Analysis for the 2026 NFL Draft has begun across the football landscape following the conclusion of the 2025 selection process. Scouting experts and reporters are publishing initial prospect evaluations and projecting potential draft order more than a year before the event is scheduled to take place.
Early projections highlight numerous prospects across various positions, particularly on the offensive and defensive lines, as well as at quarterback. Several players from prominent college programs are appearing frequently on initial lists.
Among the signal-callers drawing early attention are Fernando Mendoza from Indiana and LaNorris Sellers of South Carolina. Nate Tice listed both quarterbacks among his top prospects, noting Mendoza's accuracy and feel for the position, and Sellers' athleticism and arm strength. Tice also included Garrett Nussmeier (LSU) and Cade Klubnik (Clemson) in his early top 25.
The defensive side features several players from Clemson, including defensive tackle Peter Woods and edge rusher T.J. Parker. Cornerbacks Avieon Terrell and Jermod McCoy are also listed among the top players. Ohio State safety Caleb Downs is projected as a potential early selection, described as a versatile player with football awareness. Other defenders like Texas linebacker Anthony Hill Jr. and Miami edge Rueben Bain Jr. are also prominent in initial rankings.
Offensive line prospects are well represented. Nate Tice identified Utah tackles Caleb Lomu and Spencer Fano, Oregon tackle Isaiah World, Alabama tackle Kadyn Proctor, Florida tackle Austin Barber, and Miami lineman Francis Mauigoa.Other analysts concur on the depth at the position. Dane Brugler projects Boston College tackle Jude Bowry. Rob Rang named Illinois tackle JC Davis. Ian Cummings identified Wake Forest tackle Fa’alili Fa’amoe as a potential fit for teams looking ahead at offensive tackle needs.Defensive backs like Penn State cornerback AJ Harris and Ohio State cornerback Davison Igbinosun are also appearing on mock drafts. Analysts Max Chadwick and Dalton Wasserman see Harris as a potential fit for teams needing an outside cornerback. Kyle Crabbs noted Igbinosun possesses traits to improve his draft stock.
While the draft is a year away, player performance in the upcoming college football season will heavily influence these initial projections.
As Nate Tice stated about South Carolina's quarterback prospect, "Get used to hearing the name LaNorris Sellers in the 2026 NFL Draft cycle."
