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NFL Nation
Multiple Authors
The NFL’s cut-down deadline is Sunday, and the 2026 NFL season is less than two weeks away. But before 32 NFL rosters get pared down to 53 players each, we’re doing our annual inventory of the most recent draft class through training camp.
We asked our NFL Nation writers to size up how all 257 draftees have fared since being selected. They have updates on every player who went off the board, from No. 1 pick Fernando Mendoza to Broncos linebacker Red Murdock, this year’s “Mr. Irrelevant.” Who is in line to start for their team? Who is outplaying their draft position in the preseason and could make an early impact? And which high picks are falling behind?
Rookies are grouped by team below, and each team is listed in the order by which it made its first selection in April. That means we begin with the Raiders’ class, before hitting the Jets and Cardinals and so on.
Jump to a team:
ARI | ATL | BAL | BUF | CAR | CHI | CIN
CLE | DAL | DEN | DET | GB | HOU | IND
JAX | KC | LAC | LAR | LV | MIA | MIN
NE | NO | NYG | NYJ | PHI | PIT | SF
SEA | TB | TEN | WSH
Round 1 (No. 1): Fernando Mendoza, QB. Mendoza might not be the Week 1 starter, but signs of him being a franchise quarterback are there. Throughout training camp, players and coaches have praised the Heisman Trophy winner’s improved confidence. He’s unafraid of targeting tight windows. On top of that, he has a firmer grasp of the system, resulting in better command of the offense. “That’s hard to do as a young guy,” center Tyler Linderbaum said. “You’re dealing with a lot of new things, a whole new offense. So seeing the growth in his command and operation, it’s a good starting point.”
Round 2 (No. 38): Treydan Stukes, S. Stukes has picked up momentum lately. He performed well against the Texans in the second preseason game and played mostly with the first-team defense during the final week of training camp.
Round 3 (No. 67): Keyron Crawford, edge rusher. Crawford has flashed at times during training camp while working mostly with the second-team defense. He’s currently behind Maxx Crosby, Kwity Paye and Malcolm Koonce, but the Raiders like to rotate their edge rushers in games. So Crawford should get some playing time this season.
Round 3 (No. 91): Trey Zuhn III, G/OT. The Raiders view Zuhn as an interior offensive lineman, but he has played right tackle in preseason games. It seems like Las Vegas is prepping Zuhn to be a swing tackle this season.
Round 4 (No. 101): Jermod McCoy, CB. McCoy’s first preseason game was rough, allowing two touchdowns. But he has looked much better since, especially in man coverage against the Texans. The Raiders will continue to be patient since McCoy hasn’t played football in more than a year due to a knee injury, but there’s confidence that he’ll eventually be a reliable outside corner.
Round 4 (No. 122): Mike Washington Jr., RB. The Raiders are expected to rely on Washington quite a bit, especially with Ashton Jeanty‘s recent ankle injury. Washington’s performance this preseason shows he could handle the extended workload.
Round 5 (No. 150): Dalton Johnson, S. Johnson will be a depth piece in the secondary, with Las Vegas using him as a nickel in practice lately.
Round 5, (No. 175): Hezekiah Masses, CB. Masses has received a fair number of first-team reps throughout training camp. There is not a ton of veteran experience among the Raiders’ cornerbacks, so Masses has an opportunity to make a difference.
Round 6 (No. 195): Malik Benson, WR. Benson has been a reliable pass catcher for both Kirk Cousins and Mendoza. Will that translate into the regular season? Only time will tell, but Benson has set himself up to get playing time.
Round 7 (No. 229): Brandon Cleveland, DT. Cleveland might have a tough climb to make the initial 53-man roster and could start the season on the practice squad. — Ryan McFadden
Round 1 (No. 2): David Bailey, Edge. Bailey looks like the real deal. His first-step quickness is exceptional, and he flashes surprising power on his bull rushes. If there’s a knock, it’s that he needs to show more awareness in run defense. Bailey will start in the base defense and play in several sub packages. “He’s everything that we expect him to be,” coach Aaron Glenn said.
Round 1 (No. 16): Kenyon Sadiq, TE. He missed virtually the entire training camp due to a setback from offseason hernia surgery. Sadiq is expected to be ready for Week 1, but the lost time will hurt his ability to make an early impact. When healthy, he’s a versatile and explosive player who can line up anywhere, including the backfield. Offensive coordinator Frank Reich will have fun utilizing Sadiq, describing him as “a high-horsepower guy,” but it will take a while.
Round 1 (No. 30): Omar Cooper Jr., WR. Many assumed Cooper would be the No. 3 receiver behind Garrett Wilson and Adonai Mitchell, but that’s not a lock. Cooper lost ground in camp and is now engaged in a battle with Isaiah Williams for that job. Cooper’s explosiveness isn’t dazzling, and his route running needs refinement. He has lined up mostly on the outside, but he’s capable of playing the slot.
Round 2 (No. 50): D’Angelo Ponds, CB. Ponds was expected to compete for the nickel job, maybe even an outside corner position, but he missed the entire camp with a calf strain. It’s fair to wonder if he will be active in Week 1, considering the lost time. It has been a frustrating summer for Ponds.
Round 4 (No. 103): Darrell Jackson Jr., DT. Jackson has been a pleasant surprise who has played his way into the defensive line rotation.
Round 4 (No. 110): Cade Klubnik, QB. He doesn’t have the biggest arm, but the organization loves his intangibles, which is a big reason he’s the odds-on favorite to be the No. 2 quarterback.
Round 6 (No. 188): Anez Cooper, G. He went from third team to second team after the first preseason game. Cooper will make the 53 but could be inactive on game day.
