DRAFT TRACKER 2026

Rodriguez arrived in college as an offensive “athlete” and leaves Texas Tech as a bigger-than-life, stat-stuffing linebacker. He’s uniquely productive, with elite tackle, interception and forced fumble production. He’ll occasionally bounce out of a run fit when chasing action, but he has the burst to race back inside and finish. He’s slippery working off blocks and navigating combo climbers. His lateral pursuit leaves the station on time and with a fast take-off. Rodriguez displays ballhawking instincts and outstanding hands but busted coverages were part of the package in 2025. His unbridled urgency and “make every play” mindset can inflate missed tackle totals, but the production should outweigh the occasional headaches. He projects as a long-term starting inside linebacker.

Boundary “X” receiver who uses elite size and strength to bully defensive backs. Notre Dame’s run-heavy approach and quarterback play slowed Fields’ production somewhat but his tape was filled with impressive moments. He’s best suited for an offense that allows him to get from Point A to Point B while using his frame/ball skills to dominate the work space and win in the air. He can be a slow starter versus press and lives on contested targets, but he moves the chains on tight-window throws and consistently tilts 50/50 balls in his direction outside the numbers. Fields might never be a star, but his traits, playing style and ball skills should make him a productive WR2 in time.

Despite lacking ideal size, Taylor is a three-down back with proven production. He runs with compact power and elite balance. He’s excellent on short-yardage carries, scoring tough touchdowns and gaining more than is blocked. He “fields his position” with solid vision and open-field burst, but when defenses slow his feet, they slow his processing. His lateral elusiveness is average in the hole and after catches underneath. His willingness and talent on third downs should create an opportunity as a complementary "thunder" back capable of handling a three-down backup role.

Guard prospect with adequate size, good length and four years of starting experience. Taylor has a good feel for the game, relying on technique over force. In protection he can play a little too wide and too far forward, which will open him to counters. He’s generally solid and can identify games. He’s a high-pad run blocker, lacking pop on contact and drive leverage, but he fights to sustain with grip strength/choppy feet. Taylor will have some issues against interior power, but he knows how to play and could become an adequate backup in a gap/inside zone scheme.

A four-star recruit who spent his first five seasons at Ohio State, Melton finally came into his own during his lone year at Virginia in 2025. He has the measurables of an NFL edge rusher with good size and length. He needs more reps at the position, though. His explosiveness is average, but he plays with good awareness and works his way into the action. Melton is an average bender who does an adequate job of setting up his rush with foot fakes. He lacks high-upside traits as a rusher but should continue improving with better hand usage.