2026 NFL Draft rankings: Spencer Fano tops list of best OL prospects
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2026 NFL Draft rankings: Spencer Fano tops list of best OL prospects
Nick Brinkerhoff and Ayrton Ostly, USA TODAY·USA TODAY Sports
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12 min read
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Offensive lineman are some of the most important players on the football field, but you'd never know it.
The casual football fan might not recognizeTrent WilliamsorLane Johnsonif they passed them in the store. Of course, they might take a second look just because of their sheer size. Would they think they played football if they weren't wearing any team merchandise?
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Probably not.
While offensive lineman mostly go unnoticed by fans and experts, the reality is that these players often make-or-break a season. If there is no blocking up front, the best quarterbacks, running backs and receivers can't shine.
Success starts somewhere and that's at the line of scrimmage. And the path to building towards that success often comes through the draft.
On a defense already dotted with stars, Reese rose from an occasional contributor to a bona fide star in his first full season as a starter. The 6-4, 241-pound linebacker exhibited uncommon fluidity for a player of his size, finding equal comfort dropping back in coverage as bullying his way into the backfield. His pass-rush plan is still rather rudimentary at the moment, but he has the toolkit of a double-digit sack artist. In a league where defenses are constantly taxed against the pass and run, Reese displays a unique aptitude for detonating whatever play an offense might throw at him.
(Luke Hales, Getty Images)
Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana
It's a testament toMendoza's impeccable body of workthat the pre-draft vivisection of his game has largely only turned up questions of how he'll fare operating from under center rather than in the shotgun.
No one will confuse the 6-5, 236-pound Heisman Trophy winner with the likes of Cam Ward or Drake Maye, as he's not particularly creative or dangerous when a play breaks down. But that's about the only phase in which Mendoza comes up short. He's as precise as any passer you'll find from the college ranks, and he comfortably works through progressions and manipulates coverages. His arm strength isn't otherworldly, but he can attack every level with suitable velocity on his throws. Forcing him off his spot can throw him off his rhythm, but Mendoza rarely loses his cool under pressure and still conjures solutions when things aren't going his way. Beyond the improvisational shortcomings, he's the picture of a top-tier quarterback prospect.
The hyperbole inherent to NFL draft evaluations doesn't seem so outlandish when it's being attached to Love. For the 6-0, 213-pound Heisman Trophy finalist, everything starts with his game-breaking speed, which allows him to turn the corner with ease or jet through even the narrowest of openings on the interior. And once he has a step on the defense, he's extremely unlikely to be caught. He'sfar from just a linear threat, however, as his distinct creativity shines through in the open field – particularly when he unleashes his spin move or hurdle. Operating in a different gear than everyone else has created some inconsistencies in his early pacing, but it's rarely something that derails him. His elite skill set also carries over to his work as a pass catcher, where he can further vex defenses that won't likely have an answer when he lines up in the slot or out wide. It's fair to hold onto questions of positional value for running backs, but Love is unquestionably among a select few who deserve to be seen as this class' difference-makers.
(Michael Caterina, Imagn Images)
Rueben Bain Jr., DE, Miami
No defender in college football broke open games last season quite like Bain, who led the Football Bowl Subdivision with 83 pressures, according to Pro Football Focus. The 6-2, 263-pounder frequently took the shortest path possible to the quarterback, uprooting anyone who stood in his way. Bain's atypical build for an edge rusher – includinghis short arms– invited plenty of scrutiny about how he might translate to the pro ranks, but he's already demonstrated he can mitigate the concern. If he's neutralized, it seems unlikely that it'll become a common occurrence.
(Jason Clark, Getty Images)
Sonny Styles, LB, Ohio State
After arriving at Ohio State as an elite athlete searching for a true position, Styles departs Columbus having developed an unparalleled proficiency for the intricacies of linebacker play. The 6-5, 244-pound former safety could be counted on to be in the right place to plug the run at all times, and he still has room to grow in coverage and as a blitzer. Clean in everything he does, Styles can help be a standard-bearer for whatever defense he joins.
(Adam Cairns/Columbus Dispatch, Imagn Images)
Caleb Downs, S, Ohio State
From his first snaps at Alabama as a five-star freshman to his final push at Ohio State, Downs put himself in a class all his own at safety. The two-time unanimous All-American repeatedly snuffed out plays before they could get started, particularly against the run or near the line of scrimmage. While he doesn't measure up as a physical marvel like Kyle Hamilton or Derwin James, he could have the same bottom-line effect for a defense, even if he doesn't match their ball production. His position might prevent him from cracking the top five, but he'll force offenses to account for him on every down.
(Luke Hales, Getty Images)
David Bailey, OLB/DE, Texas Tech
Right off the snap, Bailey gets offensive linemen on their toes. The 6-4, 251-pound edge rusher's explosion off the ball can get blockers off balance in an instant, at which point Bailey can attack them by changing course or unleashing a spin move. Bailey's lean frame can result in him being eradicated in the run game at times, but players who can derail opposing passers with his level of efficiency can't be ignored. It shouldn't be long into his NFL transition before his pressure rate ticks up and he takes his place as one of the league's most threatening matchups off the edge.