Round 7 (No. 228): VJ Payne, S. Payne is expected to return soon from an early-camp injury but will be at the bottom of the 53-man roster if he’s not put on the practice squad. — Rich Cimini
Round 1 (No. 3): Jeremiyah Love, RB. When he was healthy, Love was everything the Cardinals imagined — fast, quick, strong, a great route runner, great hands. His teammates raved about him and all the facets of his game. When he finally made his debut against the Raiders in the second preseason game, he ended up with a high ankle sprain and hasn’t practiced or played since. He won’t play again this preseason and might not practice until Week 1.
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Round 2 (No. 34): Chase Bisontis, G. Bisontis was put on injured reserve with a torn left MCL that he suffered during the preseason game against the Raiders. Before that, Bisontis was progressing each week, according to coach Mike LaFleur. He was likely going to be a backup but could’ve been inserted into the starting lineup if needed.
Round 3 (No. 65): Carson Beck, QB. Beck is dealing with sore ribs after taking a hit during the Hall of Fame Game on Aug. 6 and hasn’t practiced or played since. He was making steady growth before then, showing flashes of his arm and touch during training camp. He might be back soon, but his injury stunted his training camp progress.
Round 4 (No. 104): Kaleb Proctor, DT. Proctor was put on season-ending IR with a torn meniscus that he suffered during OTAs.
Round 5 (No. 143): Reggie Virgil, WR. Virgil has impressed during training camp and has put in enough good tape to likely make the team as a bottom-of-the-depth-chart receiver.
Round 6 (No. 183): Karson Sharar, LB. Sharar dealt with injuries during OTAs and minicamp but has recovered and is starting to find his footing.
Round 7 (No. 217): Jayden Williams, OT. Williams worked his way up to the second-team offensive line throughout camp, impressing his teammates and coaches. — Josh Weinfuss
Round 1 (No. 4): Carnell Tate, WR. Tate has impressed with his surprisingly large catch radius and consistent hands-catching ability. His ability to work the full route tree has helped him earn quarterback Cam Ward‘s trust. The Titans have started to move Tate across the formation rather than always having him on the ball. “He looks real good,” Saleh said. “There’s still a lot of things that he has to learn with regard to any game that’s happening out there on the perimeter.”
Round 1 (No. 31): Keldric Faulk, Edge. Faulk has earned an early spot in the defensive end rotation and should get plenty of snaps when healthy, as he is currently day-to-day due to a shoulder injury. The 6-foot-5, 274-pound Faulk has worked diligently in training camp on keeping his pad level low.
Round 2 (No. 60): Anthony Hill Jr., LB. Saleh has Hill working exclusively at Mike linebacker to allow him to better digest the defense and play fast. The results are showing. “He’s done a nice job,” defensive coordinator Gus Bradley said. “We’ve got him at one position right now … because there’s quite a bit on that plate. But I’ve seen him as far as handling the defense, addressing the defense, taking charge of the defense.”
Round 5 (No. 142): Fernando Carmona, G. Carmona has taken hold of the starting right guard spot. The coaches feel he embodies the nastiness they want the offensive line to play with this season.
Round 5 (No. 165): Nicholas Singleton, RB. Singleton ran well, especially between the tackles, when healthy. He missed a week of practice due to injury, but he’ll definitely have a spot on the roster.
Round 6 (No. 184): Jackie Marshall, DT. Marshall returned from an oblique injury and got right back into the interior defensive line rotation.
Round 6 (No. 194): Pat Coogan, C. Coogan has earned the backup center spot. The coaches like his football IQ and communication skills.
Round 7 (No. 225): Jaren Kanak, TE. Kanak landed on injured reserve after tearing his pectoral muscle in the preseason opener against the 49ers. — Turron Davenport
Round 1 (No. 5): Arvell Reese, LB. Reese has stood out throughout the summer. His physical style of play fits well with what the Giants are going to do, and he should be an instant asset for a run defense that struggled last season. Reese has been plugged in immediately as a starter at inside linebacker next to veteran Tremaine Edmunds. “Yeah, I mean, [Reese is] a freak, man. … That’s a big middle, bro,” safety Jason Pinnock said. Reese will also be a valuable piece in Dennard Wilson’s “positionless defense” as a rusher on passing downs.
Round 1 (No. 10): Francis Mauigoa, G. Mauigoa fits in nicely on the Giants offensive line. He has been the starter at right guard since Day 1 of camp, where he has proven to be a big help with his nasty style of play, specifically in the run game. New York seems to have big plans for Mauigoa. The only downside is he missed some time this summer with a stinger, which comes after he was diagnosed with a herniated disc in his back earlier this year. It’s something to keep an eye on moving forward.
Round 2 (No. 37): Colton Hood, CB. It has been an up-and-down summer for Hood, but he is still competing with Deonte Banks, Greg Newsome II and Paulson Adebo for playing time at one of the two outside spots. It’s likely that Hood starts the season as a backup, but he’ll get a chance at some point. His competitiveness has flashed, which has made life difficult for receivers but also led to some penalties.
Round 3 (No. 74): Malachi Fields, WR. The Giants traded up because they were infatuated with his size, physicality and ability to make contested catches. That’s exactly what they’ve seen this summer. Fields will likely start as the Giants’ No. 2 receiver opposite Malik Nabers, in part because of his size and ability to block.
Round 6 (No. 186): Bobby Jamison-Travis, DT. Jamison-Travis is probably the rawest of the three sixth-rounders and could end up on the practice squad.
