New England Patriots NFL Mock Draft 2026

I'm not claiming to be a CFB expert with these picks. I have done a lot of research in the last week or so and my picks are based on team need, player potential, and who I think will still be available when the Patriots pick at their various spots in the draft. My draft is a little different. I'm picking two players at every pick, because it's a bit of fun and again, I'm not some expert who has their finger on the pulse on who's going where and who's going to be available at x round or pick. Let's go:

Pats Picks 2026

Round 1: No. 31 overall

Round 2: No. 63 overall

Round 3: No. 95 overall

Round 4: No. 125 overall

Round 4: No. 131 overall

Round 5: No. 171 overall

Round 6: No. 191 overall

Round 6: No. 198 overall

Round 6: No. 202 overall

Round 6: No. 212 overall

Round 7: No. 247 overall

Biggest needs: OL, EDGE, LB

Round 1, Pick 31: – Blake Miller (OT, Clemson); Max Iheanachor (OT, Arizona State)

Blake Miller, the offensive tackle from Clemson, is presented as a highly dependable, pro-ready lineman with extensive college experience. A four-year starter with over 3,700 snaps and 54 consecutive starts, he stands out for his durability, consistency, and ability to handle high-level competition. At 6'7” and around 315 pounds, he has the physical profile and technical stability teams look for in a long-term offensive tackle.

He is viewed as a “high-floor” prospect, meaning he is expected to contribute immediately with minimal developmental risk. His pass protection is his strongest trait, having allowed very few sacks in college, which makes him particularly valuable for stabilizing an offensive line right away. The expectation is that he could step in as a day-one starter or at least provide immediate rotational depth with starter upside.

From a team-building perspective, selecting Miller reflects a focus on protecting the quarterback, specifically strengthening the offensive line to support Drake Maye. While the pick may come at the expense of addressing other needs like edge rusher or wide receiver, it signals a prioritization of long-term stability over short-term flash. In this projection, Miller is seen as a potential cornerstone at right tackle, with the ability to eventually replace veteran starters and anchor the position for years.

Max Iheanachor (OT, Arizona State) is presented as a developmental offensive tackle prospect targeted by the New England Patriots to address a key long-term need on the offensive line.

Standing 6'6” and weighing 321 pounds, Iheanachor is described as a powerful, physically imposing tackle with strong hand-fighting technique and the athletic traits needed to grow into a starting-caliber NFL lineman. His profile emphasizes upside rather than immediate elite production, projecting him as a player who can be developed into a reliable starter over time.

The Patriots’ interest is tied to roster construction around franchise quarterback Drake Maye, with the goal of improving pass protection and stabilizing the offensive line. Iheanachor is specifically viewed as a potential future right tackle who could eventually take over from veteran Morgan Moses as he ages.

A notable factor in his evaluation is familiarity from head coach Mike Vrabel’s involvement at Arizona State University’s Pro Day, which reportedly strengthened internal interest due to direct observation and personal evaluation.

In terms of role projection, Iheanachor is not expected to be an immediate star but rather a developmental piece who can provide depth early while being groomed into a long-term starter. His fit is especially relevant alongside other young offensive line investments, including the idea of pairing him with a 2025 first-round pick (Will Campbell) to build a more stable protection unit.

Overall, the pick is framed as a forward-looking offensive line investment: immediate depth with a clear pathway to becoming a foundational tackle in front of Drake Maye.

Round 2, Pick 63: – Max Klare (TE, Ohio State); Keionte Scott (CB, Miami)

Max Klare (TE, Ohio State) is described as a highly polished, well-rounded tight end prospect targeted by the New England Patriots to strengthen their passing attack and add more reliable middle-of-the-field options for quarterback Drake Maye.

