Author: Yahoo Sports

Yahoo Sports’ “Football 301” podcast had a deep discussion on defensive prospects for the 2026 NFL Draft. This class of defensive backs is full of intriguing players, though as hosts Nate Tice and Charles McDonald pointed out, very few are "perfect" blue-chippers, with most showing clear strengths but notable blemishes.

The NFL's move toward more split-safety, zone-heavy defenses has reshaped what teams need in a DB. No longer is prototype size and length a mandatory ticket in the first two rounds; now, smarts, quickness and versatility open the door for players who, five years ago, might have been overlooked.

This 2026 class may lack an undisputed Jalen Ramsey or Sauce Gardner, but it offers a raft of smart, athletic and competitive defensive backs ready to fill starting roles — and potentially develop into more. With team needs and schemes more varied than ever, expect many of these names to contribute (if not star) on Sundays for years to come.

Mansoor Delane, LSU

A transfer from Virginia Tech, Delane is widely seen as a top-tier zone corner. Tice raved about his "play recognition" and "ball skills," emphasizing how Delane closes quickly on underneath routes and brings "twitch" to the position. While he doesn’t possess elite length or overwhelming speed, Tice and McDonald agree he's a high-floor starter. He may not erase top receivers like past top-10 picks, but Delane brings versatility and reliability.

The closest comp: A.J. Terrell, a smart, adaptable, and productive corner capable of shining in zone coverage and holding his own in man.

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Jermod McCoy, Tennessee

If there’s a player with the raw materials to become an upper-echelon shutdown corner in this group, it’s McCoy. McDonald pointed out his rare combination of length, speed and youth (he’s only 20). The catch: His 2025 season was lost to an ACL injury, so the NFL will be banking on pre-injury tape and projections. Still, McCoy "moves like one of those top guys," Tice said, and if healthy, could outperform his eventual draft slot.

Avieon Terrell, Clemson

The younger brother of A.J. Terrell, Avion is slightly smaller and less explosive, but he’s feisty, polished and disruptive at the catch point. He’s an ideal CB2 or slot corner, capable of making smart plays, tackling in space, and providing much-needed versatility. Tice compared him to a "Diet Coke version of Devon Witherspoon" — that is, not quite as dynamic, but reliable and scheme-versatile.

Colton Hood, Tennessee

One of the best testers at the scouting combine, Hood combines quickness, length and physicality. His press-man technique and willingness to tackle stand out, although McDonald wants to see expanded lateral agility and more consistency in man coverage. Still, Hood offers a competitive streak reminiscent of Carlton Davis and could develop into a high-end starter if he cleans up some technical concerns.

2026 NFL Draft individual big boards: Nate Tice | Charles McDonald

Keionte Scott, Miami

A slot specialist, Scott plays fast, smart and aggressive. He’s seemingly always around the ball. McDonald spotlighted his turnarounds at Miami and his standout pro day, describing him as a "high-floor starter." Age (as a 25-year-old rookie) is a concern, but he brings the football IQ and big-play experience teams love in Day 2 picks.

Chris Johnson, San Diego State

Late in the process, Johnson became one of Tice's favorite "riser" candidates. A smooth, efficient mover, Johnson shines in man coverage with the balance and mirror ability reminiscent of a veteran. While he may lack elite upside, he’s a classic plug-and-play CB2— especially appealing to teams who need a steady presence opposite an established CB1.

Domani Jackson, Alabama

Jackson's journey from hyped high school recruit, to struggling at USC, to starter at Alabama is a reminder of how development and fit matter. While not a shutdown corner, he brings size, speed and pedigree. McDonald called him a potential “draft riser,” a high-upside dart throw who has the physical tools to stick as a starter or versatile backup.

D’Angelo Ponds, Indiana

Though undersized, Ponds epitomizes the new breed of versatile, feisty corners whose awareness and ball skills can outweigh physical limitations. He drew comparisons to Antoine Winfield Sr., illustrating a willingness to tackle and disrupt despite subpar measurables.