(John E. Moore III, Getty Images)
Carnell Tate, WR, Ohio State
He was never the WR1 in the Buckeyes' loaded receiver room, but Tate stands above the rest of the pass-catching options in this class. With subtle shifts in his tempo and sudden breaks in his routes, the 6-2, 192-pound target creates separation without much strain. He settles into open spaces against zone and skies over defensive backs to haul in difficult passes down the sideline. He might not look the part of a go-to target, but he measures up to the title in almost every respect.
(Grace Smith/IndyStar, Grace Smith/IndyStar / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images)
Mansoor Delane, CB, LSU
Not long into his foray into the Southeastern Conference, the Virginia Tech transfer made clear to opponents that he was not to be tested. Delane rapidly earned the title of shutdown corner, with teams almost universally opting to avoid throwing his way. At the next level, he figures to draw comparisons to Trent McDuffie – another cornerback who doesn't let his size or limited ball production prevent him from being recognized as a first-tier cover man.
(Stephen Lew, Imagn Images)
Makai Lemon, WR, USC
In an earlier era, Lemon might have been dismissed as a slot receiver not capable of being an offensive focal point. Now, however, there shouldn't be much doubt about how much the Biletnikoff Award winner can shoulder. Lemon is a maestro when it comes to getting open underneath, and he can be counted on to vacuum up any throw that approaches his area. And teams that underestimate his downfield credentials could end up paying if they try to sit on short and intermediate throws.
(Justin Casterline, Getty Images)
Jermod McCoy, CB, Tennessee
A torn anterior cruciate ligament suffered last January kept McCoy out of commission for all of last season and clouded his pre-draft process. But in a stellar pro day showing, the 6-1, 188-pound corner served up a reminder that he has all the trappings of a top-tier cover man. With superlative ball skills and ample tools to stick with receivers throughout their routes, McCoy can grow into a standout in any defensive scheme.
(Brianna Paciorka, News Sentinel)
Dillon Thieneman, S, Oregon
After his impressive performance at the NFL scouting combine, Thieneman rocketed into the discussion of this draft's premier defensive backs. Easy coverage instincts extend his already expansive range, and vigilance is required for any passing attack that throws to his area of the field. He can't measure up to Downs or some of the other safeties in this class when operating closer to the line of scrimmage, but he shouldn't be asked to serve in that capacity too frequently anyway.
(Michael Reaves, Getty Images)
13. Olaivavega Ioane, G, Penn State
Even with everything crumbling around him in Penn State's calamitous season, Ioane still held firm. The 6-5, 320-pound left guard is a brick wall in pass protection, but where he really shines is in his forceful displacements in the run game. Ioane will have to figure out a way to handle quick-twitch defensive tackles who will test his fluidity, but he's one of the more reliable prospects in this class.
(Mark J. Rebilas, Imagn Images)
Francis Mauigoa, OT/G, Miami
Solid to the core, the former five-star recruit holds his ground against the pass and forces opposing linemen out of the way with his strong first contact. But while there's not much mystery to the 6-6, 329-pounder's play, there are several unknowns about his projection. A move inside could be in his future to safeguard against concerns that he'll be beaten by rangy edge rushers, but the skill set is there to hang at right tackle.
(Norm Hall, Getty Images)
Spencer Fano, OT, Utah
Smooth movements allow Fano to conjure answers for even the speediest edge rushers. He still could have trouble with rangier defenders, however, as well as ones who can convert speed to power and knock him off base. Like many offensive tackles in this class, he'll face questions of whether he belongs at the position, with some question of whether he should head to center.
(Rob Gray, Imagn Images)
Monroe Freeling, OT, Georgia
From his massive frame (6-7, 315 pounds) to his quickness, Freeling checks off some of the most notable boxes for a high-end left tackle. As a one-year starter, his technique is still a work in progress, with some bad habits sapping his efficacy. But he's clearly on an upward trajectory, and teams might be eager to buy on an ascendant blocker.
(Kevin C. Cox, Getty Images)
KC Concepcion, WR, Texas A&M
Few receivers are true separators at all three levels. Concepcion qualifies as just that, with more than enough quickness and speed to free himself from coverage at any point on the field. Drops have dogged him, but he could shake the issue in short order. Versatile and dynamic, Concepcion is more refined than he gets credit for, and he could become a vital part of an aerial attack with more polish.
(Ed Zurga, Getty Images)
Kenyon Sadiq, TE, Oregon
The ultimate seam threat, Sadiq accelerates in a manner not seen from 6-3, 241-pound pass catchers. Though he's proven himself after the catch, much of his value remains somewhat theoretical, as his experience and workload in the downfield passing game haven't aligned with his capabilities. But as an instant mismatch creator and aggressive run blocker, he can change the complexion of whatever offense he joins.
