We’re by way of Week 6 of the 2025 college football season, and this weekend’s video games had been highlighted by a wild upset. For the first time since 1985, a top-10 group misplaced to a group with an 0-4 or worse file. UCLA — led by quarterback Nico Iamaleava — held off No. 7-ranked Penn State, successful 42-37. The Nittany Lions weren’t the one top-10 faculty to lose Saturday, although; Florida took down Texas.
The 2026 NFL draft continues to be roughly half a yr away. However our NFL draft analysts are all the time trying down the street, taking early notes on top prospects and beginning to stack their rankings for an thrilling class.
With that in thoughts, Mel Kiper Jr., Matt Miller and Jordan Reid will measurement up CFB motion by way of a draft-centric lens on Sunday mornings all season lengthy. (Save this hyperlink!) They are going to reply lingering questions on the perfect 2026 prospects, share insights from scouts, pick risers to observe and pull again the curtain on their analysis course of. Here’s what they’ve seen and heard by way of Week 6.
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Week 6 | Week 5 | Week 4
Week 3 | Week 2
Oct. 5
Does Nico Iamaleava match into this QB draft class after his massive efficiency?
Reid: Iamaleava had a tough begin to the season. Although his first 4 video games, the Tennessee switch ranked 78th in QBR within the nation (54.4). Then Saturday, in opposition to by far the group’s greatest opponent of the season, Iamaleava regarded like a distinct quarterback (97.4 QBR). He completed 17-of-24 for 166 passing yards and two landing passes, and Iamaleava made a number of spectacular throws in opposition to the stingy Nittany Lions protection. His speeding potential was the true separator between the primary 4 video games and Week 6, although. Iamaleava saved drives alive along with his legs, producing explosive performs and in the end gaining one other 128 yards and three extra scores on the bottom (16 carries).
So what does all of it imply for his draft inventory? At 6-foot-6 and 215 kilos, Iamaleava has dual-threat traits and an enormous arm, however he wants time. He is nonetheless only a redshirt sophomore. He has 19 profession begins, and he’s nonetheless inconsistent with accuracy and decision-making. I do not count on Iamaleava to declare for the 2026 draft. I would put him within the Day 3 dialog proper now for subsequent yr, however it is smart for him to maintain creating earlier than coming into the 2027 and even 2028 class.
Name it now: What number of Miami gamers will go in Spherical 1?
Miller: Two … possibly three. Miami is anchored within the trenches by a pair of high-end prospects, certainly one of which is taking part in higher than every other participant within the nation presently. Defensive finish Rueben Bain Jr. has been distinctive all season, with two sacks and a résumé stuffed with impression performs. At 6-foot-3 and 275 kilos, he has a mix of energy and quickness to his recreation that makes him a simple analysis to the following stage as an influence rusher. In that approach, he is just like Trey Hendrickson; he has a well-rounded ability set. Bain is taking part in like a top-five choose.
And on the opposite facet of the ball is correct sort out Francis Mauigoa, who some scouts see as a guard on the subsequent stage due to his energy within the run recreation. Miami has had success operating behind the 6-foot-6, 315-pounder — one thing the Hurricanes leaned on against Florida State — and I believe his play has been higher than that of every other offensive sort out within the nation. The predraft all-star circuit might be vital for Mauigoa’s analysis as NFL groups determine if he is a guard or sort out, however he’s performing like a top-15 choose.
The wild card is quarterback Carson Beck. Thought-about a Spherical 1-caliber participant presently final yr earlier than falling off, Beck has performed cleanly this season following a switch from Georgia. His 4 landing throws in opposition to Florida State remind us how {smooth}, poised and correct he will be with a clear pocket, and in his first actual check of the season, he answered the decision. Beck fell aside when pressured in 2024, however he appears to have grown in that space based mostly on what we have seen. And in a draft class with out a longtime QB1, Beck has room to rise into the Spherical 1 image.
What else are we seeing and listening to?
Miller: Ohio State has grow to be WRU as NFL scouts consider gamers, and senior wideout Carnell Tate continues to impress as a pro-ready cross catcher. Saturday against Minnesota, Tate posted 9 catches for 183 yards and a landing with crisp, sturdy routes and the identical professional-level focus we have come to count on from him. Tate (6-3, 195) has the all-around recreation to obtain a Spherical 1 grade, particularly in a category with restricted top-tier receiver prospects. Tate possible will not bounce Jordyn Tyson (Arizona State) as the highest participant on the place, however he has pushed himself into the WR2 dialog.
Reid: This was Beck’s fourth recreation with 4 landing passes and 0 interceptions over the previous two seasons — tied for essentially the most within the FBS throughout that span, per ESPN Analysis. A real pocket passer, Beck stays in-rhythm within the Hurricanes’ offense. I had Beck graded as a middle-round prospect previous to this season, however he is trending upward. Like Matt, I’ve him coming into the early-round dialogue along with his play by way of the primary quarter of the season.
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Carson Beck connects for 40-yard TD cross
Carson Beck connects for 40-yard TD cross
Kiper: Louisville receiver Chris Bell is a Day 2 prospect who might play his approach into the Day 1 combine. After catching 10 balls for 135 yards and a TD final week against Pitt, he rolled up 12 catches for 170 yards and two TDs on Saturday against Virginia. He is an enormous 6-foot-2, 220-pounder who performs the sport with an influence ahead mentality. Cornerbacks actually battle along with his physicality; Bell wins on 50-50 balls, and he wins over the center. He seems virtually uncoverable on tape. Bell does physique catch at instances, however he is turning into extra constant there. I really like his competitiveness, and I am maintaining a tally of him on this WR class.
Miller: The Penn State speeding assault hasn’t discovered its footing all through the primary month, and scouts are questioning why coach James Franklin is not leaning extra on operating backs Nicholas Singleton and Kaytron Allen. Within the loss to UCLA, these two mixed for 89 yards on simply 19 carries because the Nittany Lions tried to maintain tempo with the Bruins’ offense.
