2026 NFL Draft Preview: A look ahead at the players who will be talked about next year for Patriots, NFL

It's never too early to take a look ahead. Much of the conversation will evolve around the potential blue-chip quarterback prospects. It has been three years in the making as NFL teams have awaited the draft eligibility of 'The Next Great Manning.' To no one's surprise, Ohio State heads into the season with the top-rated wideout prospect, plus a playmaker tight end projected to be amongst the best at his position. On defense, it would appear to be shaping up to be a stellar group of pass-rushers once again. Below is a list of the Top 20 draft-eligible prospects at each position for the 2026 NFL Draft as we head into the new season.

QUARTERBACKS

After two years of much anticipation, it’s officially the Arch Manning era in Austin, as he enters his first training camp as the Longhorns starter. In limited action, we have seen Manning make opponents pay with both his arm, as well as with his wheels. A Heisman campaign would appear to be on tap. South Carolina signal-caller LaNorris Sellers could look to challenge as the premier passing prospect, as the Gamecocks are preparing for what could be their most successful season to date in over a decade. LSU returns veteran leader Garrett Nussmeier, who brings tremendous experience and poise in the pocket. An upgraded supporting cast should make the Tigers offense a potent one. Much has been made about the high-profile transfers of Nico Iamaleava to UCLA and Carson Beck to Miami. Both signal-callers opted out of the SEC in seek of a NIL portal pay-out. Each has been mentioned as a potential franchise signal-caller during various points of their career. Meanwhile, traditional pocket-passers such as Drew Allar of Penn State and Cade Klubnik of Clemson, look to build upon career-best seasons.

RANK | PLAYER | SCHOOL | YEAR | HEIGHT | WEIGHT | FORTY

1. Arch Manning, Texas, rSo, 6-4, 225, 4.55e

2. LaNorris Sellers, South Carolina, rSo, 6-2, 242, 4.60e

3. Garrett Nussmeier, LSU, rSr, 6-2, 200, 4.74e

4. Nico Iamaleava, UCLA, rSo, 6-5, 215, 4.54e

5. Carson Beck, Miami, rSr, 6-4, 220, 4.82e

6. Drew Allar, Penn State, Sr, 6-5, 235, 4.72e

7. Cade Klubnik, Clemson, Jr, 6-2, 210, 4.74e

8. Jackson Arnold, Auburn, Jr, 6-1, 210, 4.72e 

9. Darian Mensah, Duke, rSo, 6-3, 200, 4.88e

10. John Mateer, Oklahoma, rJr, 6-1, 220, 4.55e

11. Sam Leavitt, Arizona State, rSo, 6-2, 200, 4.56e

12. Miller Moss, Louisville, rSr, 6-2, 205, 4.83e

13. Malik Murphy, Oregon State, rJr, 6-5, 230, 4.76e

14. Rocco Becht, Iowa State, rJr, 6-1, 210, 4.76e

15. Owen McCown, UTSA, rJr, 6-1, 190, 4.96e

16. Taylen Green, Arkansas, rSr, 6-6, 230, 4.47e

17. Conner Weigman, Houston, rJr, 6-3, 220, 4.67e

18. Behren Morton, Texas Tech, rSr, 6-2, 220, 4.76e

19. Kaidon Salter, Colorado, rSr, 6-1, 200, 4.48e

20. Mark Gronowski, Iowa, rSr, 6-2, 230, 4.72e

RUNNING BACKS

Expectations are sky-high in South Bend, as they seek to ride the back of star runner Jeremiyah Love. With a splendid combination of size, speed and athleticism, the tools are enough to make NFL teams fall in love. While he possesses captivating run ability, his hands and pass protection is why he’s the complete package. One of the biggest transfers of the offseason was Makhi Hughes. After shredding the AAC the past two seasons at Tulane, the physical back has proven to be one of the best at breaking tackles and picking up yards after contact. However, no school can stake claim to having a more potent backfield tandem than the one-two punch that Penn State returns in Kaytron Allen and Nicholas Singleton. A couple of notable transfers who could ascend up draft boards include Jadyn Ott of Oklahoma, who battled through an injury-plagued season at Cal a year ago and CJ Donaldson, who looks to fill the void at Ohio State, coming over via West Virginia. The undersized Desmond Reid of Pitt brings combustible explosiveness as a runner, pass-catcher and return man.

