RANKINGS EXPLANATION:
When I began this page, my goal was to improve the overall grading and breakdown of players. This included my adding different position rating groups and splitting the Offensive tackle position into two groups was vital. Yearly I've seen other analysts just be lazy and group them all together and the general public wonders why players failed when they were rated highly. Often this was due to players misplaced in positions their skillset was not compatible with. Sure; some players are versatile enough to play either side but honestly that is rare so proper placement is vital to correct analyses and long-term success. So that is my reasoning and here are my results.
NUMERICAL RATINGS/DRAFT VALUE EXPLANATION / OFFENSIVE TACKLES
95-100 ELITE PLAYER, Yearly in All Pro debate, consistently a Top 5 player at the position, can change the direction of the franchise. Likely a league MVP at some point of his career potentially more than once. Face of the franchise, elite level football IQ, high personal character and while talent can trump that for some it cannot for me for this level of rating. Expect elite level performance and undeniable team leadership for 10/15 years. Possible Hall of Fame Career. TOP 5/10 DRAFT PICK
90-94 Top 5/10 at the position most years, All Pro 3-5 years over 10/15-year career with drafting team, may possibly win a MVP award with a special season. Capable of turning the fortunes of a franchise as long as other pieces in place. One of the primary faces of the franchise, high football IQ, preferred high personal character team leader on the offensive side. Consistently a top-level performer in all years, could make HOF ballot for a few years. Mid/Late 1st round draft pick
82-89 Solid at the position. Look for 8/12-year career perhaps spending last few as a backup. Possibly an All-Pro season or two should finish in top half of players at position most years. Very good but not great. Very solid and dependable player. Team will be looking for replacement after 5/7 years, may not find one but looking. 2nd contact with drafting team 50/50. 2nd/3rd round
74-81 Flaws that can possibly be overcome. Could be, lack of ideal arm strength, prototypical size or athleticism, mechanical issues, could be injury or personality concerns. Likely 3/5-year career max at starter level in most cases, then relegated to backup duty. Rare players with a few years of patience, good coaching, along with a strong personal work ethic can evolve to more. Potential to become long term starter but the team will always be looking for a better option, this can last for many years, but player will be on the bubble year to year. 2nd contract with drafting team unlikely. Draft 3rd/4th round
65-73 Numerous flaws, Injury concerns or physical limitations. May start a year or two for a desperate team. Could be star players with serious injury concerns, some with rare physical attributes who will need serious coaching and patience, some who never found a fit in college. Likely a 3-to-5-year career then on the bubble, some players can carve out a longer career or even start will hard work and patience or as a backup if willing to play for multiple teams over career. Some fortunate few beat the odds and find a long-term home; most are out of football within 5 years. Draft 4th/5th round
57-64 Career backup/ developmental player. At this point the draft is even more of a gamble. Could be formerly high rated recruit who failed to live up to expectations. Could be star players with serious injury concerns, some with rare physical attributes who will need serious coaching and patience, some who never found a fit in college. Some can develop (Brady) but this is rare. likely will begin as a #3 or practice squad player, the rest depends on patience and work ethic. Player not finishing rookie contract with drafting team is more likely. Will live on the bubble. Draft 6th/7th round
50-56 Developmental Practice squad player. Another home for those who did not find great success in college or after much hype in High School. 1 in 50 can beat the odds and have a longer career. Just an arm for practice and scout team, the "preferred walk on" of the NFL, could, could, develop into role player with tenacity and patience. Likely just on roster a year or two at best as a practice player not active on game days. Draft late 7th round/Priority Free Agent (PFA) Free Agent (UDFA)
45-49 Player for Training Camp or practice squad 1 in 100 will carve out a longer career due to incredible diligence and tenacity. Only active when team needs a body for a couple games due to injuries.. Not long for the team. Week to Week. Likely will sign with several teams over a few years. Teams will lead these guys on often knowing they will never play a down for them. Better not completely leave school before graduation that degree will be necessary. Free Agents only. (UDFA)
Under 45 Training camp body at best, HOPE YOU GOT YOUR DEGREE!!! THE REAL WORLD IS COMING!!!!!!!!! Well maybe after numerous stints in Arena Ball or the UFL!! Players with a specific skill or perhaps tremendous intangibles worthy of a Camp Invite, 1 in 500 make more of it like making the practice squad for a year or two. Frankly, GM's who sign these guys for anything more than a camp body will be looking for work soon. Free Agents only. (UDFA)
EXPLANATION OF OTHER TERMS
BUST ALERT!!! A player highly ranked by many others but one I do hold in the same regard. Also, this term will be used for players who I call "ONE YEAR WONDERS" these players are either freakish athletes or players who had one season that FAR exceeded their previous production creating serious risk. This term will be reserved for 1st round projections where mistakes can cripple a franchise.
