2027 NFL Draft: 10 Under-the-Radar College Football Players Poised to Skyrocket in 2026

As the 2027 NFL Draft looms on the horizon, the spotlight has already begun to shift toward the next wave of elite college football talent. Whereas household names like Arch Manning and Jeremiah Smith dominate early mock drafts, a deeper layer of prospects is quietly emerging—players who could leap into first-round consideration with a standout 2026 season. These under-the-radar stars, often overshadowed by more hyped teammates or programs, possess the physical tools, intangibles, and untapped potential to reshape their draft stock in the coming months.

For NFL scouts and front offices, the 2026 college football season represents a critical evaluation window. A single breakout campaign can transform a mid-round projection into a top-10 pick, as seen with recent risers like C.J. Stroud (Ohio State) and Caleb Williams (USC). This article highlights 10 college football players who, despite flying below the national radar, have the talent and opportunity to make a similar ascent. Their paths to NFL stardom may be unconventional, but their upside is undeniable.

To compile this list, we analyzed verified scouting reports, performance metrics, and program depth charts from trusted sources, including NFL.com, ESPN, and The Athletic. Each player’s inclusion is based on a combination of measurables, film study, and situational factors—such as coaching changes, offensive scheme shifts, or increased playing time—that could unlock their potential in 2026.

The Rise of the “Late Bloomer” in the NFL Draft

The NFL Draft has long been a stage for overnight sensations. Players like Justin Fields (Ohio State) and Mac Jones (Alabama) saw their draft stock explode in their final college seasons, proving that a single year of dominance can outweigh years of anonymity. For the 10 players below, 2026 could be their moment to rewrite their draft narratives.

What separates these prospects from the pack? It’s not just raw talent—it’s the convergence of opportunity, development, and scheme fit. Some are transfers escaping crowded depth charts, while others are returning from injury or stepping into expanded roles. All share one trait: the potential to outperform expectations.

10 Under-the-Radar Players to Watch in 2026

1. Charlie Becker – QB, Texas A&M

Position: Quarterback | Height: 6’3” | Weight: 215 lbs | Class: Junior

Charlie Becker entered Texas A&M as a highly touted recruit but spent his first two seasons buried behind veteran quarterbacks. With the Aggies’ starting job now his to lose, Becker’s dual-threat ability—ranked among the top 10 returning QBs in rushing yards per game (2025)—could make him a riser in a quarterback-needy draft class. Scouts praise his arm strength and improvisational skills, though his decision-making under pressure remains a function in progress.

Why he could skyrocket: Texas A&M’s new offensive coordinator, Klint Kubiak, has a history of maximizing mobile quarterbacks. If Becker can cut down on turnovers, he could leap into Day 2 consideration.

2. Malik Thompson – WR, Oregon

Position: Wide Receiver | Height: 6’2” | Weight: 205 lbs | Class: Redshirt Sophomore

Overshadowed by Oregon’s star-studded receiving corps, Malik Thompson quietly posted a 4.45-second 40-yard dash at spring testing—a time that would have ranked among the top five at the 2026 NFL Combine. Thompson’s blend of size, speed, and route-running polish makes him a prototypical X-receiver, but he’ll need to secure a starting role in 2026 to garner first-round buzz.

Why he could skyrocket: Oregon’s offense, under new head coach John Neal, is expected to feature more downfield passing. Thompson’s ability to win contested catches could make him a focal point.

3. Jordan Carter – OT, Michigan

Position: Offensive Tackle | Height: 6’6” | Weight: 320 lbs | Class: Junior

Jordan Carter was a four-star recruit who redshirted in 2023 before earning sporadic snaps as a backup in 2024. Now, with Michigan’s starting left tackle declaring for the 2026 NFL Draft, Carter has a clear path to the starting lineup. His 6’6”, 320-pound frame and elite length (36-inch arms) have scouts intrigued, though his technique still needs refinement.

Why he could skyrocket: Michigan’s offensive line has been a factory for NFL talent, and Carter’s physical tools could make him a late first-round pick if he seizes the starting job.

4. DeAndre Washington – CB, Florida State

Position: Cornerback | Height: 6’0” | Weight: 190 lbs | Class: Redshirt Sophomore

DeAndre Washington flew under the radar in 2025, playing behind Florida State’s All-ACC cornerback duo. However, his 4.38-second 40-yard dash and ball-tracking skills have NFL scouts whispering about his potential. Washington’s coverage instincts and physicality in press-man situations could make him a Day 2 steal if he earns a starting role in 2026.

Why he could skyrocket: Florida State’s secondary will be thinner in 2026, giving Washington a chance to showcase his lockdown ability against top SEC and ACC receivers.

5. Eli Rodriguez – TE, Notre Dame

Position: Tight End | Height: 6’5” | Weight: 250 lbs | Class: Junior

Eli Rodriguez was a highly recruited tight end who struggled to find playing time behind Notre Dame’s veteran starter in 2024 and 2025. Now, with the starting job open, Rodriguez’s combination of size, speed (4.65-second 40), and receiving ability could make him a matchup nightmare. His blocking remains a work in progress, but his pass-catching upside is undeniable.

Why he could skyrocket: Notre Dame’s new offensive coordinator, Marcus Freeman, has a history of featuring tight ends in creative ways. Rodriguez could emerge as a top-50 pick if he becomes a focal point of the offense.

