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USA Today
7 hours ago
- Business
- USA Today
2026 NFL draft: 10 prospects who could be poised to rise this season
2026 NFL draft: 10 prospects who could be poised to rise this season Show Caption Hide Caption Ashton Jeanty talks all things Las Vegas Raiders and his hopes in the NFL Ashton Jeanty spoke with USA TODAY Sports about his upcoming rookie season with the Raiders and his partnership with Sharpie. Sports Seriously Editor's note: This story is a part of a series by USA TODAY Sports called Project: June. We will publish at least one NFL-themed story every day throughout the month because fans know the league truly never sleeps. The top of every NFL draft typically features at least a handful of players who have been well-known figures for some time. But plenty can change over the course of a year – and several prospects typically ensure there's somewhat of a shake-up. With teams often placing a premium on upside in their picks, a breakout season can go a long way toward shifting consensus about a player's draft stock. And with the proliferation of transfers and several late bloomers finding their stride deep in their collegiate careers – including the likes of 2025 first-rounders Tyler Warren and Matthew Golden, among others – several players could be poised this fall to enjoy an exponential surge to a higher position on draft day. With less than three months until the college football season begins, these 10 players – none of whom are quarterbacks, with the potential risers at that position already covered last month – could be prime candidates to rise on draft boards in the coming months: Zachariah Branch, WR, Georgia A top-five overall recruit in 2023, Branch showed off his explosiveness right away as a freshman for USC, scoring four touchdowns in his first three games. The former track champion – he ran a 10.33-second 100-meter dash as a sophomore – earned USA TODAY Sports' first-team All-American slot as a returner after taking back 24 kicks for 442 yards and a touchdown along with 16 punts for 332 yards and one touchdown. As a sophomore, however, he hit an apparent wall playing for a Trojans squad in transition. Although he tied for second on the team with 47 receptions last season, he scored just one touchdown and averaged 10.4 yards per reception while also seeing his special teams contributions be severely limited. After transferring to Georgia along with older brother Zion, the 5-10, 180-pounder will be called on to provide some easy wins in the passing game for expected new starting quarterback Gunner Stockton as part of a remade receiving corps. If he can re-establish his credentials as an electric playmaker by turning quick hits into long gains against the Southeastern Conference's top competition, he'll be firmly on NFL teams' radar as a potential early pick. Barion Brown, WR, LSU Since he took a kickoff back 100 yards in his first collegiate game, Brown has held a special place as one college football's most lethal speed merchants. While he delivered on his potential as a returner with an SEC-record five career kickoffs taken back for touchdowns, Kentucky's dysfunctional offense limited him to career lows of 29 catches and 361 receiving yards last season. Now slotted to complement fellow transfer Nic Anderson at LSU, Brown could thrive in the Garrett Nussmeier-helmed aerial passing attack that should be in a good spot to unlock the 5-11, 180-pounder's field-stretching ability. Drops have plagued him at times, however, and he'll need to be a more reliable presence – particularly in his route-running – to avoid being pigeonholed as a gadget player and specialist. Nyck Harbor, WR, South Carolina When it comes to unrealized potential, Harbor might be the most compelling figure in college football not named Arch Manning. With an unprecedented blend of size (6-5, 235 pounds) and speed (10.11 seconds in the 100-meter dash as a sophomore), the former five-star recruit is a singular challenge for defensive backs. But after splitting time between football and track, Harbor now has placed his full focus on the former since the spring. The more detailed approach that has been lauded by Gamecocks coach Shane Beamer could yield a massive payoff in the fall, with rocket-armed star quarterback LaNorris Sellers poised to take advantage of all that Harbor can offer as a downfield target. If his production takes a significant leap from last year's totals of 26 catches and 376 yards, expect a proportionate surge in his draft stock. Carnell Tate, WR, Ohio State While Jeremiah Smith won't be eligible for the draft until 2027, Tate could give Ohio State its fifth consecutive year with at least one receiver landing in the first round. While the 6-3, 191-pounder isn't a pure burner like others on this list, he follows other recent Buckeyes standouts in creating consistent separation with advanced precision and tempo in his route-running. After notching 52 catches for 733 yards last season as the No. 3 receiver, Tate could flourish in becoming the secondary weapon who benefits from the attention devoted to Smith, with a sizable jump from last year's totals of 52 catches and 733 yards