OVERRATED ALERT!!! Similar to the above but not as extreme, for after 1st/2nd rounds. Players are not as highly rated so mistakes while still important do not carry the same weight. There are multiple reasons for this designation some but not limited to character, talent, injuries, college scheme or system.
UNDERRATED ALERT!!! Players I feel deserve a higher ranking than many/most other so-called experts. These players in the future will be referred to as "STEALS" but I want it known my evaluation were on point when they were drafted.
SLEEPER ALERT!!!! A player that perhaps played in a poor scheme for his talents, suffered from poor coaching, revolving door coaching, poor supporting cast but has shown flashes that can lead him to success in the proper environment.
POSITION CHANGE ALERT!!! These are players who I feel due primarily to their skill set or more rarely at times measurables will reach their maximum level of NFL success by changing from their primary College position.
CHARACTER ALERT!!! This designation is reserved for players who have had multiple issues concerning their character. This can be legal issues, multiple transfers, poor practice habits, friction with teammates and/or Coaches, Academic issues and or any other infraction that brings into question the players decision making. Teams must weigh the risk/reward related to these players VERY CAREFULLY!!
INJURY ALERT!!!! A player with serious injury concerns, medicals vital. Possibly multiple injuries while in college or one severe injury. Also could have a long history in college and even perhaps High School "Injury Prone" is the common term. If you are missing time on the field you are costing your team $$$$
2026 LEFT TACKLE OVERVIEW
With only eight day1/2 rated players and no Top 10 prospects this draft is a bit light on elite talent and certainly light on depth but still has some players who should have solid careers.
2026 LEFT TACKLE RANKINGS/CLASS GRADE C
RK NAME SCH Ht Wt Rtg RND
1.Spencer Fano UT 6-6 304 93 Mid 1st
Well coached, VERY athletic, nice length, reaches 2nd level blocks with ease, can get out in front of RBs and will not miss. solid if all facets of the game. he played both sides in college and will start somewhere day 1!
2.Caleb Lomu UT 6-5 302 91 Late 1st
Much like his teammate with only needing a few minor technical adjustments to match him.
3.Monroe Freeling Ga 6-6 315 89 Early 2nd
Should have gone back to school!! That said, his upside is the highest in the group. Long, athletic, needs some strength work, given time to build and learn he could end up at the top of this class.
4.Trey Zuhn TxA&M 6-6 315 87 Mid 2nd
3-year starter at LT. Some see him moving inside and depending on where he goes that could happen, but I like him outside, nice athlete, good quickness and strength. versatility is a plus he will have a prominent role somewhere.
5.Isaiah World Ore 6-8 309 86 Late 2nd
Wasn't a great fit at Oregon offense so I'm not stuck on last season., he will be a better pro. Could end up at RT but in the right scheme he has the tools to excel here.
6.Austin Barber Fla 6-5 314 85 Late 2nd
Another multi-year starter in the SEC. he would rank higher had Florida not been a mess while he was there. Smooth, experienced, solid in pass and better in run game.
7.JC Davis ILL 6-5 320 80 Late 3rd
Over 50 starts in his career, athletic enough to play anywhere on OL.
8.Caleb Tieman NWest 6-6 329 75 Mid 4th
May move tp RT or inside, looks like a very solid depth OL.
9.Drew Shelton PennSt 6-5 307 72 Late 4th
Over 30 career starts, solid depth OL.
10.Kage Casey BoiSt 6-5 316 69 Early 5th
All MW and with AA mention.
11.Carver Willis Wash 6-5 291 65 Late 5th
6-year player, versatile. nice athlete.