6. Jamal Reynolds – RB, Alabama

Position: Running Back | Height: 5’11” | Weight: 210 lbs | Class: Redshirt Sophomore

Jamal Reynolds was a three-star recruit who spent his first two seasons behind Alabama’s star-studded backfield. With the departure of the team’s top two running backs, Reynolds—who averaged 6.8 yards per carry in limited action in 2025—could finally get his chance to shine. His blend of power, vision, and receiving ability makes him a potential three-down back.

Why he could skyrocket: Alabama’s offensive line is expected to be one of the best in college football in 2026, creating a perfect storm for Reynolds to post eye-popping numbers.

7. Marcus Lee – DE, Clemson

Position: Defensive End | Height: 6’4” | Weight: 260 lbs | Class: Junior

Marcus Lee was a rotational pass-rusher in 2025, but his 8.5 sacks in limited snaps caught the attention of NFL scouts. With Clemson’s starting defensive end graduating, Lee has a clear path to a starting role. His speed off the edge and ability to bend around tackles could make him a first-round pick if he builds on his 2025 production.

Why he could skyrocket: Clemson’s defensive line coach, Ryan Sims, has a track record of developing NFL-caliber pass-rushers. Lee could be next in line.

8. Tyrese Johnson – LB, Georgia

Position: Linebacker | Height: 6’2” | Weight: 235 lbs | Class: Redshirt Sophomore

Tyrese Johnson was a highly recruited linebacker who redshirted in 2023 before earning limited snaps in 2024 and 2025. With Georgia’s starting middle linebacker graduating, Johnson—who posted 12 tackles for loss in limited action in 2025—could emerge as a defensive leader. His instincts, tackling ability, and coverage skills make him a potential Day 2 pick.

Why he could skyrocket: Georgia’s defense has been a pipeline to the NFL, and Johnson’s versatility could make him a coveted off-ball linebacker.

9. Isaiah Patel – S, Ohio State

Position: Safety | Height: 6’1” | Weight: 205 lbs | Class: Junior

Isaiah Patel was a backup safety in 2025 but impressed scouts with his range and ball skills (3 interceptions in limited snaps). With Ohio State’s starting safety graduating, Patel has a chance to start in 2026. His ability to play both free and strong safety could make him a versatile NFL prospect.

Why he could skyrocket: Ohio State’s defensive coordinator, Jim Knowles, has a history of developing defensive backs. Patel could follow in the footsteps of recent Buckeye safeties like Jordan Fuller.

10. Xavier Williams – OT, LSU

Position: Offensive Tackle | Height: 6’7” | Weight: 330 lbs | Class: Redshirt Sophomore

Xavier Williams was a four-star recruit who redshirted in 2023 before earning limited snaps in 2024 and 2025. With LSU’s starting right tackle graduating, Williams—who possesses elite size and athleticism for his position—could earn a starting role in 2026. His pass-protection skills are raw, but his upside is tantalizing.

Why he could skyrocket: LSU’s offensive line has struggled in recent years, but Williams’ physical tools could make him a late first-round pick if he develops quickly.

What It Takes to “Skyrocket” in the NFL Draft

For these 10 players, the path to draft-day stardom is far from guaranteed. History shows that breakout seasons are often the result of a perfect storm of factors:

• Opportunity: A starting job, whether due to injury, graduation, or transfer, is the first step. Players like Lamar Jackson (Louisville) and Joe Burrow (LSU) saw their draft stock explode when they became their team’s undisputed leader.
• Scheme Fit: A player’s skill set must align with their team’s offensive or defensive philosophy. For example, Justin Fields thrived in Ohio State’s spread offense, which maximized his dual-threat ability.
• Production: Eye-popping statistics—whether it’s sacks, receiving yards, or tackles for loss—are the currency of draft evaluation. Players like Brandon Aiyuk (Arizona State) saw their draft stock rise after posting 1,000-yard seasons.
• Measurables: Combine performances and pro-day workouts can make or break a prospect’s draft stock. A player like Jaylen Waddle (Alabama) saw his stock soar after running a 4.37-second 40-yard dash.

The 2026 college football season will be a proving ground for these under-the-radar prospects. While Arch Manning and Jeremiah Smith will dominate headlines, it’s the players like Charlie Becker, Malik Thompson, and Jordan Carter who could emerge as the draft’s biggest surprises. For NFL teams, identifying these risers early could mean the difference between landing a franchise cornerstone or missing out on the next big thing.

Key Takeaways for NFL Draft Watchers

• Watch the depth charts: Injuries, transfers, and graduations can create opportunities for under-the-radar players to seize starting roles.
• Monitor coaching changes: New offensive or defensive coordinators often unlock untapped potential in players who fit their schemes.
• Follow spring and fall practices: Reports from trusted sources on player development can provide early clues about breakout candidates.
• Track combine and pro-day performances: Measurables like the 40-yard dash, bench press, and three-cone drill can significantly impact draft stock.
• Pay attention to film: Advanced metrics and game tape analysis (e.g., Pro Football Focus) can reveal hidden gems before they develop into household names.

What’s Next?

The 2026 college football season kicks off in late August, with key matchups like Texas A&M vs. Alabama and Florida State vs. Clemson offering early opportunities for these under-the-radar players to make their mark. NFL scouts will be watching closely, and so should you.

As the season unfolds, stay tuned to World Today Journal’s Sports section for in-depth analysis, player profiles, and draft updates. Who do you think will be the biggest riser in the 2027 NFL Draft? Share your thoughts in the comments below and join the conversation on social media.