likely in store. Building a game on craft rather than flash helped former teammate Emeka Egbuka secure a slot on Day 1 this year, and the track could lead Tate to a similar destination. Malachi Fields, WR, Notre Dame At 6-4 and 220 pounds, Fields sizes up as the kind of possession receiver who can make life a good deal easier for his signal-caller. But it might be the savvy that stems from his days as a high school quarterback that puts him over the top as a safety valve. His knack for coming down with contested catches and finding soft spots in zones helped him record more than 800 receiving yards in each of the last two seasons, which was no easy feat given the extremely poor quarterback play he was saddled with at Virginia. After transferring to Notre Dame, he'll be afforded not only a greater stage but also much better overall support from a team that should once again be in the hunt for one of the College Football Playoff's top seeds. Luke Hasz, TE, Mississippi A change of scenery can go a long way in determining any player's NFL draft trajectory. In two years at Arkansas, Hasz often saw his impact limited by quarterback Taylen Green's erratic ball placement and decision-making. Now set to be a crucial part of the Rebels' high-octane passing attack under Kiffin, the 6-3, 245-pounder should be better positioned to showcase his surehandedness and penchant for boxing out defensive backs, which should make him a fast favorite of new starting quarterback Austin Simmons. Though Hasz looks set to share the workload with Dae'Quan Wright, Mississippi could utilize plenty of two tight-end looks to take advantage of the duo. Kenyon Sadiq, TE, Oregon With second-round tight end Terrence Ferguson and top receivers Tez Johnson and Traeshon Holden off to the NFL, the Ducks are set for a reconfiguration in their receiving corps. Big things are expected of Evan Stewart as the former five-star recruit enters his second season in Eugene after transferring from Texas A&M, but Sadiq might be the true wild card for the offense. At 6-3 and 245 pounds, he's a more formidable run blocker than his size might suggest. His true value, however, lies in his ability to create mismatches as a supersized receiver with impressive long speed. Sadiq will have to show he can handle being a featured part of the Ducks' offense and develop into something more than a seam threat, but he's one of the most intriguing draft-eligible tight ends to keep an eye on. Damon Wilson II, DE/OLB, Missouri When he committed to Georgia in December 2022, Wilson looked in line to be the next standout pass rusher for a program that produced Travon Walker, Jalen Carter and a bevy of other hyperathletic defensive linemen. But the Bulldogs' rigid rotation up front can box in even the most talented players and leave them with limited opportunities to shine as individuals. While Wilson looked due for a larger role in 2025 for a defense that lost Mykel Williams and Jalon Walker from the front seven, the former five-star recruit instead opted to find a fresh opportunity. The 6-4, 245-pounder could be a cornerstone of a Missouri defense that lost its top edge threat in second team All-SEC pick Johnny Walker Jr., and more opportunities to flash his explosiveness could vault him up draft boards. Darrell Jackson Jr., DT, Florida State Having sat out all of 2023 following his transfer from Miami (Fla.), Jackson eased his way back into action last season, recording 3 ½ sacks en route to honorable mention All-ACC honors. With that experience in hand, big things could be ahead for the 6-5, 337-pounder. Few defensive linemen at the collegiate level can measure up to Jackson when it comes to commanding the line of scrimmage, as his sheer size and strength make him a dominant force against the run when he maintains his leverage and intensity. Though he might never post prolific sack numbers, he can create havoc by pushing the pocket and slipping past blockers who underestimate his quickness. Jackson's conditioning and consistency will be heavily scrutinized, but after the similarly built Kenneth Grant went No. 13 overall to the Miami Dolphins this year, it's apparent that massive defensive tackles with abundant athleticism don't tend to hang around long in the draft. Keon Sabb, S, Alabama After helping Michigan win a national championship in 2023, Sabb took on a new challenge last year by going to Tuscaloosa to help the Crimson Tide navigate the post-Nick Saban era. He made a strong early impression, recording two interceptions in his first game for Alabama and notching 39 total tackles before being lost for the season to a lower-extremity injury. The 6-1, 205-pounder blends puts together impressive size and coverage skills to allow him to clamp down on tight ends and patrol underneath in zone coverage. With his strong tackling allowing him to also be a force in the box, he should be coveted for his ability to handle a few key tasks, even if he doesn't fit the mold of a typical single-high safety. If he's able to stay healthy, expect his buzz to build. All the NFL news on and off the field. Sign up for USA TODAY's 4th and Monday newsletter. Check out the latest edition: Best fits for remaining free agents.
