2026 NFL Draft: 5 prospects who could sneak into the first round

Key Points:

• Cornerback Chris Johnson from San Diego State impressed in 2025 with a 92.4 PFF coverage grade and only a 16.1 passer rating allowed when targeted, making him a potential late first-round or second-round pick despite playing in the Mountain West.
• Linebacker Jacob Rodriguez of Texas Tech had an outstanding 2025 season, ranking third in overall PFF grade among defenders and showing strong athleticism at the NFL Combine, positioning him as a likely early off-ball linebacker selection in the first round.
• Edge rusher Zion Young from Missouri emerged as a dominant player with an 85.0 overall PFF grade and a 17.4% pass-rush win rate, boosting his draft stock to potentially be a first-round pick among a deep edge defender class.
• Cornerback D’Angelo Ponds of Indiana demonstrated lockdown coverage ability with a 94.1 overall PFF grade and strong run defense, though his smaller stature may cause some teams to hesitate despite his potential as a first-round slot corner.
• Wide receiver Germie Bernard from Alabama offers versatility, reliable hands, and good yards after catch, making him a candidate to be selected in the first round or early second round depending on team preferences, despite average speed and contested catch concerns.