Klare’s profile centers on balance and consistency. He is viewed as one of the more complete tight ends in the draft class because he contributes both as a receiver and as a functional in-line blocker. As a pass catcher, he is especially effective in the intermediate areas of the field, where he can move chains on third downs and serve as a dependable safety valve. His production at Ohio State, 116 receptions, 1,329 yards, and 6 touchdowns, highlights his steady involvement and reliability as a target rather than a purely explosive or situational player.

From a schematic perspective, Klare fits naturally into a system influenced by Josh McDaniels’ offensive principles, which often emphasize tight end usage in play-action concepts, option routes, and red-zone efficiency. His skill set makes him valuable in structured passing situations, particularly on third downs and in condensed-field scenarios where timing and reliability matter most.

In terms of roster context, Klare would join an already established tight end room featuring Hunter Henry, giving the Patriots a more versatile group. Rather than replacing Henry, Klare is projected to complement him, adding youth, developmental upside, and additional receiving depth at the position.

Overall, the evaluation frames Klare as an immediate contributor who can step into a defined offensive role while also offering long-term starter potential. His combination of production, reliability, and scheme fit makes him a strong candidate to upgrade the Patriots’ passing game infrastructure around Drake Maye.

Keionte Scott (CB, Miami) is described as a versatile and NFL-ready defensive back prospect who could provide an immediate upgrade for the New England Patriots secondary.

His primary value comes from positional flexibility. Scott has significant experience playing nickel corner, but his skill set extends beyond a single role. He is viewed as capable of rotating across multiple defensive back alignments, allowing a defense to disguise coverages and adjust personnel without substituting heavily.

Physically and technically, Scott is noted for his speed, clean coverage technique, and strong composure in high-pressure situations, including playoff-level competition. That combination makes him particularly appealing for a defense that values disciplined, assignment-sound defensive backs who can hold up in man coverage and react quickly in zone schemes.

From a usage standpoint, he is projected as either an immediate starter in the slot or a high-snap rotational defensive back who can be deployed in multiple packages. His versatility gives defensive coordinators flexibility to match up against modern spread offenses, where nickel defenders often play starter-level snap counts.

In terms of impact, Scott is framed as a “Day 1 contributor” who can step into the lineup quickly rather than requiring development time. His arrival would provide an instant boost to the secondary, particularly in coverage depth and matchup flexibility, helping stabilize a unit supporting the broader defensive structure around quarterback-facing game plans like those involving Drake Maye and opposing offenses.

Overall, Scott is seen as a high-floor, scheme-versatile defensive back who strengthens the Patriots’ pass defense immediately while offering long-term rotational and starting potential across multiple roles.

Round 3, Pick 95: – Romello Height (EDGE, Texas Tech); Zakee Wheatley (S, Penn State)

Romello Height (EDGE, Texas Tech) is described as a high-upside, traits-driven pass rusher prospect who would represent a developmental investment for the New England Patriots defense.

His evaluation is heavily based on athletic explosiveness rather than current polish or strength. Height shows elite burst off the line of scrimmage, highlighted by a 39-inch vertical jump and a fast 1.63-second 10-yard split, both indicators of rare first-step acceleration for an edge defender. This quickness allows him to threaten offensive tackles immediately out of his stance and create pressure before blockers can fully set their base.

As a pass rusher, his primary identity is speed-based disruption. He wins with explosiveness, bend around the edge, and sudden acceleration rather than refined hand usage or power moves. This makes him particularly effective in attacking the quarterback in obvious passing situations, where he can be deployed to stress protection schemes vertically.

However, the scouting profile also notes that he is still physically developing. He needs added strength and refinement in his technique to consistently hold up against NFL-level offensive tackles and to expand beyond a pure speed-rush role. At this stage, he is not viewed as a complete edge defender but rather as a raw prospect with significant developmental work ahead.

Zakee Wheatley (S, Penn State) is presented as a developmental yet versatile safety prospect who could add depth and long-term value to the New England Patriots secondary.