USA Today
a day ago
- Entertainment
- USA Today
Stefon Diggs was once the brightest of stars. What happened to him?
Stefon Diggs was once the brightest of stars. What happened to him? Show Caption Hide Caption Pats HC Mike Vrabel is 'aware' of Stefon Diggs boat video Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel answers questions about the recent video of his wide receiver Stefon Diggs. Sports Seriously Editor's note: This story is a part of a series by USA TODAY Sports called Project: June. We will publish at least one NFL-themed story every day throughout the month because fans know the league truly never sleeps. Do you remember when Stefon Diggs was one of the best wide receivers in the NFL? Do you? Because I do. In 2020, Diggs led all receivers with 127 catches and 1,535 receiving yards. He made four consecutive Pro Bowls while with the Buffalo Bills. He was devastating. Absolutely devastating. There was a time, not so long ago, when an argument could have been made that Diggs was the best receiver in football. Then slowly, ever so slowly, things started to change. Or, maybe the better way to put it, is things began to reveal themselves. It should be made clear that Diggs was well liked by Bills teammates and was a relentless worker. But cracks started to show in the relationship between Diggs and the team. There was, for example, the time Diggs and quarterback Josh Allen exchanged words on the sideline. Things shifted for Diggs. The reasons why have never been extremely clear. There are many theories. One thing is certain. If you remember what Diggs did in 2020, what you're seeing now is stunning. He did have some nice seasons in Buffalo after that year, but he was traded to Houston, and then tore his ACL. Diggs is now in New England. Then came the latest with Diggs. New England Patriots coach Mike Vrabel said he was aware of a video circulating on social media that included Diggs. "Obviously, we want to make great decisions on and off the field," Vrabel said when asked about the video. "We're hoping that with our time here on the field today, that when we don't have a script and we're on the call periods, that we're making great decisions. The message will be the same for all our players, that we're trying to make great decisions. Any conversations that I've had with Stefon will remain between him, I and the club." Patriots radio color commentator Scott Zolak, who played for the team, said the possibility of Diggs getting cut wasn't off the table. 'I came to this show yesterday with the opinion — not opinion, but the knowledge that it is on the table,' Zolak said on 98.5 The Sports Hub's 'Zolak & Bertrand. 'That it is being thought of. And it's not just the boat. It's not just the boat. There are some other things that I've heard that put some things in question. Are you all-in here? 'The videos look great of him working out. I've touted the videos. I know you need diva receivers. I say he shouldn't be cut, because I think he would help Drake Maye and this offense and Josh McDaniels, because you would have a true viable guy that would set coverage. Right now, you still don't have a guy who sets coverage. I'm sorry.' This situation puts Vrabel in a tough spot. He's trying to institute his culture as a new Patriots head coach, and cutting Diggs would send a message that you have to be "all in" as Zolak said. Yet the team also desperately needs Diggs' talent. So, back to the original question. Do you remember when Stefon Diggs was one of the best wide receivers in the NFL? It's impossible to tell where Diggs goes from here. Maybe he can regain that 2020 form (and 2022 wasn't too shabby, either). You saw parts of the old Diggs last season in Houston where he finished with 496 yards in eight games. Offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels said Diggs was at the team's OTAs on Monday. So that's good news if you're the Patriots. Diggs wasn't there last week. Something just seems off with Diggs. That doesn't mean it will stay that way. Maybe he can resuscitate his career. You'd have to think there's still something left. His success in Buffalo wasn't that long ago. Because I still remember. Do you? All the NFL news on and off the field. Sign up for USA TODAY's 4th and Monday newsletter. Check out the latest edition: Best fits for remaining free agents.