Yahoo Sports’ Nate Tice and Charles McDonald on the “Football 301” podcast recently dove deep into the 2026 NFL Draft’s defensive line and edge rusher class, unspooling their rankings, comps and assessments of this year’s talent. While the class may not feature a Nick Bosa or Will Anderson Jr. at the very top, it’s rich with intriguing, versatile, and even some polarizing prospects. Here’s an in-depth look at the top defensive linemen and edge rushers as discussed on the show.

While the 2026 defensive line class may lack a generational talent at the top, it’s deeply layered with ready-to-contribute pros and workaround flaws for creative coordinators. Arvell Reese, Rueben Bain Jr. and Caleb Banks headline the group with their unique blend of football traits and projectable athleticism. Just as intriguing are the classic “high floor” defenders like T.J. Parker, Zion Young and Kayden McDonald, whose names may not elicit big reactions now, but could anchor NFL defenses for the next decade.

Arvell Reese: The rare Swiss Army Knife

Both Tice and McDonald had Ohio State’s Arvell Reese ranked No. 2 on their big boards —unusual consensus for such do-it-all prospects.

Reese flashes an “otherworldly talent” that evokes memories of Micah Parsons with rare ability to play traditional linebacker, edge or even an old-school 3-4 Sam.

What makes Reese unique isn’t just his explosiveness, length, or speed, but his motor: “every play is the last play to the Super Bowl,” Tice said.

While Reese’s true NFL role may depend on schematic fit and development, he’s a near lock as a top-three draft pick.

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Rueben Bain Jr.: Short arms but short list of complaints

Miami’s Rueben Bain Jr. has been a lightning rod for discussion — some scouts fixate on his “short arms,” but both Yahoo analysts dismiss arm length concerns after breaking down his tape. As McDonald emphasized, Bain’s film answers most critiques: he’s strong as an ox, explosive, aware and can kick inside on passing downs.

Tice continued the praise, comparing Bain’s career arc to Brandon Graham — maybe never a 15-sack superstar, but a consistent pressure generator who plays every down with maximum effort. He’s as reliable as they come, and will almost certainly hear his name early on draft night.

David Bailey: The raw, relentless flamethrower

Texas Tech’s David Bailey earns accolades for his constant disruption and “flamethrower” style. Bailey isn’t always the most technically sound, but his effort, athleticism and pass rush productivity speak for themselves. He reportedly racked up over 80 pressures this past season.

The main concern from Tice and McDonald centers on his run defense, which can be streaky and exposed by more dynamic competition. Even with those limitations, his ability to get after quarterbacks gives him immense value. In a draft class less flush with surefire stars, Bailey stands out for all the right reasons.

TJ Parker, Zion Young: Edge-setters and tone setters

If your team needs an edge defender who will play sound, technically proficient football, Clemson’s TJ Parker and Mizzou’s Zion Young are the names to highlight. Both Parker (described as the “everyman edge”) and Young (the “rugged guy of the draft”) play with heavy hands, consistently set the edge, and don’t go rogue chasing TFLs.

These aren’t elite bendy speed rushers, but they’re the backbone of any top defense —players who will play 50+ snaps a game, rarely make mistakes, and do the dirty work so the flashier defenders on their team can thrive.

Caleb Banks: Thanos-sized Upside, missing some production

Perhaps no prospect in the class is more physically imposing than Florida’s 6-foot-6, 330-pound monster Caleb Banks. McDonald called him “Thanos” and compared him to NFL stalwarts like Marcus Stroud and even Albert Haynesworth.

Banks moves extremely well for his size and has flashed freakish disruption — but, as noted in the pod, his production is shockingly light, with long stretches of inactivity (and some alarming tackling issues). He might scare away some teams, but the right coaching staff could unlock All-Pro potential.