At 6'3”, Wheatley has strong length for the position, giving him the physical tools to match up with tight ends and larger receivers in coverage. His game is built around versatility, he can play as a deep safety, rotate into the box, or operate near the line of scrimmage in hybrid roles. This alignment flexibility allows him to contribute in multiple defensive packages, especially sub-packages that require interchangeable defensive backs.

In coverage, Wheatley shows encouraging playmaking instincts. He is capable of reading the quarterback, reacting quickly in zone coverage, and stepping into passing lanes when opportunities arise. He also flashes ability in both deep coverage assignments and closer-to-the-ball responsibilities, suggesting a well-rounded defensive skill set.

However, the evaluation also highlights areas for development. His consistency in run support needs improvement, particularly in terms of tackling discipline and physical engagement in congested areas. Additionally, his deep coverage discipline is still evolving, meaning he occasionally needs refinement in maintaining positioning and avoiding over-aggressive reactions.

Despite those developmental needs, Wheatley is viewed as a high-floor player because of his size, versatility, and special teams potential. He is expected to contribute early in those phases of the game while learning behind an established veteran like Kevin Byard, gaining experience within a structured defensive system.

Overall, the projection is that Wheatley offers immediate special teams value with the upside to grow into a rotational or sub-package safety, and eventually compete for a starting role if his consistency and discipline continue to improve. His overall draft grade of B+ reflects a solid blend of readiness, athletic traits, and long-term developmental upside.

In terms of projection, Height is seen as a long-term pass-rushing project with starter upside. He would not be expected to contribute at a high level immediately but could grow into a disruptive rotational player early in his career while working toward a full-time starting role.

Overall, the pick is framed as a high-ceiling defensive investment: a toolsy, explosive edge rusher who could eventually develop into a difference-making pass rusher if his strength and technique progress alongside his elite athletic traits.

Round 4, Pick 125: – Oscar Delp (TE, Georgia); Keyshaun Elliott (LB, Arizona State)

Oscar Delp (TE, Georgia) is presented as a developmental tight end prospect for the New England Patriots, projected to grow behind veteran Hunter Henry as part of a longer-term plan at the position.

Physically, Delp brings a prototypical NFL tight end frame at 6'5” and 245 pounds. He fits the mold of a pro-style tight end who can contribute in both phases of the game, with an emphasis on versatility rather than immediate high-volume production.

His college output at Georgia was modest, 20 receptions for 261 yards and 1 touchdown, but his evaluation is driven more by traits than production. He is viewed as an athletic pass-catching tight end with untapped potential in the receiving game. While he has not yet produced consistently as a featured receiver, scouts believe his tools suggest more upside than his college statistics indicate.

In addition to his receiving projection, Delp is considered a capable in-line blocker, which increases his value in balanced offensive systems. This dual-role capability makes him especially useful in two-tight end formations, where he can contribute to both the run and pass game without being a liability in either phase.

Within the Patriots’ roster context, Delp addresses a clear long-term need at tight end. With Hunter Henry aging and Austin Hooper no longer in the picture, the team needs a future successor who can develop within the system. Delp is not expected to replace Henry immediately but instead to learn behind him, gradually expanding his role over time.

Overall, he is viewed as a high-upside developmental TE2 who could outperform his draft position if his receiving skills progress. His impact projection is long-term: a complementary tight end who strengthens run blocking, supports two-TE packages, and potentially grows into a starting-caliber player in the future.

Keyshaun Elliott (LB, Arizona State) is presented as a physical, high-motor linebacker prospect who would add depth, energy, and developmental upside to the New England Patriots defense.

At around 6'1” to 6'2” and 231–235 pounds, Elliott fits the profile of a modern off-ball linebacker with enough range to play in space while still bringing physicality near the line of scrimmage. His game is built on effort, toughness, and consistent engagement rather than elite athletic traits alone.

