The air is electric, the anticipation palpable! This isn’t just another NFL Draft; it’s a treasure hunt for the league’s next generation of gridiron warriors. While the top-tier talents dominate the headlines and the mock drafts, my heart â and my decades of film study â always leads me to a different kind of prospect: the underrated ballers. These aren’t necessarily the flashiest names on my final top-150 Big Board, but they are the bedrock, the unsung heroes who play with a fire and an intelligence that jumps off the screen. My favorite prospects aren’t just good; they’re the embodiment of grit, high football IQ, and an unshakeable work ethic. They’re the kind of players coaches dream of, the ones who elevate locker rooms and make every snap count. Let’s dive into the tape and uncover these diamonds in the rough, the 15 tough, hard-nosed prospects who play football the right way.
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Quarterback
Payton waited for his turn, patiently sharpening his blade behind Cam Miller for three years before finally seizing the starting reins for the Bison in 2025. And seize them he did! Over 13 games, Payton wasn’t just impressive; he was an efficiency marvel, completing a scorching 72% of his throws for 2,719 yards, 16 touchdowns, and a mere four interceptions. Make no mistake, Payton possesses the arm talent to make the difficult throws â the back-shoulder fades, the tight-window lasers â and while his delivery might be a touch longer than some, his accuracy is surgical. Heâs got the intrinsic traits of a high-upside developmental quarterback in the NFL, a project worth investing in.
But what truly makes Payton a favorite is his electrifying rushing ability, a dynamic dimension that could get him on the field in creative sub-packages from day one. He rumbled for 777 yards and 13 touchdowns last season, showcasing a punishing blend of speed and power. North Dakota State smartly deployed him as a ball carrier in prior years too, where he averaged a remarkable 6.7 yards per carry and accumulated a staggering 31 rushing touchdowns over his career. We’re talking about a genuine dual-threat weapon with 4.56 speed packed into a robust 6-foot-3, 232-pound frame. I envision an innovative NFL offensive coordinator unleashing Payton in a Taysom Hill-esque role, but with more traditional quarterback upside. I absolutely love the competitive fire and raw talent Payton brings, and I’m confident he’ll be off the board as early as Round 4, providing immediate impact and long-term potential.
Running back
If you’re looking for a back who embodies decisiveness, vision, and sheer will, look no further than Johnson. This is a one-cut-and-go maestro who fearlessly carried the load for the Cornhuskers, transforming into their offensive heartbeat last season. His stat line tells a powerful story: 251 carries for an incredible 1,451 yards â fourth in the FBS â and 12 touchdowns. At 5-foot-10 and 202 pounds, he’s a compact, low-to-the-ground runner who explodes through the smallest creases and consistently finishes runs with authority, often falling forward. His national ranking of fourth with 93 forced missed tackles last season isn’t just a stat; it’s a testament to his elusive power and uncanny ability to shake off defenders.
But Johnson isn’t just a ground-and-pound specialist; he’s a legitimate playmaker in the passing game. His 85 catches over the past two seasons (656 yards, five TDs) rank him third among FBS running backs during that span. He boasts reliable, natural hands, making him a true three-down back in the pros â capable of being a safety valve, running routes out of the slot, or making defenders miss in space. Johnson was undeniably the glue of that Nebraska team, a leader whose unwavering commitment and relentless effort are lauded by his coaches. I have him firmly entrenched as my RB3, and any team drafting him in the third or fourth round will be getting an instant contributor with a veteran’s approach to the game.
Wide receiver
I’m highlighting two dynamic pass-catchers here, both capable of electrifying an NFL offense. First up, Zachariah Branch has been “my guy” since last summer, consistently dazzling scouts and earning a spot in and out of my personal top 25. This kid is consistently the fastest man on the field, a blur of motion highlighted by his blazing 4.35 in the 40-yard dash at the combine. The directive is simple: get the ball into his hands in space, and he’s off to the races, leaving defensive backs grasping at air. Branch snagged 81 catches for 811 yards and six TDs last season, but here’s the kicker: an astounding 636 of his yards came *after the catch*. Georgia utilized him extensively underneath, turning short passes into long gains, but I firmly believe his pro system will unlock even more of his downfield potential.