RANK | PLAYER | SCHOOL | YEAR | HEIGHT | WEIGHT | FORTY

1. Jeremiyah Love, Notre Dame, Jr, 6-0, 210, 4.38e

2. Makhi Hughes, Oregon, rJr, 5-11, 210, 4.54e

3. Kaytron Allen, Penn State, Sr, 5-10, 222, 4.50e

4. Nicholas Singleton, Penn State, Sr, 6-0, 226, 4.38e

5. Justice Haynes, Michigan, Jr, 5-10, 210, 4.45e

6. Jaydn Ott, Oklahoma, Sr, 6-0, 210, 4.48e

7. Quintrevion Wisner, Texas, Jr, 5-11, 195, 4.52e

8. CJ Baxter, Texas, rSo, 6-1, 220, 4.52e

9. Le’Veon Moss, Texas A&M, Jr, 5-11, 215, 4.52e

10. Jonah Coleman, Washington, Jr, 5-9, 229, 4.56e

11. Desmond Reid, Pittsburgh, Sr, 5-8, 175, 4.45e

12. Jamal Haynes, Georgia Tech, rSr, 5-9, 190, 4.49e

13. Jamarion Miller, Alabama, Sr, 5-9, 218, 4.58e

14. CJ Donaldson, Ohio State, Sr, 6-1, 238, 4.64e

15. Darius Taylor, Minnesota, Jr, 5-11, 215, 4.54e

16. Anthony Hankerson, Oregon State, Sr, 5-8, 203, 4.57e

17. Jaheim White, West Virginia, Jr, 5-7, 195, 4.38e

18. Rahsul Faison, South Carolina, rSr, 5-10, 200, 4.54e

19. Roman Hemby, Indiana, rSr, 6-0, 208, 4.48e

20. Kanye Udoh, Arizona State, Jr, 6-0, 215, 4.64e

WIDE RECEIVERS

The wide receiver room in Columbus has served as a revolving door for bonafide first-round picks. Known as ‘the other’ Ohio State wide receiver, NFL decision-makers are going to have to wait one more year for the tantalizing blue-chip talent of sophomore Jeremiah Smith and ‘settle’ for the spellbinding, draft-eligible Carnell Tate. His size, speed and route running make him the next in line in the OSU-to-NFL wideout pipeline. A big, physical target who thrives in contested catches situations, Jaden Greathouse is expected to carry the momentum from his breakout College Football Playoff performance into this season. Greathouse is also a sound route runner who can create separation, a big year lies ahead. A late-season injury withheld Arizona State playmaker Jordyn Tyson from helping the Sun Devils advance in postseason play but he is considered a prime prospect for 2026. Washington wideout Denzel Boston made great strides for the Huskies last season and is expected to take another jump headed into ‘25. He carries strong NFL bloodlines, as the son of former 1999 NFL first-round pick David Boston (Ohio State/Cardinals).

