2026 NFL Draft: Early Projections and Top Prospects
As we transition from the recent 2025 NFL Draft, enthusiasm builds for the upcoming 2026 draft. This early assessment highlights key players and potential team strategies that could unfold next April.
Draft Context and Methodology
This forecast is influenced by the latest Super Bowl odds from ESPN BET, positioned inversely to reflect projected drafting from the 2024 season. It’s important to note the draft order is speculative and does not represent playoff potential.
The current evaluations are foundational, based on initial game observations and industry insights. Expect changes and developments as the football season progresses and teams reassess their strategies.
Top Quarterback Prospects
At the core of the 2026 draft discussion is a promising group of quarterbacks:
- Cade Klubnik, QB, Clemson: Drafted by the Browns, Klubnik’s notable performance in 2024 featured 3,639 passing yards, 36 touchdowns, and only 6 interceptions. His ability to operate consistently under pressure and deliver accurate throws suggests he could be a long-term solution for Cleveland.
- LaNorris Sellers, QB, South Carolina: Projected for the Jets, Sellers brings dual-threat capabilities, having registered 2,534 passing yards and 674 rushing yards last season. His potential ascent hinges on improved pocket vision and ball security.
- Garrett Nussmeier, QB, LSU: Viewed as the heir to Matthew Stafford with the Rams, Nussmeier displays impressive QB metrics, including an 11th-ranked QBR of 79.1 in 2024. Reducing turnovers will heighten his draft stock significantly.
Prominent Defensive Talents
The 2026 class also features standout defensive players poised to make significant impacts:
- Peter Woods, DT, Clemson: This dynamic defender has a relentless style, achieving three sacks and providing valuable disruption on the interior line.
- Caleb Downs, S, Ohio State: Projected for the Browns, Downs offers a well-rounded skill set at safety, with two interceptions and 7.5 tackles for loss last season, showcasing his ability to impact both coverage and run support.
- Anthony Hill Jr., LB, Texas: With an explosive play style, Hill is seen as the solution for Carolina’s linebacker corps, displaying remarkable ability to navigate traffic and blitz effectively.
Potential Team Trades and Strategies
Two significant trades could reshape the draft landscape:
Browns Trade Up
The Cleveland Browns may target the first overall pick by trading with the Tennessee Titans, offering their own No. 3 pick and a future first-round selection.
Rams Move Up
The Rams could leverage an acquired pick from a recent trade, moving up to select a top quarterback, potentially solidifying their future at the position as Stafford nears the end of his career.
Other Notable Prospects
- Kadyn Proctor, OT, Alabama: A 6-foot-7, 360-pound offensive tackle who could become a top-five pick, Proctor’s strength in the run game is noteworthy.
- Isaiah World, OT, Oregon: Projected to enhance the Raiders’ offensive line, World has exhibited remarkable agility and strength, making him a potential first-round choice.
Conclusion
While the NFL season is still unfolding, these early assessments provide a foundational understanding of the talent pool anticipated for the 2026 NFL Draft. As players develop and teams strategize, this landscape will likely evolve, making for an exciting draft season ahead.