(Ali Gradischer, Getty Images)
Denzel Boston, WR, Washington
Some will see a 6-4, 210-pound body and assume Boston relies on pulling down jump balls in close quarters. But while tilting those throws in his favor is his best feature, it's far from his only one. Boston has impressive fluidity for a player with his physical make-up, and his tracking and midair adjustments make him an even more confounding coverage assignment.
(Joe Nicholson, Imagn Images)
Emmanuel McNeil-Warren, S, Toledo
Though he might not be an all-around coverage maven, McNeil-Warren is comfortable exerting his will from several different vantage points. He rallies to the ball in a hurry in run support, working his way through traffic to deliver big hits. And though his 6-4, 201-pound build limits his comfort zone in coverage, he can give both quarterbacks and receivers pause on attempting any throws over the middle.
(Jeff Romance, Imagn Images)
Jordyn Tyson, WR, Arizona State
Once seen as the clear-cut favorite to be the first receiver selected, Tyson now might be the most polarizing pass catcher in this class. Quick and crisp when he's dialed in, he has a robust set of maneuvers to beat man coverage from various spots. But medical concerns from various ailments muddle his draft outlook, and he can be inefficient with his footwork.
(Kelsey Grant, Getty Images)
Akheem Mesidor, DE, Miami
Having just turned 25with an extensive injury history, Mesidor enters the draft with red flags that might tank other prospects' stock. Teams that look past those issues, however, will see an advanced and unrelenting pass rusher with a deep bag of tricks to beat blockers. Mesidor might be one of the most divisive prospects in this class in his projection, but there's not much to object to with the on-field product.
(Alex Slitz, Getty Images)
Colton Hood, CB, Tennessee
With McCoy sidelined, Hood did a commendable job of filling in as the Volunteers' primary asset in coverage. The Colorado transfer kept the competitive juices flowing in shutting down tight-window throws as well as making his presence felt against the run. He can't match McCoy in overall fluidity, but he still sizes up as a meaningful counter in man coverage for bigger receivers.
(Butch Dill, Getty Images)
Omar Cooper Jr., WR, Indiana
Other receivers are sure to be more vexing coverage matchups than the 6-0, 199-pound target. Cooper, however, has a truly distinct aptitude for slipping tacklers in the open field. His penchant for racking up yards after the catch should carry over to the NFL and endear him to his future quarterback, as should his aggressive approach to fighting through contact and operating in traffic.
(Scott Taetsch, Getty Images)
Caleb Lomu, OT, Utah
In a class rife with right tackles and expected guard converts, Lomu stands out as a true blindside protector. Bulking up will be an essential step for the 6-6, 313-pounder to hold his own against more powerful edge rushers, but there's considerable room for growth on top of the enticing glimpses of his potential he's already displayed.
(Jay Biggerstaff, Imagn Images)
1/25
Ranking top 25 prospects for 2026 NFL Draft
Arvell Reese, LB/DE, Ohio State
On a defense already dotted with stars, Reese rose from an occasional contributor to a bona fide star in his first full season as a starter. The 6-4, 241-pound linebacker exhibited uncommon fluidity for a player of his size, finding equal comfort dropping back in coverage as bullying his way into the backfield. His pass-rush plan is still rather rudimentary at the moment, but he has the toolkit of a double-digit sack artist. In a league where defenses are constantly taxed against the pass and run, Reese displays a unique aptitude for detonating whatever play an offense might throw at him.
(Luke Hales, Getty Images)
1/25
Ranking top 25 prospects for 2026 NFL Draft
Arvell Reese, LB/DE, Ohio State
On a defense already dotted with stars, Reese rose from an occasional contributor to a bona fide star in his first full season as a starter. The 6-4, 241-pound linebacker exhibited uncommon fluidity for a player of his size, finding equal comfort dropping back in coverage as bullying his way into the backfield. His pass-rush plan is still rather rudimentary at the moment, but he has the toolkit of a double-digit sack artist. In a league where defenses are constantly taxed against the pass and run, Reese displays a unique aptitude for detonating whatever play an offense might throw at him.
(Luke Hales, Getty Images)
2/25
Ranking top 25 prospects for 2026 NFL Draft
Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana
It's a testament toMendoza's impeccable body of workthat the pre-draft vivisection of his game has largely only turned up questions of how he'll fare operating from under center rather than in the shotgun.
No one will confuse the 6-5, 236-pound Heisman Trophy winner with the likes of Cam Ward or Drake Maye, as he's not particularly creative or dangerous when a play breaks down. But that's about the only phase in which Mendoza comes up short. He's as precise as any passer you'll find from the college ranks, and he comfortably works through progressions and manipulates coverages. His arm strength isn't otherworldly, but he can attack every level with suitable velocity on his throws. Forcing him off his spot can throw him off his rhythm, but Mendoza rarely loses his cool under pressure and still conjures solutions when things aren't going his way. Beyond the improvisational shortcomings, he's the picture of a top-tier quarterback prospect.
