The NFL Draft’s best-kept secrets: 2026 prospects flying under the radar
Behind the headlines, a group of lesser-known prospects could become the real story of the 2026 draft.
The NFL Draft doesn’t truly begin when the commissioner steps onto the stage. It starts in war rooms - long tables, cold coffee, and endless film sessions played on a loop. That’s where the 2026 class already feels different.
At quarterback, the board lacks a clear centerpiece. Beyond Fernando Mendoza and Ty Simpson, the position quickly loses clarity. Teams in need of a signal-caller are forced to evaluate more carefully than usual, relying less on instinct and more on detailed projection.
There may be a shortage of top-end quarterback talent, but beyond the spotlight, far from the marketing machines of major college programs, there are prospects who could reshape a franchise’s future.
Cole Payton and discomfort as a method
At North Dakota State, patience is part of the culture. Despite competing outside the Power Five, the program has consistently produced NFL quarterbacks, including Carson Wentz, Trey Lance, and Easton Stick.
That legacy now points to Cole Payton, a 6’3”, 230-pound left-hander who looks built to run but is still learning the nuances of being a professional passer.
Advanced metrics suggest intriguing upside. Payton posts a high rate of big-time throws while surprisingly protecting the ball under pressure better than many Power Five prospects. Still, his throwing mechanics are unconventional, to say the least. Some scouts see shades of Philip Rivers; others are reminded of Tim Tebow.
Here’s a couple of throws from Cole Payton’s Pro Day.
— Dom Izzo (@DomIzzoWDAY) March 19, 2026
His QB coach Jake Heaps tells me “the NFL knows about Cole Payton. Don’t be surprised on Day 2 when he’s selected.” pic.twitter.com/uu0UppBkwr
In a class where names like Garrett Nussmeier or Carson Beck haven’t fully convinced, Payton could be a Day 2 gamble. Teams like the Saints or Ravens might view him as a versatile weapon in the mold of Taysom Hill while evaluating his long-term viability as a passer.
Chris Bell, a glimpse of A.J. Brown
Unlike quarterback, the wide receiver class is loaded. Within that depth, Chris Bell occupies an intriguing middle ground. His game is built on efficiency in short routes, physicality through contact, and a smooth transition into open space. At times, his profile echoes A.J. Brown, particularly in turning routine catches into explosive gains.
There are concerns, however. A previous ACL injury lowers his stock relative to peers, and scouts have flagged issues such as penalties, limited presence over the middle, and occasional lapses in timing.
Louisville WR Chris Bell, who was widely considered a top-20 pick before suffering an ACL injury in November, is progressing ahead of schedule and is now running and jumping.
— Jordan Schultz (@Schultz_Report) March 18, 2026
Teams are intrigued by his unique skill set at 6’2.5”, 225 lbs, and in-game GPS tracked him at low 4.3… pic.twitter.com/fiw0h6I1Mm
Still, in the right system, Bell offers something different. Not necessarily volume, but the ability to alter a drive with a single play.
Max Iheanachor and accelerated development
Max Iheanachor’s path doesn’t follow the usual timeline for an offensive lineman. He came to football late, yet his development has been rapid enough to push him into first-round conversations.
At 6’6” and over 320 pounds, his physical tools are obvious. More impressive is his production. In 2025, he allowed zero sacks and posted one of the lowest pressure rates among draft-eligible tackles. His technique isn’t the product of years of repetition, but rather a quick understanding of angles and hand usage.
As the league adapts to elite pass rushers like Myles Garrett and Micah Parsons, athleticism has become a priority. Iheanachor fits that mold perfectly, with his upside viewed more as opportunity than risk.
Caleb Banks, a true Wild Card
The defensive interior class offers depth, but not many players who can stay on the field in every situation. Caleb Banks comes close when healthy.
His blend of size and explosiveness creates immediate impact. He can anchor against double teams on early downs and generate pressure in passing situations, a rare combination that elevates his value.
🚨🚨THIS IS INSANE🚨🚨
— MLFootball (@MLFootball) March 13, 2026
Florida star defensive tackle Caleb Banks BROKE his foot before he ran a 5.04-second 40-yard dash at the #NFL combine.
Banks is 6-foot-6, 327 pounds and has a 9-6 broad jump – the 2nd-best at his position.
A freak-athlete 👿👿👿
pic.twitter.com/PGiwoI9MYm
The concern is durability. Recurring foot injuries - same issue, same area - raise questions that teams cannot ignore.
The draft as interpretation
The 2026 class doesn’t present a clear narrative. Teams that succeed won’t just identify the right names. They’ll trust their process.
The draft, in its purest form, doesn’t reward certainty. It rewards conviction, the ability to believe in a player when consensus does not.
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