2026 NFL Scouting Report: Makai Lemon

Prospect Summary:

The Trojans have produced a lot of wide receiver talent for the NFL in their storied history, and after a bit of a lull, Makai Lemon came on to emerge as a quality prospect for the next level. In 2024, Lemon showed ability with 52 catches for 764 yards with three touchdowns. In 2025, Lemon made a lot of big plays for a Trojans team that went 9-3 as he caught 79 passes for 1,156 yards and 11 touchdowns.

For the NFL, Lemon looks like a potential No. 2 starting receiver who also could work mostly out of the slot. Lemon is quick through his route with a burst out of his breaks to consistently create separation. Lemon is dangerous on double moves, as his route-running and suddenness allow him to get open downfield while challenging defenses vertically. Lemon has strong hands and is a natural hand catcher who is very reliable at securing the ball.

Lemon shows an uncanny ability to make leaping grabs and routinely makes highlight reel acrobatic receptions. With excellent body control, leaping ability, and secure hands, he makes some incredible catches to bail out inaccurate passes. While Lemon is not a big wideout, his ability to make leaping grabs makes him dangerous on 50-50 passes while also giving his quarterback a larger catch radius than most small receivers. With a gritty and competitive style, Lemon is a feisty player who provides energy to his team with his dangerous run after the ability. Lemon can weave through the defense and shows some strength to fight with tacklers.

Lemon has some limitations for the NFL that could keep him from becoming a true No. 1 receiver. He could have problems with longer cornerbacks, and getting off jams and reroutes could be an issue for him. As a pro, Lemon’s size might limit him to mainly being a slot receiver. Lemon may not have a defining trait to make him an elite receiver. He is not overly big or fast to dominate pro cornerbacks. Thus, Lemon could be more of a No. 2 or 3 receiver as a pro.

Lemon also helped the Trojans by being a core special teams contributor. He returned kicks, punts, and covered some punts as well. Depending on where he lands on the depth chart, his pro team may not want to use him as a returner, but he has the ability to contribute if called upon.

In the 2026 NFL Draft, Lemon has a shot to go in the back half of the first round and could go in the second round if he is not selected on the opening night of the draft.