The hyperbole inherent to NFL draft evaluations doesn't seem so outlandish when it's being attached to Love. For the 6-0, 213-pound Heisman Trophy finalist, everything starts with his game-breaking speed, which allows him to turn the corner with ease or jet through even the narrowest of openings on the interior. And once he has a step on the defense, he's extremely unlikely to be caught. He'sfar from just a linear threat, however, as his distinct creativity shines through in the open field – particularly when he unleashes his spin move or hurdle. Operating in a different gear than everyone else has created some inconsistencies in his early pacing, but it's rarely something that derails him. His elite skill set also carries over to his work as a pass catcher, where he can further vex defenses that won't likely have an answer when he lines up in the slot or out wide. It's fair to hold onto questions of positional value for running backs, but Love is unquestionably among a select few who deserve to be seen as this class' difference-makers.
(Michael Caterina, Imagn Images)
4/25
Ranking top 25 prospects for 2026 NFL Draft
Rueben Bain Jr., DE, Miami
No defender in college football broke open games last season quite like Bain, who led the Football Bowl Subdivision with 83 pressures, according to Pro Football Focus. The 6-2, 263-pounder frequently took the shortest path possible to the quarterback, uprooting anyone who stood in his way. Bain's atypical build for an edge rusher – includinghis short arms– invited plenty of scrutiny about how he might translate to the pro ranks, but he's already demonstrated he can mitigate the concern. If he's neutralized, it seems unlikely that it'll become a common occurrence.
(Jason Clark, Getty Images)
5/25
Ranking top 25 prospects for 2026 NFL Draft
Sonny Styles, LB, Ohio State
After arriving at Ohio State as an elite athlete searching for a true position, Styles departs Columbus having developed an unparalleled proficiency for the intricacies of linebacker play. The 6-5, 244-pound former safety could be counted on to be in the right place to plug the run at all times, and he still has room to grow in coverage and as a blitzer. Clean in everything he does, Styles can help be a standard-bearer for whatever defense he joins.
(Adam Cairns/Columbus Dispatch, Imagn Images)
6/25
Ranking top 25 prospects for 2026 NFL Draft
Caleb Downs, S, Ohio State
From his first snaps at Alabama as a five-star freshman to his final push at Ohio State, Downs put himself in a class all his own at safety. The two-time unanimous All-American repeatedly snuffed out plays before they could get started, particularly against the run or near the line of scrimmage. While he doesn't measure up as a physical marvel like Kyle Hamilton or Derwin James, he could have the same bottom-line effect for a defense, even if he doesn't match their ball production. His position might prevent him from cracking the top five, but he'll force offenses to account for him on every down.
(Luke Hales, Getty Images)
7/25
Ranking top 25 prospects for 2026 NFL Draft
David Bailey, OLB/DE, Texas Tech
Right off the snap, Bailey gets offensive linemen on their toes. The 6-4, 251-pound edge rusher's explosion off the ball can get blockers off balance in an instant, at which point Bailey can attack them by changing course or unleashing a spin move. Bailey's lean frame can result in him being eradicated in the run game at times, but players who can derail opposing passers with his level of efficiency can't be ignored. It shouldn't be long into his NFL transition before his pressure rate ticks up and he takes his place as one of the league's most threatening matchups off the edge.
(John E. Moore III, Getty Images)
8/25
Ranking top 25 prospects for 2026 NFL Draft
Carnell Tate, WR, Ohio State
He was never the WR1 in the Buckeyes' loaded receiver room, but Tate stands above the rest of the pass-catching options in this class. With subtle shifts in his tempo and sudden breaks in his routes, the 6-2, 192-pound target creates separation without much strain. He settles into open spaces against zone and skies over defensive backs to haul in difficult passes down the sideline. He might not look the part of a go-to target, but he measures up to the title in almost every respect.
(Grace Smith/IndyStar, Grace Smith/IndyStar / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images)
9/25
Ranking top 25 prospects for 2026 NFL Draft
Mansoor Delane, CB, LSU
Not long into his foray into the Southeastern Conference, the Virginia Tech transfer made clear to opponents that he was not to be tested. Delane rapidly earned the title of shutdown corner, with teams almost universally opting to avoid throwing his way. At the next level, he figures to draw comparisons to Trent McDuffie – another cornerback who doesn't let his size or limited ball production prevent him from being recognized as a first-tier cover man.
(Stephen Lew, Imagn Images)
10/25
Ranking top 25 prospects for 2026 NFL Draft
Makai Lemon, WR, USC
In an earlier era, Lemon might have been dismissed as a slot receiver not capable of being an offensive focal point. Now, however, there shouldn't be much doubt about how much the Biletnikoff Award winner can shoulder. Lemon is a maestro when it comes to getting open underneath, and he can be counted on to vacuum up any throw that approaches his area. And teams that underestimate his downfield credentials could end up paying if they try to sit on short and intermediate throws.
