As the college football regular season comes to a close, here are some of my 5 favorite 2026 NFL Draft prospects right now. These are NOT my top-5 players in the whole draft class, just my favorites because of certain qualities they have. These players will likely be drafted in the first round.
Arvell Reese
(LB, Ohio State)
This is the obvious pick for this years draft class. Reese is explosive, aggressive and very strong. These traits are the making of a very good LB. However, what makes Reese so special is his ability to rush the QB as well. Even as an LB, he finds a way to just overpower and dominate the opposing teams offensive tackles. NFL teams might want to switch him to full time EDGE to rush the QB or maybe a mixture of both LB and EDGE in a hybrid role. Either position he plays in the NFL, he will be good but keep in mind that teams value EDGE rushers significantly more the LB’s. If I was the Tennessee Titans GM and had the #1 pick in the draft, I would definitely take Arvell Reese. The 2026 draft class is weak, so the options aren’t great.
Spencer Fano
(OT, Utah)
Fano, along with Reese, is one of the few 1st round talents in this draft cycle. He is an athletic offensive tackle who loves to punish defenders with powerful finishes. That kind of aggression and brawler mentality is exactly what NFL teams look for in offensive linemen. Fano sets the tone with his blocks and does a great job using his feet to help him stay balanced and in control. Fano should easily be a top-10 pick.
David Bailey
(EDGE, Texas Tech)
Bailey is one of those players that is just really fun to watch. While he isn’t a sure first round talent like Fano and Reese, he has been rising up draft boards this season with his quick first step and outstanding pass rush this year. Bailey still needs to work on run defense a lot more, but has shown flashes that he can continue to improve in the NFL.
Vega Ioane
(OG, Penn State)
This 330lb mauler is my top interior offensive lineman this year. He dominates in the run game and is stout in pass protection. Plus he has great character and is a great teammate. Recently, a video has gone viral of him hopping a barrier to help a worker push a heavy cart. That’s just the type of player and person he is.
Kayden McDonald
(DT, Ohio State)
McDonald has been fantastic for Ohio State this year. He is a force against the run. Eating up space and double teams and then ripping into the backfield for a TFL or causing major disruption. He isn’t a great pass rusher but he is so dominant in the run game is doesn’t matter. This is the type of player winning teams have.