On the field, Elliott stands out for his production and activity level. In 2025, he posted 98 tackles, 14 tackles for loss, and 7 sacks, showing that he can contribute both as a run defender and as a blitzer. His ability to generate backfield disruption suggests he can be used creatively in defensive game plans, especially in pressure packages.

He is also noted for leadership traits and strong character, with a reputation as a reliable communicator and “defensive green dot” type player in college systems. That points to potential future responsibilities as a defensive signal-caller if his development continues at the NFL level.

In terms of role projection, Elliott is expected to begin as depth behind established linebackers such as Robert Spillane and Christian Elliss, while also contributing immediately on special teams. His motor, tackling volume, and physical style make him a natural fit for those responsibilities early in his career.

Over time, he carries the upside to grow into a rotational linebacker and possibly an every-down defender if he continues refining his coverage consistency and diagnostic skills. His versatility as a tackler, blitzer, and communicator gives him a pathway to a larger defensive role.

Overall, Elliott is viewed as a high-effort, high-volume linebacker prospect who can contribute immediately in special teams and situational defense, with long-term potential to become a key rotational piece or even a defensive leader if his development progresses.

Round 4, Pick 131: – Kevin Coleman Jr. (WR, Missouri); VJ Payne (S, Kansas State)

Kevin Coleman Jr. (WR, Missouri) is presented as a quick, productive slot receiver and return specialist who would add immediate versatility and depth to the New England Patriots offense and special teams units.

Coleman’s primary identity is as a slot weapon. At Missouri, he recorded 66 receptions for 732 yards in 2025, showing consistent involvement as a reliable short-to-intermediate target. His skill set is built around quickness, separation ability in tight spaces, and dependable hands, making him well-suited for an offense that values timing-based passing concepts and yards-after-catch opportunities.

In the passing game, he projects as an immediate rotational or starting option in the slot, where he can operate as a chain-mover and underneath outlet for quarterback Drake Maye. His profile suggests he can help stabilize the middle of the field, particularly in third-down situations where quick reads and separation are essential.

Beyond offense, Coleman brings significant value as a return specialist. He has proven punt return ability, including a return touchdown and an average of over 12 yards per return. This gives him an immediate pathway to contribute on special teams from Day 1, adding field position value and explosive play potential in the return game.

From a roster perspective, Coleman fills a missing dimension by adding speed, agility, and vertical threat potential from the slot, while also improving special teams efficiency. His dual-role capability increases his overall value early in his career, even if his offensive role expands gradually.

Overall, he is viewed as an immediate contributor with a defined role in the return game and slot receiver rotation, while offering long-term upside as a dependable interior passing option who can consistently support the Patriots’ offensive structure.

VJ Payne (S, Kansas State) is described as a mature, experienced defensive back prospect who would add dependable depth and long-term upside to the New England Patriots secondary.

Payne brings a strong combination of size, speed, and experience. At 6'3” with 4.40 speed, he has the physical tools to function as a modern deep safety while also matching up effectively against tight ends in coverage. His frame and athletic profile make him versatile enough to play both traditional free safety roles and more hybrid assignments depending on defensive scheme needs.

One of his defining traits is his football intelligence and leadership. As a four-year starter and team captain at Kansas State, he is viewed as a high-IQ defender who understands coverage structure, communicates well on the back end, and consistently plays within the system. That experience translates into strong anticipation in deep coverage and reliable decision-making against complex offensive looks.

On the field, Payne is noted for disciplined deep coverage and his ability to maintain leverage in the secondary. He is especially effective when matching up with tight ends, using his size and awareness to limit separation and disrupt intermediate routes. While not necessarily an elite playmaker in terms of turnovers, he is valued for consistency and assignment soundness.

In terms of role projection, Payne is expected to begin as a rotational safety who can contribute in sub-packages and provide reliable depth behind the starters. His special teams experience and defensive awareness make him a strong candidate to be active early while he develops into a larger role.

Long-term, he carries starter potential due to his combination of size, speed, leadership, and positional versatility. If he continues to refine his playmaking instincts, he could develop into a dependable every-down safety.

