchor in odd or hybrid fronts. 91) Kamari Ramsey, S, USC (6’0”, 204) High-IQ defensive back with strong zone awareness and versatility, projecting as a sub-package safety in disguise-heavy systems. 92) Jake Slaughter, IOL, Florida (6’5”, 308) Technically refined center with strong pass-protection traits, projecting as a plug-and-play starter in zone-based offenses. 93) Eli Stowers, TE, Vanderbilt (6’4”, 225) Movement-based receiving tight end with seam and YAC ability, projecting as a mismatch TE2 in spread or 12 personnel packages. 94) Austin Barber, OT, Florida (6’8”, 320) Physical, experienced lineman with strong anchor traits, projecting best as a guard in run-first, gap-based systems. 95) Chris McClellan, IDL, Missouri (6’4”, 323) Disruptive interior defender with power and quickness, projecting as a rotational contributor with three-down upside in multiple fronts. 96) Rayshaun Benny, IDL, Michigan (6’4”, 305) Leverage-driven interior lineman with steady play strength, projecting as a rotational 3-tech or shade nose in even fronts. 97) Bud Clark, S, TCU (6’2”, 185) Ball-hawking safety with range and instincts, projecting as a rotational coverage defender with turnover production upside. 98) Darrell Jackson Jr., IDL, Florida State (6’5”, 337) Massive two-gap anchor with length and power, projecting as a run-plugging nose tackle in odd or heavy defensive fronts. 99) Jakobe Thomas, S, Miami (6’2”, 200) Physical, downhill safety with strong tackling presence, projecting as a box or sub-package defender in aggressive schemes. 100) Deion Burks, WR, Oklahoma (5’9”, 188) Quick-twitch slot weapon with separation and YAC ability, projecting as a rotational playmaker in spacing-based offenses.

After posting 14.5 sacks and 19.5 tackles for loss in 2025, David Bailey enters the 2026 NFL Draft as one of the most productive edge defenders in the class. The Texas Tech standout pairs that production with rare get-off and cornering ability. His pass-rush value gives him legitimate first-round upside. Bailey’s path to this point has been built on steady development and a true breakout senior season. After beginning his career at Stanford, he transferred to Texas Tech and immediately became one of the most disruptive defenders in the country. His 2025 résumé backed up the projection — 52 tackles, 19.5 tackles for loss, 14.5 sacks, three forced fumbles, a fumble recovery, and 81 total pressures, while earning unanimous first-team All-America honors and Big 12 Defensive Lineman of the Year recognition. The profile is clear. Bailey is a high-end pass rusher with the burst, bend, and closing speed to affect games early in the down and finish late in the rep. The long-term evaluation centers on whether he can continue building play strength, improve his run-defense anchor, and become a true every-down defender. Even with those questions, his pass-rush value gives him clear first-round range. Film Summary Bailey is extremely hard for offensive tackles to stay square on because of how quickly he closes space and changes angles at the top of the rush. His first step is explosive, his hips stay loose through contact, and he has the lower-body flexion to flatten to the quarterback once he captures the edge. He stresses pass sets immediately, builds speed through the rep, and consistently turns pressure into finishes. There is natural instinct to his rush game as well. Bailey reacts quickly to sets, stacks counters off speed, and can work around contact without completely losing his track. His best snaps come when he can attack upfield, force tackles into recovery mode, and win with burst and bend. Against the run, the evaluation is less clean. He can make negative plays with quickness and pursuit, but his lighter frame and inconsistent take-on strength show up when offenses run directly at him or force him to anchor through power. Ideal Scheme Fit 3-4 Outside Linebacker / Hybrid EDGE  — Bailey fits best in an attacking front that allows him to rush from wide alignments, play in space on occasion, and maximize his get-off and cornering ability. He projects most naturally as a pressure-oriented edge defender who can become an immediate third-down difference-maker while developing into a fuller every-down role. Key Strengths (Film-Based Traits) Explosive First Step:  Fires off the ball with rare burst and immediately stresses tackle depth and timing. Deep Pass-Rush Toolbox:  Wins with bend, reactive counters, and natural feel for how to stack moves through the rep. Movement Skills and Range:  Loose, sudden athlete with strong pursuit speed and the flexibility to win from multiple rush tracks. Developmental Areas (Growth Opportunities) Run Defense Anchor:  Can be displaced or widened when offenses run directly at him and force him to hold his ground. Play Strength:  Still needs more mass and take-on power to become a cleaner three-down edge defender. Hand Consistency:  Swipe and chop timing can run hot and cold, and he still needs more refined inside answers versus oversets. Unique Playstyle Comparison Nik Bonitto’s burst and cornering ability, paired with Brian Burns’ rush fluidity and stride length. NFL Draft Grade Near Elite  — A high-caliber edge prospect with rare first-step explosiveness, natural rush instincts, and immediate pass-rush impact potential. Draft Projection Early Day One - Top 10 Pick