(Justin Casterline, Getty Images)
11/25
NFL mock draft: Big-name prospect drops in latest first-round projection
Jermod McCoy, CB, Tennessee
A torn anterior cruciate ligament suffered last January kept McCoy out of commission for all of last season and clouded his pre-draft process. But in a stellar pro day showing, the 6-1, 188-pound corner served up a reminder that he has all the trappings of a top-tier cover man. With superlative ball skills and ample tools to stick with receivers throughout their routes, McCoy can grow into a standout in any defensive scheme.
(Brianna Paciorka, News Sentinel)
12/25
Ranking top 25 prospects for 2026 NFL Draft
Dillon Thieneman, S, Oregon
After his impressive performance at the NFL scouting combine, Thieneman rocketed into the discussion of this draft's premier defensive backs. Easy coverage instincts extend his already expansive range, and vigilance is required for any passing attack that throws to his area of the field. He can't measure up to Downs or some of the other safeties in this class when operating closer to the line of scrimmage, but he shouldn't be asked to serve in that capacity too frequently anyway.
(Michael Reaves, Getty Images)
13/25
NFL mock draft: Final projection features major shift in early picks
13. Olaivavega Ioane, G, Penn State
Even with everything crumbling around him in Penn State's calamitous season, Ioane still held firm. The 6-5, 320-pound left guard is a brick wall in pass protection, but where he really shines is in his forceful displacements in the run game. Ioane will have to figure out a way to handle quick-twitch defensive tackles who will test his fluidity, but he's one of the more reliable prospects in this class.
(Mark J. Rebilas, Imagn Images)
14/25
Ranking top 25 prospects for 2026 NFL Draft
Francis Mauigoa, OT/G, Miami
Solid to the core, the former five-star recruit holds his ground against the pass and forces opposing linemen out of the way with his strong first contact. But while there's not much mystery to the 6-6, 329-pounder's play, there are several unknowns about his projection. A move inside could be in his future to safeguard against concerns that he'll be beaten by rangy edge rushers, but the skill set is there to hang at right tackle.
(Norm Hall, Getty Images)
15/25
Ranking top 25 prospects for 2026 NFL Draft
Spencer Fano, OT, Utah
Smooth movements allow Fano to conjure answers for even the speediest edge rushers. He still could have trouble with rangier defenders, however, as well as ones who can convert speed to power and knock him off base. Like many offensive tackles in this class, he'll face questions of whether he belongs at the position, with some question of whether he should head to center.
(Rob Gray, Imagn Images)
16/25
NFL mock draft: Final projection features major shift in early picks
Monroe Freeling, OT, Georgia
From his massive frame (6-7, 315 pounds) to his quickness, Freeling checks off some of the most notable boxes for a high-end left tackle. As a one-year starter, his technique is still a work in progress, with some bad habits sapping his efficacy. But he's clearly on an upward trajectory, and teams might be eager to buy on an ascendant blocker.
(Kevin C. Cox, Getty Images)
17/25
Ranking top 25 prospects for 2026 NFL Draft
KC Concepcion, WR, Texas A&M
Few receivers are true separators at all three levels. Concepcion qualifies as just that, with more than enough quickness and speed to free himself from coverage at any point on the field. Drops have dogged him, but he could shake the issue in short order. Versatile and dynamic, Concepcion is more refined than he gets credit for, and he could become a vital part of an aerial attack with more polish.
(Ed Zurga, Getty Images)
18/25
Ranking top 25 prospects for 2026 NFL Draft
Kenyon Sadiq, TE, Oregon
The ultimate seam threat, Sadiq accelerates in a manner not seen from 6-3, 241-pound pass catchers. Though he's proven himself after the catch, much of his value remains somewhat theoretical, as his experience and workload in the downfield passing game haven't aligned with his capabilities. But as an instant mismatch creator and aggressive run blocker, he can change the complexion of whatever offense he joins.
(Ali Gradischer, Getty Images)
19/25
NFL mock draft: Final projection features major shift in early picks
Denzel Boston, WR, Washington
Some will see a 6-4, 210-pound body and assume Boston relies on pulling down jump balls in close quarters. But while tilting those throws in his favor is his best feature, it's far from his only one. Boston has impressive fluidity for a player with his physical make-up, and his tracking and midair adjustments make him an even more confounding coverage assignment.
(Joe Nicholson, Imagn Images)
20/25
Ranking top 25 prospects for 2026 NFL Draft
Emmanuel McNeil-Warren, S, Toledo
Though he might not be an all-around coverage maven, McNeil-Warren is comfortable exerting his will from several different vantage points. He rallies to the ball in a hurry in run support, working his way through traffic to deliver big hits. And though his 6-4, 201-pound build limits his comfort zone in coverage, he can give both quarterbacks and receivers pause on attempting any throws over the middle.