12.James Neal IoSt 6-5 325 64 Early 6th
Can play numerous positions.
11.Jude Bowry BColl 6-5 308 62 Mid 6th
14.Chris Adams Mem 6-5 290 59 Early 7th
15.Tristian Leigh Clem 6-6 315 58 Early 7th
Former lofty recruit caught up in Debo's self-created mess.
16.Isaiah Jatta BYU 6-6 315 56 Late 7th
17.Bruno Fina Dk 6-5 305 55 Late 7th
18.McKale Bowley Vir 6-5 316 54 Late 7th
19.Gunnar Hanson FlaSt 6-5 325 53 PFA
20.Travonte Sylvester Lou 6-6 280 52 PFA
21.Ty Buchanan Az 6-6 314 49 UDFA
22.Jeff Persi Pitt 6-8 315 46 UDFA
23.Joe Cooper SlRck 6-7 320 42 UDFA
24.Shiyazh Pete Ky 6-8 322 40 UDFA
2026 RIGHT TACKLE OVERVIEW
Similar to the LT group with no elite talents or great depth, but several players who should have solid careers
2026 RIGHT TACKLE RANKINGS/CLASS GRADE C
RK NAME SCH Ht Wt Rtg RND
1.Francis Mauigoa Mia(F) 6-6 315 93 Mid 1st
Decent athlete, impressive brawler, mauler with attitude! Great run blocker needs refinement in pass game. Could end up inside and could end up the top OL in the class in the right scheme.
2.Blake Miller Clem 6-5 315 91 Late 1st
Multi All-ACC player with around 40 career starts. Another player caught up in Debo's private little war. Athletic, could even play LT in some schemes
3.Gennings Dunker Iowa 6-5 316 89 Early 2nd
I'm big on history, and history tells me Iowa OL come into the league ready to play, well coached, strong, athletic!
4.Max Iheanachor AzSt 6-5 325 88 Early 2nd\
Great size and wingspan. Over 30 career starts. Smooth mover with excellent strength.
5.Kadyn Proctor Ala 6-6 369 85 Late 2nd
Obviously, I'm not as high on him as others. As I watched Bama 's run game be a complete turd as the season progressed, I never saw them go to his position to gain yards. THAT'S A RED FLAG!! He needs some work, primarily with his footwork. Inside could easily be in his future.
6.Aamil Wagner NDme 6-6 295 84 Early 3rd
Versatility will keep him in the game. He may move inside, tough, strong, brawler, played top competition and didn't flinch.
7.Fa'alili Fa'amoe WFrst 6-5 314 82 Mid 3rd
He may out-play this rating. Around 30 career starts with a couple average at best teams.
8.Alex Harkey Ore 6-5 327 72 Late 4th
3 schools in 5 years and he never really settled in anywhere. Former TE flashes of serious potential. could move inside also but has the tools.
9.Keagan Trust Mo 6-4 316 68 Mid 5th
7-year player, 4 schools, nice quickness. played some extra TE at times. Worked his way up from the small college ranks. Hard worker, relentless. I think a move to Center would be wise, but NFL types aren't that bright.
10.Diego Pounds Miss 6-6 340 67 Mid 5th
Monster who can dominate when motivated. Inconsistency is his primary enemy, the right coach may have alate round gem!
11.D Crownover TxA&M 6-6 330 66 Late 5th
Others are much higher on this guy. He needs MAJOR strength work, but his athleticism makes him worth a late round flyer.
12.Enrique Cruz Kan 6-6 320 65 Late 5th
Has solid potential as a swing OT having started at equally during his career.
13.Kahlil Benson Ind 6-5 319 64 Early 6th
Was a solid performer on National Championship team. Has ability to be swing OL.
14.Kevin Cline BColl 6-6 323 62 Mid 6th
Well coached from aprogram that turns out solid OL.
15.Nolan Rucci PennSt 6-7 308 60 Late 6th
INJURY ALERT!!Former Wisconsin recruit who needs to stay healthy. Could end up a steal, very versatile.
16.Micah Pettus FlaSt 6-7 349 59 Early 7th
Athletic monster worth a practice squad spot. Crazy potential if he can keep the light on full-time.