Yahoo
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- Yahoo
Stefon Diggs back on the field for Patriots OTAs after viral boat video
NFL teams continue their organized team activities (OTAs) this week as voluntary workouts continue league-wide. Players have pads on and veteran players are getting their first taste of action ahead of the 2025 NFL season. Last week, the New England Patriots made headlines because free agent signee Stefon Diggs was not in attendance. This came shortly after a video of Diggs went viral on social media on a boat with girlfriend Cardi B. Advertisement Top remaining NFL free agents: Best fits for Keenan Allen, Aaron Rodgers, more On June 2, Diggs was back in action for the Patriots, telling media members "nice to see you all" while jogging onto the practice field. Vrabel answered questions during the first week of OTAs about Diggs' absence. "This is a voluntary part of our offseason program," he said. "Every player that's not here, which there aren't many, have been in communication with me and their position coaches." 'Coming here was a blessing': Joe Milton happy joining Cowboys, Dak Prescott Vrabel iterated that players who aren't attending OTAs aren't completely on their own. Advertisement "Every player that's not here, which there aren't many, have been in communication with me and their position coaches," he said. Patriots offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels was asked if he was concerned about Diggs' absence ahead of the wide receiver's first time at OTAs. "Again, it's a voluntary part of the year," he said. "We know that. I don't know if we've ever had perfect attendance at these things in general... he's here today and we're excited to have an opportunity to work with the guys that are out here and available to us. I know he's staying up on the information, the material. I'm not concerned about [Diggs] in that regard." OPINION: If you crave the NFL, 'Project: June' is for you. Because the league never truly sleeps Advertisement Diggs' 2024 season was cut short by a torn ACL suffered in Week 8 against the Indianapolis Colts. He had surgery shortly after and was ahead of schedule in March in his recovery and was expected to be a full-go for the 2025 NFL season. His participation in OTAs is right in line with that timetable. Patriots WR depth chart New England has a dozen wide receivers on the depth chart entering OTAs. Here's how the order looks: This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Stefon Diggs back for Patriots OTAs after viral video
USA Today
2 days ago
- Entertainment
- USA Today
Opinion: Jack Brennan was closeted as Bengals PR head. He's out now and has a lot to say
Editor's note: This story is a part of a series by USA TODAY Sports called Project: June. We will publish at least one NFL-themed story every day throughout the month because fans know the league truly never sleeps. This story is also part of our Pride Month coverage. Jack Brennan was like a handful of powerful people in the NFL: He was a team PR person. In this case, for the Cincinnati Bengals. And as a PR person he was, in many ways, the front person for the team. If you wanted to talk to then coach Marvin Lewis one-on-one, you went through Brennan. Brennan was always professional, kind and did whatever he could to make your job easy. He was, in other words, a pro. He was also gay. The latter fact almost no one knew. Brennan kept it a secret throughout his 23-year Bengals career which ended in 2017. Brennan's story remains one of the most fascinating in recent league history because while the NFL and media has (understandably) focused on players coming out, there have been few team and league officials who have done the same. That's because, even in an NFL environment that is allegedly more acceptable now, it's been historically hindering to be LGBTQ+ in the NFL, either as a player or team official. When asked if he felt the NFL was an unwelcoming place to come out when he was with the Bengals, Brennan said during an interview with USA TODAY Sports: "I didn't come out until I left the NFL, so I guess I felt that way." There are many different types of heroes in what is the continuing battle for the LGBTQ+ community to keep its rights and protect itself. Brennan is one of those heroes. He wasn't vocal as the PR chief for the Bengals, but he's speaking out now, and Brennan has a lot to say. He does some of the talking in a new book Football Sissy: A Cross-Dressing Memoir from Belt Publishing which is scheduled to be released in September. The book is a striking piece of work. In many ways it's an historical document because Brennan gives you an inside look at a man who had a secret passion for wearing dresses while working for an extremely conservative league. Brennan didn't share his secret until he spoke with The Athletic in 2021. 