2026 NFL Draft: Top 10 Underrated Prospects Remaining by Position for Day 3

### Examining Day 2 of the 2026 NFL Draft Day 2 of the 2026 NFL Draft unfolded as expected, showcasing teams asserting their own evaluations and shifting player rankings significantly. As the clock ticked and the selections rolled in, numerous prospects either soared past or plummeted below their projected values. Now, after three rounds of picks, there’s a visible cohort of talent still available to teams clamoring for upgrades on Day 3. What this means for teams is that they must seriously consider their strategy. With quality players still on the board, their choices could fill specific gaps in their rosters, emphasizing the importance of how they scout and prioritize certain skill sets moving forward. #### Top Prospects Remaining With plenty of intriguing players left, let’s break down the standout athletes by position based on their Pro Football Focus (PFF) rankings. This exercise not only highlights some promising talent but also gives insight into how these players might fit into an NFL scheme. --- ### Quarterbacks 1. **Garrett Nussmeier, LSU:** Nussmeier carries a legacy as a strong presence in the pocket, bringing a polished style to the game. However, his average arm strength combined with shorter stature may pose challenges against more formidable defenses. 2. **Cade Klubnik, Clemson:** While his character and accuracy shine through, physical limitations could hinder his ability to secure a starting role long-term. His proficient reading of defenses will be crucial for any aspirations of success. 3. **Jalon Daniels, Kansas:** A dual-threat option, Daniels is steady yet unspectacular. His impressive rushing stats are offset by inconsistency in passing, particularly under pressure, suggesting he might need to refine his game significantly before making an impact at the professional level. 4. **Taylen Green, Arkansas:** Green possesses a solid athletic base; however, his passing inconsistencies could limit his opportunities. A potential position change might be viable due to his athleticism. 5. **Cole Payton, North Dakota State:** Payton is often compared to Taysom Hill not just for his athleticism but versatility as well. Questions remain regarding his readiness against high-caliber defenses, putting him firmly in the developmental category. 6. **Luke Altmyer, Illinois:** He lacks premium talent but compensates with strategy and poise, making him a potential backup with the ability to lead a team in a pinch. 7. **Sawyer Robertson, Baylor:** Sporting the physical traits needed for the NFL, Robertson must iron out his fundamentals to make him a viable starter. 8. **Haynes King, Georgia Tech:** King's toughness and rushing capability stand out, but like many, he’ll need to continue improving his passing game. 9. **Joey Aguilar, Tennessee:** A standout at Tennessee, Aguilar’s age may work against him in terms of draft stock; however, his 2025 season suggests he has the skills to compete professionally. 10. **Diego Pavia, Vanderbilt:** Known for his underdog story, Pavia may struggle at quarterback but could find utility in a different offensive role. --- ### Running Backs 1. **Mike Washington Jr., Arkansas:** With great size and raw speed, Washington is an appealing prospect, especially for teams looking to establish a power-running scheme. 2. **Jonah Coleman, Washington:** Not the flashiest, Coleman brings efficiency and reliability—qualities that could translate well in the NFL, particularly in zone-blocking systems. 3. **Seth McGowan, Kentucky:** A physically capable player with burst and play speed, McGowan could shine as a starting back if developed correctly. 4. **Emmett Johnson, Nebraska:** Johnson’s quickness and receiving skills make him a potential three-down back who can excel in various schemes. 5. **Nicholas Singleton, Penn State:** While Singleton’s athleticism is promising, he’ll need to build on his decision-making before solidifying his spot in the pros. 6. **Le'Veon Moss, Texas A&M:** Despite injury concerns, Moss possesses all-around skills that may allow him to contribute meaningfully as a back in the league. 7. **Jaydn Ott, Oklahoma:** Ott’s varied 2025 season raises questions about his readiness as a consistent back at the NFL level. 8. **Kaytron Allen, Penn State:** Although not the most dynamic athlete, Allen’s effectiveness in short-yardage situations makes him a reliable backup option who can help in a committee setting. 9. **Demond Claiborne, Wake Forest:** As a speedster with a strong track background, Claiborne is a potential asset in a zone scheme, albeit with questions about his overall fit. 10. **J'Mari Taylor, Virginia:** Taylor’s journey has been marked by perseverance, and his solid build and quick adaptability could yield rewards in the future. --- ### Wide Receivers 1. **Skyler Bell, Connecticut:** Bell’s ability to perform at a high level despite smaller size suggests skill sets adaptable to the pros, particularly as a slot receiver. 2. **Bryce Lance, North Dakota State:** His dominance in FCS football highlights Lance’s potential as an NFL contributor, bolstered by reliable hands. 3. **Elijah Sarratt, Indiana:** Sarratt isn’t the most athletic prospect, but his catch point focus gives him a shot at becoming an effective WR2. 4. **Deion Burks, Oklahoma:** Although questions about his big-play potential linger, Burks’s unique physical attributes cannot be overlooked. 5. **Brenen Thompson, Mississippi State:** With elite speed, Thompson’s ability to stretch defenses stands out, leading to intriguing potential in the right offensive scheme. 6. **CJ Daniels, Miami (FL):** His experience and traits could play a significant role in an NFL lineup, despite some limitations in long speed. 7. **Reggie Virgil, Texas Tech:** A safe option with reliable hands, Virgil’s versatility makes him a valuable depth piece for a receiving corps. 8. **Eric McAlister, TCU:** Serving as a vertical threat, McAlister’s ability to make plays after the catch is noteworthy, though he needs to resolve some consistency issues. 9. **Cyrus Allen, Cincinnati:** Despite physical limitations, Allen’s hands and route-running suggest he can find a place in an NFL rotation. 10. **Kevin Coleman Jr., Missouri:** His fit as a slot receiver, highlighted by his ball skills and efficiency, makes Coleman someone to watch in late rounds. --- ### Tight Ends 1. **Michael Trigg, Baylor:** With a wide range of potential outcomes, Trigg showcases the ability to be a major contributor—if he refines his focus and technique. 2. **Justin Joly, North Carolina State:** A bright prospect as a receiver, Joly might not boast the best athletic profile, but his competitive spirit could translate well to the next level. 3. **Jack Endries, Texas:** Versatile and strong in both receiving and blocking, Endries may be a sought-after option for teams needing a hybrid tight end. 4. **Dallen Bentley, Utah:** Bentley produced well but may struggle with athleticism. He’ll need to rely on his route-running savvy for success. 5. **Joe Royer, Cincinnati:** A pure receiving option, Royer is likely best suited in situations where blocking isn’t prioritized. 6. **Josh Cuevas, Alabama:** Cuevas displays tenacity and intelligence, offering valuable skills as a hybrid receiving option and blocker. 7. **Miles Kitselman, Tennessee:** With the build and potential of a two-dimensional tight end, Kitselman can add depth to any roster. 8. **John Michael Gyllenborg, Wyoming:** An athletic prospect with room for growth, Gyllenborg’s explosion and route-running skills point toward a future in receiving-heavy offenses. 9. **Tanner Koziol, Houston:** Koziol isn’t the traditional tight end but can play a significant role as a big-slot receiver if utilized effectively. 10. **Dae'Quan Wright, Mississippi:** Wright’s multi-sport background and size offer intriguing possibilities, though blocking inconsistencies could hinder playing time. --- To sum up, with a rich pool of talent still remaining, teams must assess their needs and select wisely. The rest of the draft will surely shape the future of many franchises, depending on how they approach this next phase.