Sonny Styles has developed into a legitimate top-10 prospect in the 2026 NFL Draft — rare territory for an off-ball linebacker in today’s NFL value structure. At 6’5”, 244 pounds, the Ohio State linebacker brings a rare size-speed profile, hybrid versatility, and the kind of movement skills that modern NFL defenses covet. A former safety who transitioned to a full-time linebacker role, Styles offers alignment flexibility as an off-ball defender, an overhang piece, or a pressure weapon. Styles’ background is central to the evaluation. His early experience in the secondary shows up in space, where he moves with range and comfort uncommon for a linebacker with his frame. As he settled into Ohio State’s front, his game began to marry physicality with athleticism, allowing him to impact the run game, carry receivers, and disguise coverage responsibilities. That versatility has helped push him into the top tier of the 2026 linebacker class. The athletic profile is clear. Styles posted elite testing numbers, including a 4.46 40-yard dash, 1.56 10-yard split, 43.5-inch vertical, and 11’2” broad jump. Those tools reinforce what shows on tape: a modern hybrid linebacker with high-end range, closing burst, and immediate NFL starter upside if his diagnostic consistency and block deconstruction continue to improve. Film Summary Styles is at his best when he can play downhill, use his length, and operate in space. He flashes the movement skills to scrape over the top, match routes underneath, and close quickly as a tackler. His safety background still shows up in coverage, where he can widen, gain depth, and function comfortably in man or zone-match concepts. Against the run, Styles uses his frame and striking power to constrict gaps and take on blocks with force. He plays with good leverage when he trusts his read and attacks decisively. The tape shows a defender whose versatility can be weaponized, but also one who is still refining the instinctive, snap-to-snap consistency required to maximize his traits at linebacker. Ideal Scheme Fit Hybrid / Multiple Front Defense  — Styles fits best in a defense that values interchangeable second-level defenders and asks linebackers to cover, blitz, and play in space. He projects naturally as a hybrid off-ball linebacker or “joker” defender who can function in sub-packages, match tight ends, and play from multiple alignments. Key Strengths (Film-Based Traits) Hybrid Versatility:  Former safety with the size and movement skills to align in multiple roles and disguise defensive intentions. Size-Speed Profile:  Rare length, range, and explosiveness for the position; covers ground quickly and closes with force. Run-Fit Physicality:  Uses his frame, punch, and tackling ability to constrict rushing lanes and finish efficiently. Developmental Areas (Growth Opportunities) Coverage Technique:  Athletic enough for coverage roles, but still refining transitions, spacing, and route anticipation. Block Shedding:  Can improve consistency disengaging once linemen get into his frame. Gap Discipline:  Needs continued growth with reads, urgency, and assignment consistency from snap to snap. Unique Playstyle Comparison Isaiah Simmons’ hybrid athletic profile paired with Jeremiah Owusu-Koramoah’s movement versatility and space value. NFL Draft Grade Near Elite  — A high-caliber hybrid linebacker with rare physical tools, coverage upside, and early-impact starter potential in modern multiple-front defenses.

How We Scout The Offensive Tackle Position | NFL Draft | Football Scouting and Analytics Scouting the tackle position in the NFL requires evaluating a player's size, athleticism, technique, and versatility. Below is a list of critical components we use to grade the OT position during the NFL Draft process. Every OT receives a grade on a scale of 1-10 for each of the below components during the scouting process. Once each player component is graded, we attach a final grade to indicate where the player stands before entering the NFL Draft, and then we attach a ceiling grade based on future potential. Here are some key factors to consider when scouting a tackle: Size and Strength: A tackle must have the strength to hold their ground against powerful defensive linemen. This includes their ability to generate power at the point of attack, maintain leverage, and finish blocks. Athleticism: A tackle needs to be athletic enough to move well and adjust to the speed and quickness of pass rushers. This includes their ability to move laterally, recover quickly, and execute proper footwork and hand placement. Pass Protection: A tackle needs to be able to pass protect effectively. This includes their ability to anchor against bull rushes, slide their feet to maintain balance, and use their hands and arms to keep defenders away from the quarterback. Run Blocking: A tackle needs to be able to execute a variety of run-blocking techniques, including drive blocking, zone blocking, and pulling. This includes their ability to identify their blocking assignments, maintain proper pad level, and create running lanes for the ball carrier. Versatility: A tackle needs to be versatile enough to play on either side of the offensive line and in different offensive systems and schemes. This includes their ability to execute different blocking techniques, adjust to different quarterback cadences, and work effectively with different offensive linemen. Football IQ: A tackle's football intelligence is important to make quick decisions and adjustments on the field. This includes recognizing defensive fronts, communicating with their teammates, and adjusting their blocking assignments as necessary. Durability: A tackle's durability is essential, as they will be taking a lot of hits on the field. This includes their ability to stay healthy and recover quickly from injuries. When scouting a tackle, it's important to evaluate all of these factors and the player's overall performance on the field. It's also important to consider the team's specific needs and whether the tackle's skills and attributes match the team's offensive system and style of play. Additionally, it's important to consider the tackle's penalties and mental mistakes, as these can be a liability for the offense.