Round 6 (No. 192): J.C. Davis, OT. The Giants are very happy with what they’ve seen from Davis at left tackle, especially when he didn’t allow a pressure in the second preseason game against the Dolphins despite playing the whole way.
Round 6 (No. 193): Jack Kelly, LB. Kelly is playing inside linebacker after being a smallish edge in college and will likely have some special teams value as a rookie. — Jordan Raanan
Round 1 (No. 6): Mansoor Delane, CB. Although Delane missed a large portion of fully padded practices in camp recovering from a right shoulder injury, he was quite impressive in his preseason debut against the Buccaneers’ starters. The Chiefs are hoping Delane can be a suitable replacement for All-Pro Trent McDuffie, who was traded to the Rams this offseason. Delane is projected to be a starter in the Week 1 “Monday Night Football” opener against the Broncos.
Round 1 (No. 29): Peter Woods, DT. Woods was stellar early in camp, demonstrating that his athleticism, power and quickness should pair well alongside star pass rusher Chris Jones. But Woods sustained a left ankle injury right before the preseason opener, which has limited him in the first two exhibition games. Woods is not projected to be a starter, but he should be a factor as a rotational defender on third-down snaps. The Chiefs believe Woods can create pressure on the quarterback by winning one-on-one matchups next to Jones, who is often double-teamed.
Round 2 (No. 40): R Mason Thomas, Edge. Thomas offers something no other Chiefs edge rusher has — blazing speed. That trait should get Thomas on the field sooner rather than later on clear pass-rushing snaps. He has done well in camp and showed in the preseason he’s capable of pressuring the quarterback with a variety of moves.
Round 4 (No. 109): Jadon Canady, CB. Canady projects to be the Chiefs’ nickel defender at some point, but he’ll likely spend his rookie season learning behind Chris Roland-Wallace.
Round 5 (No. 161): Emmett Johnson, RB. Johnson can break tackles and is a positive in the pass game, making him a part of the Chiefs’ backfield rotation.
Round 5: (No. 176): Cyrus Allen, WR. Allen was the biggest winner in camp, and his ability to be a quality route runner should make him one of the Chiefs’ top answers against man-to-man coverage.
Round 7 (No. 249): Garrett Nussmeier, QB. Nussmeier is not afraid to zip the ball into tight coverage. He’ll use this season to essentially redshirt and learn before eventually becoming Patrick Mahomes‘ long-term backup. — Nate Taylor
Round 1 (No. 7): Sonny Styles, LB. Styles has been mostly working with the starters since camp began and they have had him wear the green dot at times. In two preseason games, he has played like a rookie still learning to play at the NFL level. He’ll have to adjust to taking on guards and centers when coming downhill, but the Commanders drafted him because of his athletic ability and length. His speed shows up a lot in coverage, from closing on receivers to how deep he can drop. Said safety Jeremy Reaves of Styles: “Man, we got us one.”
Round 3 (No. 71): Antonio Williams, WR. Williams will play early for Washington, though the addition of Stefon Diggs allows him to ease into his role. The Commanders like what they’ve seen from Williams, particularly in the slot. And one coach said he had some “great plays” in the second preseason game at Detroit.
Round 5 (No. 147): Joshua Josephs, Edge. After a strong summer, Josephs will make the team. In addition to special teams play, he provides depth as a pass rusher and is someone to watch as he develops.
Round 6 (No. 187): Kaytron Allen, RB. Allen should make the roster given the combination of injuries at the position and his displays of good vision and power.
Round 6 (No. 209): Matt Gulbin, C. Washington needs depth at center, so Gulbin will probably make the roster as someone to develop for the future.
Round 7 (No. 223): Athan Kaliakmanis, QB. If Washington keeps three quarterbacks, Kaliakmanis would likely be the third because of his strong arm and ability to play from the pocket. — John Keim
Round 1 (No. 8): Jordyn Tyson, WR. Tyson began camp on a high note, working immediately with the 1s and developing chemistry with the first-team offense. But the Saints won’t see him for at least the first several weeks of the season after he injured his hamstring in a joint practice session against the Jaguars. The Saints handled him cautiously earlier this summer due to previous hamstring issues in college, but the injury occurred after he landed awkwardly while making a catch in practice.
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Round 2 (No. 42): Christen Miller, DT. The Saints brought Miller along slowly due to injuries. (He had hamstring issues in minicamp and a toe injury in camp.) The Saints have been playing him with the second and third teams when he has been available. Miller said he can play anywhere on the defensive line. He showed promise in his 17 snaps against the Jaguars but left with a shoulder injury and did not play in the second preseason game.
Round 3 (No. 73): Oscar Delp, TE. Delp scored his first NFL touchdown in the preseason opener against the Jaguars and played 13 snaps in the second preseason game before injuring his hamstring. Delp wasn’t going to leapfrog Juwan Johnson or Noah Fant in terms of targets or playing time when healthy, but it’s unclear if he’ll miss time at this point.
Round 4 (No. 132): Jeremiah Wright, G. Wright dealt with a shoulder injury earlier in camp, but he’ll be a key backup in the interior behind right guard Cesar Ruiz.
Round 4 (No. 136): Bryce Lance, WR. Lance was considered a developmental wideout when he was drafted, but he has gotten opportunities due to attrition. His recent reps with the first team in practice have shown that the Saints will be able to find a role for Lance this season.
Round 5 (No. 172): Lorenzo Styles Jr., S. Styles is expected to miss time with a calf injury, according to coach Kellen Moore. His path to the roster was already tough, and this injury will be a setback.
