Exciting Prospects for the 2026 NFL Draft 🚀
As we dive into the summer scouting of players for the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft, remarkable talents from various positions are ready to captivate fans and analysts alike. Here’s a spotlight on some intriguing wild-card prospects who could have breakout seasons and climb the draft charts.
QB Dante Moore - Oregon 🌟
Dante Moore steps into the spotlight as the new signal-caller for Oregon. Previously a backup to Dillon Gabriel, this highly-touted recruit made some waves during his brief playing time at UCLA. Though his passing grade was a modest 58.1, what stands out is his impressive big-time throw rate of 6.4%, which ranked 16th among FBS quarterbacks.
Oregon has seen notable success with its quarterbacks, producing consecutive Heisman finalists in Bo Nix and Dillon Gabriel. Given Moore's exceptional arm talent, he is poised to shine and become one of the stars of this talented quarterback class.
QB Ty Simpson - Alabama 🐘
Ty Simpson's path mirrors Moore’s in several ways. A five-star recruit from the 2022 class, Simpson had to bide his time on the bench for three years. Now embroiled in a competitive battle for the starting role, predictions lean toward him taking the reins in Week 1.
Despite a limited number of dropbacks (only 65 in his career), his passing grade of 75.5 hints at the promise he possesses. Known for his pocket presence, Simpson benefits from an exceptional supporting cast, including wide receiver Ryan Williams and one of the nation's best offensive lines.
RB CJ Baxter - Texas 🌵
CJ Baxter stepped up when Jonathon Brooks suffered a severe knee injury during the 2023 season. The top running back recruit from 2023 took the lead and showcased his skills with 665 rushing yards and a commendable rushing grade of 74.8.
Unfortunately, Baxter faced his own challenges with an LCL and PCL tear during the 2024 preseason, sidelining him for the entire year. As a redshirt sophomore, he aims to make a strong comeback and establish himself among the elite running backs in the 2026 class.
RB Justice Haynes - Michigan 🌻
Justice Haynes, who found himself in a crowded backfield at Alabama, has now transferred to Michigan, looking to become the primary ball-carrier. Ranked as the No. 2 running back in the 2023 class, Haynes impressed with an 84.7 rushing grade across his 106 carries at Alabama, averaging 3.4 yards after contact.
With exceptional vision and balance, he needs to convert his flashes of brilliance into consistent performances during the season at Michigan.
WR Nyck Harbor - South Carolina 🏃♂️
Nyck Harbor is not just any athlete; he’s a physical marvel! At 6-foot-5 and 235 pounds, he boasts Olympic-level speed. Recognized in Bruce Feldman’s “Freaks List” for two consecutive years, Harbor led the Gamecocks with 376 receiving yards last season.
Though still developing as a route runner, if he hones his skills further, his phenomenal attributes might propel him into the early rounds of the draft, especially as he seeks to showcase his capabilities as a junior.
WR Zachariah Branch - Georgia 🏈
Zachariah Branch made waves as the top wide receiver in the 2023 high school class and continued to dazzle during his freshman year at USC. Notably, he became the only player in the nation to score both a kick-return and a punt-return touchdown in his first season.
Despite a dip in performance during his sophomore year, Branch possesses elite speed and quickness that make him a threat every time he touches the ball. If he adds physicality to his game, he could re-emerge as a top contender among a crowded receiver group.
WR Evan Stewart - Oregon 🌲
As a top-10 recruit from the 2022 class, Evan Stewart faced challenges during his sophomore year due to injuries. Nevertheless, he still accumulated impressive statistics, recording 1,157 receiving yards over two years at Texas A&M.
Moving to Oregon this season, Stewart aims to reclaim his status as a leading receiver, especially with expectations riding on his chemistry with Dante Moore, the new starting quarterback.
OT Aamil Wagner - Notre Dame 💪
Notre Dame continues its legacy as a breeding ground for offensive linemen, and Aamil Wagner is the next big talent to watch. Concluding his junior year as one of the top Power Four tackles, Wagner demonstrated solid skills with a noteworthy 78.1 run-blocking grade.
His ability to pass protect, allowing only two sacks on 496 snaps, further solidifies his potential as a first-round draft candidate.
DI Zane Durant - Penn State 🦁
Zane Durant made a name for himself in the opposing backfields last year, dominating both as a pass-rusher and run defender. Leading the FBS interior defenders with 14 tackles for loss or no gain, Durant proved his quickness by notching 28 pressures, ranking him among the nation’s elite.
Despite being undersized at 6-foot-1 and 288 pounds, his tenacity and burst off the line make him a player to watch.
EDGE David Bailey - Texas Tech 🔥
David Bailey was a standout pass-rusher last season at Stanford. With a remarkable 93.2 pass-rush grade, he led all edge defenders in college football. His arsenal of pass-rushing moves keeps offensive linemen guessing, although he’ll need to develop further strength to excel at the next level.
If his momentum continues at Texas Tech, he stands a strong chance of becoming a first-round selection.
EDGE Joshua Josephs - Tennessee ⚡
Joshua Josephs shone brightly during his time at Tennessee, making an immediate impact despite a crowded defensive line rotation. Leading all edge defenders with a noteworthy 91.4 run-defense grade, he also showcased his prowess as a pass-rusher.
Josephs possesses an explosive first step, allowing him to disrupt plays from the outset. If he can maintain this performance while taking on a heavier workload, he could also become a first-round draft choice.
These emerging talents represent just a fraction of the promising prospects set to make waves in the 2026 NFL Draft. With their skills and potential for growth, fans and analysts alike will be keeping a close eye on their performances in the upcoming season. Buckle up for an exciting ride! 🎉