RANK | PLAYER | SCHOOL | YEAR | HEIGHT | WEIGHT | FORTY

1. Carnell Tate, Ohio State, Jr, 6-2, 191, 4.48e

2. Jaden Greathouse, Notre Dame, Jr, 6-1, 215, 4.46e

3. Jordyn Tyson, Arizona State, rJr, 6-1, 195, 4.52e

4. Zachariah Branch, Georgia, Jr, 5-10, 175, 4.32e

5. Eric Singleton Jr., WR, Auburn, Jr, 5-10, 190, 4.50e

6. Evan Stewart, Oregon, Sr, 6-0, 175, 4.38e,

7. Kevin Coleman Jr., Missouri, Sr, 5-11, 180, 4.48e,

8. Denzel Boston, Washington, rJr, 6-3, 209, 4.56e

9. Kevin Concepcion, Texas A&M, Jr, 5-11, 187, 4.45e

10. Nic Anderson, LSU, rSo, 6-4, 209, 4.50e

11. Elijah Sarratt, Indiana, Sr, 6-2, 209, 4.55e

12. Makai Lemon, USC, Jr, 5-11, 190, 4.48e

13. Malachi Fields, Notre Dame, rSr, 6-4, 220, 4.49e

14. Aaron Anderson, LSU, rJr, 5-8, 187, 4.38e

15. Antonio Williams, Clemson, rJr, 5-11, 190, 4.46e

16. Germie Bernard, Alabama, Sr, 6-0, 209, 4.54e

17. Cam Coleman, Auburn, So, 6-3, 197, 4.53E

18. Eric Rivers, Georgia Tech, rSr, 5-11, 174, 4.48e

19. Dane Key, Nebraska, Sr, 6-2, 210, 4.48e

20. Nyck Harbor, South Carolina, Jr, 6-5, 235, 4.43e

TIGHT ENDS
The Buckeyes reeled in one of the prize portal transfers in Max Klare, who arrives from Big Ten rival Purdue. With a bevy of downfield threats, Klare poses as a major problem underneath, coming off a season in which he was one of the most productive pass-catchers in the nation. HIs size, hands and athleticism make him a top-tier pro prospect. You might need to refer to your GPS to track towering tight end Tanner Koziol. After finishing the year with Ball State and participating in spring ball at Wisconsin, Koziol will report for training camp with Houston. Blessed with a huge frame and great leaping ability, Koziol serves as an adequate inline blocker. Meanwhile, RJ Maryland, who is coming off an ACL injury, remains one to watch due to his prototype size, great length, tremendous athleticism and legacy bloodlines, as the son of former 1991 number one overall pick Russell Maryland (Miami/Cowboys). Unable to find his way onto the field as a quarterback, Eli Stowers made a strong impression during his first season at tight end. An even bigger encore is expected this year. 

RANK | PLAYER | SCHOOL | YEAR | HEIGHT | WEIGHT | FORTY

1. Max Klare, Ohio State, rJr, 6-4, 240, 4.74e

2. Tanner Koziol, Houston, rSr, 6-6, 237, 4.76e

3. RJ Maryland, SMU, Sr, 6-4, 237, 4.58e

4. Oscar Delp, Georgia, Sr, 6-5, 245, 4.56e

5. Eli Stowers, Vanderbilt, rSr, 6-4, 235, 4.52e

6. Luke Hasz, Mississippi, Jr, 6-, 241, 4.64e

7. Jack Endries, California, rJr, 6-4, 240, 4.73e

8. Justin Joly, North Carolina State, Sr, 6-3, 251, 4.73e

9. John Michael Gyllenborg, Wyoming, rSr, 6-5, 247, 4.77e

10. Terrence Carter, Texas Tech, rJr, 6-2, 239, 4.74e

11. Jack Velling, Michigan State, Sr, 6-4, 244, 4.67e

12. Lawson Luckie, Georgia, Jr, 6-3, 240, 4.68e

13. Kenyon Sadiq, Oregon, Jr, 6-3, 235, 4.64e

14. Miles Kitselman, Tennessee, rSr, 6-5, 256, 4.83e

15. Elija Lofton, Miami, So, 6-3, 230, 4.68e

16. Tanner Koziol, Houston, rSr, 6-6, 237, 4.76e

17. Matt Lauter, Boise State, rSr, 6-3, 240, 4.74e

18. Brett Norfleet, Missouri, Jr, 6-6, 255, 4.70e

19. Chris Corbo, Dartmouth, Sr, 6-4, 245, 4.85e

20. Dorian Fleming, Maryland, Jr, 6-3, 234, 4.74e

OFENSIVE TACKLES

Sometimes the pasture isn’t always greener on the other side. Mammoth left tackle Kadyn Proctor returns for another season in Tuscaloosa on a mission to win a National Championship. He briefly departed for Iowa, following the retirement of Nick Saban but quickly realized Alabama was where he could accomplish the task at hand. His size, experience and technique would make for an immediate impact pro player. Few tackles were as dominant as Spencer Fano who boasts an incredible combination of tenacity, quickness and agility. When it comes to size, quickness and experience, Miami tackle Francis Mauigoa fits the bill. He has been clocked as fast as 20 mph, while being able to significantly reduce his penalties and sacks allowed from last season. He continues to make great strides in his development. Boise State mauler Kage Casey brings high-profile pedigree to the mid-major ranks, after turning down big money offers to enter the transfer portal. He looks to anchor a stout Broncos offensive line that paved the way for first-round pick Ashton Jeanty last season.