Overall, Payne is viewed as a high-floor defensive back prospect who brings immediate stability, strong special teams value, and the potential to grow into a starting safety in a disciplined, communication-heavy defensive system.

Round 5, Pick 171: – Bryce Boettcher (LB, Oregon); Kaleb Elarms-Orr (LB, TCU)

Bryce Boettcher (LB, Oregon) is presented as a high-effort, versatile linebacker prospect who would primarily contribute immediately on special teams while developing into a rotational defender for the New England Patriots.

Boettcher’s background stands out for its unconventional path and competitiveness. Originally a walk-on who became a key contributor at Oregon, he also has a rare multi-sport profile as a Major League Baseball draft pick (Houston Astros), underscoring his overall athletic ability and competitive instincts.

On the field, Boettcher is defined by his motor, physicality, and leadership. In 2025, he recorded an impressive 136 tackles, reflecting both durability and a consistently active presence around the ball. His style is aggressive and effort-driven, often showing up in pursuit and contact situations where hustle and toughness are required.

A key part of his evaluation is his positional background as a former safety. That experience translates into above-average athleticism for a linebacker and gives him solid coverage ability compared to more traditional, run-stopping linebackers. It also enhances his value in passing situations and sub-packages where linebackers are asked to match up in space.

As a pass rusher and blitzer, Boettcher shows flashes of effectiveness, particularly when used creatively in pressure looks. He can attack gaps and disrupt timing, though he is not yet a refined or consistent edge threat. Against the run, he plays with physicality but is still developing in terms of recognition and diagnosing plays quickly, which is an area for continued growth at the NFL level.

In terms of role projection, he is expected to make his earliest impact on special teams, where his effort, tackling ability, and athletic profile make him a strong fit. Over time, he has the potential to develop into a rotational linebacker who can contribute in specific defensive packages, especially those requiring speed and coverage versatility.

Overall, Boettcher is viewed as a classic high-effort, high-floor depth linebacker with immediate special teams value and developmental upside as a modern, versatile defensive piece who can grow into a situational role within the Patriots’ defensive system.

Kaleb Elarms-Orr (LB, TCU) is presented as a developmental linebacker prospect for the New England Patriots who offers athletic upside, special teams value, and long-term rotational potential within the defensive system.

Physically, Elarms-Orr is defined by his explosiveness, speed, and range. He has the movement skills of a modern linebacker, allowing him to cover ground quickly in pursuit, chase plays sideline-to-sideline, and contribute in both run defense and passing situations. His athletic profile is the primary reason he is considered an intriguing “draft-and-develop” type player.

At TCU, he showed an ascending trajectory with increasing production, indicating steady development and growing comfort within defensive responsibilities. While he may not yet have extensive experience as a full-time starter at a high level, his growth trend suggests potential for continued improvement with coaching and system stability.

His biggest strengths lie in his physical tools, burst, acceleration, and overall range, which translate especially well to special teams, where he is expected to contribute immediately. His speed and effort make him a strong candidate for kickoff and coverage units early in his career.

However, Elarms-Orr still needs refinement in key linebacker skills such as play recognition, processing offensive schemes, and instinctive reactions to developing plays. These areas currently limit his consistency as a defensive contributor and are the primary focus for his development at the next level.

In terms of projection, he is expected to begin his career as a special teams contributor and depth linebacker behind the Patriots’ current rotation. With coaching and experience, he has the upside to grow into a rotational role, particularly in packages that emphasize speed and pursuit ability.

Overall, Elarms-Orr is viewed as a B-grade developmental prospect: a high-athleticism linebacker with immediate special teams impact and long-term upside as a depth defender if his instincts and recognition skills continue to improve.

Round 6, Pick 191: – Adam Randall (RB, Clemson); Jeremiah Wright (G, Auburn)

Adam Randall (RB, Clemson) is presented as a unique, developmental running back prospect with intriguing physical tools and versatility for the New England Patriots.