17.Alan Herron Md 6-6 320 55 Late 7th
18.Garrett DiGiorgio UCLA 6-7 320 54 Late 7th
19.Markell Bell Mia(F) 6-9 345 53 PFA
Massive, agile, just can't play with any consistency! He will be over drafted!
20.Travis Burke Mem 6-8 315 50 PFA
21.Riley Mahlman Wisc 6-7 308 49 UDFA
22.Rasheed Miller Lou 6-7 310 48 UDFA
23.Paul Rubelt UCF 6-9 330 45 UDFA
24.Christian Jones SDSt 6-9 335 42 UDFA.
NUMERICAL RATINGS/DRAFT VALUE EXPLANATION / OFFENSIVE TACKLES
95-100 ELITE PLAYER, Yearly in All Pro debate, consistently a Top 5 player at the position, can change the direction of the franchise. Likely a league MVP at some point of his career potentially more than once. Face of the franchise, elite level football IQ, high personal character and while talent can trump that for some it cannot for me for this level of rating. Expect elite level performance and undeniable team leadership for 10/15 years. Possible Hall of Fame Career. TOP 5/10 DRAFT PICK
90-94 Top 5/10 at the position most years, All Pro 3-5 years over 10/15-year career with drafting team, may possibly win a MVP award with a special season. Capable of turning the fortunes of a franchise as long as other pieces in place. One of the primary faces of the franchise, high football IQ, preferred high personal character team leader on the offensive side. Consistently a top-level performer in all years, could make HOF ballot for a few years. Mid/Late 1st round draft pick
82-89 Solid at the position. Look for 8/12-year career perhaps spending last few as a backup. Possibly an All-Pro season or two should finish in top half of players at position most years. Very good but not great. Very solid and dependable player. Team will be looking for replacement after 5/7 years, may not find one but looking. 2nd contact with drafting team 50/50. 2nd/3rd round
74-81 Flaws that can possibly be overcome. Could be, lack of ideal arm strength, prototypical size or athleticism, mechanical issues, could be injury or personality concerns. Likely 3/5-year career max at starter level in most cases, then relegated to backup duty. Rare players with a few years of patience, good coaching, along with a strong personal work ethic can evolve to more. Potential to become long term starter but the team will always be looking for a better option, this can last for many years, but player will be on the bubble year to year. 2nd contract with drafting team unlikely. Draft 3rd/4th round
65-73 Numerous flaws, Injury concerns or physical limitations. May start a year or two for a desperate team. Could be star players with serious injury concerns, some with rare physical attributes who will need serious coaching and patience, some who never found a fit in college. Likely a 3-to-5-year career then on the bubble, some players can carve out a longer career or even start will hard work and patience or as a backup if willing to play for multiple teams over career. Some fortunate few beat the odds and find a long-term home; most are out of football within 5 years. Draft 4th/5th round
57-64 Career backup/ developmental player. At this point the draft is even more of a gamble. Could be formerly high rated recruit who failed to live up to expectations. Could be star players with serious injury concerns, some with rare physical attributes who will need serious coaching and patience, some who never found a fit in college. Some can develop (Brady) but this is rare. likely will begin as a #3 or practice squad player, the rest depends on patience and work ethic. Player not finishing rookie contract with drafting team is more likely. Will live on the bubble. Draft 6th/7th round
50-56 Developmental Practice squad player. Another home for those who did not find great success in college or after much hype in High School. 1 in 50 can beat the odds and have a longer career. Just an arm for practice and scout team, the "preferred walk on" of the NFL, could, could, develop into role player with tenacity and patience. Likely just on roster a year or two at best as a practice player not active on game days. Draft late 7th round/Priority Free Agent (PFA) Free Agent (UDFA)
45-49 Player for Training Camp or practice squad 1 in 100 will carve out a longer career due to incredible diligence and tenacity. Only active when team needs a body for a couple games due to injuries.. Not long for the team. Week to Week. Likely will sign with several teams over a few years. Teams will lead these guys on often knowing they will never play a down for them. Better not completely leave school before graduation that degree will be necessary. Free Agents only. (UDFA)
Under 45 Training camp body at best, HOPE YOU GOT YOUR DEGREE!!! THE REAL WORLD IS COMING!!!!!!!!! Well maybe after numerous stints in Arena Ball or the UFL!! Players with a specific skill or perhaps tremendous intangibles worthy of a Camp Invite, 1 in 500 make more of it like making the practice squad for a year or two. Frankly, GM's who sign these guys for anything more than a camp body will be looking for work soon. Free Agents only. (UDFA)
EXPLANATION OF OTHER TERMS
BUST ALERT!!! A player highly ranked by many others but one I do hold in the same regard. Also, this term will be used for players who I call "ONE YEAR WONDERS" these players are either freakish athletes or players who had one season that FAR exceeded their previous production creating serious risk. This term will be reserved for 1st round projections where mistakes can cripple a franchise.