(Jeff Romance, Imagn Images)
21/25
Ranking top 25 prospects for 2026 NFL Draft
Jordyn Tyson, WR, Arizona State
Once seen as the clear-cut favorite to be the first receiver selected, Tyson now might be the most polarizing pass catcher in this class. Quick and crisp when he's dialed in, he has a robust set of maneuvers to beat man coverage from various spots. But medical concerns from various ailments muddle his draft outlook, and he can be inefficient with his footwork.
(Kelsey Grant, Getty Images)
22/25
Ranking top 25 prospects for 2026 NFL Draft
Akheem Mesidor, DE, Miami
Having just turned 25with an extensive injury history, Mesidor enters the draft with red flags that might tank other prospects' stock. Teams that look past those issues, however, will see an advanced and unrelenting pass rusher with a deep bag of tricks to beat blockers. Mesidor might be one of the most divisive prospects in this class in his projection, but there's not much to object to with the on-field product.
(Alex Slitz, Getty Images)
23/25
Ranking top 25 prospects for 2026 NFL Draft
Colton Hood, CB, Tennessee
With McCoy sidelined, Hood did a commendable job of filling in as the Volunteers' primary asset in coverage. The Colorado transfer kept the competitive juices flowing in shutting down tight-window throws as well as making his presence felt against the run. He can't match McCoy in overall fluidity, but he still sizes up as a meaningful counter in man coverage for bigger receivers.
(Butch Dill, Getty Images)
24/25
Ranking top 25 prospects for 2026 NFL Draft
Omar Cooper Jr., WR, Indiana
Other receivers are sure to be more vexing coverage matchups than the 6-0, 199-pound target. Cooper, however, has a truly distinct aptitude for slipping tacklers in the open field. His penchant for racking up yards after the catch should carry over to the NFL and endear him to his future quarterback, as should his aggressive approach to fighting through contact and operating in traffic.
(Scott Taetsch, Getty Images)
25/25
Ranking top 25 prospects for 2026 NFL Draft
Caleb Lomu, OT, Utah
In a class rife with right tackles and expected guard converts, Lomu stands out as a true blindside protector. Bulking up will be an essential step for the 6-6, 313-pounder to hold his own against more powerful edge rushers, but there's considerable room for growth on top of the enticing glimpses of his potential he's already displayed.
(Jay Biggerstaff, Imagn Images)
2026 NFL Draft: Ranking top OL prospects
1. Spencer Fano, OT, Utah
Scouting report: Fano brings experience at both left tackle (2023) and right tackle (2024-25) for the Utes in his career. His athleticism and footwork, paired with hand strength, make him our top tackle prospect in the class. His leaner frame at 6-foot-6 and 311 pounds may give pause to keeping him on the outside against stronger pass rushers. His relentless motor offers a lot to like, though.
2. Olaivavega Ioane, IOL, Penn State
Scouting report: Ioane is by far the top interior offensive line prospect in a class full of starting-caliber prospects. His size (6-foot-3, 335 pounds) and very good athleticism made him one of the bright spots in a disappointing year for theNittany Lionsoffense. His physicality in the run game and anchor in pass protection should make him a plug-and-play starter in the trenches.
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3. Francis Mauigoa, OT, Miami (FL)
Scouting report: Mauigoa offers years of experience at right tackle with a powerful frame and very strong hands at 6-foot-6 and 325 pounds. His body control and anchor make him a great fit in pass protection. His footwork may ultimately move him inside to guard but he has a very high floor at either position with a mauling presence coaches would love in the run game.
4. Kadyn Proctor, OT, Alabama
Scouting report: There just aren't a lot of humans that move like Proctor does at 6-foot-7 and 352 pounds. That size and power could keep him on the outside for some teams or have them instead take theMekhi Bectonroute and move him inside. He needs to improve his discipline and consistency as a blocker given how much leverage he gives up at his size.
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5. Monroe Freeling, OT, Georgia
Scouting report: Huge, powerful frame that shows up with a great anchor in pass protection. Went from 21 pressures allowed in 2024 to nine in 2025. Good initial quickness off the snap should ensure he stays in front of faster edge rushers. Needs to improve his hand usage and upright playing style in order to last as more than a swing tackle in the NFL.
6. Caleb Lomu, OT, Utah
Scouting report: Great mover at his size with discipline and ideal football IQ. He's a bit lean like his teammate Fano but experienced at left tackle. Early on in his development with plenty of room to grow. Could become the best tackle in the class thanks to his natural movement abilities at his size.
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7. Caleb Tiernan, OT, Northwestern
Scouting report: Tiernan has spent the last three years at left tackle for the Wildcats and hasn't missed a snap in four years. He offers elite size at 6-foot-8 and 323 pounds with solid arm length, giving him an ideal frame for pass protection. He allowed just 13 pressures on 430 pass blocking snaps in 2025; that's the same as he did on 467 snaps in 2024. He's technically sound and could be a plug-and-play starter as a rookie.
8. Emmanuel Pregnon, IOL, Oregon
Scouting report: Transferred from USC to Oregon in 2025 and immediately took a step. Set a career-low in pressures despite playing extra games due to playoff. Good length at an ideal size with strong hands and anchor for both pass protection and run blocking. Demeanor that coaches will like at the NFL level. Not a plus athlete which may limit his fit in certain offenses.
