11 Prospects Earn True Round 1 Grades in Deep Dive Ahead of 2026 NFL Draft

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11 Prospects Earn True Round 1 Grades in Deep Dive Ahead of 2026 NFL Draft

As the 2026 NFL Draft approaches, a detailed evaluation has pinpointed a select group of 11 players who possess the rare distinction of true first-round grades. This number represents a slight contraction compared to the typical output of recent draft classes, suggesting a potentially more specialized pool of elite talent available on Day 1. The NFL Draft is scheduled to commence on April 23rd in Pittsburgh, and this analysis provides an in-depth look at the prospects considered 'no-brainer' selections for the opening round.

It's crucial to differentiate between simply being selected in the first round and earning a first-round grade. The latter signifies a prospect whose talent level is so high that they would be considered a top-tier selection regardless of the specific year's draft class strength. The benchmark used for this evaluation considers whether a player would have been a first-rounder in each of the past five draft classes. For context, the 2025 class saw 13 players receive such grades, the lowest number ever awarded by this evaluation method. In contrast, the 2024 draft class featured 18 players with first-round grades, and the 2023 class had 20 such prospects, underscoring the relative scarcity of top-tier talent in the upcoming draft.

Quarterback Spotlight: After a 2025 draft class that produced zero quarterbacks with true first-round grades, the 2026 class features one standout signal-caller. Fernando Mendoza, who transferred from Cal to Indiana, has emerged as a Heisman Trophy winner and a potential No. 1 overall pick. His game is characterized by exceptional pocket presence, precise intermediate and deep throws, and a remarkable ability to place the ball where his receivers can make plays. While his arm strength may not be elite, Mendoza excels at ball security and efficient distribution, showcasing a style reminiscent of Jared Goff. Last season, he posted an impressive 41 touchdowns against just six interceptions.

Running Back Prowess: Topping the overall prospect rankings is Brandon Love, a running back with exceptional three-down ability and explosive quickness in space. Measuring 6-foot and weighing 214 pounds, Love possesses breakaway speed that has resulted in multiple rushes exceeding 90 yards during his collegiate career. He accumulated 1,372 rushing yards last season, averaging an impressive 6.9 yards per carry and scoring 18 touchdowns. His elite speed, vision, and durable build make him an ideal NFL running back prospect, drawing comparisons to recent high-caliber talents like Bijan Robinson and Jahmyr Gibbs.

Wide Receiver Royalty: Jordan Lemon, the 2025 Fred Biletnikoff Award winner, stands out as the premier wide receiver in this class. He is a precise route runner with exceptional hands, having dropped only three passes over the past two seasons. His quickness after the catch and ability to break tackles in the open field are significant assets. Despite concerns about his size (5'11", 195 lbs), Lemon has proven effective from the slot and possesses the toughness to challenge press coverage on the outside. Scouts who admired the play of Jaxon Smith-Njigba and Amon-Ra St. Brown will likely appreciate Lemon's competitive nature, route-running nuances, and ability to win with leverage and sharp breaks.

Another Ohio State product, Carnell Tate, has emerged as a legitimate first-round receiver prospect. Tate experienced a breakout season, at times outshining his highly-touted teammate Jeremiah Smith. His impact was undeniable, with 51 catches for 875 yards and nine touchdowns in 11 games, despite limited targets late in blowouts. On tape, Tate's college production draws comparisons to a young Justin Jefferson. He is a polished route runner with excellent body control, capable of adjusting to passes mid-route or attacking the ball at its highest point. He had only one drop on 67 targets last season and consistently wins in contested-catch situations. (Photo: Julian Sayin connects with Carnell Tate for a spectacular Ohio State touchdown against Wisconsin.)

Tight End Talent: Sadiq, a tight end prospect, generated significant buzz among scouts even with a talented teammate like Terrance Ferguson on the roster. In his sole season as a starter in 2025, Sadiq delivered, catching 51 passes for 560 yards and eight touchdowns. His most prominent trait is his exceptional ability to track and attack the ball in the air, contorting his body to make difficult plays. Sadiq is a high-end athlete with the speed, strength, and leaping ability to create matchup nightmares. While lacking elite size at 6'3" and 245 pounds, and recording six drops on 70 targets last season, he projects as a difference-making move tight end at the professional level.

Offensive Tackle Outlook: The 2026 offensive tackle class was initially projected to be strong, and its true depth may become clearer after the NFL Combine. However, currently, only one prospect holds a definitive first-round grade. Mauri Mauigoa, a three-year starter at right tackle, is viewed by some in the NFL as a potential guard due to his stout, powerful frame (6'6", 315 lbs). His tape showcases consistent performance and impressive strength, though balance against speed rushers remains a slight concern. Mauigoa allowed only six pressures last season while protecting a less mobile quarterback and surrendered just two sacks over the past two seasons combined.

Interior Offensive Line Intrigue: While the interior offensive line class lacks a true first-round talent, several players are considered strong candidates for late first-round selections. Olaivavega Ioane, a guard from Penn State, ranks within the top 40 on this board. His consistent run-blocking and pass-protection skills at 6'4", 330 lbs, project him as an NFL starter. Guards Emmanuel Pregnon (Oregon) and center Connor Lew (Auburn) are also potential late-first-round considerations.

Edge Rusher Emerge: When Kaelen Bailey transferred from Stanford, expectations were high for his impact on the Red Raiders' defensive line. He met those expectations with 69 pressures, 14.5 sacks, and an FBS-best 21.3% pressure rate off the edge. At 6'3" and 250 lbs, Bailey's speed and explosiveness around the corner are evident on tape, and his production validates his talent. Despite potential size concerns, Bailey is recognized as one of the nation's most improved players and has ascended into top-10 prospect territory.

Defensive Tackle Dominance: Branham Bain is arguably the best player in college football last season, consistently disrupting opposing quarterbacks. With 71 pressures and 9.5 sacks, Bain has risen from mid-to-late first-round consideration to a certified top-10 pick. While there are whispers about his arm length potentially measuring under 32 inches, Bain has consistently proven his ability to excel against elite competition, highlighted by his 23 pressures and five sacks during Miami's playoff run.

Defensive Tackle Depth: The 2026 defensive tackle class offers depth but lacks a true first-round standout. Following a quiet season from Peter Woods (Clemson) and a general lack of pass-rushing production from others, no DT has emerged as a top pick. However, the class boasts promising nose tackle and 1-technique prospects, including Lee Hunter (Texas Tech), Caleb Banks (Florida), and Kayden McDonald (Ohio State), who are expected to be selected within the top 32.

Defensive Back Potential: Malik Reese was not on the NFL radar entering last season, having limited starting experience prior to 2025. However, he has emerged as a potential first defensive player off the board.

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