Singleton, who began the season as my No. 2 RB within the class, has struggled to search out area behind an offensive line that has been pushed round all season. Allen has been the extra productive of the 2 regardless of being the lesser-regarded prospect, making a reputation for himself as a 5-foot-11, 217-pound downhill energy runner. Convention play might be vital for each; will Penn State once more depend on the run recreation?
At 6-foot and 224 kilos, Singleton’s all-around potential as a runner, cross catcher and blocker had him ranked as a late-Spherical 1 prospect. Wanting across the NFL, it is simple to see him as a seamless improve for quite a few groups. As an example, Kansas Metropolis is struggling to search out an explosive floor recreation, and Singleton’s potential to interrupt off massive runs and make an impression within the passing recreation could be an amazing match for the Chiefs.
Reid: Coming into the season, one prospect I had circled as a breakout candidate was Texas A&M edge rusher Cashius Howell. He needed to wait his flip behind two eventual top-40 picks in Shemar Stewart and Nic Scourton, however his persistence has paid off. Together with his second three-sack efficiency of the season Saturday against Mississippi State, he is now as much as seven sacks on the yr. At 6-foot-2 and 248 kilos, his potential to win with bend or energy makes him a flexible rusher, too. He nonetheless wants to indicate manufacturing in opposition to upper-tier groups within the convention, however with upcoming matchups in opposition to Florida and LSU, he has prime alternatives to proceed enhancing his draft inventory. I’ve Howell ranked as a top-50 prospect and inside my prime 5 at edge rusher.
Kiper: Jordan beat me to the punch on Howell, however … wow, he was excellent as soon as once more Saturday. He performed like a first-rounder. What I actually like about is recreation is that he is not purely an edge rusher. He can get inside stress, too. Howell will get blockers off stability as a result of he mixes up his strikes, after which he closes within the blink of an eye fixed. We noticed it on the finish of final season, too, and he has continued that stretch of dominance into 2025. NFL groups need closers, and that describes Howell.
Kiper: How about Cincinnati linebacker Jake Golday? He had 12 tackles, his third sack of the season, a pressured fumble and a cross deflection on Saturday against Iowa State. He was everywhere in the subject. By 5 video games, Golday has 48 tackles. Activate the tape, and also you see a rugged tackler with sideline-to-sideline velocity. As a former defensive finish, his cross rush abilities present up typically, too. Since coming over from Central Arkansas earlier than the 2024 season, Golday has made a huge impact on the Bearcats’ protection. And Cincinnati makes use of him throughout — within the slot, off the ball, wherever. The 6-foot-4, 240-pounder has the traits, expertise and work ethic to be an enormous contributor within the execs, and I’ve him within the Day 2 dialog proper now.
Sept. 28
What are scouts saying concerning the begin to Drew Allar‘s season?
Miller: The road on Allar from scouts is that he is proficient and toolsy with prototypical arm expertise and mobility — however that he additionally fails to rise to the second. The 6-foot-5, 235-pound signal-caller has performed with constant timing, accuracy and tempo from the pocket. However we noticed him battle in opposition to top-tier expertise final season, and Allar’s play against Oregon was sadly what we have come to count on when Penn State wants him to hold the group. He went 14-of-25 for 137 yards, two touchdowns and one interception. The 2 scores had been encouraging, however the 5.5 yards per try and one choose point out that the sport just isn’t slowing down for Allar in his senior season.
“He is nonetheless approach too panicked within the pocket. Preserve it clear and easy, and he’ll carve you up, however any stress, and his eyes go to the frenzy,” is how one NFC East space scout put it.
Regardless of Allar’s 43 begins in faculty thus far, an AFC West space scout mentioned, “To me, he seems like a participant that wants upper-level quarterback growth nonetheless. Not mechanically or athletically, however from a processing standpoint, he is not seeing it quick sufficient.”
Title recognition, program legacy and his nice bodily instruments will preserve Allar in early-round conversations, however his tape is not constant sufficient to earn him a beginning QB label from NFL groups. I polled six scouts Saturday evening, and all of them see him as a probable Spherical 3 possibility.
What number of top-50 picks do you see on Ohio State’s roster — and which stood out essentially the most Saturday?
Reid: A formidable victory in opposition to Washington confirmed simply how a lot depth the Buckeyes have this season. I depend 5 Buckeyes with top-50 grades for 2026: security Caleb Downs, linebacker Arvell Reese, extensive receiver Carnell Tate, linebacker Sonny Styles and tight finish Max Klare.
However it was Reese who actually popped against Washington. He was seen as a late-round prospect coming into the season, however Reese has been the Buckeyes’ greatest prospect on protection — sure, much more so than Downs — since turning into a starter in 2025. On Saturday, the 6-foot-4, 243-pounder showcased his versatility as a second-level defender and edge rusher, choosing up 5 tackles. Ohio State defensive coordinator Matt Patricia tasked him with spying Washington QB Demond Williams Jr., placing his closing velocity and bodily play to make use of.
I spoke to a number of scouts in Seattle previous to the sport, they usually had been buzzing about Reese’s ability set. The proficient linebacker has catapulted into the Spherical 1 dialogue. And if he continues on this fast climb up boards, he has an opportunity to be the primary linebacker chosen and a top-20 choose.
What else are we seeing and listening to?
Reid: Matt already talked about Allar, however I can not say sufficient concerning the poise of the opposite QB in that recreation: Oregon’s Dante Moore. Scouts have been ready to see him face a high-level opponent, and Moore went 29-for-39 for 289 yards and three touchdowns. He performs with an unflappable demeanor; he by no means confirmed panic in his recreation, regardless of the hostile surroundings. And even after Penn State put up 14 unanswered factors to ship the sport to time beyond regulation, Moore persistently and precisely discovered his targets in any respect three ranges of the sphere, making massive play after massive play within the further frames.