RANK | PLAYER | SCHOOL | YEAR | HEIGHT | WEIGHT | FORTY

1. Kadyn Proctor, Alabama, Jr, 6-6, 369, 5.36e

2. Spencer Fano, Utah, Jr, 6-5, 304, 4.97e

3. Earnest Greene III, Georgia, rJr, 6-4, 320, 5.26e

4. Francis Mauigoa, Miami, Jr, 6-6, 315, 4.94e

5. Elijah Pritchett, Nebraska, rJr, 6-5, 327, 5.16e

6. Fernando Carmona Jr., Arkansas, rSr, 6-5, 322, 5.14e

7. Drew Shelton, Penn State, Sr, 6-5, 307, 5.18e

8. Blake Miller, Clemson, Sr, 6-6, 315, 5.23e

9. Austin Barber, Florida, rSr, 6-5, 314, 5.24e

10. JC Davis, Illinois, rSr, 6-5, 320, 5.24e

11. Kage Casey, Boise State, rJr, 6-5, 316, 5.17e

12. Aamil Wagner, Notre Dame, rJr, 6-6, 291, 4.96e

13. Jordan Seaton, Colorado, So, 6-5, 285, 4.87e

14. Gennings Dunker, Iowa, rSr, 6-5, 316, 5.19e

15. Jude Bowry, Boston College, rJr, 6-5, 308, 5.19e

16. Izavion Miller, Auburn, rSr, 6-5, 301, 5.12e

17. Max Iheanachor, Arizona State, rSr, 6-5, 315, 5.27e

18. Carter Smith, Indiana, rJr, 6-5, 308, 5.22e

19. Trey Zuhn III, Texas A&M, rSr, 6-6, 315, 5.27e

20. Micah Pettus, Florida State, rSr, 6-6, 350, 5.46e

OFFENSIVE GUARDS

The phenomenal talent of Emmanuel Pregnon switches from USC to Oregon for his final season of eligibility. There is not a more proven guard in college football than Pregnon, who didn’t allow a single sack in 13 games for the Trojans. However, Olaivavega Ioane is certain to factor into the equation as one of the premier interior offensive line prospects, as he has been an anchor of stability and durability for the Nittany Lions. The maturation of Cayden Green has provided Missouri with an anchor along their offensive line. He started every game at left guard during his first year in Columbia, a spot he plans to remain entrenched in once again. However, Green brings added versatility from his time at Oklahoma, where he received action at tackle, which will only enhance his value at the next level.