At 5-foot-9 and 177 pounds, he might not fit every team’s mold, but his sure hands â which he showcased with seamless grace in the gauntlet drill â combined with his lightning-quickness and proven ability to return kicks, make him an absolute NFL playmaker. I see shades of Zay Flowers in his game, but with an even more explosive YAC profile. Round 2 is where I expect him to land, and whichever team snags him will be adding a human highlight reel.
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Zachariah Branch’s NFL draft profile
Check out some of the top highlights from Georgia’s Zachariah Branch.
While Brazzell might hear his name called slightly after Branch â thinking late Round 2 or sometime during Round 3 â he possesses a tantalizing array of traits that NFL coaches covet. He’s a towering presence at 6-foot-4 and 198 pounds, yet he runs a jaw-dropping 4.37-second 40-yard dash, a speed almost unheard of for his frame. Brazzell boasts an expansive catch radius, demonstrating an innate ability to adjust to poorly thrown balls and still make the grab, often plucking contested passes out of the air. The stats back up the tape: he caught 62 passes for 1,017 yards and nine TDs last season, averaging a robust 16.4 yards per reception. Heâs a high-upside boundary receiver who can stretch the field vertically and win jump balls consistently, making him a dangerous weapon for any quarterback.
Tight end
When you talk about football royalty, the Raridon name resonates, and Eli is the latest in a formidable lineage. I’ve had the distinct pleasure of scouting three generations of Raridons, starting with Scott Raridon Sr., an offensive lineman for Nebraska in the early 1980s who was drafted by the Eagles in 1984. Then came Scott Raridon Jr., who anchored the offensive line for Notre Dame in the early 2000s. Now, Eli, the third in line, emerges as a massive target at 6-foot-6 and 245 pounds, a player who consistently makes tough, contested catches down the field.
Raridon truly shone early in the season, delivering impressive performances with 97 yards against Miami and then 85 against Texas A&M in his very next game. While he only hit that threshold one more time, finishing with 482 yards in nine games, the flashes of brilliance were undeniable. There’s still room for him to further fill out his impressive frame, and with continued development, his ceiling is considerable. Raridon projects as a versatile role player in the NFL, with the ability to line up as an H-back, an in-line blocker, or a mismatch in the passing game. He’s exactly the kind of gritty, high-IQ player who excels in the trenches and makes critical catches, and I fully expect him to be a valuable addition in Round 4.
Offensive tackle
Based on pure, unadulterated potential, Iheanachor *should* be a first-rounder. But his remarkable journey and still-developing technique likely place him firmly in the second round â a steal for whichever team snags him. For those unfamiliar with his incredible story, Iheanachor grew up playing soccer in Nigeria and didn’t even pick up a football until 2022. That’s right, just four years ago! I absolutely adore everything about his meteoric rise and how he simply keeps getting better and better with every single rep.
He’s a physical marvel at 6-foot-6 and 321 pounds, boasting an impressive 33â -inch arm length. But what truly dropped jaws at the combine was his astonishing 4.91-second 40-yard dash, showcasing freakish quickness for a man his size. Despite being so new to the game, he’s already started 31 collegiate games, consistently battling against some of the best edge rushers in the nation. His growth trajectory is steep, and his ceiling is sky-high. He plays with raw power and surprising agility, constantly refining his craft. This is a prospect whose best football is still far ahead of him, and he represents one of the highest-upside investments in the entire draft.
Game Highlights: Zachariah Branch’s Explosive Performance
Let’s rewind the tape to the Week 8 showdown against the rival Florida Gators â a game where Zachariah Branch wasn’t just good; he was utterly unstoppable. From the opening kick, Branch signaled his intentions, taking the kick-off from 5 yards deep in his own end zone, a shimmy and a burst later, he was through the first wave. Two Gators collided trying to corral him, another grasping at air, and Branch was gone â 105 yards to the house! The stadium erupted, a sea of red and black rocking as he spiked the ball emphatically. It set the tone for a game where every touch was a threat.
Later in the first quarter, with Georgia pinned deep, the play-call was a simple screen. Branch caught the ball at the 5-yard line, seemingly surrounded by three defenders. But in a flash, he hit the brakes, sent one defender flying past him, then juked another out of his cleats, turning a potential loss into a 22-yard gain and a crucial first down that flipped field position. His vision and instant acceleration were on full display, showcasing why he’s so dangerous with the ball in his hands.