Scouts are nonetheless on the fence about whether or not he’ll declare for the draft after this season, however he has been the most effective QB prospects within the class by way of 5 weeks. Moore simply grew to become solely the third Oregon participant up to now 30 years with three or extra passing touchdowns in 4 of the group’s first 5 video games of a season (Bo Nix in 2023 and Akili Smith in 1998). Evaluators have actually taken discover, regardless of the 6-3, 206-pound QB beginning solely 5 profession video games thus far.
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Dan Lanning calls Dante Moore the ‘greatest quarterback in faculty soccer’
Dan Lanning has excessive reward for Dante Moore after Oregon’s double-overtime win in opposition to Penn State.
Kiper: Yeah, Moore is taking part in like a possible first general choose. He has that ceiling. However I as a substitute need to spotlight an under-the-radar QB: Jaden Craig. This 6-foot-2, 215-pound signal-caller may play at Harvard, however he might have been a stable Energy 4 quarterback. Craig has an NFL arm, and he makes use of it on the transfer. When he will get exterior the pocket, he is not seeking to run; he is seeking to throw. Craig processes and sees the sphere effectively, and he reveals the accuracy and contact to ship the ball downfield and into tight home windows.
Craig has six TD passes — together with 4 Saturday against Brown — and no interceptions by way of two video games, and he is finishing 77.3% of his throws. I believe he is a Day 3 choose proper now, however the arrow is pointing up. I like what I am seeing on tape, and a very good all-star occasion displaying might push him up boards even additional.
Miller: “Now that is what a first-round operating again seems like,” is what one NFL common supervisor texted me throughout Notre Dame’s blowout win against Arkansas. Tailback Jeremiyah Love scored 4 touchdowns within the first half. We have been ready for the true breakout recreation as he ramps up after ending final season with a knee damage. And if Saturday was any indication, Love is heat now. Regardless of sitting for a lot of the second half, Love had 57 speeding yards and two scores on 14 carries, together with 70 receiving yards and two extra scores on 5 catches. His potential as a house run hitter, plus what the 6-foot, 214-pound again brings to the desk as a cross catcher, makes him a possible top-10 expertise on this draft class.
Miller: Arizona State’s Jordyn Tyson continues to construct his résumé as WR1 within the 2026 class. Friday evening’s win over TCU noticed him seize eight passes for 126 yards and two scores. Tyson (6-2, 200 kilos) has improved his consistency as a cross catcher whereas nonetheless being the run-after-catch risk that made him so unstoppable final season. The work he has carried out to excellent his positional craft is spectacular, and it is permitting him to run away from the pack as the highest receiver within the class. Tyson might be a top-15 choose.
Reid: One other extensive receiver prospect whom scouts have been complimentary of this season is USC’s Makai Lemon. I talked about him right here final week, and he saved rolling with 11 receptions for 151 receiving yards and two touchdowns Saturday against Illinois. Lemon is a savvy route runner who catches every little thing, and he will be efficient from the slot or on the skin. Lemon (5-11, 195 kilos) can create separation with ease, however he may make contested catches when wanted, as he had a miraculous fourth-quarter seize Saturday. Lemon got here into the season as a middle-round prospect, however I truly suppose he can battle Tyson as a WR1 candidate.
Reid: Oregon edge rusher Matayo Uiagalelei completed with 4 tackles and a sack in opposition to Penn State. Probably the most spectacular a part of his efficiency was his hustle and ball pursuit. Due to his relentless motor, the 6-foot-5, 272-pound standout was capable of create fixed disruption as a run defender and cross rusher. Coming into the season, scouts had combined opinions on his projection; some seen him as a late Spherical 1 prospect, whereas others thought he was extra of a Day 2 man in a loaded defensive position group. He is the No. 5 edge rusher alone board.
Kiper: Ole Miss tight finish Dae’Quan Wright now has catches over 25 yards in all 4 video games performed this season, after including a 26-yarder against LSU. The Virginia Tech switch has persistently come up massive. On Saturday, he had two fourth-down catches, together with a 20-yard pickup on fourth-and-3 to ice the win. The massive-play potential is there, and he is a dependable cross catcher who will be flexed out extensive. The 6-foot-4, 255-pound senior simply wants to enhance his blocking. For the time being, I would put him within the Day 3 vary.
Miller: Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza made a handful of NFL-level throws this weekend against Iowa. With appreciable stress in his face all day, Mendoza (13-for-23, 233 yards, 2 TDs and one INT) made big-time throws with accuracy and timing. And he is nonetheless constructing chemistry with playmakers like operating again Roman Hemby and extensive receiver Elijah Sarratt, so the manufacturing might get even higher for the 6-5, 225-pound passer. I have never heard Spherical 1 speak from NFL scouts but, however it would not be a shock to see that buzz get going as we get into October.
Reid: Alabama OT Kadyn Proctor continues to be one of the crucial fascinating prospects on this draft class. He has flashes that counsel a possible early-round choose. However then there are lapses in play the place he seems extra like a middle-round prospect. A robust argument might be made that he had the most effective video games of his profession against Georgia, although. Proctor was bodily as a cross protector and always confirmed his bruising potential as he paved lanes within the run recreation. He even caught one of the crucial entertaining display passes that you will ever see, as he gained 11 yards and virtually scored. The athletic traits and energy of Proctor confirmed, however he wants to search out extra consistency.
0:33
Ty Simpson throws cross to 6-foot-7, 366-pound sort out Kadyn Proctor
Ty Simpson throws it out to Kadyn Proctor, who barrels over everybody to arrange first-and-goal.
Kiper: Jordan talked about a bunch of early-round Buckeyes, however here is a sleeper from that roster. Edge rusher Caden Curry leads the group in sacks (5) and tackles for loss (5), and he’s third in tackles (16). His recreation is constructed on consistency and hustle; he by no means lets up. At 6-foot-3 and 260 kilos, Curry is stable in opposition to the run. He can drop in protection. And he’s versatile sufficient alongside the road that he can generate stress irrespective of the place he’s lined up. He truly had a sack Saturday when kicked inside over the nostril sort out. After I watch Curry play, I believe “future Steeler.” He performs with that mentality. Watch him as a Day 3 prospect with loads of potential to rise earlier than April.