RANK | PLAYER | SCHOOL | YEAR | HEIGHT | WEIGHT | FORTY

1. Emmanuel Pregnon, Oregon, rSr, 6-5, 320, 5.07e

2. Olaivavega Ioane, Penn State, rJr, 6-3, 348, 5.48e

3. Cayden Green, Missouri, Jr, 6-5, 320, 5.12e

4. Billy Schrauth, Notre Dame, rJr, 6-5, 310, 5.17e

5. Pat Coogan, Indiana, rSr, 6-5, 310, 5.23e

6. Zach Rice, North Carolina, rJr, 6-5, 305, 5.06e

7. TJ Ferguson, Florida State, rSr, 6-4, 330, 5.30e

8. Alex Birchmeier, Penn State, rSo, 6-5, 300, 5.07e

9. DJ Campbell, Texas, Sr, 6-3, 330, 5.16e

10. Iapani Laloulu, Oregon, Jr, 6-2, 325, 5.32e

11. Roderick Kearney, Florida, rSo, 6-4, 305, 5.10e

12. Tomas Rimac, Virginia Tech, rSr, 6-6, 318, 5.26e

13. Ashton Beers, Minnesota, rJr, 6-5, 320, 5.20e

14. Joshua Braun, Kentucky, rSr, 6-5, 338, 5.43e

15. Giovanni El-Hadi, Michigan, rSr, 6-5, 310, 5.26e

16. Conner Moore, Michigan State, rJr, 6-5, 310, 5.22e

17. Joe Fusile, Georgia Tech, rSr, 6-5, 315, 5.12e

18. Xavier Hill, Memphis, rSr, 6-4, 318, 5.28e

19. Paolo Gennarelli, Army, Jr, 6-1, 310, 5.15e

20. Shadre Hurst, Tulane, rJr, 6-2, 293, 5.07e

CENTERS

With dominant blocker Logan Jones manning the middle, Iowa returns one of the strongest offensive line units in the nation. Considered a potential first-round pick, Jones suffered a bone break in his snapping right hand late in the year. He’s expected to be ready to go for training camp and possesses excellent athleticism. A standout on and off the field, cerebral Florida center Jake Slaughter became just the third center in Gators history to earn All-American honors, allowing just one sack in 800 snaps last season. He has also been named to the SEC All-Academic team each year for his work in the classroom. With top-level size, instincts and intelligence, Slaughter makes for a prime pro prospect. Few players have been more dependable than Parker Brailsford during his collegiate career. A staple of dependability for Kalen DeBoer at Washington, he followed his coach to Alabama and was an integral reason for helping the Crimson Tide offensive line cut their sacks allowed in half in 2024. His smarts, communication and ability to anchor make him a high floor prospect.

RANK | PLAYER | SCHOOL | YEAR | HEIGHT | WEIGHT | FORTY

1. Logan Jones, Iowa, rSr, 6-3, 293, 4.87e

2. Jake Slaughter, Florida, rSr, 6-5, 308, 5.16e

3. Parker Brailsford, Alabama, rJr, 6-2, 290, 5.04e

4. Carson Hinzman, Ohio State, rJr, 6-4, 300, 5.14e

5. Bryce Foster, Kansas, rSr, 6-4, 330, 5.04e

6. Micah Morris, Georgia, rSr, 6-4, 330, 5.35e

7. Ryan Linthicum, Clemson, rSr, 6-3, 305, 5.17e

8. James Brockermeyer, Miami, rSr, 6-3, 295, 5.04e

9. Dominick Giudice, Missouri, rSr, 6-4, 310, 5.20e

10. Brady Small, Army, Jr, 6-0, 313, 5.10e

11. Jaeden Roberts, Alabama, rSr, 6-5, 310, 4.97e

12. Connor Tollison, Missouri, rSr, 6-4, 290, 5.27e

13. Ar’maj Reed-Adams, Texas A&M, rSr, 6-5, 330, 5.30e

14. Conor Lew, Auburn, Jr, 6-3, 302, 5.14e

15. Zen Michalski, Indiana, rSr, 6-6, 319, 5.18e

16. Raheem Anderson, Western Michigan, rSr, 6-3, 318, 5.18e

17. Ashton Craig, Notre Dame, rJr, 6-4, 308, 5.24e

18. Aaron Fenimore, Liberty, rSo, 6-1, 295, 5.14e

19. Jack Hasz, UNLV, rSr, 6-4, 295, 5.15e

20. Giovanni Kennedy, Mount Union, Sr, 6-1, 275, 5.00e

DEFENSIVE TACKLES

We have seen an influx of interchangeable defensive line prospects in recent seasons who dual at defensive tackle and defensive end. One such player would be Clemson freak Peter Woods. Blessed with innate athleticism, the high-motor Woods has shown the ability to get after the quarterback from the inside, or kick outside on the edge due to his great bend and get-off. Similar sentiments can be shared regarding LT Overton of Alabama. Many view him as a pass-rusher at the next level, but at 280-plus pounds, he would seem to project best on the interior. His counterpart Tim Keenan III, provides the veteran glue that holds the defensive line room together, according to coaches. They are not the lone such duo keeping offensive coordinators up late at night. Clemson boasts another massive body in DeMonte Capehart, who flashes spurts of great speed and power but has yet to put it all together. A true defensive tackle from Penn State, Zane Durant is an undersized, explosive defender who is next in the Nittany Lions' NFL pipeline. What he lacks in size, Durant compensates with technique and relentless pursuit, which enables him to penetrate the middle.