Round 6 (No. 190): Barion Brown, WR. Brown had a very impressive camp and will be able to contribute right away as a receiver and kick returner. He did not play in the second preseason game, showing that the team already considers him important enough to be cautious with him.
Round 7 (No. 219): TJ Hall Jr., CB. Former undrafted rookie Jayden Price has grabbed all the attention in camp, leaving Hall with a practice squad spot at best right now. — Katherine Terrell
Round 1 (No. 9): Spencer Fano, OT. The Browns wanted Fano to earn his role as the franchise left tackle, and he has quickly won the coaching staff over with his daily training camp battles against star edge rusher Jared Verse. Fano will be Cleveland’s blind-side protector on an entirely new offensive line in Week 1. “The guy’s extremely athletic, he plays hard, those things were not going to be the question,” offensive coordinator Travis Switzer said. “It’s just refining the technique, which he’s shown he can do, and he’s going to continue to do that.”
Round 1 (No. 24): KC Concepcion, WR. Concepcion has been a dynamic addition to the Browns’ offense. Coach Todd Monken is using Concepcion in a role similar to the one he created for Zay Flowers in Baltimore, with plenty of motion and a variety of touches. Monken envisions a versatile role for Concepcion as a rookie — possibly as a punt returner, too. “We’ve got to find a number of ways to get him the ball with his explosiveness, his quickness, his contact balance,” Monken said. “He’s going to be a real weapon for us.”
Round 2 (No. 39): Denzel Boston, WR. Browns assistant GM Glenn Cook said he didn’t envision a scenario in which Cleveland would get to draft both Concepcion and Boston, but the Browns aren’t regretting double-dipping at the position. Boston’s contested-catch ability and reliable hands earned him a starting role alongside Concepcion as the “X” receiver.
Round 2 (No. 58): Emmanuel McNeil-Warren, S. The Browns eased McNeil-Warren into a defense that asks its safeties to take on a multitude of roles, but he is primed for a significant role in a scheme that frequently uses three-safety lineups.
Round 3 (No. 86): Austin Barber, OT. The Browns drafted Barber to develop him into a future starting tackle, but they have given him reps at guard and have been impressed by his versatility. He could be a top reserve as a rookie.
Round 5 (No. 146): Parker Brailsford, C. Brailsford was poised to be the Browns’ backup center but did not play in the preseason because of injury.
Round 5 (No. 149): Justin Jefferson, LB. Jefferson should make the roster but could be a healthy scratch on game day. He’s not a starter and doesn’t appear to be penciled in a top special teams role.
Round 5 (No. 170): Joe Royer, TE. The status of Royer is in question as he has missed camp for personal reasons. He could be placed on the reserve/non-football injury list to preserve a roster spot for someone else.
Round 6 (No. 182): Taylen Green, QB. Green received few reps in camp, as the Browns are effectively using his rookie season as a redshirt year for development. But his physical traits are tantalizing, and Monken has praised Green’s recall of the offense.
Round 7 (No. 248): Carsen Ryan, TE. Injuries at tight end and fullback have forced Ryan to take on multiple roles, but Monken has been pleased with his growth. Ryan is on track to be Cleveland’s No. 3 tight end. — Daniel Oyefusi
Round 1 (No. 11): Caleb Downs, S. Expectations have been high since the Cowboys moved up a spot to take him, and Downs has done nothing but meet every standard. He has shown he can play in the slot and cover shifty receivers while also being a willing run defender. He can also play on the back end. Considering how much the Cowboys will use their sub packages, he will be a starter in Week 1. “He has a streak on the field,” defensive coordinator Christian Parker said. “Obviously, you don’t know that until you’re in those competitive environments with somebody, but he definitely has a fire to him and an edge.”
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Round 1 (No. 23): Malachi Lawrence, Edge. The Cowboys knew Lawrence would need more development than Downs and are prepared to be patient. There has been growth throughout the summer and the preseason games, but the best thing Lawrence will have is the ability to learn from veterans like Von Miller. The Cowboys like Lawrence’s strength at the point of attack and believe he can be a healthy part of their pass-rush rotation. “Malachi’s a guy I see getting better steadily every single day,” coach Brian Schottenheimer said. “You do that over these next four, five, six weeks, and I think he’ll be ready to go come the regular season.”
Round 3 (No. 92): Jaishawn Barham, LB. He could make this draft class special. Before suffering a groin injury in camp, Barham was everywhere and earning first-team snaps. He maintained that level of play when he returned against Arizona in Week 2 of the preseason. He plays with a nasty demeanor and can pursue well. Barham could end up as a starter later in the season.
Round 4 (No. 112): Drew Shelton, OT. Like most Day 3 rookies, he needs to add strength. Shelton got bullied a few times in practice and games but can play either tackle spot. The Cowboys believe he can develop into a keeper.
Round 4 (No. 114): Devin Moore, CB. A groin injury limited Moore for a spell in camp, but his size (6-foot-3, 200 pounds) and speed give him the edge for one of the final cornerback spots.
Round 4 (No. 137): LT Overton, DT. He enters a crowded room with high-end and solid veterans ahead of him, but Overton showed he has the size, strength and movement skills that could eventually get him into the rotation.
Round 7 (No. 218): Anthony Smith, WR. He has had good moments in training camp practices and preseason games but maybe not enough to crack the initial 53-man roster. Still, Smith has special teams value and speed the Cowboys want to develop. — Todd Archer
Round 1 (No. 12): Kadyn Proctor, G/OT. Proctor has long been slotted in as the Dolphins’ starting left guard despite playing left tackle at Alabama. He has solidified himself as one of the team’s five best offensive linemen since being selected. Proctor faced criticism for his work ethic during the draft process, but Dolphins coach Jeff Hafley said he loves the rookie’s commitment through the first few months of his career. “Proctor’s been outstanding — I can’t say enough about him,” Hafley said. “The buy-in has been outstanding.”