At 6'3” and 232 pounds, Randall offers rare size for a running back, especially combined with his athletic background as a converted wide receiver. That transition shows up in his skill set, he brings natural receiving ability, open-field movement skills, and positional flexibility that isn’t typical for a back of his frame.

On the ground, Randall produced 814 rushing yards at 4.8 yards per carry along with 13 total touchdowns, indicating solid efficiency and red-zone effectiveness. His running style is physical and downhill, using his size to absorb contact and push through defenders, while still maintaining enough speed to create chunk plays.

His versatility is a major part of his value. Because of his wide receiver background, he can contribute in the passing game as a check-down option or mismatched against linebackers. Additionally, his athleticism and size make him a candidate for special teams roles early in his career, which increases his chances of making an impact while he develops.

From a roster-building perspective, Randall is seen as a forward-looking investment. With uncertainty around the long-term future of Rhamondre Stevenson beyond 2026, he provides insurance as a potential power back who could eventually step into a larger role.

In terms of projection, Randall is not expected to be an immediate featured back but rather a developmental piece who can contribute situationally while refining his vision, consistency, and positional instincts. If his transition to running back continues to progress, he has the upside to become a versatile power runner with three-down potential.

Overall, he is graded as a solid late-round value (B): a high-upside, size-speed prospect who brings versatility, developmental intrigue, and long-term potential to the Patriots’ backfield.

Jeremiah Wright (G, Auburn) is presented as a physically imposing interior offensive lineman who would provide depth and developmental upside for the New England Patriots.

At 6'5” and 331 pounds, Wright brings prototypical size and strength for an NFL guard. His game is built around power and physicality, particularly in the run game, where he excels as a mauling blocker. He generates movement at the point of attack, making him especially effective in downhill, power-based rushing schemes that emphasize controlling the line of scrimmage.

One of his key strengths is versatility. Wright has experience playing multiple interior offensive line positions, which increases his value as a depth piece. He can serve as a backup at both guard spots and potentially provide emergency snaps at center, giving the offensive line flexibility in managing injuries and rotations.

However, his limitations come in pass protection. Compared to his run blocking, his pass sets and lateral quickness are less consistent, which can lead to struggles against quicker interior pass rushers. This makes him somewhat scheme-dependent early in his career, best suited for systems that lean on the run and minimize exposure in obvious passing situations.

From a roster perspective, Wright addresses a need for interior depth behind established players like Michael Onwenu. He helps stabilize a relatively thin offensive line room while offering insurance across multiple positions.

In terms of projection, Wright is expected to begin as a backup interior lineman who can contribute in rotational or situational roles, particularly in run-heavy packages. With development, especially in pass protection, he has the upside to grow into a starting guard in the right scheme.

Overall, Wright is viewed as a scheme-specific developmental lineman: a powerful run blocker who provides immediate depth and long-term starter potential in a physical, ground-oriented offensive system.

Round 6, Pick 198: – Red Murdock (LB, Buffalo); Cyrus Allen (WR, Cincinnati)

Red Murdock (LB, Buffalo) is portrayed as a highly productive, physical linebacker prospect who would bring immediate toughness and special teams value to the New England Patriots.

Murdock’s defining trait is his elite tackling production. With nearly 300 tackles over two seasons, he consistently demonstrated a strong ability to find the ball, finish plays, and operate as a high-volume defensive presence. His play style is aggressive and downhill, making him particularly effective against the run, where he diagnoses quickly and attacks gaps with force.

In addition to his tackling, Murdock has shown a knack for creating turnovers, including record-setting forced fumbles. This speaks to his physicality and ability to deliver impactful hits, especially in traffic and short-yardage situations. He also flashes value as a blitzer, using his instincts and timing to disrupt plays in the backfield.