Offensive Line Draft Prospects: Key Evaluations

Davis, showcasing impressive measurements, spent two years as a starter at Illinois and has all the tools to transition to tackle at the NFL level. Key to securing playing time is his ability to enhance his recovery in pass protection. In 2023, he recorded an 82.1 pass-blocking grade during his stint at New Mexico, followed by solid but varying scores of 73.1 and 77.4 in subsequent seasons at Illinois. Notably, his final season saw him concede three sacks, two quarterback hits, and 13 hurries over 417 pass-blocking snaps, while his run-blocking stood out with an outstanding grade of 86.7, proving he can impact the ground game significantly.

T Isaiah World, Oregon Ducks

World’s physical attributes catch the eye, but he’s technically unrefined, making him more of a developmental project on Day 3 of the draft. He fits best in a power-oriented run offense, where he can harness his athleticism to grow into a viable option.

T Diego Pounds, Mississippi Rebels

Pounds brings intriguing athleticism for his size, compelling scouts to take a closer look. However, his run-blocking leaves much to be desired, with PFF grades reflecting a trend of inconsistency: 41.9 in 2022, progressing to 53.1 in 2023, and peaking at 61.1 in 2024 before dropping back to 51.7 in 2025. His pass protection, highlighted by a 75.8 pass-blocking score in 2025, shows promise, allowing minimal damage with no sacks and a manageable number of pressures once he stepped into a more prominent role.

T Aamil Wagner, Notre Dame Fighting Irish

Wagner has a commendable physical build that gives him potential as a Day 3 prospect. His development hinges on improving both foot speed and overall strength to realize his aspirations as a starter in the league.

T Drew Shelton, Penn State Nittany Lions

Shelton put forth his best performance yet in 2025, achieving a 70.6 PFF overall grade. Despite this positive trajectory, his transition to more challenging run-blocking scenarios will necessitate refinement, as he recorded only a 54.7 run-blocking grade over his career.

T Nolan Rucci, Penn State Nittany Lions

Rucci, also a two-year starter at Penn State, started with a strong reputation but has seen fluctuations in his draft stock due to inconsistent performance. His arm length aligns well with NFL tackle standards, yet his 2025 performance, marked by 14 hurries allowed, indicates significant room for improvement in pass protection for him to secure a spot on an NFL roster.

Interior Offensive Line: Standout Prospects

C Connor Lew, Auburn Tigers

Lew stands out as a technically proficient center, excelling in leverage and balance. His ability to win positional battles is commendable, though he faces challenges against powerful opponents due to a lighter frame. Despite this, his refined technique signals a high ceiling for his career.