Round 1 (No. 27): Chris Johnson, CB. Like Proctor, Johnson was expected to make an immediate impact. He has cross-trained at all three cornerback positions and while it’s unclear who the Dolphins’ starters will be, Johnson is effectively guaranteed to be one of them. His coaches and teammates have praised his football IQ and instincts, and there have been flashes this summer when he looked like a lockdown corner. “The thing that’s impressed me the most about him is just the poise he plays with out there,” defensive coordinator Sean Duggan said. “For a rookie, the moment’s never too big. He always seems under control.”
Round 2 (No. 43): Jacob Rodriguez, LB. The Dolphins were excited to land Rodriguez, and he has validated that excitement this offseason. His tendency to force fumbles has translated to the practice field, and he has proved himself capable of making plays sideline to sideline. It shouldn’t be a surprise if he starts in Week 1.
Round 3 (No. 75): Caleb Douglas, WR. This pick was widely considered a reach by draft pundits, but general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan might get the last laugh. Douglas looked like the Dolphins’ best receiver early in camp, though that’s not a particularly high bar to clear. His production tapered over the past two weeks, but he is listed as a starter and should get every opportunity to establish himself as Miami’s lead receiver.
Round 3 (No. 87): Will Kacmarek, TE. Kacmarek wasn’t a flashy selection, but he proves his value every time the pads come on. Sullivan called him an “upper-echelon” run blocker already, and Kacmarek has been a mauler for a Dolphins offense that wants to establish the run this season. He will see plenty of action as a rookie, especially if he continues to develop as a pass catcher.
Round 3 (No. 94): Chris Bell, WR. Bell was a late-Day 1 talent who fell to the end of the third round because of a torn ACL suffered in December. Despite starting training camp on the active/NFI list, Bell has since returned and was cleared for full contact entering the final week of the preseason. There’s a path for Bell to be one of the team’s best receivers in 2026.
Round 4 (No. 130): Trey Moore, Edge. Moore was a training camp standout but will undergo surgery on an ankle injury suffered in the second preseason game. He is expected to miss significant time.
Round 4 (No. 138): Kyle Louis, LB. Louis projected as an NFL safety but the Dolphins see him as a role-specific linebacker. He is versatile enough to play both positions, and Miami might have to utilize that skill set this season.
Round 5 (No. 158): Michael Taaffe, S. Safety is the Dolphins’ thinnest position, and Taaffe should get playing time out of necessity.
Round 5 (No. 177): Kevin Coleman Jr., WR. The Dolphins’ third rookie wide receiver has come on strong over the past few weeks. Coleman, just like his counterparts, has an opportunity to make an impact.
Round 5 (No. 180): Seydou Traore, TE. Traore is an intriguing player to watch after the catch and should make the initial roster despite some focus drops this summer.
Round 6 (No. 200): DJ Campbell, G. Campbell will likely make the roster as a depth and developmental piece, but he isn’t expected to push for early playing time.
Round 7 (No. 238): Max Llewellyn, Edge. Llewellyn has flashed a few times at camp and should make the roster as a developmental pass rusher, but don’t be surprised if he pushes for playing time. — Marcel Louis-Jacques
Round 1 (No. 13): Ty Simpson, QB. Simpson entered training camp in a competition with 2023 fourth-round pick Stetson Bennett IV to back up Matthew Stafford. Bennett got the majority of the No. 2 reps early in training camp, but Simpson impressed in his first preseason game, completing 21 of 25 passes for 190 yards with two touchdowns and no interceptions. After the game, McVay said he thought Simpson had “good command” of the offense. In his second preseason game, Simpson played the second half but got just three series; he completed 8 of 12 passes for 73 yards. And he capped off his preseason with 119 passing yards on Thursday night.
Round 2 (No. 61): Max Klare, TE. Klare was drafted to a team with a crowded tight end room, as the Rams will likely carry five tight ends, including Klare. Los Angeles ran 331 plays in 13 personnel (three tight ends) last season which, according to ESPN Research, was more than double any other team.
Round 3 (No. 93): Keagen Trost, OT. Trost left the preseason opener with a hamstring injury after starting at right tackle. He was on pace to be the Rams’ backup at the position. Sean McVay said he’s hopeful Trost will return before the start of the season. “He’s a mentally tough, resilient guy,” McVay said.
Round 6 (No. 197): CJ Daniels, WR. Daniels is expected to make the Rams’ roster, with McVay describing the sixth-round pick as “a mature rookie” during training camp.
Round 7 (No. 232): Tim Keenan III, DT. Keenan totaled a sack and six tackles in the Rams’ preseason games. — Sarah Barshop
Round 1 (No. 14): Olaivavega Ioane, G. Ioane will be the Ravens’ starting right guard when the regular season begins after working with the first team since his first practice. Coaches and teammates have praised Ioane for carrying himself like a veteran. “He’s very smart. He understands the game up front,” Ravens offensive line coach Dwayne Ledford said. “He has some really good feet that allow him to do a lot of things up front that, being his size, is pretty special.”
Round 2 (No. 45): Zion Young, Edge. Young has impressed the coaches with his physicality. He is expected to back up Tavius Robinson as the strong-side linebacker but should have the opportunity to start next season. When asked about Young’s best trait, tight end Josh Cuevas said, “It’s his willingness to do anything.”