However, his limitations are clear in coverage. He is not considered a strong option in space against receivers or tight ends, which caps his role in passing situations and prevents him from being an every-down linebacker at this stage.

Because of that skill set, Murdock is best projected as an early-down run defender and a core special teams contributor. His physicality, tackling consistency, and effort level make him an ideal fit for kickoff, punt coverage, and other high-contact phases of the game.

In terms of role, he would likely begin as a special teams “enforcer” while rotating into defensive packages that emphasize run stopping and situational pressure. Over time, he could carve out a steady role as a rotational linebacker in base defense.

Overall, Murdock is viewed as a high-floor, role-specific linebacker: an elite producer and tone-setter against the run with immediate special teams impact, but with limitations in coverage that define his usage at the next level.

Cyrus Allen (WR, Cincinnati) is presented as a reliable, technically sound wide receiver prospect who would add depth and versatility to the New England Patriots receiving corps.

Allen’s game is built around route-running precision and separation ability rather than elite explosiveness. He operates effectively as a “big slot” receiver, using his size and smooth movement to create space against defenders in the short-to-intermediate areas of the field. This role draws stylistic comparisons to Jakobi Meyers, particularly in how he functions as a possession target and chain-mover.

One of his key strengths is reliability. Allen consistently runs clean routes, finds soft spots in coverage, and presents a dependable target for quarterbacks in timing-based offenses. That makes him especially useful on third downs and in structured passing situations where precision matters more than raw speed.

At the same time, there are elements of vertical ability in his profile. While he may not be considered a true explosive deep threat, he has shown enough speed, highlighted by a strong showing at the Senior Bowl, to stretch the field situationally and potentially develop into a more complete receiver over time.

From a roster-building perspective, Allen adds depth even if the Patriots pursue higher-end receiver upgrades (such as rumored interest in A.J. Brown). He provides a complementary skill set: a steady possession receiver who can contribute in the slot while also offering developmental upside as a more versatile option.

In terms of projection, Allen could compete for a role early as a rotational receiver and special teams contributor, with the potential to emerge as a reliable chain-moving option in the passing game. His polished route running and consistency give him a relatively high floor, even if his ceiling is tied to incremental improvements in explosiveness and playmaking.

Overall, he is viewed as a dependable depth receiver with a clear role fit, someone who can support the offense with reliability and versatility while developing into a trusted target over time.

Round 6, Pick 202: – Nick Barrett (DT South Carolina); TJ Hall (CB Iowa)

Round 6, Pick 212: – Caleb Douglas (WR Texas Tech); Jalon Daniels (QB Kansas)

Caleb Douglas is a traits-based wide receiver prospect whose appeal centers on his physical upside rather than polished production. With a long frame, an approximate 80-inch wingspan, and reported 4.39 speed, he brings an enticing combination of size and deep-threat ability that can stretch defenses vertically. His length gives him a wide catch radius, making him a potential target on downfield throws and contested situations.

Douglas’s biggest value early on comes as a vertical threat. He has the speed to get behind defenders and create explosive-play opportunities, which fits well in offenses looking to open up space underneath. His physical tools suggest he could eventually develop into a mismatch weapon, especially against smaller defensive backs.

However, he remains a developmental prospect due to inconsistencies in key technical areas. Drops have been an issue, pointing to unreliable hands at times, and his route running lacks refinement, he’ll need to improve his precision, timing, and ability to separate on intermediate routes. These limitations mean he may not be ready for a full offensive workload right away.

In terms of impact, Douglas projects as a situational contributor early in his career, likely used in specific packages designed to maximize his speed and vertical ability. With coaching and development, he has the upside to grow into a more complete receiver, but initially he profiles as a high-ceiling, low-floor option whose success will depend on how well he refines his fundamentals.