Keldric Faulk: The ultimate versatile big man

Auburn’s Keldric Faulk spent time as a traditional edge, interior lineman and 3-4 defensive end, offering rare, ready-to-deploy versatility. At nearly 6-foot-6, 276 pounds with 34-inch arms, Faulk has the length, traits and run-defending prowess to plug and play all along a defensive front. Both Tice and McDonald see his floor as a high-end run defender, with hopes that he further develops as a pass rusher.

Other defenders in the mix

• Peter Woods (Clemson): Once viewed as a potential top-5 pick because of elite flashes, questions about arm length, conditioning and consistency have dropped his stock. Still, he could provide special plays as a rotational defensive tackle.

• Kayden McDonald (Ohio State): A nose tackle with powerful hands and steady production. He’ll rarely get moved off his spot and could start in any two-high safety, run-heavy defense.

• Christen Miller (Georgia): A “mauler” with upside, but with enough bad tape to make him more of a Day 2 dice roll.

On an episode of Yahoo Sports’ “Football 301” podcast, host Nate Tice and NBC’s Connor Rogers examined the most intriguing and debated positions in the 2026 NFL Draft: tight end.

They dove deep into their rankings, discussed key traits that separate top prospects from the rest, and highlighted some of their favorite names that might surprise NFL teams and fans alike.

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Below, we recap some of the most notable tight ends — both consensus favorites and potential hidden gems — from their discussion.

The tight end class is deeper than it may appear at first glance. While Sadiq stands alone atop most boards, teams looking for role players, big-bodied blockers, or developmental freaks have options deep into Day 3.

Tice and Rogers emphasized the importance of two traits: versatility (run, catch, block) and willingness to contribute on special teams. In today’s NFL, one-trick tight ends struggle to earn roster spots. Those who can check multiple boxes, or who showcase grit, athletic potential, and a unique body type, will always have a suitor.

When draft day comes, don’t be surprised if a few of these names outside the consensus rankings end up carving out meaningful roles in the league.

No. 1 TE: Kenyon Sadiq

Tice and Rogers are in agreement: Kenyon Sadiq stands as the consensus No. 1 tight end in this draft class. While not a “perfect” prospect, Sadiq’s athletic upside and unique skills put him in his own tier. According to Tice, Sadiq’s explosiveness, willingness as a blocker, and ability to stretch the field make him a dynamic piece for a creative NFL offense— “somewhere in that archetype between Tommy Tremble and Vernon Davis.”

Rogers ranked Sadiq 14th overall on his big board. He pointed out that while Sadiq isn’t a typical 260-pound inline monster, his toughness and versatility — lining up in the backfield, blocking on the perimeter and making plays as a receiver — make him “a very, very unique player.”

Both analysts agree that Sadiq's landing spot will be huge for his development and usage.

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Sam Roush: The pro-ready all-rounder

Stanford’s Sam Roush is the name to circle for any team that plays a lot of 12 personnel and values versatility.

Rogers raved about Roush’s “big body” (6-foot-6, 267 pounds) and readiness for the pro game, noting he’s played over 1,000 inline snaps the past two years. Roush’s blend of contact courage as a blocker and surprising yards-after-catch ability shows up on tape. While his arm length is on the shorter side, both analysts agree he’s a tough and savvy player who can contribute immediately as a role player in the NFL.

Rising stock: Eli Raridan

One of the most intriguing stories comes from Eli Raridan, who has overcome two ACL tears and is still climbing up draft boards. Rogers loves how Raridan “just climbs over linebackers,” plays with impressive receiving efficiency, and has handled heavy blocking assignments at Notre Dame. The size, the hands and the flashes are there; if Raridan can stay healthy, he's a high-upside pick with real “every-down” potential.

Max Klare and the receiving-only type

Max Klare drew “summer darling” status for both hosts — especially after flashing at Purdue. They noted his fluidity and hands as a receiver, but admitted he struggled to develop further after transferring to Ohio State. Still, as a receiving-only type, Klare could contribute as a Day 3 or fringe Day 2 selection if an NFL team uncovers untapped playmaking.