RANK | PLAYER | SCHOOL | YEAR | HEIGHT | WEIGHT | FORTY

1. Peter Woods, Clemson, Jr, 6-3, 315, 4.97e

2. LT Overton, Alabama, Sr, 6-4, 283, 4.67e

3. Zane Durant, Penn State, Sr, 6-1, 288, 4.76e

4. Tim Keenan III, Alabama, rSr, 6-2, 326, 5.30e

5. DeMonte Capehart, Clemson, rSr, 6-4, 315, 5.06e

6. Dontay Corleone, Cincinnati, rSr, 6-1, 320, 4.95e

7. Akheem Mesidor, Miami, rSr, 6-2, 280, 4.78e

8. Lee Hunter, Texas Tech, rSr, 6-4, 320, 5.14e 

9. Zxavian Harris, Ole Miss, Sr, 6-6, 320, 5.15e

10. Bear Alexander, Oregon, rJr, 6-3, 315, 5.14e

11. Christen Miller, Georgia, rJr, 6-4, 305, 5.12e

12. Caleb Banks, Florida, rSr, 6-6, 325, 5.17e

13. Darrell Jackson, Florida State, rSr, 6-5, 330, 5.05e

14. Aaron Graves, Iowa, Sr, 6-4, 300, 4.86e

15. Domonique Orange, Iowa State, Sr, 6-3, 325, 5.09e

16. Rayshaun Benny, Michigan, rSr, 6-3, 296, 4.87e

17. Gracen Halton, Oklahoma, Sr, 6-2, 285, 4.85e

18. Jordan Hall, Georgia, Jr, 6-3, 320, 5.04e

19. Skyler Gill-Howard, Texas Tech, rSr, 6-1, 285, 4.90e

20. Cannon Butler, Iowa State, rSr, 6-5, 251, 4.70e

EDGE RUSHERS

No one returns a more imposing defensive line than Clemson, which features impressive athletic specimen TJ Parker. With a relentless motor and overwhelming power, Parker possesses a lightning-quick first step, which leaves opponents in the dust. He is coming off a double-digit sack performance, where he set a new school record with six forced fumbles. Joining the upper-echelon of edge prospects will be Colin Simmons who won the Shaun Alexander Freshman of the Year Award after racking up nine sacks during his first season. Coaches raved about his progress this past spring, as he is expected to take the next step in his development. One player capable of catapulting to the top of the draft is Dylan Stewart of South Carolina who brings an ideal frame, elite twitch and burst off the snap, along with tantalizing athleticism. There is a belief that if he could contend to be the number one overall pick, if he puts it all together. Others worth watching include Oregon pass-rusher Matayo Uiagalelei, who led the Big Ten with 10.5 sacks a year ago. While he has displayed the versatility to play with his hand in the dirt on the line of scrimmage, or standing up as an outside linebacker, the heavy-handed Uiagalelei needs to diversify his counter attack. 

