Top Talent Still Available on Day 3 of the 2026 NFL Draft

Day 2 of the 2026 NFL Draft: Talent in Flux

Day 2 of the 2026 NFL Draft showcased the chaotic nature of team decision-making, with franchises reshuffling their rankings based on personalized evaluations. This often meant that players were selected well ahead of, or behind, their projected standing. As we advance to the next stage of the draft, some noteworthy talent remains on the board, indicating that there’s still a wealth of potential waiting to be tapped into. For anyone keeping tabs on the current roster-building strategies in the league, this year’s draft has revealed intriguing insights into how teams value various players, shifting the focus away from merely statistical evaluations to more holistic assessments of character, adaptability, and fit within their schemes. With the top three rounds completed, you can see which positions are still brimming with promising prospects. Here’s a breakdown of the most attractive remaining talent by category, compiled from PFF’s rankings.

Quarterback Prospects

1. Garrett Nussmeier, LSU

Nussmeier displays strong bloodlines and a sound grasp of pocket dynamics, reflecting confidence in his ability as a downfield passer. However, issues like limited arm strength and less-than-ideal height may impede his aggressive style of play in the NFL.

2. Cade Klubnik, Clemson

Klubnik is known for his character and soft touch on passes. Yet, there are doubts about whether he possesses the physical attributes to secure a starting role. If he can excel in pre-snap adjustments, he might find a niche as a reliable backup.

3. Jalon Daniels, Kansas

While Daniels’ numbers, from 2025’s completion percentage to his big-time throw count, suggest an overall solid quarterback, his performance under duress raises questions about his consistency. He has the dual-threat ability but will need to improve his passing metrics to elevate his stock.

4. Taylen Green, Arkansas

Green is adept athletically, but his fluctuating performance as a passer could limit his opportunities in a quarterback role. His athletic prowess might lend itself better to a transition to another position, like tight end, if he struggles to stick as a passer.

5. Cole Payton, North Dakota State

Payton enters the conversation as a potential utility player akin to Taysom Hill. His combination of athleticism and passing ability opens doors for multiple roles within an offense. However, questions remain about how well he can handle pressure against top-level competition.

6. Luke Altmyer, Illinois

Altmyer’s cerebral approach and calm demeanor in the pocket make him a smart backup option. While he has physical shortcomings, his understanding of the game may allow him to step up effectively when called upon.

7. Sawyer Robertson, Baylor

Robertson possesses a strong arm and frame but needs to tighten his fundamentals. Inconsistencies abound, suggesting that polishing his technique will be vital for him to progress to the next level.

8. Haynes King, Georgia Tech

King, who calls Georgia Tech home after starting at Texas A&M, has experience under his belt—especially in rushing situations. While he is a tough competitor, his passing skills still require development.

9. Joey Aguilar, Tennessee

At 25, Aguilar is one of the older prospects in the draft, bringing solid production from college but possibly lacking the elite tools for a lengthy NFL career. Yet, his standout season at Tennessee gives him a case to be considered by teams needing depth.

10. Diego Pavia, Vanderbilt

The underdog story of Pavia can't be overlooked—his competitive spirit may make him a fan favorite, but limited physical traits likely cap his prospects as a traditional quarterback in the NFL. He might be better suited as a versatile offensive player.

Running Back Rankings

1. Mike Washington Jr., Arkansas

Washington combines power and speed, featuring exceptional vision that enables him to thrive as an early-down back in various running schemes.

2. Jonah Coleman, Washington

Coleman's game may not dazzle, but his efficient style and dependability as a receiver add considerable value, particularly within zone-blocking setups.

3. Seth McGowan, Kentucky

McGowan has the physical tools to excel as a starter in the NFL, showcasing explosiveness and speed to make a noticeable impact in power-run situations.

4. Emmett Johnson, Nebraska

Johnson offers great footwork and receiving capability—a skill set that promises success behind man- or gap-blocking schemes.

5. Nicholas Singleton, Penn State

Singleton is an athletic talent but needs to refine his patience and decision-making. His third-down potential as a receiver keeps him in the mix.

6. Le’Veon Moss, Texas A&M

Injury concerns may push Moss late in the draft, yet he retains a balanced skill set that suggests he could function well as an RB2 or RB3.

7. Jaydn Ott, Oklahoma

Ott’s talent was evident as a younger player, but inconsistencies in his play might cloud his prospects moving forward.

8. Kaytron Allen, Penn State

Though Allen's athleticism is limited, he excels in short-yardage situations, indicating he can fulfill a role in a power-back committee.

9. Demond Claiborne, Wake Forest

Claiborne's speed makes him an enticing candidate, particularly within zone-blocking schemes, where he can leverage his acceleration.

10. J'Mari Taylor, Virginia

Taylor's resilience through his college journey positions him well for the NFL, where his strong build and ability could enable him to contribute as an RB3. Across all positions, the analysis of talent remaining provides teams with essential insight as they seek to bolster their rosters. Each prospect presents unique attributes, and the draft's progression has revealed strategic shifts that could hinge on the abilities and fit of these players. The third day promises further excitement, as remaining prospects may yet become key contributors in the league.

Offensive Tackle Evaluations

Davis, who has two years of starting experience at Illinois, showcases the physical dimensions needed to remain effective at tackle in the NFL, but will need to sharpen his recovery skills in pass protection to find early playing time. His performance metrics are decent but reveal a mixed bag; he scored an impressive 82.1 in pass-blocking at New Mexico in 2023, but followed up with grades of 73.1 in 2024 and 77.4 in 2025 at Illinois. In his final collegiate season, he allowed three sacks, two quarterback hits, and 13 hurries on 417 pass-blocking snaps. However, his standout run-blocking grade of 86.7 indicates he can significantly impact a team's ground game.