The defining moment came in the third quarter. Georgia was down by a field goal, facing a critical 3rd & 7. Branch lined up in the slot, ran a quick out-route, and the ball was delivered perfectly. He secured the catch, but the play wasn’t over. With a defender closing fast, Branch spun away, darted upfield, and then unleashed a devastating stiff-arm that sent the cornerback stumbling. He then turned on the jets, outracing the entire secondary for a breathtaking 65-yard touchdown. It was a play that showcased not just his speed, but his strength, vision, and sheer will to find the end zone. That night, Branch finished with 8 catches for 145 yards, 2 receiving touchdowns, and that unforgettable kick return, single-handedly willing his team to a thrilling victory. That’s the kind of game-changing ability he brings to the NFL.
Prediction
This draft class is brimming with talent, but the true gold often lies just beneath the surface of the top-10 hype. My prediction is simple: the players on this “favorites” list, these tough, high-IQ, relentless competitors, will not only exceed expectations but will become invaluable foundational pieces for their respective NFL franchises. While they may not all hear their names called on Day 1, their impact will be felt profoundly and immediately. They are the locker room leaders, the unsung heroes who do the dirty work, and the unexpected playmakers who will etch their names into the hearts of fan bases. Look for these “underrated ballers” to outproduce many higher-drafted players, proving once again that grit, intelligence, and a pure love for the game are often the most potent ingredients for long-term NFL success. Don’t be surprised when these names become household favorites and critical components of playoff teams in the very near future. The future stars aren’t always found at the very top, but often in the places where true grit and determination shine brightest.
The NFL Draft isn’t just about selecting players; it’s about drafting the future, injecting raw talent and unwavering grit into the heart of a franchise. As the 2026 class comes into sharper focus, the buzz around a particular cohort of trench warriors and defensive playmakers is reaching a fever pitch. These aren’t just prospects; they’re architects of impact, poised to redefine their positions and dominate on Sundays. From devastating blockers to relentless pass rushers and ball-hawking defensive backs, this group embodies the kind of energy and analysis that will have GMs salivating.
Right Tackle
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Max Iheanachor’s NFL draft profile
Check out some of the top highlights from Arizona State’s Max Iheanachor.
Max Iheanachor isn’t just pointing up; he’s on a vertical trajectory to stardom as a right tackle. This Arizona State behemoth embodies the modern offensive lineman: a devastating run-blocker with the agility to mirror elite edge rushers. At 6-foot-7, 330 pounds, Iheanachor moves like a man 50 pounds lighter, showcasing remarkable footwork and a powerful punch that jolts defenders backward. His progression has been meteoric, transforming from a raw talent into a dominant force, consistently demonstrating the bend and anchor necessary to stonewall pass rushers. Teams looking for a cornerstone protector on the right side will see Iheanachor as a Day 1 starter, ready to anchor an offensive line for years. His tape reveals a player constantly seeking contact, finishing blocks with an undeniable ferocity that sets the tone for an entire offense.
Guard
Versatility is often a buzzword in draft circles, but for Pregnon, it’s a living, breathing testament to his adaptability and elite skill set. This interior mauler has anchored lines at three different powerhouses â Wyoming, USC, and Oregon â accumulating an astonishing 3,087 career snaps while surrendering a measly seven sacks. That’s not just solid; that’s a statistically dominant track record against top-tier competition. His 6-foot-4, 314-pound frame is a wrecking ball in the run game. When you dive into the film, particularly his legendary performance against Iowa in 2025, you witness a masterclass in offensive line play. Oregonâs ground attack steamrolled the Hawkeyes for 261 yards at a staggering 7.3 yards per carry, a testament to Pregnon’s ability to consistently sustain blocks, explode to the second level, and physically overwhelm defenders with relentless power and leverage. In pass protection, heâs a brick wall, showcasing heavy, controlled hands and the core strength to lock out even the most powerful defensive tackles. While a late Day 1 surprise isn’t out of the question, Pregnon is a rock-solid, high-impact second-round pick who will transform any interior line.