C Sam Hecht, Kansas State Wildcats

Hecht's 2025 season was stellar, accruing an 80.3 PFF overall grade, ranking him fourth among centers. His balanced skills are encapsulated by a 77.7 run-blocking score and solid pass protection, having allowed only seven pressures in 759 snaps, without suffering any sacks or quarterback hits.

G Jalen Farmer, Kentucky Wildcats

Farmer had a decent but unremarkable season, achieving a 69.8 PFF overall grade ranking 93rd among guards. His pass protection was his strong suit with a PFF grade of 72.4, but a lackluster run-blocking grade of 67.4 reveals areas needing attention.

G Billy Schrauth, Notre Dame Fighting Irish

Despite facing injuries, Schrauth’s performances have been commendable, scoring an 82.7 in pass-blocking and a 73.1 in run-blocking in 2025. He showcased his proficiency with no sacks or hits allowed and only two hurries across 213 pass-blocking snaps, though challenges with balance and speed do remain.

G Beau Stephens, Iowa Hawkeyes

Stephens thrived in one of the top offensive line units, excelling in both pass protection and run game contexts. At 6-foot-6 and 315 pounds, his arm length, at 31.63 inches, raises some concerns, yet his impressive 91.6 pass-blocking grade in 2025 indicates his potential despite these limitations.

C Jager Burton, Kentucky Wildcats

Burton brings noteworthy quickness, making him a fit for gap-based running schemes. He ranked on PFF’s Big Board at No. 141 with a career-high 71.3 PFF grade, including a commendable 79.5 in pass protection across 457 pass-blocking snaps, having avoided any sack or hit.

G Jeremiah Wright, Auburn Tigers

Wright’s consistent performance over four years at Auburn is notable, logging 1,498 snaps over the past two seasons. However, his upcoming transition raises concerns, especially at 24 years old and having permitted five sacks in 2025, paired with a 66.6 run-blocking grade.

G DJ Campbell, Texas Longhorns

Campbell’s ability to perform well in both run and pass protection shines through, with just four sacks allowed in two years. Nevertheless, he’ll need to refine his technique to solidify a long-term role within an NFL team.

G Ar'maj Reed-Adams, Texas A&M Aggies

Reed-Adams came into the season with significant expectations. Unfortunately, his performance dipped in 2025, particularly in pass protection, where he surrendered 13 hurries over 360 pass-blocking snaps. While his size offers versatility, cutting down on penalties will be vital to stay in consideration for NFL teams.

C Pat Coogan, Indiana Hoosiers

Having played for two competitive programs, Coogan made a name for himself in Indiana with a solid 78.0 PFF overall grade. His pass protection remains reliable, boasting only a single sack allowed over two seasons, but shorter arms add a layer of complexity as he navigates the next level.

Looking Ahead: The Emerging Safety Prospects

As we turn the corner into the next phase of the NFL Draft, the depth at cornerback and safety is something to watch closely. This year's group features an intriguing blend of talent that brings unique skill sets and potential, even among lesser-known names. While some prospects carry immediate concerns—be it about size, physicality, or consistency—their underlying abilities suggest they could still evolve into significant contributors at the next level. Take Malik Muhammad from Texas, for instance. His experience within a premier secondary is a strong indicator of his readiness for the pros. Although his statistical grades from PFF paint a slightly mixed picture—averaging around the low 70s in recent seasons—his capabilities in a zone scheme could maximize his impact early on. If you're analyzing his fit, bear in mind the slight concerns surrounding his frame and disruption metrics. Then there’s Will Lee III from Texas A&M. With two seasons of solid ball skills—eight pass breakups each year—he’s not just physically impressive; he also needs to refine his run defense and tackling discipline. His development trajectory is undoubtedly appealing, especially as he’s already on PFF's radar at No. 114. If he improves his game in those key fundamental areas, he could justify a late-round pick. Meanwhile, Jalon Kilgore and Charles Demmings are more wild cards with their explosive athletic profiles. Demmings, who turned heads at the NFL Combine with remarkable testing numbers—think 42-inch vertical and 4.41-second 40-yard dash—shows sleeper potential that could surprise teams. His production stats are impressive, and his physical attributes hint that he may translate well to either a corner or safety role; it’s about tuning his skills for the pro game now. And let’s not overlook Devon Marshall from NC State, whose contributions speak more to what's inside than outside. His stellar PFF grade in 2025 shows promise, but transitioning to a safety role in the NFL may be necessary. The safety class features notable names, too, like Kamari Ramsey, who brings versatility across multiple positions, and the intelligent play of Michael Taaffe. While some prospects grapple with consistency—like Jalen Stroman’s history of missed tackles—there's no shortage of intriguing potential scattered throughout the draft board. Ultimately, the key takeaway here is that while there’s talent to scout, projections remain fraught with uncertainty. For teams in need of defensive bolstering, these prospects could potentially deliver solid returns, particularly if they end up in the right schemes that capitalize on their strengths. Keep an eye on this class; it might surprise everyone as these young athletes step into their roles and navigate the transition to professional football.