OVERRATED ALERT!!! Similar to the above but not as extreme, for after 1st/2nd rounds.. Players are not as highly rated so mistakes while still important do not carry the same weight. There are multiple reasons for this designation some but not limited to character, talent, injuries, college scheme or system.
UNDERRATED ALERT!!! Players I feel deserve a higher ranking than many/most other so called experts. These players in the future will be referred to as "STEALS" but I want it known my evaluation were on point when they were drafted.
SLEEPER ALERT!!!! A player that perhaps played in a poor scheme for his talents, suffered from poor coaching, revolving door coaching, poor supporting cast but has shown flashes that can lead him to success in the proper environment.
POSITION CHANGE ALERT!!! These are players who I feel due primarily to their skill set or more rarely at times measurables will reach their maximum level of NFL success by changing from their primary College position.
CHARACTER ALERT!!! This designation is reserved for players who have had multiple issues concerning there character. This can be legal issues, multiple transfers, poor practice habits, friction with teammates and/or Coaches, Academic issues and or any other infraction that brings into question the players decision making. Teams must weigh the risk/reward related to these players VERY CAREFULLY!!
INJURY ALERT!!!! A player with serious injury concerns, medicals vital. Possibly multiple injuries while in college or one severe injury. Also could have a long history in College and even perhaps High School "Injury Prone" is the common term. If you are missing time on the field you are costing your team $$$$
2026 GUARD OVERVIEW
With ten+ legit potential starters this group is very strong. So, while having only 1/2 elite talents this is a very deep group. Look for many on the list to have long solid careers
2026 GUARD RANKINGS/CLASS GRADE
RK NAME SCH Ht Wt Rtg RND
1.Olaivavego Ioane PennSt 6-3 348 94 Mid 1st
Powerful lower body and drive and non-stop motor. A true force in run game. Holds ground against anyone in pass game. can get second level blocks. athletic enough to have played all 5-line spots. Plug and play for a decade or more.
2.Emmanuez Pregnon Ore 6-5 320 91 Late 1st
Brawler and mauler with a great motor, excellent strength a 4-year starter, close to 50 starts. Player the 3-school thing in college that didn't help his development. Smart player who knows how to use his strength to cover for average athleticism.
3.Fernando Carmona Ark 6-5 322 87 Mid 2nd
I'm higher on him than others. Excellent athleticism for position, has played OT and was solid impressive strength and power. Needs some tech work, on footwork especially.
4.Beau Stephens Iowa 6-5 315 86 Late 2nd
Well coached, this program regularly puts out Pro-ready OL, 34 career starts, nice athlete, great strength.
5.Keylan Rutledge GaTch 6-4 320 85 Late 2nd
2-time All-American, great strength and power, still needs work tech-wise. Average athlete, scheme fit will be critical.
6.Chase Bisontis TxA&M 6-5 320 84 Early 3rd
Very quick off the ball, great strength, athletic. Pass game needs some work. Versatile, has played RT also and could move outside if need dictates.
7.DJ Campbell Tx 6-3 330 82 Mid 3rd
Great strength and power, high effort mauler. Pass game needs some serious work but he is athletic and strong enough to be worth the effort.
8.Logan Taylor BColl 6-6 308 80 Late 3rd
SLEEPER ALERT!! 4-year starter, has started over a dozen games at LT and RT as well as LG, started entire season at LT early in career. Versatility, well-coached, athletic. Excellent upside.
