At the top of every NFL draft, familiar names often dominate the spotlight—players who’ve been hyped for years. But each season introduces a new storyline, where previously overlooked prospects surge into relevance. The ever-changing landscape of college football, combined with the rising trend of late bloomers and transfers, ensures the draft order is rarely set in stone. A single breakout season can radically transform a player’s draft outlook.
We’ve seen it before—2025 first-rounders like Tyler Warren and Matthew Golden made dramatic leaps during their final college campaigns. With just a few months until kickoff, several non-quarterback prospects are positioned to make a similar leap in 2026. Here are 10 players who could rise rapidly in the coming months:
Zachariah Branch, WR, Georgia
Once a top-five national recruit, Branch flashed elite talent as a freshman at USC, especially on special teams. But in his sophomore year, amidst team struggles, his production dipped. Now at Georgia with his brother Zion, Branch has the chance to revitalize his game. If he can turn short throws into explosive gains in the SEC, scouts will take notice.
Barion Brown, WR, LSU
Brown made an immediate splash at Kentucky with his return game speed, tying an SEC record with five career kickoff return TDs. But a shaky offense limited his development as a wideout. Now paired with QB Garrett Nussmeier and transfer Nic Anderson at LSU, Brown has the setup to showcase his big-play potential—if he cleans up his drops and sharpens his route running.
Nyck Harbor, WR, South Carolina
Harbor’s rare blend of size (6-5, 235) and track speed (10.11 in the 100m) makes him a physical outlier. Until now, he’s balanced football with a demanding track career, but he’s finally going all-in on the gridiron. With QB LaNorris Sellers launching passes, Harbor could unlock his massive ceiling in 2025.
Carnell Tate, WR, Ohio State
Overshadowed by Jeremiah Smith, Tate quietly had a strong season with 52 catches for 733 yards. A master technician rather than a burner, Tate fits the mold of past Buckeye receivers who turned polished skillsets into first-round selections. With Smith drawing coverage, Tate is primed for a bigger spotlight.
Malachi Fields, WR, Notre Dame
At Virginia, Fields topped 800 receiving yards in consecutive seasons—despite subpar quarterback play. Now at Notre Dame, he joins a Playoff-contending team with better infrastructure. His big frame (6-4, 220) and QB instincts (he played the position in high school) make him a reliable, high-IQ target with room to climb.
Luke Hasz, TE, Mississippi
After a quiet stint at Arkansas, Hasz is now part of Lane Kiffin’s high-tempo offense. He’ll be catching passes from Austin Simmons and sharing the field with Dae’Quan Wright, but don’t be surprised if Hasz emerges as a go-to option thanks to his dependable hands and ability to win contested catches.
Kenyon Sadiq, TE, Oregon
Oregon’s offense is undergoing a major transition. With top weapons off to the NFL, Sadiq could step into a larger role. He’s a unique tight end—built to block but dangerous as a vertical threat. If he develops consistency as a focal point in the offense, he could shoot up boards.
Damon Wilson II, DE/OLB, Missouri
Once pegged as Georgia’s next elite pass rusher, Wilson’s talents got lost in their deep rotation. He’s now at Missouri, ready to fill the void left by All-SEC edge rusher Johnny Walker Jr. With more snaps and a chance to dominate, Wilson has the tools to become a top defensive prospect.
Darrell Jackson Jr., DT, Florida State
Jackson didn’t play in 2023 due to transfer rules but returned with flashes of dominance last season. At 6-5, 337 pounds, he’s a nightmare for offensive linemen—massive, powerful, and surprisingly nimble. If he can stay conditioned and productive, he’ll remind scouts of Kenneth Grant, who soared to pick No. 13.
Keon Sabb, S, Alabama
After transferring from Michigan to Alabama, Sabb made an instant impact before a season-ending injury. At 6-1, 205, he brings versatility: sticky coverage against tight ends, physicality in the box, and ball skills in zone. If he can stay healthy in 2025, his hybrid skillset could make him a draft-day riser.
