NFL Draft Countdown: Top Players to Watch
With just over 24 hours left until the 2026 NFL Draft, anticipation is building around who will be the top pick. Fernando Mendoza is expected to go first, but he won’t be the only player chosen.
This year, there are 257 spots in the draft, kicking off with the Las Vegas Raiders at No. 1 and concluding with the Denver Broncos at No. 257. It’s unclear if the Broncos will make that final pick or if another team will swoop in, but one thing’s for sure: many players will have their names called in the coming days.
Let’s dive into seven players worth keeping an eye on, including a standout who may not be a “sleeper” in the traditional sense, but is definitely my favorite to watch apart from Caleb Downs.
Cole Wisniewski, S, Texas Tech University
Texas Tech has several defenders anticipated to be selected in the early rounds of the draft. For instance, pass rusher David Bailey is projected to go No. 2 to the New York Jets, while linebacker Jacob Rodriguez might snag a first-round spot. Defensive tackle Lee Hunter and pass rusher Romello Hite are also expected to be second-day picks.
On the other hand, safety Cole Wisniewski might be a later selection on Day 3. However, there’s quite a bit to appreciate about his gameplay; he recorded 78 tackles, six pass breakups, and a sack last season after missing all of 2024 due to a foot injury.
Wisniewski is primarily a deep safety but exhibits versatility, somewhat like Caleb Downs. His solid frame at 220 pounds allows him to step into the box when needed, and even play in a traditional single-high role during a game situation.
For example, check out this play against UCF, where he effectively read a run play and made a crucial tackle, limiting the gain.
Texas Tech boasts several defenders who are likely to hear their names called at this year’s draft.
Expected draft round: Round 6-7
Lewis Bonds, WR, Boston University
Wide receiver Lewis Bonds had an impressive 2024, nabbing 88 passes for 993 yards and a touchdown, which earned him an invitation to the NFL Scouting Combine. He holds the record for career receiving yards at Chestnut Hill, with 2,385 yards, and received All-ACC second-team honors.
However, when the time for the combine came around, he found himself left out.
Watching him on tape reveals a player with excellent awareness and adaptability. For instance, his reception against Syracuse, where he beat man coverage, made sharp adjustments to off-target throws, and turned them into explosive gains, perfectly encapsulates his skill set.
Expected draft round: Round 6-7
Tanner Koziol, TE, Houston
Measurements suggest that tight end Tanner Koziol has an impressive wingspan of around 83 inches, as indicated in the combine. He utilizes that length exceptionally well.
Koziol exhibits remarkable ability to make contested catches and has a knack for finding soft spots in zone coverage. He not only plays like a “big wide receiver” but also contributes significantly as a blocker, making him a valuable asset for teams looking for a well-rounded tight end.
Expected draft round: Rounds 5-6
Although Dallen Bentley had limited opportunities in previous seasons at Utah, he broke out last year with 48 receptions for 620 yards and six touchdowns, placing second on the team in both receptions and yards. He’s a 6-foot-4, 253-pound prospect who impressed by running a 4.62-second 40-yard dash at the combine.
Moreover, he excels as an inline blocker, displaying versatility in gap and zone schemes. Transitioning from college can be daunting, but Bentley seems ready to jump right into the NFL.
Expected draft round: Rounds 5-6
Keonte Scott, CB, Miami
While much of the buzz around Miami’s defense centers on players like Ruben Bayne Jr. and Akheem Mesidor, slot corner Keonte Scott deserves attention too. Last season, he tallied 67 tackles with 13 for loss, five sacks, and two interceptions.
His ability as a blitzer stands out, particularly highlighted by an 11-yard sack against Louisville, where he executed a well-timed blitz. He didn’t run the 40-yard dash at the combine but later clocked an unofficial 4.25 seconds, which certainly captured interest; even the conservative reported time of 4.37 seconds is impressive.
Scott might not be a “sleeper” player to some, potentially hearing his name called in the second round, but I find him incredibly exciting to watch.
Expected draft round: Rounds 2-3
Wesley Williams, Edge, Duke
Notably, Wesley Williams had a quieter performance last season, recording just two sacks compared to 7.5 the year before. Yet, on film, he appears to be a pass rusher with a thought-out plan and the skills to execute it.
For instance, he displayed excellent technique against Virginia, shedding a block attempt and getting to the quarterback just in time to affect the throw. Williams can generate pressure through a combination of speed and technique, boasting a vertical leap of 35.5 inches at the combine.
He might be available later in the draft, but some teams are likely to capitalize on that, adding him to their roster.
Expected draft round: Round 6-7
Eli Heidenreich, “Football Player,” Navy
Eli Heidenreich stands out with a distinctive skill set from Navy, where he played various roles as a hybrid player. Last season, he accumulated an impressive 1,440 yards from scrimmage, with significant contributions both rushing and receiving.
His combine performance drew comparisons to players like Christian McCaffrey, which might seem ambitious, but it speaks to his versatility as an offensive weapon.
Given his unique abilities and potential for creating mismatches, he is undoubtedly worth considering on the third day of the draft.
Expected draft round: Round 6-7