9.Anez Cooper Mia(F) 6-5 350 79 Late 3rd
Massive mauler, VERY strong and competitive, instant upgrade to run game. Pass game will always be an adventure, struggles athletically, quickness below average, technique needs work.
10.Febechi Nwaiwu Okl 6-4 339 77 Early 4th
Over 40 career starts, strong in run game, pass protection is sub-par and will need work. Athletic enough to improve.
11.Jalen Farmer Ky 6-5 314 76 Early 4th
2-year starter, showed improvement each year, great strength, average athlete, decent all-around ability and solid potential.
12.Evan Beernitsen NWest 6-3 310 73 Late 4th
7-year player who moved up from FCS and showed he belonged. Zero sack allowed last season.
13.Billy Schrauth NDame 6-4 310 69 Late 5th
Former lofty recruit who never lived up to hype consistently. Still shows ability at times, looks excellent is stretches, needed another year in CFB.
14.Jaeden Roberts Ala 6-5 310 68 Mid 5th
Massive former high-rated recruit who never found consistency. When motivated has shown plus ability in pass protection.
15.Micah Morris Ga 6-4 330 65 Late 5th
Former 4-star OT recruit who found himself inside, often in a rotational situation. Nice athlete shows practice squad potential.
16.Sam Hagen SDSt 6-6 329 64 Early 6th
Small College stud, 3-year started in elite FCS program, very smart, solid technically.
17.A Reed-Adams TxA&M 6-5 330 63 Mid 6th
30+ career starts, showed improvement yearly, still has struggles in pass-protection, limited athlete.
18.Josh Thompson LSU 6-5 310 62 Mid 6th
Over 30 starts at two schools, Started in Big ten and SEC
19.Dillon Wade Aub 6-3 315 61 Late 6th
Technically sound, needs work on strength and athleticism.
20.Jeremiah Wright Aub 6-4 348 58 Early 7th
Massive former DT who plays with attitude. Needs work but intriguing potential.
21.Melvin Preistly ILL 6-4 315 57 Mid 7th
Former HBCU LT and Big Ten RT, will need to move inside.
22.Albert Reese MissSt 6-7 330 55 Late 7th
Has played LT, RT, LG.
23.Caden Barnett Wyo 6-5 320 53 PFA
24.Derrick Simmons Okl 6-5 321 52 PFA
25.Omar Aigbedion Bay 6-2 310 51 PFA
26.Josh Gesty ILL 6-4 335 50 PFA
27.Delby Lemieux Dart 6-4 280 49 UDFA
28.Kobe Baynes Kan 6-4 315 48 UDFA
29.Henry Lutovsky Neb 6-6 320 47 UDFA
30.Josh Braun Ky 6-5 338 46 UDFA
31.Ethan Onianwa OSU 6-6 345 45 UDFA
32.Tomas Rimac VaTch 6-6 318 44 UDFA
33.Gio El-Hadi Mich 6-5 310 40 UDFA
34.Tanoa Togiai Utah 6-6 320 39 UDFA
35.Austin Leavsa BYU 6-5 315 38 UDFA
36.Kam Dewberry Ala 6-4 332 37 UDFA
37.Jacobian Gullory LSU 6-2 318 36 UDFA
38.Izavion Miller Aub 6-5 311 35 UDFA
39.Geno Vandemark Az 6-5 326 34 UDFA
NUMERICAL RATINGS/DRAFT VALUE EXPLANATION
95-100 ELITE PLAYER, Yearly in All Pro debate, consistently a Top 5 player at the position, can change the direction of the franchise. Likely a league MVP at some point of his career potentially more than once. Face of the franchise, elite level football IQ, high personal character and while talent can trump that for some it cannot for me for this level of rating. Expect elite level performance and undeniable team leadership for 10/15 years. Possible Hall of Fame Career. TOP 5/10 DRAFT PICK
90-94 Top 5/10 at the position most years, All Pro 3-5 years over 10/15-year career with drafting team, may possibly win a MVP award with a special season. Capable of turning the fortunes of a franchise as long as other pieces in place. One of the primary faces of the franchise, high football IQ, preferred high personal character team leader on the offensive side. Consistently a top-level performer in all years, could make HOF ballot for a few years. Mid/Late 1st round draft pick
82-89 Solid at the position. Look for 8/12-year career perhaps spending last few as a backup. Possibly an All-Pro season or two should finish in top half of players at position most years. Very good but not great. Very solid and dependable player. Team will be looking for replacement after 5/7 years, may not find one but looking. 2nd contact with drafting team 50/50. 2nd/3rd round
74-81 Flaws that can possibly be overcome. Could be, lack of ideal arm strength, prototypical size or athleticism, mechanical issues, could be injury or personality concerns. Likely 3/5-year career max at starter level in most cases, then relegated to backup duty. Rare players with a few years of patience, good coaching, along with a strong personal work ethic can evolve to more. Potential to become long term starter but the team will always be looking for a better option, this can last for many years, but player will be on the bubble year to year. 2nd contract with drafting team unlikely. Draft 3rd/4th round