Sept. 23
What does John Mateer‘s proper hand damage imply for his draft inventory?
Reid: Mateer might be sidelined for a few month after struggling an injury to his throwing hand. He’s anticipated to bear surgical procedure. Mateer was climbing rankings rapidly after spectacular early-season performances in opposition to Michigan and Auburn. He was seen as a middle-round prospect coming into the season after transferring from Washington State to Oklahoma, however scouts had been beginning to point out him within the early-Day 2 discussions. He is the No. 4 QB on my board, although he started the 2025 season exterior my prime 5 on the place.
Now, lacking a month might preserve Mateer exterior the highest 50 picks. Returning for a late-season stretch of video games in opposition to ranked opponents — together with Alabama, Missouri and LSU — might assist him salvage his Spherical 1 potential. Evaluators are taking a wait-and-see method following his damage. It needs to be famous that Mateer additionally has the choice to return to highschool as a result of he has one other yr of eligibility.
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John Mateer plows into the tip zone for a big-time OU TD
John Mateer breaks the aircraft to provide the Sooners a lead late within the fourth quarter.
At 6-foot-1 and 225 kilos, he performs with an aggressive mentality and fearlessness. He operates effectively contained in the pocket, is not afraid of testing tight home windows and throws with anticipation within the Sooners’ up-tempo offense. Mateer was off to a quick begin this season with 1,215 passing yards and 6 TD passes — and the underrated runner added one other 190 speeding yards and 5 extra scores on the bottom by way of 4 video games.
Sept. 21
What are you seeing from USC’s prime two receivers?
Reid: Trojans wideout Makai Lemon was producing loads of curiosity from scouts I spoke with Saturday in Los Angeles at USC’s win over Michigan State. He caught eight passes for 127 yards and a landing (40 yards), after which he additionally rushed twice for 11 extra yards and an extra rating. A cultured route runner, Lemon transitions effectively out and in of his breaks. At 5-foot-11 and 195 kilos, he is able to lining up within the slot or on the skin, and his reliability on the catch level has shined by way of 4 video games this season. Lemon has additionally proven that he will be an enough return specialist on the subsequent stage. At this level within the season, he seems like a possible early-Day 2 choose.
In fact, Lemon is not even the highest-ranked WR prospect on USC’s roster. Ja’Kobi Lane entered the season as my No. 2-ranked receiver, and I have never moved off that grade by way of 4 video games. He missed Saturday’s recreation with an injury, however he has 9 catches for 239 yards and a landing over three video games. At 6-foot-4 and 200 kilos, Lane is an extended strider with distinctive ball-tracking abilities. He is capable of sky over defenders and make catches as a vertical risk. Lane nonetheless must refine his route tree and present extra consistency within the short-to-intermediate areas, however he for certain has the potential to be a top-50 choose.
What stood out about Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza vs. Illinois?
Miller: Mendoza turned within the single best performance of any participant within the nation this week. Going through the No. 9-ranked Combating Illini — a group that had allowed simply 22 factors all season — Mendoza was practically flawless. He accomplished 21 of 23 passes for 267 yards and 5 landing throws. His command from the pocket stood out persistently all through the sport, as he was snug and assured standing tall and throwing darts downfield.
Mendoza is an on-time passer who provides his receivers loads of time and room to run after the catch, and his greatest attribute is how precisely he delivers the ball. Passes had been proper the place they wanted to be Saturday. After transferring from California this offseason, the largest query marks for Mendoza had been his potential to play in opposition to higher competitors and whether or not he might lower down on turnover-worthy throws the place he overtrusted his arm. He has carried out each of these issues this season with 14 landing passes and no interceptions in 4 video games. The 6-foot-5, 225-pound quarterback is definitely one of the crucial improved gamers within the class.
There isn’t any set-in-stone QB1 for subsequent yr, and Mendoza’s play is placing him into that dialog. The success of on-target passers like Jared Goff — whom Mendoza jogs my memory of — will solely assist to spice up his inventory if his sturdy play continues.
What else are we seeing and listening to?
Miller: The Clemson protection was billed as an elite unit that includes first-round prospects alongside the defensive position and at cornerback. However very like Florida State’s much-heralded protection final yr, not all the prospects have lived as much as expectations. Defensive sort out Peter Woods — a participant thought-about to be a top-five prospect earlier than the season started — has didn’t make an actual impression and has but to file his first sack this season. The 6-foot-3, 315-pounder’s tape from prior seasons confirmed a participant who was not often moved round by offensive linemen, however this yr, his potential to get off blocks and end performs is lacking. There’s time to show it round, however the junior defensive sort out’s inventory may be slipping.
Reid: One prospect who instantly caught my consideration whereas I used to be out on the scouting path this weekend was USC linebacker Eric Gentry. At 6-foot-6 and 225 kilos, Gentry is an extended and rangy defender with a wiry construct. Primarily taking part in on the second stage, he is an explosive enforcer from his inside linebacker spot. Scouts are intrigued by his potential on the subsequent stage due to his instincts and vary when chasing ball carriers. Gentry might be a little bit of a polarizing prospect due to his body; he wants so as to add extra weight. However when asking scouts about him, many believed that he is a middle-round prospect.
Kiper: Michigan operating again Justice Haynes is making a case to be a third- or fourth-round choose subsequent April. He is the son of Verron Haynes, a former Georgia operating again who I scouted earlier than he went within the fifth spherical of the 2002 draft to the Steelers. The youthful Haynes was nice Saturday against Nebraska, carrying the ball 17 instances for 149 yards and a rating.