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9. Chase Bisontis, IOL, Texas A&M
Scouting report: Played RT in 2023 before moving to guard in 2024 and 2025. Athletic mover off the snap with impressively light feet for his size. Good hand placement. Hips can sometimes open too quickly. Two sacks allowed in the last two years combined.
10. Max Iheanachor, OT, Arizona State
Scouting report: Impressive footwork thanks to his background in soccer and basketball. Good control in pass protection sets and uses his active hands. Great athleticism. Remains a bit raw as a tackle with an anchor that needs development. Could become a solid starter with time thanks to his potential.
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11. Gennings Dunker, IOL, Iowa
Scouting report: Standout blocker in the run game with NFL-level power and nastiness to finish blocks off with his play strength. Brings that to pass blocking but can be limited laterally against faster rushers. Needs to improve his hand usage and pad level at times. Will likely end up best at guard in the NFL.
12. Blake Miller, OT, Clemson
Scouting report: Four-year starter for the Tigers who was almost exclusively a right tackle. Impressive athleticism for such a large frame (34 1/4-inch arms) and that showed in testing. That athleticism kept him out of trouble in college despite playing too upright at the position. Needs to make strides there and with his hand usage.
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13. Keylan Rutledge, IOL, Georgia Tech
Scouting report: Ideal run blocker thanks to his burst and overall athleticism off the line. Good sustainer in blocks with great punch and good hand usage. Pass protection needs work but he has the functional athleticism to build on. His tough mentality will be endearing to coaches.
14. Connor Lew, C, Auburn
Scouting report: Tough blocker with good anchor at his weight. Quickness makes it easy for him to climb to the second level. Mirrors very well in pass blocking. Good burst off the line with active hands. His smaller frame may keep him down on some teams' draft boards.
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15. Brian Parker II, IOL, Duke
Scouting report: Three-year starter at tackle with a sawed-off frame better suited inside at guard in the NFL. Strong hands and aggressive mindset. Latches on to blocks and keeps with them. Shorter arms will necessitate a move inside.
16. Kage Casey, OT, Boise State
Scouting report: Three-year starter at left tackle with good play strength and ideal hand usage. Average athlete with the processing to stay in front of rushers. Uses great angles and maximizes his length. Can be stiff in his lower body and bendier edge rushers in the NFL may exploit that.
17. Jude Bowry, OT, Boston College
Scouting report: Two-year starting left tackle with explosive athleticism and elite twitch off the line. Good anchor in pass protection. Played oppositeOzzy Trapliloin 2024. Allowed two sacks in 655 pass-blocking snaps over his last two seasons. Needs to improve his consistency and hand usage to reach his ceiling.
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18. Jake Slaughter, C, Florida
Scouting report: Two-time team captain for theGators. Not an overwhelming physical presence but wins with his movement abilities and innate leverage. Can reset and maintain leverage on blocks. Fluid mover with the anchor to maintain in pass protection. May struggle if asked to block bigger nose tackles one-on-one.
19. Sam Hecht, C, Kansas State
Scouting report: Lacks mass but makes up for it with outstanding technique from the center position. Can make it work in any scheme you ask of him. Core strength shines through on tape and his hand placement keeps him connected on blocks. Arm length may be more of a problem at the NFL level. Needs more muscle mass overall, but once he gets that, he can be a long-time starter.
1. Las Vegas Raiders – Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana
(Kirby Lee, Imagn Images)
2. New York Jets – David Bailey, OLB/DE, Texas Tech
(Nathan Giese, Avalanche-Journal)
3. Arizona Cardinals – Arvell Reese, LB/DE, Ohio State
(Adam Cairns, Columbus Dispatch)
4. Tennessee Titans – Sonny Styles, LB, Ohio State
(Joseph Maiorana, Imagn Images)
5. New York Giants – Jeremiyah Love, RB, Notre Dame
(Michael Caterina, Imagn Images)
6. Cleveland Browns – Carnell Tate, WR, Ohio State
(Grace Smith, IndyStar)
7. Washington Commanders – Caleb Downs, S, Ohio State
NFL mock draft: Final projection features major shift in early picks
29. Kansas City Chiefs (from Rams) – Malachi Lawrence, DE, UCF
(David Purdy, Getty Images)
30/32
NFL mock draft: Final projection features major shift in early picks
30. Miami Dolphins (from Denver Broncos) – Chris Johnson, CB, San Diego State
(James Snook, Imagn Images)
31/32
NFL mock draft: Big-name prospect drops in latest first-round projection
31. New England Patriots – Zion Young, DE/OLB, Missouri
(Denny Medley, Imagn Images)
32/32
NFL mock draft: Final projection features major shift in early picks
32. Seattle Seahawks – Colton Hood, CB, Tennessee
(Wesley Hale, Imagn Images)
20. Austin Barber, OT, Florida
Scouting report: Three-year starter at left tackle. Good hand usage and play strength with near-prototypical length for a left tackle. Fluid athlete who can handle bull rushers. Standout run blocker for the position. Struggles against speed rushers. Susceptible to counter moves. Can rely too much on two-hand punches.