Center
In the trenches, consistency, experience, and intelligence are gold, and Slaughter possesses all three in spades. This battle-tested SEC pivot has commanded offensive lines for 33 starts and over 2,000 snaps, a crucible of top-tier competition where heâs yielded an almost unbelievable six pressures and three sacks. Thatâs elite-level protection from the nerve center of the offense. Standing at 6-foot-5, 303 pounds, Slaughter isn’t just a big body; heâs a smart, agile big body. He explodes off the snap, driving defenders out of desired rushing lanes with brute force, yet displays remarkable lateral agility and footwork to handle dynamic interior stunts and twists. His awareness is truly exceptional, often diagnosing defensive games before they unfold and calling out protections with veteran savvy. Slaughter is the definition of a reliable, high-IQ football player who will elevate the communication and execution of any NFL offensive line. A projected fourth-round steal, he’s the kind of player who outplays his draft slot for a decade.
Edge Rusher
Forget the one-trick ponies; Gabe Jacas is the Swiss Army knife of edge rushers, a multidimensional force who redefined the position at Illinois. Unlike many top prospects solely focused on sacking the QB, Jacas embraced the dirty work, consistently setting a dominant edge against the run and showcasing surprising fluidity dropping into coverage. This selfless approach didn’t diminish his disruptive impact, however. Armed with a formidable 6-foot-4, 260-pound frame and 33-inch arms, Jacas still racked up a staggering 11 sacks, 34 pressures, and 12.5 tackles for loss last season. These are eye-popping numbers for a player handling such a diverse workload. He possesses the raw power to bull rush, the quickness to bend the edge, and the instincts to shed blocks. Jacas is criminally underrated, a true Friday night talent (Round 2) who could easily slip into the early third. Any team seeking a versatile, high-motor defender who can impact every facet of the game will fall in love with his tape.
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Gabe Jacas’ NFL draft profile
Check out some of the top highlights from Illinois’ Gabe Jacas.
Defensive Tackle
Don’t let the ‘tweener’ label fool you; Proctor is an absolute blur in the interior trenches, a disruptive force who defies conventional size expectations. At 6-foot-2, 291 pounds, he might not fit the prototypical defensive tackle mold, but his 4.79-second 40-yard dash at the combine â an elite time for his position â showcases his explosive first step. Proctor is ‘quick as a cat,’ consistently generating interior push that collapses pockets and blows up run plays. His nine sacks and 13 tackles for loss last season weren’t merely products of FCS competition; his dominant performance against LSU in September (five tackles, two sacks, three TFLs) proved his game translates against the best. What truly sets Proctor apart, beyond his electrifying play, is his unwavering loyalty. In an era of rampant transfers, he chose to stay and finish his career at SE Louisiana, a testament to his character and commitment. NFL teams will undoubtedly value that rare blend of explosive talent and unshakeable integrity. Proctor is a fifth-round gem with the potential to significantly outperform his draft slot.
Linebacker
For three seasons, Rolder honed his craft in the shadows, a backup waiting for his moment. When 2025 arrived, he didn’t just seize the opportunity; he exploded onto the scene as one of Michigan’s premier defensive players and an undeniable leader. This Day 3 target is brimming with untapped potential. At 6-foot-3, 238 pounds, Rolder is a quintessential off-ball linebacker who jumps off the screen with his blend of physicality and athleticism. His stat line â 69 tackles, 6.5 TFLs, two sacks, 10 run stops, and an interception â only scratches the surface of his impact. Rolder possesses the football IQ to quickly diagnose plays, the burst to close on ball carriers, and the fluid athleticism to excel in coverage. As a blitzer, his speed and pursuit angles make him a legitimate threat to quarterbacks. Rewatching his dominant performance against Michigan State (10 tackles, a sack, and a pivotal fumble recovery) is a masterclass in linebacker play. He wraps up with authority and rarely misses tackles. Rolder isn’t just a project; he’s a ready-made impact player who will be an absolute steal in the early rounds of Day 3, a true heartbeat for any NFL defense.
