Top 2026 NFL draft prospects by position: Ranking the best player at every spot (Image via Getty) The 2026 NFL Draft is coming next April, and even now teams are studying players and setting up early boards. Scouts and team staff have already shared their early thoughts. We look at the top players by position and share what the experts are saying. Some names like Cade Klubnik, Jeremiyah Love, and Francis Mauigoa shine now, but many rankings may shift before draft day. It’s an exciting class already, with depth at quarterback, edge rusher, and more
1. Quarterback: Cade Klubnik leads early QB talk
Clemson QB Cade Klubnik stands out early in the 2026 draft class. Scouts praise his 43 total touchdowns in 2024 and his rhythm in the pocket. He is seen as a polished leader with NFL prediction potential.
2. Running back: Jeremiyah Love is RB1 right now
Notre Dame’s Jeremiyah Love headlines the 2026 RB group after a powerful season with 17 touchdowns. Scouts call him the clear early RB1 due to his burst, vision, and balance.
3. Wide Receiver: Jordyn Tyson watches from the top
Arizona State’s Jordyn Tyson ranks early as the top WR—6‑1, 195 lbs, with speed and big-play ability. Scouts note his drop issues but still rate him as a high-upside prospect.
4. Tight End: Kenyon Sadiq gains early attention as breakout TE
Kenyon Sadiq, a junior from the University of Oregon, is quickly rising as a top tight end prospect in the 2026 NFL Draft. Standing 6-foot-3 and weighing 245 pounds, Sadiq blends size and speed in a unique way.
5. Offensive Tackle: Francis Mauigoa sits atop the list
Miami’s Francis Mauigoa is rated the top OT prospect, known for elite physical tools and consistency. He leads the tackle group in multiple early big boards.
6. Interior O‑Line: Kadyn Proctor and Caleb Lomu rising
Kadyn Proctor (Alabama) and Caleb Lomu (Utah) are rising as versatile interior blockers. Proctor brings size and footwork; Lomu gained honors as top freshman blocker in 2024.
7. Defensive Tackle: Peter Woods stands alone at top
Clemson’s Peter Woods leads the DT group early. Evaluators call his space‑setting strength and pass‑rush ability among the best inside.
8. Edge Rusher: T.J. Parker and Keldric Faulk battle for top spot
Clemson’s T.J. Parker leads with 11 sacks in 2024 and strong pass‑rush moves, while Auburn’s Keldric Faulk earns praise for length, power and flexibility.
9. Linebacker: Anthony Hill Jr. viewed as early No. 1 ILB
Texas LB Anthony Hill Jr. stands out for versatility and ability to blitz or drop in coverage. Scouts value his all-around game early in linebacker rankings.
10. Cornerback: Jermod McCoy tops CB options
Tennessee’s Jermod McCoy is seen as the top cornerback once healthy. Scouts highlight his shutdown potential, with Clemson’s Avieon Terrell also rising quickly.
11. Safety: Caleb Downs leads overall rankings
Ohio State safety Caleb Downs ranks as the top safety and holds high overall value. Analysts compare his instincts and processing to top NFL talents.This overview reflects expert consensus from mid‑2025 and current rankings. Players like Arch Manning and Drew Allar push deep at QB; other sleeper names may rise with strong seasons. These picks represent early views everything may change before April 2026.
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