'I feel like I want to become more genuine to people around me and not hide anymore. And maybe, I don't know, someone else will see this and it will help them,' Brennan told journalist Joe Posnanski then. "I wanted to write something good and informative," Brennan says now. "I also wanted to write something that would help people. I think one thing I wanted to say was if you're in the LGBTQ community, and you want to help other people in it, you can do so by coming out." One thing Brennan makes clear during our interview was how he felt the league office itself was tolerant of the LGBTQ+ community and for the most part, he said, so were the Bengals. However, Brennan explained that on occasion around the Bengals' complex: "Sometimes people would make slurs or insensitive comments in the office, or in the locker room." What concerned Brennan the most about possibly coming out while with the Bengals? That he would be reassigned. "Would the Bengals think it was inappropriate for me to be walking around the locker room," Brennan said during his interview with me, "around players not always wearing clothes?" Brennan believes the NFL is a better place now for the LGBTQ+ community than when he was with the Bengals. Not greatly better, he said, but better. There's just one thing that concerns him. Brennan explained he's watched as some institutions have buckled to pressure from the Trump administration which has been anti-LGBTQ. "I just hope the NFL doesn't," said Brennan. If the league has the bravery of Brennan, it won't.
USA Today
3 days ago
- Sport
- USA Today
If you crave the NFL, 'Project: June' is for you. Because the league never truly sleeps
If you crave the NFL, 'Project: June' is for you. Because the league never truly sleeps Show Caption Hide Caption Five NFL games we can't wait to watch in the 2025 season The NFL schedule for the 2025-2026 season has been released. Here are a few games on our must-watch list. Editor's note: This story is a part of a series by USA TODAY Sports called Project: June. We will publish at least one NFL-themed story every day throughout the month because fans know the league truly never sleeps. I've covered the NFL just about my entire adult life, over 30 years, and there was often this axiom that still exists: the NFL is dead in the month of June. No one cares about it. Everything shuts down. Interest dies. The league basically disappears from the minds of fans. MORE: Chiefs never make Super Bowl excuses – a lesson the 49ers must learn But is that really true? There's a phrase that's become one of my favorites: "narrative dominance." It's used a lot in politics, but it applies to this idea about the NFL. The narrative is that you, the NFL fan, ceases caring about the league in the month of June. So let's test that narrative. USA TODAY Sports will publish a story each day of the month for Project: June. We will cover the NFL universe from the lighthearted to the serious. OPINION: Is NFL caving to anti-DEI movement? The optics don't look good. If you wish you could draft your fantasy team now starting with that No. 1 overall selection (pick Ja'Marr Chase first, trust me on this), this series is for you. If you dream of season openers, tune in. If the Eagles' various Super Bowl celebrations dance in your head, over and over, this is your place. There seems to be always an NFL itch, and we will scratch it for you. Or something like that. I once had a conversation with Hall-of-Famer Michael Strahan and he mentioned how important it was to take some time away from football after the season, but by the time the summer came around, he deeply missed it. You may feel the same way. If you do, this will be the place for you in June. All the NFL news on and off the field. Sign up for USA TODAY's 4th and Monday newsletter.
