Michigan State football starting quarterback Aidan Chiles has been pegged a player that could see their NFL Draft stock “soar” this upcoming season.

Michael Middlehurst-Schwartz of USA TODAY put together an article assessing 10 under-the-radar quarterback prospects that could have big years this upcoming see and Chiles cracked the list. In Middlehurst-Schwartz’s article dubbed “Which QBs could be next to rise in NFL draft? These 10 prospects might soar in 2026”, it was noted that Chiles’ athletic ability will grab NFL scouts attention as long as he also becomes more consistent.

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Here’s what Middlehurst-Schwartz had to say about Chiles:

“In following coach Jonathan Smith from Oregon State to Michigan State in December 2023, Chiles gave the Spartans some much-needed hope as they looked to turn the page on the Mel Tucker era. Yet nothing came easily to a program stuck in transition, and the former four-star recruit threw for just 13 touchdowns with 11 interceptions as his team stumbled to a 5-7 mark. Tamping down on his turnover-prone ways will be a vital step in Chiles’ development this season. But with his often dazzling deep balls and abundant athleticism, the 6-3, 217-pounder will capture plenty of attention if he can boost his efficiency and consistency.”

Chiles had an up-and-down first year with the Spartans, throwing for 2,415 yards, 13 touchdowns and 11 interceptions. He was better in the back half of the season, though, which should give fans some hope for further growth in 2025.

I wrote earlier this week how Chiles will be a massive indicator for success (or failure) for the Spartans in 2025. If he can reach his ceiling, I believe he’ll have the Spartans in contention for a spot in the College Football Playoff, and it sounds like Middlehurst-Schwartz that would result in him climbing up the 2026 NFL Draft board too.

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This article originally appeared on Spartans Wire: Aidan Chiles named as one QB that could “soar” up 2026 NFL Draft board