RANK | PLAYER | SCHOOL | YEAR | HEIGHT | WEIGHT | FORTY

1. T.J. Parker, Clemson, Jr, 6-3, 265, 4.64e

2. Colin Simmons, Texas, So, 6-3, 245, 4.65e

3. Dylan Stewart, South Carolina, So, 6-5, 248, 4.52e

4. Matayo Uiagalelei, Oregon, Jr, 6-4, 270, 4.74e

5. Keldric Faulk, Auburn, Jr, 6-5, 288, 4.89e

6. Dani Dennis-Sutton, Penn State, Sr, 6-4, 266, 4.70e

7. Mikail Kamara, Indiana, rSr, 6-0, 265, 4.79e

8. Rueben Bain Jr., Miami, Jr, 6-3, 275, 4.72e

9. Damon Wilson, Missouri, Jr, 6-4, 250, 4.54e

10. Harold Perkins, LSU, Sr, 6-1, 225, 4.43e

11. Tyreak Sapp, Florida, rSr, 6-3, 275, 4.79e

12. Derrick More, Michigan, Sr, 6-3, 256, 4.74e

13. Trey Moore, Texas, rSr, 6-3, 245, 4.64e

14. Eric O’Neil, Rutgers, rSr, 6-3, 250, 4.76e

15. Joshua Jospehs, Tennessee, Sr, 6-3, 245, 4.72e

16. Beau Atkinson, North Carolina*, rJr, 6-6, 265, 4.70e

17. R Mason Thomas, Oklahoma, Sr, 6-2, 243, 4.78e

18. David Bailey, Texas Tech, Sr, 6-3, 250, 4.73e

19. Patrick Payton, LSU, rSr, 6-5, 250, 4.72e

20. Anto Saka, Northwestern, rJr, 6-3, 247, 4.65e

LINEBACKERS

The Longhorns are led by their fearless leader Anthony Hill Jr., who is a rare playmaker at the middle linebacker position. His lateral quickness and range allows him to cover immense ground, while he has shown a propensity for creating turnovers in big moments. Look for him to continue to ascend amongst the premier prospects in the nation. A pure tackling machine for LSU, instinctual linebacker Whit Weeks exploded onto the NFL radar a year ago, racking up 125 tackles as a sophomore. Unfortunately, he suffered a broken fibula during the Tigers' bowl game in January. While he is expected to be fully recovered in time for the start of the new season, the situation is worth monitoring. The heart and soul of the Pitt defense, linebacker Kyle Louis, plays with a reckless abandon that is sure to be appreciated by any coach. His level of tenacity and aggressiveness can’t be replicated. However, there are sure to be size and length concerns as he transitions to the next level. One name that has popped up all offseason as a player destined to shoot up draft boards is Suntarine Perkins of Ole Miss. Playing in the shadows of a star-studded defense littered with future NFL pros, Perkins is coming off a spectacular campaign in which he registered 10.5 sacks. Thus far, he has lived up to his five-star billing and could wind up being viewed as an edge prospect due to his ability to blow up the backfield. 

RANK | PLAYER | SCHOOL | YEAR | HEIGHT | WEIGHT | FORTY

1. Anthony Hill Jr., Texas, Jr, 6-3, 235, 4.52e

2. Whit Weeks, LSU, Jr, 6-2, 228, 4.54e

3. Kyle Louis, Pittsburgh, rJr, 5-11, 225, 4.72e

4. Suntarine Perkins, Ole Miss, Jr, 6-1, 210, 4.58e 

5. Sonny Styles, Ohio State, Sr, 6-4, 235, 4.38e

6. Tony Rojas, Penn State, Jr, 6-2, 236, 4.52e

7. Gabe Jacas, Illinois, Sr, 6-2, 275, 4.79e

8. CJ Allen, Georgia, Jr, 6-2, 235, 4.67e

9. Deontae Lawson, Alabama, rSr, 6-2, 239, 4.54e

10. Lander Barton, Utah, Sr, 6-3, 236, 4.59e

11. Red Murdock, LB, Buffalo, rJr, 6-3, 235, 4.78e

12. Chaz Chambliss, Georgia, Sr, 6-2, 245, 4.73e

13. Jimari Butler, LSU, rSr, 6-4, 260, 4.78e

14. Aiden Fisher, Indiana, Sr, 6-1, 233, 4.75e

15. Taurean York, Texas A&M, Jr, 5-11, 235, 4.72e

16. Wade Woodaz, Clemson, Sr, 6-3, 235, 4.68e

17. Rasheem Biles, Pittsburgh, Jr, 6-1, 215, 4.65e

18. Drayk Bowen, Notre Dame, Jr, 6-2, 239, 4.59e

19. Jacob Manu, Washington, Sr, 5-11, 228, 4.58e 

20. Jason Henderson, Old Dominion, rSr, 6-1, 225, 4.73e

CORNERBACKS

All-American cornerback Jermod McCoy proved to be a supreme cover talent for Tennessee last season. A torn ACL injury, which occurred during training in January has placed the start of his ‘25 campaign in doubt. However, NFL teams remain highly optimistic about his elite lockdown coverage skills and premier ball instincts. One of the most underrated players in the nation a year ago, Delane Mansoor took his talents to 'DBU,' in order to be recognized on the main stage that is the SEC. He is expected to play a Swiss Army knife role at LSU, where he will line up on the boundary, in the slot, or at safety, if needed. HIs footwork, hips, reaction skills and versatility make him a valuable commodity. With Thorpe Award winner Jahdae Barron off to the NFL, cornerback Malik Muhammad has assumed the torch as the Longhorns' CB1. Through his first two seasons, Muhammad has earned the respect of opposing quarterbacks who have made a conscious effort to steer clear from his side of the field. Following in the footsteps of his All-Pro brother AJ Terrell (Falcons), Clemson playmaker Avieon Terrell became the first Tigers player under Dabo Swinney to compile multiple interceptions, forced fumbles and fumble recoveries in the same season. The Sky is the limit in terms of upside and potential for the legacy player. Looking for a sleeper candidate? Ohio State cornerback Davison Igbinosun has been mentioned as one player who showed up in the spring vastly improved. However, he’ll need to harness some of his aggressiveness, as he was called for an FBS-leading 16 penalties a year ago.

