2026 NFL Draft Stock Up
Kenyon Sadiq, TE, Oregon
Sadiq did not produce a big stat line in 2024, but multiple team sources are raving about him. They feel the 6-foot-3, 245-pounder is a dangerous receiving threat and mismatch weapon for the NFL. Sadiq could produce a lot more in 2025 with Evan Stewart already injured, and other Ducks wide receivers who moved on to the NFL. Sadiq is rising and could become a very hot prospect this season.
Spencer Fano, OT, Utah
Team sources who have been to Utah’s fall camp practices said that Fano is very impressive. They really liked what they saw and think he could become a special prospect this fall. Fano is very quick and athletic while having a strong build with a nasty demeanor as a blocker. Fano could be in the running to be the top tackle prospect for the 2026 NFL Draft.
R. Mason Thomas, DE/OLB, Oklahoma
Thomas was a dangerous quarterback hunter for the Sooners in the 2024 season, recording nine sacks with a forced fumble and 23 tackles. Scouts love Thomas’ speed and athleticism off the edge and feel he has some natural pass-rushing ability. However, some team sources say that they feel the 6-foot-2, 249-pound Thomas is too thin in the lower body and needs to improve that for the NFL. If Thomas rushes well in 2025, he will have plenty of teams targeting him as an addition to their defense.
John Mateer, QB, Oklahoma
Mateer played well for Washington State in 2024 and impressed in his first year as a starter. He completed 65 percent of his passes for 3,139 yards with 29 touchdowns and seven interceptions. The 6-foot-1, 224-pounder has some mobility and is a gritty competitor. Some team sources have compared Mateer to former Sooners quarterback Baker Mayfield. Mateer could be a high riser during the 2025 season.
Avery Johnson, QB, Kansas State
Sam Leavitt, QB, Arizona State
In speaking to team sources, two under-the-radar quarterback prospects have impressed some scouts during fall camp and they are Johnson and Leavitt. Listed at 6-foot-2, 205 pounds, Leavitt does not have ideal size, but his passing ability has impressed some team sources who have been to fall camp to watch him. At 6-foot-3, 196 pounds, Johnson has quality height and could add some weight to his frame for the next level.
2025 NFL Draft Stock Down
Arch Manning, QB, Texas
There have been a lot of rumors and speculation that Manning is likely to go back to the Longhorns next year instead of entering the 2026 NFL Draft, and this game would suggest that it is a wise move, as Manning really struggled against the Buckeyes. Manning finished 17-of-30 for 170 yards with one touchdown and one interception. Manning had 38 yards rushing. For the NFL, Manning has a good skill set with a strong arm, running ability, good height, and superb mechanics. However, Manning is a young player, and he needs the reps. He seemed to get rattled and started pressing in the second half against Ohio State. Manning had a lot of passes behind, short, and off the mark. Manning’s accuracy in this game was ugly. Texas had a lot of missed opportunities for chunk gains because of Manning’s inaccuracy. Manning has plenty of time to impress in the weeks to come, but this tape definitely won’t help his draft grade.
Matayo Uiagalelei, DE, Oregon
Uiagalelei flashed big-time ability in 2024 with 10 sacks and some impressive splash plays. He has excellent height, weight, and speed, but Uiagalelei struggles with consistency. Team sources were disappointed with the inconsistent play on his 2024 tape. They want to see him turn it on and play up to his ability consistently in 2025.