Day 3 options with upside on their development

• Dae’Quan Wright (Ole Miss): Tice and Rogers called Wright a “moose in the open field” with real pop as a blocker and after the catch. He’s imperfect, but could carve out an NFL role if asked to do what he does best: stretch the field and provide a physical presence.

• Justin Joly (NC State): Excellent hands and contested-catch ability, though both had questions about his speed and separation against higher-level competition.

• Michael Trigg (Baylor): Rogers described him as a high-variance, highlight-friendly prospect with incredible length (“inspector gadget arms”) but an inconsistent game and blocking effort.

• Carsen Ryan (BYU): A former 4-star recruit, Ryan didn’t get a scouting combine invite but put up big numbers and played with a high-effort, aggressive style. Both analysts expressed surprise at his lack of buzz.

The Ohio State Buckeyes’ defensive presence is among the hot topics of the NFL scouting combine, with several prospects drawing serious attention from scouts and coaches. What makes this year unique is not just the usual slate of first-round hopefuls — it’s the quantity and versatility of OSU defenders that has everyone buzzing.

In an episode of the “Football 301” podcast, Yahoo Sports’ Nate Tice and Matt Harmon, who are in Indianapolis this week at the combine, took a look at those star Buckeyes.

According to Tice, this year’s draft is “basically one quarterback, one running back, and a lot of defenders and some tackles.” And there’s no school more central to this defensive bonanza than Ohio State.

What makes this Buckeye class special is its fit for today’s NFL. As Tice points out, “the league needs [off-ball linebackers] and they’re so important now.” With defenses constantly in flux, players who can shift from linebacker to edge and even out to the slot are at a premium, and Ohio State’s blue-chip prospects all check those boxes.

As Harmon summed up, “when you go back and watch [Ohio State’s defense], it’s just not like, ‘Oh, yeah, they’re pretty good players.’ It’s like, no, they’re the best players of this draft.”

Sonny Styles: modern linebacker prototype

Harmon called Styles “one of those guys” who blends elite athleticism (a legit 6-foot-5, 240+ pounds), rare movement skills and the ability to do everything required in the modern NFL: “He can play off-ball linebacker but can also line up on the edge and play and drop from there, play the run, take on tight ends.”

Tice’s assessment: “What's cool about Styles is he can do all the modern asks because that's what he was asked to do at Ohio State under Matt Patricia. Line up on, on the ball on the edge, much like how Zack Baun is used sometimes for the Eagles.”

Both Tice and Harmon expect Styles to be a top-15 pick, and potentially even higher given the way defenses are evolving.

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Arvell Reese: the next hybrid force

Reese is being pegged as possibly “the first non-quarterback selected after Fernando Mendoza.” Like Styles, Reese brings versatility. He can play off-ball, line up on the edge, and has a “developing game sense as far as coverage,” according to Tice. His blend of pass rush and coverage skills fits perfectly with what today’s defensive coordinators are seeking.

Kayden McDonald: Anchor on the interior

Not to be outdone, McDonald has cemented his stock as a premier run-stuffing defensive tackle. He may not have the flashiest pass rush yet, but his ability “to line up across the interior, eat blocks and keep his balance” is drawing attention for teams looking for a dependable presence in the trenches.

Caleb Downs: Swiss Army Knife in the secondary

On the back end, Downs, a safety, is a prospect everyone is watching. Tice described him as more of a Budda Baker or Antoine Winfield Jr. type — "a guy that just gives a boost effect on everybody else because he’s so, so smart.” Downs’ workout numbers will be scrutinized, but his tape already gives him a very high floor.

The unsung hero: Caden Curry

He’s a likely Day 2 pick with real flash and the kind of tools that get coaches excited. He’s the type of prospect who rises over the course of combine week.

Projected overall draft Impact

With Styles and Reese project as sure-fire first-rounders — and with McDonald and Downs also likely to see their names called early — it’s not an exaggeration to say that four or five Ohio State defenders could go in the first 15 picks. Other teams will likely soon mirror their approach, blending size, movement, and versatility as the new defensive standard.