RANK | PLAYER | SCHOOL | YEAR | HEIGHT | WEIGHT | FORTY

1. Jermod McCoy, Tennessee, Jr, 5-11, 193, 4.50e

2. Mansoor Delane, LSU, Sr, 6-1, 187, 4.42e 

3. Malik Muhammad, Texas, Jr, 6-0, 190, 4.46e

4. Jalon Kilgore, South Carolina, Jr, 6-1, 219, 4.54e

5. Avieon Terrell, Clemson, Jr, 5-11, 180, 4.49e

6. Daylen Everette, Georgia, Sr, 6-1, 190, 4.47e

7. Chandler Rivers, Duke, Sr, 5-10, 180, 4.50e

8. Jyaire Hill, Michigan, rSo, 6-1, 185, 4.50e

9. AJ Harris, Penn State, Jr, 6-1, 193, 4.50e

10. Domani Jackson, Alabama, Sr, 6-1, 201, 4.49e

11. D’Angelo Ponds, Indiana, Jr, 5-9, 170, 4.45e

12. Jeremiah Wilson, Houston, Sr, 5-10, 185, 4.50e

13. Jontez Williams, Iowa State, rJr, 5-11, 200, 4.56e

14. Davison Igbinosun, Ohio State, Sr, 6-2, 193, 4.54e

15. Tacario Davis, Washington, Sr, 6-3, 190, 4.49e

16. Eli Bowen, Oklahoma, So, 5-9, 187, 4.47e

17. Xavier Scott, Illinois, Sr, 5-11, 190, 4.52e

18. Raion Strader, Auburn, Jr, 6-0, 182, 4.54e

19. Thaddeus Dixon, North Carolina, rSr, 6-0, 186, 4.50e

20. Amare Ferrell, Indiana, Jr, 6-2, 200, 4.59e

SAFETIES

The impact of Caleb Downs transferring from Tuscaloosa to Columbus was definitely felt during the Buckeyes' national championship run, as Downs compiled a highlight reel of game-changing plays. He provided a great presence down the stretch and seems to get better with every week that passes. Coming over from Purdue, new Oregon safety Dillon Thieneman is expected to have a major impact for the Ducks. In addition to being a reliable open-field tackler, Thieneman is able to jump the route with the best of them and is a bandit when it comes to reading the quarterback’s eyes. The well-respected leadership of Michael Taaffe returns for Texas. The local hometown native came to the Longhorns as a walk-on and will depart as a three-year starter that NFL scouts are very well aware of. A key reason for the USC turnaround on defense was the play of Kamari Ramsey who arrived from his cross-town rival UCLA. His first year for the Trojans provided glimpses of his ability to defend the pass but also step up in the box and help out in run support. He steps into a vital leadership role for 2025.

RANK | PLAYER | SCHOOL | YEAR | HEIGHT | WEIGHT | FORTY

1. Caleb Downs, Ohio State, Jr, 6-0, 205, 4.49e

2. Dillon Thieneman, Oregon, Jr, 6-0, 207, 4.48e

3. Michael Taaffe, Texas, rSr, 6-0, 195, 4.55e

4. Koi Perich, Minnesota, So, 6-1, 200, 4.55e

5. KJ Bolden, Georgia, So, 6-0, 185, 4.50e

6. Isaiah Nwokobia, SMU, rSr, 6-1, 202, 4.57e

7. Rod Moore, Michigan, rSr, 5-11, 198, 4.47e

8. Keon Sabb, Alabama, rJr, 6-1, 206, 4.56e

9. Kamari Ramsey, USC, rJr, 6-0, 204, 4.54e

10. Bray Hubbard, Alabama, Jr, 6-2, 204, 4.55e

11. Terry Moore, Duke, Sr, 6-1, 200, 4.57e

12. Bud Clark, TCU, rSr, 6-2, 185, 4.50e

13. Isaiah Nwokobia, SMU, rSr, 6-1, 202, 4.57e

14. Cole Wisniewski, Texas Tech, rSr, 6-3, 218, 4.58e

15. Xavier Nwankpa, Iowa, Sr, 6-2, 215, 4.50e

16. Caleb Weaver, Duke, rSr, 5-11, 190, 4.53e

17. Ike Larsen, Utah State, rSr, 5-10, 185, 4.50e

18. Fred Perry, West Virginia, Sr, 5-11, 197, 4.52e

19. Jalen Catalon, Missouri, rSr, 5-10, 205, 4.50e

20. Christian Ellis, Virginia Tech, Sr, 6-0, 202, 4.58e