At 5-foot-11 and 210 kilos, he performs with a low heart of gravity and generates highly effective leg drive. This is not a operating again who’s going to bounce round behind the road of scrimmage and take a sort out for loss; he is a one-cut-and-go runner with good physique lean. However as soon as he will get by way of the opening, he will be arduous to catch. Haynes has 4 carries for 50-plus yards this season, serving to him to 537 yards and 6 TDs by way of 4 video games. The Alabama switch additionally stands out as a cross catcher and blocker. He high-pointed a catch Saturday, and his potential to cross defend is clear on the tape.
0:28
Justice Haynes breaks off for 75-yd speeding TD
Justice Haynes takes it 75 yards to the home to place Michigan again in entrance vs. Nebraska.
Miller: Among the finest matchups of the day was the Texas Tech pass-rush duo of David Bailey and Romello Height against Utah offensive tackles Caleb Lomu and Spencer Fano. This was a résumé recreation with best-versus-best attributes, and Bailey walked away from the sphere the clear winner of the 4 prospects.
Matched up throughout from Fano for a lot of the sport, Bailey’s first-step quickness saved Fano off-balance. At 6-foot-3 and 250 kilos, his potential to counter with energy and use of his arm size actually annoyed the Utah proper sort out. Fano entered the matchup as my top-ranked sort out due to his expertise at each sort out spots, however his lack of anchor energy at 6-foot-6 and 300 kilos was noticeable. He is nonetheless a Spherical 1 participant — we do not overreact to 1 recreation right here — however Bailey’s sturdy displaying (3 tackles, 1 sack) in opposition to elite competitors is tape to return to all through the method. Bailey has the makings of a top-75 participant.
Reid: Among the finest edge rusher duos within the nation is at Missouri. Damon Wilson II (6-foot-4, 250 kilos) and Zion Young (6-foot-5, 262 kilos) have continued to climb up boards after a robust begin to the season. Wilson spent the primary two years of his profession at Georgia earlier than transferring to the Tigers, and after recording a half-sack against South Carolina, he has already matched his profession excessive in sacks (3.0) from a season in the past. He nonetheless must refine his hand utilization as a cross rusher, and that will enable him to climb the board much more.
Younger, in the meantime, is extra versatile in that he can put his size to make use of as each a run defender and cross rusher. He had two tackles for loss and a sack Saturday. With an explosive first step and the hand energy to match, Younger is seen as a top-50 prospect.
Kiper: Second week in a row that I am piggybacking off one thing Jordan identified, however I needed to name out Younger — he was terrific Saturday. The stat line would not even inform the total story. Younger was disruptive, and I really like his size, energy and burst. He reveals actually sturdy eye self-discipline, too. His recreation is constant, and I believe he’ll be actually good in a cross rush rotation within the NFL. Proper now, I see a third- or fourth-rounder, however Younger retains climbing the board, so do not be stunned if he in the end goes even earlier.
Miller: Arkansas’ close loss to Memphis completely summarized the Taylen Green expertise. The Razorback quarterback is a playmaker with an enormous arm and the operating potential to undergo or round defenders. Every week he is placing the group on his again and carrying the offense. However on Saturday, a late interception within the fourth quarter value the group, earlier than a fumble by operating again Mike Washington Jr. whereas driving for a go-ahead subject aim in the end saved Arkansas from successful.
Inexperienced confirmed the traits that scouts love whereas throwing for 325 yards and a landing cross and including 53 yards as a runner, however his two interceptions on the day level to a prospect who continues to be rising. There was some QB1 rumblings about Inexperienced, and the instruments are enjoyable, however he has to scrub up his decision-making earlier than he is prepared for that title.
Kiper: This is an FCS identify to file away as a possible late-round choose subsequent April — Youngstown State extensive receiver Max Tomczak. You may acknowledge that final identify; Max is the nephew of Mike Tomczak, who performed quarterback for Ohio State after which was a member of the 1985 Bears. Max was a walk-on at Youngstown State, and he put collectively three stable seasons earlier than leaping out to a very good begin once more in 2025. By 4 video games, Tomczak has 21 catches for 306 yards and a TD. The 6-foot, 195-pounder posted seven catches for 116 yards Saturday against Towson, and a few of these grabs got here within the fourth quarter when the Penguins wanted them.
Tomczak is a nuanced route runner, and he acknowledges completely different coverages effectively. He adjusts on the ball within the air after which has the palms to safe it. And I see the flexibility to play exterior or inside — and return punts. I am hoping to see him at an all-star occasion in opposition to higher competitors after the season, however he is the kind of participant who will combat his approach onto an NFL roster.
Sept. 14
Has Carson Beck revived his draft inventory at Miami? What are scouts saying about his standing?
Reid: Coming into final season, Beck was seen as a possible first general choose for 2025 — however an inconsistent remaining yr at Georgia created questions. He did not declare for the draft, as a substitute transferring to Miami, the place he aimed to reestablish and revive his draft inventory.
0:13
Carson Beck to Joshua Moore for an 8-yard TD
Carson Beck to Joshua Moore for an 8-yard TD
Properly, Beck has 812 passing yards, seven landing passes and two interceptions by way of three video games, and his 89.9 QBR is fourth within the nation. He threw for 340 yards in Miami’s win against South Florida on Saturday. Beck (6-foot-4, 220 kilos) seems snug within the group’s adjusted offense (Miami ran extra up-tempo, Air Raid-style final season) and has routinely stayed on-schedule and in rhythm — sneaky good traits in his ability set.
He entered the season with primarily Day 3 grades from scouts, and they’re taking discover of his early-season play. He’s actually trending up. However evaluators aren’t able to put Beck again into that first-round dialog simply but. Most nonetheless contemplate him for the center rounds.
Has something modified within the WR1 race by way of Week 3?
