Finding Value in the Late Rounds

NFL teams understand that success isn’t solely built through first-round picks. Identifying valuable players in the middle and later rounds is crucial for sustained roster building and maintaining a competitive edge. The 2026 NFL Draft presents all 32 teams with chances to unearth these hidden talents.

Potential Immediate Impact Players

Here are 10 underrated prospects who could become immediate starters, depending on their NFL landing spots:

Jonah Coleman, Running Back, Washington

Washington running back Jonah Coleman showcased impressive performances over two seasons after transferring from Arizona. He rushed for a career-high 1,053 yards in 2024 and a personal-best 17 touchdowns in 2025. Coleman’s sturdy frame and contact balance, combined with his ability to contribute in the passing game, offer potential for three-down playing time.

Skyler Bell, Wide Receiver, UConn

UConn wide receiver Skyler Bell was a highly productive weapon for the Huskies. In 2025, he recorded 101 receptions for 1,278 yards and 13 touchdowns. Bell demonstrated exceptional athleticism at his pro day, leaping a 41-inch vertical and 11-foot-1 broad jump, and completing the three-cone drill in a quick 6.65 seconds.

Sam Roush, Tight End, Stanford

Tight end is a notoriously difficult position to transition to the professional level. Stanford’s Sam Roush is a competitive in-line blocker with excellent size (6-6, 267 pounds) and impressive arm (31 inches) and hand (10 inches) measurements. Despite playing in a struggling Stanford offense, Roush displayed untapped potential in the passing game with strong NFL Combine numbers.

Austin Barber, Offensive Lineman, Florida

Finding mid-round prospects capable of contributing at offensive tackle is a challenge. Florida’s Austin Barber emerges as an underrated option, possessing experience at both left and right tackle, giving him valuable swing tackle potential.

Keylan Rutledge, Offensive Lineman, Georgia Tech

NFL teams consistently find value at the interior offensive line in the mid-rounds. Georgia Tech guard Keylan Rutledge is a tough and aggressive player with a willingness to block through the whistle, making him an instant starter.

Max Llewellyn, Defensive End, Iowa

Iowa defensive end Max Llewellyn is a high-quality football player with a pro-ready mindset. He consistently made plays in the backfield, utilizing well-developed hands and a relentless motor to defeat blocks. He projects as a rotational defender with the potential to develop into a base end.

Rayshaun Benny, Defensive Lineman, Michigan

Michigan defensive lineman Rayshaun Benny compiled 12 career tackles for loss as a disruptive force who created opportunities for his teammates. He possesses NFL-quality length, sheds blocks effectively, and is a productive two-gapper.

Jaishawn Barham, Linebacker, Michigan

Michigan defender Jaishawn Barham deserves increased recognition before the draft. His skill set is comparable to Jalon Walker, a first-round pick in the previous year’s draft. Barham offers versatility as both a linebacker and edge rusher, recording a career-high four sacks and 10 tackles for loss in his final season.

Treydan Stukes, Defensive Back, Arizona

Arizona defensive back Treydan Stukes is a cornerback with “BIG NICKEL” flexibility. The Wildcats frequently utilized him to defend the slot, where his size and athleticism allowed him to effectively cover tight ends and slot receivers. Despite being an older prospect, his maturity and coverage instincts should facilitate a smooth transition to the NFL.

VJ Payne, Safety, Kansas State

Kansas State safety VJ Payne impressed at the NFL Combine, running a 4.4-second 40-yard dash and jumping a 10-foot-7-inch broad jump at 6-3 and 206 pounds. Payne is a rangy defender versatile enough to play both in coverage and closer to the line of scrimmage.