65-73 Numerous flaws, Injury concerns or physical limitations. May start a year or two for a desperate team. Could be star players with serious injury concerns, some with rare physical attributes who will need serious coaching and patience, some who never found a fit in college. Likely a 3-to-5-year career then on the bubble, some players can carve out a longer career or even start will hard work and patience or as a backup if willing to play for multiple teams over career. Some fortunate few beat the odds and find a long-term home; most are out of football within 5 years. Draft 4th/5th round
57-64 Career backup/ developmental player. At this point the draft is even more of a gamble. Could be formerly high rated recruit who failed to live up to expectations. Could be star players with serious injury concerns, some with rare physical attributes who will need serious coaching and patience, some who never found a fit in college. Some can develop (Brady) but this is rare. likely will begin as a #3 or practice squad player, the rest depends on patience and work ethic. Player not finishing rookie contract with drafting team is more likely. Will live on the bubble. Draft 6th/7th round
50-56 Developmental Practice squad player. Another home for those who did not find great success in college or after much hype in High School. 1 in 50 can beat the odds and have a longer career. Just an arm for practice and scout team, the "preferred walk on" of the NFL, could, could, develop into role player with tenacity and patience. Likely just on roster a year or two at best as a practice player not active on game days. Draft late 7th round/Priority Free Agent (PFA) Free Agent (UDFA)
45-49 Player for Training Camp or practice squad 1 in 100 will carve out a longer career due to incredible diligence and tenacity. Only active when team needs a body for a couple games due to injuries.. Not long for the team. Week to Week. Likely will sign with several teams over a few years. Teams will lead these guys on often knowing they will never play a down for them. Better not completely leave school before graduation that degree will be necessary. Free Agents only. (UDFA)
Under 45 Training camp body at best, HOPE YOU GOT YOUR DEGREE!!! THE REAL WORLD IS COMING!!!!!!!!! Well maybe after numerous stints in Arena Ball or the UFL!! Players with a specific skill or perhaps tremendous intangibles worthy of a Camp Invite, 1 in 500 make more of it like making the practice squad for a year or two. Frankly, GM's who sign these guys for anything more than a camp body will be looking for work soon. Free Agents only. (UDFA)
EXPLANATION OF OTHER TERMS
BUST ALERT!!! A player highly ranked by many others but one I do hold in the same regard. Also, this term will be used for players who I call "ONE YEAR WONDERS" these players are either freakish athletes or players who had one season that FAR exceeded their previous production creating serious risk. This term will be reserved for 1st round projections where mistakes can cripple a franchise.
OVERRATED ALERT!!! Similar to the above but not as extreme, for after 1st round. Players are not as highly rated so mistakes while still important do not carry the same weight. There are multiple reasons for this designation some but not limited to character, talent, injuries, college scheme or system.
UNDERRATED ALERT!!! Players I feel deserve a higher ranking than many/most other so called experts. These players in the future will be referred to as "STEALS" but I want it known my evaluation were on point when they were drafted.
SLEEPER ALERT!!!! A player that perhaps played in a poor scheme for his talents, suffered from poor coaching, revolving door coaching, poor supporting cast but has shown flashes that can lead him to success in the proper environment.
POSITION CHANGE ALERT!!! These are players who I feel due primarily to their skill set or more rarely at times measurables will reach their maximum level of NFL success by changing from their primary College position.