Round 3 (No. 80): Ja’Kobi Lane, WR. He is primed for a big role in the offense after being the star of training camp. By making highlight plays nearly every day this summer, Lane has positioned himself be the No. 3 receiver behind Zay Flowers and Rashod Bateman. “He’s effortlessly good,” fellow rookie wide receiver Elijah Sarratt said.
Round 4 (No. 115): Elijah Sarratt, WR. He has flashed at times this summer, but Sarratt could be a game-day inactive because he doesn’t provide much of a special teams presence.
Round 4 (No. 133): Matthew Hibner, TE. He has the edge as the team’s No. 3 tight end and should be a core special teams player.
Round 5 (No. 162): Chandler Rivers, CB. It looks like Rivers will be the backup slot cornerback and contribute heavily on special teams.
Round 5 (No. 173): Josh Cuevas, TE. He’s been closing on Hibner for the No. 3 tight end spot and has been solid on special teams.
Round 5 (No. 174): Adam Randall, RB. The Ravens usually don’t carry four running backs on the 53-man roster, but Randall could be active on game days if he can show an ability to play special teams.
Round 6 (No. 211): Ryan Eckley, P. The first punter taken in this year’s draft has not disappointed, averaging 49.8 yards in his first two preseason games.
Round 7 (No. 250): Rayshaun Benny, DT. If Benny fails to make the 53-man roster, he has impressed enough to land on the practice squad.
Round 7 (No. 253): Evan Beerntsen, G. He’s buried so far down the depth chart that he has played a total of eight snaps in the first two preseason games. — Jamison Hensley
Round 1 (No. 15): Rueben Bain Jr., Edge. Bain will start, and the team is thrilled with what it has seen so far. Whether it was channeling Reggie White with a hump move on third down that forced a Justin Fields incompletion, or the club/swipe move he put on teammate Luke Goedeke during one-on-ones, Bain has the stuff to make an impact right away, even with his recent AC sprain. But it’s also his attitude and what he does when no one’s watching that have quickly earned the respect of his teammates. “Just seeing the hunger and determination in his eyes, it’s good to have on your side,” defensive tackle Vita Vea said.
Round 2 (No. 46): Josiah Trotter, LB. The son of Eagles legend Jeremiah Trotter is expected to start at Mike linebacker. Trotter really began to shine once the pads came on, as he likes to crash downhill and hit people. He also showed his coverage skills by picking off the Jets’ Geno Smith in joint practices. “He’s not afraid, and he can back it up,” defensive tackle Rakeem Nunez-Roches said. “That’s what I love.”
Round 3 (No. 84): Ted Hurst III, WR. The Bucs have been careful about comparing him to future Hall of Famer Mike Evans, but Hurst possesses similar attributes in that he’s 6-foot-4 and plays above the rim. How early and often quarterback Baker Mayfield goes to him will be dependent on the health status of Emeka Egbuka, Jalen McMillan and Tez Johnson, who have all missed time with injuries.
Round 4 (No. 116): Keionte Scott, CB. Despite missing time recovering from wrist surgery, Scott has proved to be a quick study and he’s in contention to be their starting nickel.
Round 5 (No. 155): DeMonte Capehart, DT. Like Scott, Capehart also had a wrist injury, but he is fully healed and in position to earn the final defensive line spot on the 53-man roster behind Vea, Calijah Kancey, A’Shawn Robinson, Nunez-Roches and Elijah Roberts.
Round 5 (No. 160): Billy Schrauth, G. Schrauth has been sidelined throughout camp with a sprained right knee and is battling with a handful of players for the final offensive line roster spot.
Round 6 (No. 185): Bauer Sharp, TE. Sharp’s greatest asset is that he’s a jack of all trades. He can block (although they need him to be more consistent), run and catch, and he is a very good route runner who has picked up Zac Robinson’s offense quickly. — Jenna Laine
Round 1 (No. 17): Blake Miller, OT. The Lions drafted Miller to be a Day 1 starter and he has lived up to the hype, playing right tackle after Detroit decided to switch All-Pro Penei Sewell to the left side. Miller has turned heads this preseason and his quick adaptability has impressed Lions quarterback Jared Goff. “He just continues to not make the same mistake twice,” Goff said. “And his mistakes go down and down every day, and I think that’s what you’re looking for. … Every day seems like it’s getting less and less and he’s starting to settle in.”
Round 2 (No. 44): Derrick Moore, Edge. Although Moore missed a couple weeks of training camp with a minor groin strain, he has caused problems off the edge this preseason. He logged a couple tackles with a sack and a forced fumble in his preseason debut against Washington. Moore is expected to contribute to Detroit’s edge rusher rotation immediately opposite Aidan Hutchinson.
Round 4 (No. 118): Jimmy Rolder, LB. Rolder was off to a solid start before suffering a hamstring injury on the third day of training camp, but he’s expected to return for the regular season.
Round 5 (No. 157): Keith Abney II, CB. Abney saw some first-team reps at nickel throughout camp and is expected to be a key part of Detroit’s defense while also contributing on special teams.
Round 5 (No. 168): Kendrick Law, WR. Law suffered a torn ACL at OTAs in early June during a noncontact drill and was placed on injured reserve.
Round 6 (No. 205): Skyler Gill-Howard, DT. Gill-Howard has a chance to earn a spot in a loaded tackle room due to his strong play throughout the preseason, where he has shown flashes of his playmaking ability.