Miller: Arizona State’s Jordyn Tyson continues to be the front-runner. He is averaging 104.7 receiving yards per recreation this season (tied for tenth within the FBS) and has 4 TD catches, together with one Saturday against Texas State. Tyson (6-foot-2, 200 kilos) had drop points final yr, however he has emerged as a extra polished cross catcher (only one drop on 37 targets although three video games). His deep-route-running potential and the way effectively he separates excessive nonetheless has him as the highest receiver within the class.
Nevertheless … the WR1 race could be very extensive open, and Alabama’s Germie Bernard is rising within the combine. He has been the perfect factor about Alabama soccer thus far this season. Scouts had him with a fringe Spherical 1-2 grade over the summer season. However to me, he is proper within the WR1 convo with Tyson and has a recreation similar to Emeka Egbuka as a university receiver. At 6-foot-1 and 204 kilos, he’s already a high-end route runner with good physicality and energy. Bernard had two scores in Saturday’s blowout win over Wisconsin — one on the bottom and one other by way of the air.
What else are we seeing and listening to?
Kiper: Proper sort out Spencer Fano will get a lot of the recognition on Utah’s offensive line, however left sort out Caleb Lomu deserves to be in the identical dialog. He is a Spherical 1-caliber participant regardless of 14 profession begins. Within the Utes’ massive win over Wyoming, he confirmed actually sturdy footwork and approach. Lomu mirrors effectively, and he handles twists and stunts with out a lot downside. And Lomu is robust as a run blocker; he can pull and get to the second stage, although he wants to enhance as a drive blocker. Keep watch over each of those Utah tackles.
Miller: Scouts had been buzzing all week after Oklahoma quarterback John Mateer carved up the Michigan protection last Saturday. “It is going to be very arduous to not suppose Spherical 1 with him if he retains this up,” mentioned an NFC West scout. The 6-foot-1, 224-pound Mateer, who transferred from Washington State, has one other yr of eligibility, however his red-hot begin has his inventory hovering in a QB class that doesn’t but have a lock on the highest man. We noticed extra basic Mateer Saturday against Temple, as he threw one landing cross and one interception whereas displaying the arm angles and enjoyable play within the pocket that makes him one of the crucial intriguing passers within the nation.
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John Mateer takes it 51 yards to the home for OU
John Mateer takes it 51 yards to the tip zone for the Sooners vs. the Owls.
Miller: Mateer may be the most popular identify amongst draft-eligible quarterbacks, however Fernando Mendoza is taking part in in addition to anybody on the place. The Cal switch has been at dwelling in Curt Cignetti’s offense at Indiana. In opposition to Indiana State on Friday night, Mendoza went 19-for-20 with 270 yards and 5 touchdowns by way of the air and one on the bottom. That is as near flawless as you may get. Scouts I talked to over the summer season had been excessive on him after his junior season however needed to see him lower down on turnovers. Thus far this season at Indiana, Mendoza (6-foot-5, 225 kilos) has carried out that, throwing 9 landing passes and 0 interceptions. I would not be stunned to see him begin getting consideration from NFL scouts as a possible Spherical 1 participant.
Reid: After an injury-riddled 2024 season, Miami defensive lineman Rueben Bain Jr. has been terrific within the early elements of 2025 — and he’s within the first-round image. At 6-foot-3 and 275 kilos, he is a little bit of a tweener, and I’ve heard combined opinions on his place on the subsequent stage. There are some scouts who like him as a 3-4 defensive finish, whereas others imagine he might transition to 3-technique with added bulk. Regardless, Bain’s mixture of energy and disruption makes him arguably one of many three greatest defensive linemen in a loaded class on the place. He has 1.5 sacks and 10 tackles over three video games.
Kiper: I needed to name out Bain, too. I simply love the best way he performs the sport. He’s always hustling and by no means takes performs off. Bain is highly effective, bends effectively, reveals velocity off the sting and is aware of tips on how to use his palms to get leverage. He can generate stress inside and out of doors; I actually like his inside strikes, and he shows a dependable rip transfer to beat blockers. Taking the fitting angle to the QB is a really underrated trait for an edge rusher, and Bain does that in addition to anybody. And it isn’t simply the cross rush. Bain can shed blockers and make run stops. He is actually disruptive, and if he stays wholesome this season, he has top-10 upside.
Reid: When speaking to scouts out on the street this week, Ohio State linebacker Arvell Reese was repeatedly talked about as somebody making the bounce to a different stage this season. At 6-foot-4 and 243 kilos, Reese is a rangy second-level defender who wears a number of hats within the Buckeyes’ scheme. He serves as a strongside linebacker, however defensive coordinator Matt Patricia additionally deploys him as an edge rusher. With explosive playmaking traits, Reese has 16 tackles and two sacks over three video games. If his present stage of play continues by way of convention matchups, he might begin receiving Spherical 1 chatter, too.
Miller: Clemson quarterback Cade Klubnik had summer season hype as a first-rounder, however NFL scouts are backpedaling sooner than the cornerbacks he faces. One AFC East scout mentioned: “I believe he is a Day 3 man, and also you noticed why at this time. When his weapons had been lacking [including Antonio Williams], he regarded common. OK arm, OK processing velocity. Approach too overhyped.”
Kiper: Yeah, I do not need to overreact, however the quarterback class general has been disappointing. Bear in mind within the lead-up to the 2025 draft when everybody saved saying groups ought to wait till 2026 for this nice group of QBs? Bear in mind when there was discuss six or seven passers primed for Spherical 1? (I even predicted six first-rounders myself a few weeks ago, earlier than the CFB season began.) Properly, nothing has materialized. Nobody is actually taking part in as much as the preseason hype. Mateer and Mendoza have been essentially the most spectacular passers thus far, however the remainder of the bunch have underwhelmed. Talking of Mendoza, his subsequent three video games (vs. Illinois, at Iowa and at Oregon) might be telling.
