2026 NFL Draft Stock Up
David Bailey, DE, Texas Tech
Bailey has been a high first-round projection for a lot of the draft process, but Bailey is now the favorite to be the second-overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. Bailey is perceived to be a more finished product, ready to contribute immediately, and be a plug-and-play starter for the Jets. Whereas, Ohio State edge rusher/linebacker Arvell Reese needs more development, and decisions have to be made about his role within a scheme. Bailey could form an excellent edge rush tandem with New York’s Will McDonald, and it sounds like that is the direction the Jets are inclined to go with the second-overall pick.
Gabe Jacas, DE, Illinois
While Jacas has not received as much attention as other first-round defensive ends, multiple team sources really like Jacas and have said they do not see a significant difference between Jacas and other potential first-rounders like Akheem Mesidor and T.J. Parker. Jacas is a power rusher with a relentless motor and good run defense skills. Jacas was very productive in college and is known as a leader. Jacas could get taken quickly on the second night of the draft.
Garrett Nussmeier, QB, LSU
Multiple team sources have said they think Nussmeier could end up being a second- or third-round pick. Nussmeier has good tape from the 2024 season, had a strong showing at the Senior Bowl, and has interviewed well with teams. Some see him as a quality backup with the upside to grow into being a potential starter. Nussmeier has a real shot at being a Friday night pick.
Malachi Lawrence, DE, UCF
The 2026 NFL Draft has a deep group of edge rush talent for the second day of the draft, and Lawrence is one of those day two values. Lawrence has good strength and quickness to rush off the edge with impressive tape from the 2026 season. Lawrence could end up being a second-rounder and taken over rushers who have received more media acclaim.
Chris McClellan, DT, Missouri
The Tigers’ defensive tackle is a sleeper, but some team sources really like him and feel he could be a second-day pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. McClellan had good tape from last year showing disruptive ability as a run defender and contributor to the pass rush. McClellan could end up going on the second day of the draft.
2025 NFL Draft Stock Down
Caleb Lomu, OT, Utah
Many teams think Lomu could be selected in the back half of the first round. However, he also might slip to the second round. Sources like Lomu, but I have yet to hear a team source love him or rave about him. They say he never had a dominant tape from his final season with the Utes despite not seeing great competition. I have a feeling that Lomu might slip to the second round.