Round 7 (No. 222): Tyre West, Edge. West was drafted as a potential rotational defensive end but didn’t log many preseason snaps and could be a long shot to make the 53-man roster. — Eric Woodyard
Round 1 (No. 18): Caleb Banks, DT. The good news is that Banks has been healthy after undergoing three surgeries, most recently in March, to address fractures in his left foot. He participated in all but one training camp practice — a preplanned absence — and worked extensively with the first team. But Banks has mostly looked like a player who didn’t see much action last season. In the preseason opener, he played high and was consistently driven off the ball. His performance improved the following week, and there’s hope Banks will continue along that trajectory.
Round 2 (No. 51): Jake Golday, LB. Golday has proved to be a sure tackler, difficult to block in space and capable of learning multiple positions in defensive coordinator Brian Flores’ scheme. For the moment, he is playing behind four established starters at the inside and outside linebacker positions.
Round 3 (No. 82): Domonique Orange, DT. Similar to Banks, Orange got extensive work with the first team at nose tackle and produced a viral moment in the second preseason game by dropping his 322-pound frame into pass coverage. Whether he starts or not, he is on pace to get significant playing time.
Round 3 (No. 97): Caleb Tiernan, OT. After spending the initial part of camp splitting between left and right tackle on the second unit, Tiernan struggled in the first preseason game and then suffered an ankle injury. He has been sidelined since, although he is expected to be available for the regular season.
Round 3 (No. 98): Jakobe Thomas, S. An early back injury has limited Thomas through training camp, and he has done almost no work in full-team drills. There would have been plenty of opportunity for immediate playing time, as coaches love Thomas’ physicality and understanding of the system, but he has some catching up to do.
Round 5 (No. 159): Max Bredeson, FB. Coaches love his physicality and scheme versatility as a blocker, and Bredeson will not only get playing time on offense but also start if the Vikings open in one of their heavy packages.
Round 6 (No. 163): Charles Demmings, CB. After displaying polish and physicality in coverage against the Vikings’ top receivers in practice, Demmings has challenged veteran James Pierre for the No. 3 cornerback role and will certainly make the 53-man roster.
Round 6: (No. 198): Demond Claiborne, RB. Claiborne demonstrated the burst that got him drafted as a 180-pound tailback. The Vikings are looking for ways to get him on the field on offense and possibly as a kick returner.
Round 7: (No. 235): Gavin Gerhardt, C. After working as the third-team center for most of camp, a practice squad spot seems most likely. — Kevin Seifert
Round 1 (No. 19): Monroe Freeling, OT. Freeling has been thrust into the starting lineup due to two notable absences, with longtime starting left tackle Ikem Ekwonu (knee/PUP) and right tackle Taylor Moton (blood clot/NFI) expected to miss a chunk of the season. Freeling, who has been at right tackle all summer, will serve as a bookend to veteran left tackle Rasheed Walker in the meantime. Freeling allowed two pressures in 12 pass-blocking snaps during his first two preseason games, but he has received little help on that side, with a 75% one-on-one rate, according to NFL Next Gen Stats.
Round 2 (No. 49): Lee Hunter, DT. Hunter has shown occasional flashes this summer. He will serve as a cog in the defensive line rotation and should play immediately.
Round 3 (No. 83): Chris Brazzell II, WR. Brazzell won’t play in 2026 after suffering an LCL tear in his left knee and undergoing knee surgery in camp. He’s already on the season-ending injured reserve.
Round 4 (No. 129): Will Lee III, CB. Arguably the most impressive rookie of camp based on expectations, Lee displayed plenty of potential as a boundary corner before dealing with a minor groin injury.
Round 5 (No. 144): Sam Hecht, C. After an underwhelming start to the summer, Hecht has steadily improved throughout camp and the preseason and is the backup to starter Luke Fortner.
Round 5 (No. 151): Zakee Wheatley, S. Wheatley has been a preseason standout due to his tackling and blitzing ability, and he seems poised for roles on special teams and defensive sub packages as a rookie.
Round 7 (No. 227): Jackson Kuwatch, LB. The Panthers’ final draft pick has had a quality camp and seems to be valued on special teams, which could help him at the cut-down deadline. — Mike Kaye
Round 1 (No. 20): Makai Lemon, WR. It has been an injury-filled offseason for Lemon, who was sidelined with a hamstring injury during minicamp and reaggravated it the beginning of training camp, causing him to miss eight practices and two preseason games. He practiced in full for the first time on Monday and believes he can be in top form for the season opener. When healthy, Lemon has been running with the first team, primarily as the slot receiver. “He’s been really, really engaged mentally,” offensive coordinator Sean Mannion said. “That’s the challenge. Any player that you’re injured, you lose those physical reps, but he’s done a really nice job.”
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How will an ‘undersized’ Eagles offense perform this season?
Round 2 (No. 54): Eli Stowers, TE. It has been a slow start for Stowers. He has worked primarily with the second and third teams and hasn’t had many eye-catching moments in camp. Stowers needs to develop as a blocker, and while he has the mentality to do so by all accounts, it’s going to take time. He suffered a hamstring injury in the second preseason game against the Patriots.
Round 3 (No. 68): Markel Bell, OT. Bell has been the best Eagles rookie this summer, looking smooth in pass protection while creating lanes in the run game. He is in position to serve as the swing tackle and might be Lane Johnson‘s eventual replacement at right tackle.
Round 5 (No. 178): Cole Payton, QB. Payton has flashed his dual-threat ability and gunslinger mentality but needs to cut down on the reckless throws. He should make the team as a developmental prospect.
Round 6 (No. 207): Micah Morris, G. Morris has been solid in both training camp and preseason games and seems to have a good chance to make the 53.