Reid: After lacking the primary two video games of the season with a foot damage, Florida inside defender Caleb Banks made his season debut in opposition to LSU. However within the third quarter, Banks reaggravated the damage and was later seen on crutches and with a strolling boot. The 6-foot-6, 330-pounder had vital buzz from NFL scouts over the summer season, and a few believed he had top-15 potential. His damage restoration is one thing to watch transferring ahead.
Sept. 7
Which prospect caught your eye in Michigan-Oklahoma?
Miller: The Michigan protection was alleged to be the star of the present, however I could not assist however zero in on Oklahoma quarterback John Mateer. The Washington State switch put the Sooners on his again along with his sturdy proper arm and mobility each inside and out of doors the pocket. Mateer rushed for 74 yards and a rating, and he threw for an additional landing with 270 yards passing in opposition to a proficient protection that options one of many nation’s greatest D-lines.
Mateer (6-foot-1, 224 kilos) is a gunslinger, and he’ll take a number of possibilities with passes that may make you maintain your breath — however he additionally makes performs many different faculty QBs merely aren’t making at this level within the season. Mateer’s arm energy, mobility, moxie and playmaking mindset make for an amazing watch.
NFL scouts had a conservative Day 3 grade on Mateer this summer season, however I am seeing a participant with sufficient starter traits to place him inside my prime 50. And if he continues to play this effectively in opposition to SEC defenses, a Spherical 1 grade is not out of the query.
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John Mateer scores his 2nd speeding TD vs. Michigan
John Mateer will get nice blocking and retains it to provide Oklahoma a 21-7 lead.
What have we realized about Arch Manning over two video games?
Reid: Expectations for Manning had been sky excessive coming into the season. However he by no means acquired right into a rhythm against Ohio State in Week 1, which led to erratic accuracy, late reads and poor general decision-making. Manning managed simply 170 passing yards, one TD throw and an interception. He did have a significantly better efficiency in Week 2 against San Jose State — 295 passing yards and 4 landing passes. There, Manning was extra decisive, and the offense appeared to circulation significantly better in consequence. However he’s very a lot nonetheless within the early levels of his first yr as a starter.
The place Manning has been essentially the most disappointing is his mechanics. His physique hasn’t been in sync along with his throwing movement, inflicting him inaccuracy on what needs to be routine throws. To actually hit the following stage, he must iron that out. As I’ve mentioned because the summer season, I nonetheless imagine the earliest we’ll see Manning within the NFL is 2027.
Which potential first-round QB most wants a fast turnaround after a gradual begin to 2025?
Miller: LaNorris Sellers, QB, South Carolina. Let me begin by saying I am a Sellers fan. He is my No. 1-ranked quarterback for the 2026 draft based mostly on his potential and expertise. That mentioned, he must be cleaner as a passer than he was on Saturday against South Carolina State. He was simply 11-of-19 in a vanilla recreation plan. Very similar to we noticed within the season opener against Virginia Tech, Sellers can overwhelm opponents along with his mobility and arm expertise, however he’s nonetheless taking pictures as a passer which can be simply too dangerous — which result in incompletions and turnover-worthy performs. He’s finishing 60.5% of his passes proper now, and he has been off-target 10.5% of the time.
Sellers (6-foot-3, 240 kilos) is extremely proficient, however he has to grow to be a greater on-target passer, particularly within the pocket, and enhance his on-time rhythm to take that subsequent step as a prospect. He is nonetheless holding agency as my QB1, however there are holes in his recreation that I will be watching this season.
Reid: Cade Klubnik, Clemson. Coming into the season, I used to be excessive on Klubnik as he confirmed an enormous bump in his growth all through 2024. Primarily based on the personnel and infrastructure in place at Clemson, there wasn’t a QB within the nation who was higher set as much as succeed this yr. However after watching him reside against LSU final week, I see points when he faces stress. He was additionally indecisive and took too lengthy to make selections throughout the framework of the offense. These issues popped up once more this weekend against Troy.
In speaking to scouts across the league, Klubnik (6-foot-2, 210 kilos) is polarizing as a prospect as a result of he has a number of stable/common traits however lacks a dominant one. You want that one superior ability to catapult to the entrance of this QB class, and it is why his draft grades are all over with NFL evaluators.
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Cade Klubnik airs it out for 26-yard landing cross
Cade Klubnik connects for 26-yard TD cross
Which participant is already rising your draft board based mostly on his play thus far — and the way excessive might he go?
Reid: Mansoor Delane, CB, LSU. No different draft-eligible prospect impressed me extra throughout my Week 1 scouting journey than Delane. One of many largest switch portal additions within the nation throughout any place, he has been glorious by way of two weeks since arriving in Baton Rouge from Virginia Tech.
At 6-foot and 190 kilos, Delane is a smooth-moving nook with the power to mirror-and-match the actions of opponent receivers. His ball abilities have additionally been distinctive to begin the season, with two cross breakups and an interception. Delane has the savviness and consciousness to search out the ball and make performs on it within the air. His approach is all the time relaxed, too, and he hardly permits extensive receivers to hurry up his course of whereas sticking in protection with them. And Delane has not solely been constant in man protection; his zone instincts have shined as effectively.
Due to the spring damage to Tennessee’s Jermod McCoy, the CB1 race is extensive open. Delane has strengthened his case by way of the early parts of the season and presently initiatives as a top-50 choose.
Miller: Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana. There was a very good quantity of summer season hype and pleasure surrounding Mendoza after he transferred into the wide-open Indiana passing recreation from Cal. And thus far, the hype has been warranted. Mendoza hasn’t confronted a high quality opponent but, however it’s apparent his traits are next-level.
Against Kennesaw State, Mendoza was 18-of-25 for 245 yards and 4 landing passes — the kind of numbers you count on a top-tier prospect to place up in opposition to a lower-level opponent. He is displaying nice command of the offense whereas constructing chemistry with senior extensive receiver Elijah Sarratt (who had three scores on Saturday). Mendoza’s potential to layer the ball on deep throws stands out. And in a quarterback class the place we’re very a lot ready for somebody to emerge, his displaying by way of two weeks — even in opposition to not nice competitors — has been notable. Mendoza’s arm expertise, measurement (6-foot-5, 225 kilos) and what he provides to the sport as a runner might put him into the QB1 derby we’re seeing play out each Saturday.