Cornerback
Size queens, look away. These three electrifying cornerbacksâTerrell, Ponds, and Riversâmight not boast the prototypical towering frames, but they play with a tenacious, “spunky” ferocity that belies their dimensions. At 5-foot-11, 186 pounds (Terrell), 5-foot-9, 182 pounds (Ponds), and 5-foot-10, 185 pounds (Rivers), they are projected primarily as elite slot corners at the next level, but their impact extends far beyond. What they lack in height, they compensate for with uncanny route recognition, sensational ball skills, and an aggressive, fearless approach to contact. Ponds is an athletic marvel, his 43½-inch vertical jump at the combine translating into breathtaking plays on the ball, evidenced by his seven interceptions and 27 pass breakups over three seasons. Rivers mirrors that playmaking ability with seven INTs and 23 breakups over four years, showcasing elite 4.4 speed and the ability to plant-and-drive with explosive precision. Terrell is a technician, seamlessly flipping his hips to run with the fastest receivers and possessing a sixth sense for timing his attack on the ball, resulting in three picks and 27 breakups. These aren’t just coverage specialists; they are disruptive forces who love to hit, force fumbles, and impact special teams. Terrell and Ponds are firmly in the second-round conversation, while Rivers is a strong Day 2 value (third or fourth round). Expect these dynamic playmakers to continue their college production at the NFL level, making game-changing plays from the slot and beyond.
Safety
Some prospects are simply football players, pure and unadulterated. Louis is one such phenomenon, a defensive Swiss Army knife who demands attention. My esteemed colleague Louis Riddick and I are in lockstep on this one, though we quibble over his official positional designation â linebacker for Riddick, safety for me. Honestly, it’s a moot point. Louis is a chameleon, a defensive coordinator’s dream who will seamlessly morph between box safety, off-ball linebacker, edge rusher, slot defender, and even deep-half safety. He doesn’t just play; he finds the football, consistently inserting himself into the heart of the action with an almost gravitational pull. His 4.53 speed isn’t just fast; it’s *urgent*, allowing him to cover ground with breathtaking efficiency. At 6-foot, 220 pounds, with impressive length, he’s a heat-seeking missile once he arrives, a tackling machine who rarely misses. His two-year statistical resume is simply jaw-dropping: 183 tackles, 24.5 tackles for loss, 30 run stops, 10 sacks, six interceptions, and two forced fumbles. This isn’t just production; it’s a masterclass in defensive instincts and relentless effort. Louis is a true baller, a game-wrecker who will be a certified second or third-round steal, capable of immediately elevating any NFL defense.
Game Highlights: Moments of Dominance
- Pregnon vs. Iowa (2025): A true masterclass in interior offensive line play. Pregnon repeatedly drove defenders off the line of scrimmage, creating colossal running lanes that allowed Oregon’s ground game to explode for 261 yards and an astounding 7.3 yards per carry. His ability to sustain blocks and reach the second level was simply phenomenal.
- Proctor vs. LSU (September): Silencing any doubts about his FCS competition, Proctor put on a clinic against SEC powerhouse LSU. He amassed five tackles, two sacks, and three tackles for loss, showcasing his elite interior burst and disruptive power against top-tier talent. It was a statement game.
- Rolder vs. Michigan State: A quintessential performance from the emerging linebacker. Rolder racked up 10 tackles, delivered a crucial sack, and secured a game-changing fumble recovery. This game highlighted his exceptional instincts, relentless tackling prowess, and innate ability to be around the football when it mattered most.
- Ponds’ Combine Vertical Jump: While not a game, his incredible 43½-inch vertical jump at the combine perfectly illustrates the explosive athleticism that translates directly into his seven interceptions and 27 pass breakups on the field.
Prediction
The 2026 NFL Draft is shaping up to be a goldmine for teams seeking foundational talent, particularly in the trenches and the defensive backfield. This class of linemen and defensive difference-makers isn’t just deep; it’s brimming with high-character, high-impact players ready to make an immediate splash. From Max Iheanachor’s anchoring presence at right tackle to Louis’s chameleon-like versatility in the secondary, teams will find foundational pieces that aren’t just prospects, but future leaders. Expect several of these names to not only outperform their draft slots but to become household names, defining their respective positions for years to come. The blend of raw power, athletic explosion, football IQ, and unwavering commitment found in these players ensures that the 2026 NFL Draft will be remembered as a class that truly delivered game-changing talent.