NFL announces 16 players will attend the 2026 NFL draft
Key Points:
- The NFL announced that 16 prospects will attend the 2026 NFL Draft on April 23, highlighting a strong presence from Ohio State with five players invited.
- Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza, expected to be the first overall pick by the Raiders, will not attend the draft, choosing to stay home with family instead.
- The attending prospects include notable players such as Caleb Downs, Kayden McDonald, Arvell Reese, Sonny Styles, and Carnell Tate from Ohio State, reflecting the team's talent depth.
- Other invited players represent a variety of top college programs including Texas Tech, Miami (Fla.), LSU, Auburn, Tennessee, USC, Notre Dame, Alabama, and Arizona State.
- The draft attendance list underscores the diverse pool of talent entering the NFL, with prospects spanning multiple positions such as linebacker, defensive end, defensive back, wide receiver, running back, offensive lineman, and quarterback.