CHARACTER ALERT!!! This designation is reserved for players who have had multiple issues concerning there character. This can be legal issues, multiple transfers, poor practice habits, friction with teammates and/or Coaches, Academic issues and or any other infraction that brings into question the players decision making. Teams must weigh the risk/reward related to these players VERY CAREFULLY!!
INJURY ALERT!!!! A player with serious injury concerns, medicals vital. Possibly multiple injuries while in college or one severe injury. Also, could have a long history in college and even perhaps High School "Injury Prone" is the common term. If you are missing time on the field, you are costing your team $$$$
2026 CENTER OVERVIEW
VERSITILITY!! That is to single word to describe group. Many players I've listed have played other positions with success and they may find it at those spots in the NFL. I feel they will have their best careers here, we'll see!
2026 CENTER RANKINGS/CLASS GRADE
RK NAME SCH Ht Wt Rtg RND
1.Brian Parker Dk 6-5 300 91 Late 1st
30+ career starts at RT and LT. 2nd team All-American, multi time All Academic and All ACC. Has not played inside but has shown athletic ability and intelligence to make the move quickly. I'm higher on him than many others. He will need some time to adjust but be worth the wait.
2.Logan Jones Iowa 6-3 293 87 Mid 2nd
4-year starter after moving from DT. Rimington Award winner. Plays position with an attitude most cannot. Tough, athletic, still need refinement in technique, on the smaller side, could use some extra bulk.
3.Conner Lew Aub 6-3 302 83 Early 3rd
Technically the best in group and most ready day one but upside is more limited. Needs some strength work, average athlete.
4.Bryce Foster Kan 6-4 330 79 Late 3rd
Massive 3-year starter. Could move to guard if needed, but certainly athletic enough to play Center. Shows excellent strength and agility for his bulk. Great fit for a power run team.
5.Jager Burton Ky 6-3 316 77 Early 4th
Former lofty recruit that only did not play like one often enough. Very intelligent, nice strength, needs work on technique, needs to find consistency.
6.Sam Hecht KanSt 6-4 300 76 Early 4th
Started last two seasons earning several All-Conference honors. Great size, consistent, solid in run and pass game, could fill in at Guard if needed.
7.Parker Brailsford Ala 6-2 290 73 Late 4th
Under-sized and looks to have peaked two years ago as his evolvement stalled at Bama, still a solid player, should be able to be a quality B/U with starter ability.
8.Jake Slaughter Fla 6-5 308 65 Late 5th
Long and technically excellent. Lacks more than average athleticism, not overly quick . Could bulk up and move to Guard.
9.Pat Coogan Ind 6-5 310 63 Mid 6th
3-year starter on excellent teams. Solid run blocker, average in limited pass games, he will need work there. Nice practice squad potential. Could evolve into OL depth.
10.Nick Dawkins PennSt 6-3 298 61 Late 6th
Two-year starter, best at run blocking, can get knocked back by stronger DTs. Size causes issues at other positions.
11.James Brockermeyer Mia(F) 6-3 295 56 Mid 7th
Excellent technically. Under sized, limited to Center only.
12.Conner Tollison Mo 6-4 289 55 Late 7th
3-year starter on team with excellent run game. Lack of mass will be a problem, had solid results in CFB, could use a year to grow on practice squad.
13.Luke Pettibon FlaSt 6-2 295 54 Late 7th
Over 30 starts at two ACC programs.
14.Matt Gulbin MichSt 6-4 312 53 PFA
Has played both Guard positions as well as Center. Could become rotational interior OL piece.
15.Jaren Kump Utah 6-6 315 52 PFA
16.Jackson Carsello NWest 6-4 300 49 UDFA
17.Brady Wilson Vir 6-2 298 48 UDFA
18.Mason Murphy Aub 6-5 319 47 UDFA
19.Mason Randolph BoiSt 6-4 310 46 UDFA
20.Gus Zilinskas Rut 6-2 305 44 UDFA
21.Davion Carter TxTch 6-0 295 42 UDFA
22.Calvin Gerhardt Cin 6-4 310 40 UDFA
23.Pete Nygra Lou 6-4 300 39 UDFA