T Isaiah World, Oregon Ducks

World possesses enviable physical traits that suggest high potential, yet his technical skills are still developing. As a Day 3 prospect, he's best suited for teams with a power-based run philosophy where his raw talent can be groomed into something more reliable.

T Diego Pounds, Mississippi Rebels

Pounds’ athleticism stands out and will surely attract scouts' attention, but his run-blocking struggles throughout his collegiate career raise concerns. His PFF grades—41.9 in 2022, 53.1 in 2023, 61.1 in 2024, and a slight drop to 51.7 in 2025—paint a picture of inconsistency. On a brighter note, his pass protection significantly improved, highlighted by a 75.8 grade in 2025, during which he didn't allow any sacks and gave up three hits alongside 13 hurries over 583 pass-blocking snaps. This upside, combined with his physical attributes, positions him at No. 157 on PFF's Big Board.

T Aamil Wagner, Notre Dame Fighting Irish

Wagner has an athletic build that offers promise as a Day 3 pick, but he must enhance both his foot speed and strength to meet starter-level expectations. His potential is visible, but it hinges on significant development.

T Drew Shelton, Penn State Nittany Lions

Shelton’s 2025 season was his most productive, earning a 70.6 PFF overall grade. However, his transition to a more interior role requires substantial improvement in run-blocking, where his career PFF grade sits at a lower 54.7.

T Nolan Rucci, Penn State Nittany Lions

After two years as a starter at Penn State, Rucci entered 2025 with high expectations, but his performance led to a reassessment of his value as a prospect. With impressive arm length characteristic of NFL tackles, his pass protection, allowing 14 hurries that season, needs refinement to solidify his chances of being drafted.

The cornerback and safety positions are always intriguing as they pose both risk and reward in the NFL draft. As we look ahead to the upcoming selections, a few noteworthy prospects stand out not just for their statistics but for their overall potential to reshape their future teams.

Cornerback Prospects Who Might Shine

First up, Malik Muhammad from the Texas Longhorns has the attributes that make scouts sit up and take notice. His solid grades—78.5 in 2023—hint at a promising start, but teams will have to balance that against concerns around his size and ability to disrupt plays. He fits best in a zone-oriented defense, but whether he can translate that prowess to the NFL remains to be seen. Conversely, Will Lee III from Texas A&M offers some compelling upside. Despite a dip in his grade to 66.5 last year, he showcased impressive ball skills with eight pass breakups in back-to-back seasons. His physicality may raise questions, especially in run defense, but there’s no denying that teams looking for late-round gems could find value in his skill set. Jalon Kilgore from South Carolina is another player to watch. With the necessary length and explosiveness, he displays the kind of athleticism today's NFL has come to demand from nickel defenders. His upside is significant, but he still has to prove he can handle the challenges at the next level. Charles Demmings of Stephen F. Austin drew plenty of attention at the 2026 NFL Combine. His athletic profile is simply explosive—think 4.41 in the 40-yard dash and jump heights that place him in the elite percentile. The stats, including four interceptions and six passes defended in 2025, bolster his status as a sleeper candidate who may require time to develop further. And then there’s Devon Marshall from North Carolina State, whose playmaking acumen is undeniable despite concerns about his athletic profile. Although he's likely better suited for an inside role due to his size, his impressive PFF grades indicate he has the capability to impact games if he can refine his approach.

Safety: The Next Wave of Versatile Defenders

As for the safety position, Kamari Ramsey of USC stands out for his dual capability to cover both safety spots and the slot effectively. His build may not scream elite athlete, but his versatility in coverage schemes could make him a valuable asset. Genesis Smith from Arizona shows promise as well; his combination of size and athletic traits suggests he could excel in a single-high safety role. Still, doubts linger over his physicality and whether he can become a more reliable contributor. Zakee Wheatley from Penn State dazzles with his quickness and range, although a slender frame does raise questions about his ability to withstand the rigors of the position. Michael Taaffe from Texas demonstrates that smarts often outweigh sheer athleticism, but he’ll need to prove he can consistently earn his keep against stronger NFL competition. Don’t overlook Jalen Stroman from Notre Dame, who impressed with his 79.8 PFF grade last season. However, his past inconsistencies could rear their head if he can't show the commitment needed to thrive in a demanding league. Looking at Cole Wisniewski of Texas Tech, he projects best as a downhill safety with a knack for tight end coverage, but he might hit a ceiling due to his limited range. Meanwhile, Bishop Fitzgerald from USC possesses a natural feel for the game, though he must address his inconsistencies against the run. Players like VJ Payne from Kansas State and Lorenzo Styles Jr. from Ohio State present interesting cases for teams to consider their versatility as safeties or cornerbacks. And while Isaiah Nwokobia of SMU showed flashes of brilliance, including an impressive coverage rating, his tendency to miss tackles could be a red flag. In conclusion, while these prospects vary in stature, effectiveness, and potential, they all share that crucial ingredient: the chance to make bona fide impacts at the professional level. As NFL teams strategize their selections, keeping an eye on these players could deliver some unexpected advantages. What we’re seeing is not just a class of talented athletes, but an opportunity for franchises to reshape their defensive futures. Pay attention, because this year’s draft class could very well redefine the defensive backfield landscape for years to come.