Jalon Daniels (Kansas) is framed as one of the most intriguing high-upside quarterback prospects due to his blend of athleticism and playmaking ability. As a dual-threat QB, he brings both a strong arm and legitimate running skills, allowing him to extend plays and generate explosive offense outside of structure. At his best, he has shown flashes of elite performance, even earning some of the highest quarterback grades nationally in prior seasons. His leadership also stands out—serving as a four-time team captain, he’s clearly respected within the program.

Statistically, his recent production reinforces that versatility. In 2025, he threw for 2,531 yards and 22 touchdowns while adding over 400 rushing yards, highlighting his ability to impact the game in multiple ways. This dynamic skill set makes him particularly appealing for teams looking to develop a modern, mobile quarterback who can stress defenses both through the air and on the ground.

However, there are real concerns that temper his projection. His injury history is a significant red flag, raising questions about durability and long-term availability. Additionally, he has shown inconsistency as a traditional pocket passer, which could limit his readiness to operate a structured NFL offense early in his career.

In terms of team fit, Daniels projects as a developmental backup quarterback, especially for a team needing a third QB option after moving on from a veteran like Joshua Dobbs. The idea would be to bring him along slowly, refine his passing consistency, and capitalize on his athletic upside. Ultimately, he’s a classic “traits over polish” prospect: if a team is willing to bet on ceiling rather than immediate reliability, Daniels offers intriguing long-term potential.

Round 7, Pick 247: – Lorenzo Styles Jr. (S Ohio State);  D.J. Campbell (OG Texas)

Lorenzo Styles Jr. is one of the more intriguing developmental defensive back prospects due to his unique background and elite athletic traits. Originally a wide receiver, he transitioned to the defensive side of the ball, which gives him a natural feel for route concepts, timing, and how receivers think. That offensive experience shows up in his anticipation skills, particularly when reading routes and reacting to the ball in coverage.

Athletically, Styles stands out immediately. With reported 4.27 speed and a 39-inch vertical, he possesses explosive movement ability that translates well to both safety and cornerback roles. At around 6'1” and 194 pounds, he has a solid frame to match up with a variety of offensive players, from slot receivers to more physical pass catchers. His speed and burst also make him a strong candidate for special teams, where he can contribute right away while continuing to develop defensively.

The main limitation is his rawness. Because he’s still relatively new to playing defense full-time, his technique, positioning, and overall consistency are still developing. He may struggle early with coverage discipline and the nuances of defensive schemes, which means he’s not an immediate starter candidate.

In terms of team fit, Styles projects as a depth defensive back who can provide versatility across both safety and cornerback spots while contributing heavily on special teams. Within a roster that already includes established players like Christian Gonzalez and Carlton Davis III, he would likely be brought along slowly as a long-term project. His ultimate upside lies in becoming a hybrid defensive back with the athleticism to make impact plays, but his early value will come from special teams and situational defensive packages.

D.J. Campbell profiles as a sturdy, power-based interior offensive lineman who brings reliability and physicality more than elite athletic upside. Coming out of Texas, he shows a strong anchor at the point of attack, allowing him to hold up well against interior pass rushers and contribute effectively in the run game, particularly in downhill blocking schemes.

At around a 5.01 forty-yard dash, his athletic testing is solid but not exceptional, which shows up on tape. He’s not the most fluid or agile laterally, and that can limit his effectiveness in space or in schemes that require guards to pull frequently or block in open-field situations. However, within a more traditional, power-oriented system, his functional movement skills are sufficient, and his strength becomes a clear asset.

Campbell’s game is built on consistency and dependability rather than flash. He plays with good balance, can absorb contact, and does his job without becoming a liability. That makes him a relatively safe late-round option, even if his ceiling is limited compared to more athletic interior prospects.

In terms of impact, as a Round 7 selection, he projects as a depth guard competing for a roster spot. His immediate value would likely come from providing interior offensive line depth and potentially contributing on special teams units that utilize bigger bodies. With development, he could grow into a reliable backup or spot starter, offering stability along the interior line when needed.