What else are you seeing and listening to?
Kiper: I’ve been impressed with Oregon quarterback Dante Moore. He was an enormous recruit out of highschool however struggled in 12 months 1 at UCLA after which sat behind Dillon Gabriel in 12 months 2 after transferring. Now he is taking full benefit of this Will Stein offense in Eugene. Sure, the Geese have solely confronted Montana State and Oklahoma State — two groups they need to deal with more often than not — however Moore is taking part in at a excessive stage. The 6-foot-3, 206-pounder confirmed nice accuracy on Saturday against the Cowboys. The contact on his deep balls was improbable, and he routinely threw with precision from completely different arm angles and whereas rolling both path. Moore has thrown for no less than 200 yards, accomplished no less than 75% of his throws and tossed no less than three TD passes in each contests — and he hasn’t thrown any INTs but.
Now, the schedule goes to get more durable. I’ve Moore’s trip to Penn State circled for late September. How will he deal with a “white out” surroundings? But when Moore retains taking part in like this, Spherical 1 might be in play.
Miller: Throughout summer season evaluations of the 2026 class, Ohio State security Caleb Downs emerged as certainly one of my favourite gamers to review now that he is lastly draft-eligible after two All-American seasons to begin his faculty profession. Downs ranks as my No. 1 security and a top-five participant general. However that sentiment wasn’t shared by scouts I spoke with earlier than the season. “He is a legal responsibility in man protection. He may be a [weakside linebacker] within the NFL with how typically he performs within the field,” mentioned an AFC East space scout.
The problem with that concept is that Downs is listed by Ohio State at 6-foot and 205 kilos, hardly linebacker measurement by at this time’s requirements. For my part, Downs is a Kyle Hamilton-esque defender, and his play against Texas highlighted his versatility.
Kiper: Jordan touched on this, however I nonetheless suppose Manning goes again to highschool. He must grow to be an amazing faculty quarterback earlier than he can grow to be an amazing NFL quarterback, and he hasn’t gotten there but. The potential is right here, for certain. However one full yr as a CFB starter is not going to be sufficient to achieve that subsequent stage earlier than leaping to the professionals. I would not put him on mock drafts and even rankings proper now.
Kiper: Kevin Coleman Jr. has completely crammed the Luther Burden III void within the Missouri offense. The 5-foot-11, 180-pound slot receiver has been all over. He was at Jackson State in 2022. Then Louisville in 2023. Then Mississippi State in 2024. Now he is on to Missouri. And the manufacturing has been good thus far, together with 10 catches for 126 yards and a landing against Kansas on Saturday. Coleman shows the fast burst to separate beneath, and he can tag on further yards after the catch. His physique management is spectacular, and he snags the ball in stride. And I actually like how rapidly Coleman reads zone protection and finds openings. Toss in some punt return potential, and I see a possible Day 2 prospect.
Reid: One participant who has NFL scouts already buzzing is Oregon tight finish Kenyon Sadiq. They particularly name out his potential as a blocker at 6-foot-3, 245 kilos. “He is an absolute weapon as a run blocker that tries to place guys within the dust every time he will get palms on them,” an AFC space scout mentioned. Sadiq got here into the season as my TE1, and he seems like one of the crucial constant prospects within the nation thus far, no matter place. Sadiq acquired Spherical 1 buzz coming into the yr, and if his stage of play continues, he might be a top-20 choose.
Miller: Ohio State offensive lineman Ethan Onianwa — a extremely regarded switch from Rice with top-75 grades from NFL scouts — didn’t begin in opposition to Texas and performed simply 13 snaps after he finally rotated into the sport at proper guard. The 6-foot-6, 333-pound senior had excessive expectations this season, however the early phrase from sources with the Buckeyes is he has struggled to select up the offense.
Kiper: The Clemson defensive position is loaded, with the likes of T.J. Parker and Peter Woods. However how about Will Heldt? He is main the Tigers with two sacks thus far, and he regarded nice against Troy this weekend. The Purdue switch has good size, the power to get stress each inside or exterior and stable closing velocity. Heldt mixes up his pass-rush strikes to get dwelling, however do not sleep on his potential to get off blocks and pursue laterally, and even drop in protection. Dabo Swinney would not usually use the switch portal, however touchdown Heldt this yr was an enormous win. The 6-foot-5, 260-pound edge rusher is taking part in like a first-rounder.
Miller: Baylor quarterback Sawyer Robertson is value maintaining a tally of as an rising expertise within the 2026 draft class. An AFC South space scout texted me on Saturday: “Robertson is the true deal. He is acquired all of it.” The 6-foot-4, 220-pound senior was phenomenal in a shootout with SMU on Saturday, throwing 4 landing passes and finishing 34 of fifty passes for four hundred and forty yards in a double-overtime win.
Kiper: The Ole Miss protection misplaced a number of expertise this yr, together with Walter Nolen III. However defensive sort out Zxavian Harris (6-foot-7, 320 kilos) has been enormous for the Rebels, along with his second sack in as many video games on Saturday against Kentucky. Harris strikes effectively for his measurement, particularly laterally, and he makes his presence felt in opposition to each the run and the cross. He nonetheless wants refinement as a cross rusher, however defensive coordinators can transfer him round to receive advantages. His draft inventory continues to be TBD — I have to see extra.
Kiper: Tanner Koziol left Ball State for Houston earlier than this season, and he has been excellent. The early Day 3 prospect nonetheless has to enhance his blocking, however he is a harmful cross catcher. Koziol is principally a receiver in a decent finish’s physique (6-foot-6, 250 kilos). He already has 13 catches on the season, together with six for 52 yards on Saturday against Rice.