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21. Trey Zuhn III, IOL, Texas A&M
Scouting report: Career left tackle who will likely move inside to guard or center due to lack of length. Good burst and lateral quickness with a proven track record on combination blocks. Overall athleticism is average which will show up in pass protection despite his good anchor. May struggle to mirror NFL interior rushers doing stunts or twists.
22. Billy Schrauth, IOL, Notre Dame
Scouting report: MCL sprain in 2025 and prior ankle injury will knock his stock down. If his medical is clear, he could be a great value pick. Experience at both guard spots, most recently left guard. Good play strength and anchor which shows up well in pass protection. Heavy feet show up in run blocking where he may be limited in pulling assignments.
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23. Logan Jones, C, Iowa
Scouting report: Undersized but extremely athletic center prospect. Great burst and fast feet. Four-year starter at center. Short arms didn't limit him much as a pass blocker but may show up more at the NFL level. May struggle to seal blocks in the run game. Bigger, longer defensive tackles will give him trouble.
24. Drew Shelton, OT, Penn State
Scouting report: Lean frame with impressive quick-twitch athleticism and ideal arm length. Strong hands that pop against edge rushers. Has the tools to develop but size is a concern, as is his ability to sustain blocks throughout the play.
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25. Dametrious Crownover, OT, Texas A&M
Scouting report: Lean frame with impressive quick-twitch athleticism and ideal arm length. Strong hands that pop against edge rushers. Has the tools to develop but size is a concern, as is his ability to sustain blocks throughout the play.
Scouting report: Impressive athleticism given his massive frame. Ideal for gap and power schemes to utilize that linear quickness and burst. Heavy hands with rare strength for the position. Footwork isn't always sound which leads to some quick losses against rushers with counter moves. Bulky frame isn't bendy.
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27. Markel Bell, OT, Miami (FL)
Scouting report: In a class with some outlier tackles, Bell may stand alone as the rarest of all. His 87-inch wingspan was the biggest at the combine and will help him steer and control NFL edge rushers. Took a huge step forward in 2025 with zero sacks allowed on 558 pass-blocking snaps. Elite grip strength and hand usage for his inexperience. Below-average run blocker who will always struggle with leverage. Foot speed is lacking and he has a tendency to lean forward into blocks.
28. Keagan Trost, OT, Missouri
Scouting report: Old prospect (will turn 25 before the draft) with a high floor thanks to his years of starting experience at both tackle spots. Played RT for Missouri and allowed just 7 pressures on 432 pass-blocking snaps. Solid length with the strength to fit any running scheme. Experience shows in his ability to hand-fight and climb to the second level. Can lean too often and high pad level will be exposed against NFL competition. Footwork is below average in the run game.
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29. J.C. Davis, OT, Illinois
Scouting report: Natural strength and finishing ability ideally fit power or gap run schemes as well as good length for pass sets but his technique (hand striking, balance, timing) needs a lot of work to last at tackle.
30. Pat Coogan, C, Indiana
Scouting report: Experienced, high-IQ center with great technique and hand usage but arm length and forward lean could limit him in the NFL.
31. Isaiah World, OT, Oregon
Scouting report: All the physical tools teams love to see at an NFL starting tackle with 34.5-inch arms. Elite traits that show up in pass protection as he can mirror rushers well. Powerful hands that can jolt rushers. Needs to work on his consistency and hand usage to reach his high ceiling.
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32. Diego Pounds, OT, Ole Miss
Scouting report: Smooth, athletic mover with heavy, strong hands and good length who needs to improve his leverage use to be a better run blocker and handle bendier, faster edge rushers.
33. Jeremiah Wright, IOL, Auburn
Scouting report: Power-based interior blocker with impressive strength and a nasty finish but lacks good hand usage and foot quickness for modern NFL demands.
34. Beau Stephens, IOL, Iowa
Scouting report: Patient, consistent blocker ideal for zone schemes with great feel and attitude, but short arms, leaner frame and average athleticism limit his ceiling.
Scouting report: Elite quickness, hand usage, toughness and foot drive to assist his lean frame which limits his effectiveness outside of zone schemes in the run and against power rushers on the interior.
36. Jalen Farmer, IOL, Kentucky
Scouting report: Long, athletic guard prospect who is a better run blocker than pass blocker due to pad level and hips but lacks awareness and footwork in protection.
37. Ar'maj Reed-Adams, IOL, Texas A&M
Scouting report: Older prospect who works well in the run in close spaces and uses his length but lacks the body control to handle strong bull rushes.
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38. Aamil Wagner, OT, Notre Dame
Scouting report: High-character, long tackle with ideal pass punch and sustaining but plays too high with slower feet and lack of bend.