Desmond Ridder is a player that certainly possesses some key characteristics that you are looking for in an NFL-level QB. He has improved in multiple areas as a passer while at Cincinnati, and he is a proven winner. His leadership is also a valuable trait that can help him move forward into the NFL. He possesses good NFL size at 6-4, 215 lbs. I liken him to a poor man, Trevor Lawrence, in terms of size and athleticism. He has arm talent; he just needs to clean up his accuracy and decision-making. Overall, I think if he lands in a spot where he can sit for a season or two behind an established NFL starter, he can develop into an NFL-level starter. Ridder's best fit will be in a run-first offense that uses a lot of play-action and roll-out style plays that can get him out on the edge of the defense. < Back Desmond Ridder Cincinnati HT: 6040 WT: 215 YR: SR POS: QB OVR RK 57 POS RK CEILING POTENTIAL 3 Low-Level Starter Potential PLAYSTYLE & SCHEME FIT Desmond Ridder is a player that certainly possesses some key characteristics that you are looking for in an NFL-level QB. He has improved in multiple areas as a passer while at Cincinnati, and he is a proven winner. His leadership is also a valuable trait that can help him move forward into the NFL. He possesses good NFL size at 6-4, 215 lbs. I liken him to a poor man, Trevor Lawrence, in terms of size and athleticism. He has arm talent; he just needs to clean up his accuracy and decision-making. Overall, I think if he lands in a spot where he can sit for a season or two behind an established NFL starter, he can develop into an NFL-level starter. Ridder's best fit will be in a run-first offense that uses a lot of play-action and roll-out style plays that can get him out on the edge of the defense. CEILING GRADE ANALYSIS Low-Level Starter Potential (55-59) A player with the upside to be a low-end starter or high-level backup within a couple of seasons. While they have solid physical tools, inconsistencies in technique, processing, or durability limit their ceiling. They are developmental prospects who may carve out a role as specialists or system fits. Primary scout: Brandon Lundberg KEY STRENGTHS KEY WEAKNESSES PLAYER COMPARISONS

Bralen Trice shows promise as a solid mid-level starter in the NFL, with potential for further development. His ability to contribute in the pass rush and run defense makes him a valuable asset, but his limitations in coverage and agility need addressing. He is likely to be a mid-round pick with a final grade scale of 'Mid-Level Starter Potential' (60-64). With the right coaching and scheme fit, Trice has the potential to grow into a more complete and impactful player at the professional level. < Back Bralen Trice Washington HT: 6040 WT: 274 YR: JR POS: ED OVR RK 85 POS RK CEILING POTENTIAL 9 Mid-Level Starter Potential PLAYSTYLE & SCHEME FIT Bralen Trice is a physically imposing edge rusher with a good combination of size and athleticism. His explosiveness off the line and ability to apply pressure on the quarterback are his standout attributes. Trice shows proficiency in run stopping, using his size and strength effectively. He is best suited for a 4-3 defensive scheme, where he can primarily focus on rushing the passer and stopping the run. His agility and pass coverage skills, while average, could be improved to make him more versatile in various defensive schemes. CEILING GRADE ANALYSIS Mid-Level Starter Potential (60-64) A solid, dependable starter with the potential to exceed expectations. They have good athleticism and tools but may lack elite traits. While they show flashes of high-level play, they also have some notable weaknesses that must be developed. These players often need 2-3 years to establish themselves. Primary scout: Brandon Lundberg KEY STRENGTHS Physical Pass Rusher Good Size Consistent vs. Run KEY WEAKNESSES Pass Coverage Improve Agility Pass Rush Plan PLAYER COMPARISONS Ryan Kerrigan Frank Clark