Round 7 (No. 244): Cole Wisniewski, S. Wisniewski has been in and out of the lineup with injuries this summer. The lack of on-field time could land him on the practice squad.
Round 7 (No. 251): Uar Bernard, DT. Bernard is a member of the International Player Pathway program. He has never played football before, but there is significant long-term upside.
Round 7 (No. 252): Keyshawn James-Newby, Edge. He missed significant time with an ankle injury and could be a fit for the practice squad. — Tim McManus
Round 1 (No. 21): Max Iheanachor, OT. Iheanachor was trending in a positive direction until he sustained what appeared to be an upper-body injury early in training camp. Before the injury, he showed promise once pads came on, winning one-on-ones at least once against nearly every Steelers pass rusher. But missing two weeks, especially as a rookie, hurts Iheanachor’s chance to be the Week 1 starting right tackle. Drafted as a developmental pick because he has played organized football for only five years, Iheanachor showed impressive growth and flashes of a skill set that could make him the right tackle of the future.
Round 2 (No. 47): Germie Bernard, WR. Bernard is battling with Roman Wilson for WR3 duties. He had several impressive catches in the first preseason game but didn’t get many opportunities in the second. Bernard’s toughest challenge is mastering the offense and reducing some of the pre-snap penalties that plagued him during training camp.
Round 3 (No. 76): Drew Allar, QB. Allar’s preseason outings have been a mixed bag. He scored three times in his first preseason appearance, but the offense struggled in his second. He has been largely rotating third- and fourth-team reps with Will Howard, though neither appeared to take a big enough step in training camp to unseat Mason Rudolph as Aaron Rodgers‘ backup.
Round 3 (No. 85): Daylen Everette, CB. Everette got quality reps against DK Metcalf in camp and benefitted from Joey Porter Jr.’s absence with more snaps. But Everette appeared to sustain an undisclosed injury and missed the second preseason game.
Round 3 (No. 96): Gennings Dunker, G. Dunker has been slow to adapt to the next level. He hasn’t stood out and most often worked with the third-team unit in camp. He still has more to develop before he works his way on the field.
Round 4 (No. 121): Kaden Wetjen, WR. Drafted for his prowess in the return game, Wetjen finally broke through with a 45-yard punt return for a touchdown in the preseason finale after some inconsistent outings.
Round 5 (No. 169): Riley Nowakowski, FB. Playing an under-the-radar position, Nowakowski has been a steady contributor on offense and special teams.
Round 6 (No. 210): Gabriel Rubio, DT. An unknown when he was selected in the sixth round, Rubio showed promise in preseason action with his strength in the trenches and could be a surprising addition to the roster.
Round 7 (No. 224): Robert Spears-Jennings, S. Spears-Jennings got more reps early with DeShon Elliott‘s ramp-up back from his knee injury, but he might be a practice squad candidate due to a numbers crunch.
Round 7 (No. 230): Eli Heidenreich, RB/WR. The hometown kid has a playing style like Christian McCaffrey‘s, but he has an uphill battle to get a spot on the 53. — Brooke Pryor
Round 1 (No. 22): Akheem Mesidor, Edge. The 25-year-old Mesidor is expected to have an impact on Day 1. He has shown that ability in training camp, with quick hands and a versatile package of pass-rush moves from both the interior defensive line and edge. The Chargers expect him to fill the void left by Odafe Oweh, who left in free agency. “When he puts his hand down on the ground at the defensive end, 5-technique, there are flashes of elite,” coach Jim Harbaugh said of Mesidor. “The initial quickness, the strength, very polished in his arsenal of what he can do.”
Round 2 (No. 63): Jake Slaughter, C. Slaughter started camp at guard but is now the starting center after Tyler Biadasz‘s season-ending knee injury. So far, he has fluctuated between bad and good at the position, but the Chargers’ coaches expect him to be an impact player by Week 1. “He’s on an ascending path,” Harbaugh said.
Round 4 (No. 105): Brenen Thompson, WR. Thompson has flashed his 4.26-second 40-yard-dash speed during training camp and should have an impact early this season.
Round 4 (No. 117): Travis Burke, OT. Harbaugh called Burke a “Game 1 starter.” While that likely won’t happen barring an injury, Burke has impressed throughout the preseason with the menacing way he finishes blocks.
Round 4 (No. 131): Genesis Smith, S. Smith will make the team and is embedded in the competition for the second starting safety. He has shown impressive ball skills.
Round 5: (No. 145): Nick Barrett, DT. Barrett will be a depth defensive line piece and has flashed with run stuffs throughout camp.
Round 6: (No. 202): Logan Taylor, OL. Taylor has shown versatility by playing guard and tackle in camp, but he has struggled at times and is at risk of not making the roster.
Round 6: (No. 206): Alex Harkey, OL. Harkey is in a similar place as Taylor, with an up-and-down camp that has him on the 53-man bubble. — Kris Rhim
Round 1 (No. 25): Dillon Thieneman, S. Training camp confirmed that Thieneman possesses the rare instincts, closing speed (4.35 40) and intelligence required to start at free safety. Defensive coordinator Dennis Allen has already tapped into Thieneman’s versatility by shifting him between deep coverage, the slot and playing in the box. Thieneman has adapted to the injuries at the safety spot opposite him and showed he’s capable of making big plays when he picked off Bengals quarterback Joe Burrow near the end zone in last week’s joint practice.
Round 2 (No. 57): Logan Jones, C. There was no center competition in camp or first-team reps for Jones. That starting job belongs to Garrett Bradbury, but Jones has shown in practices and preseason games (particularly the zero pressures allowed in 26 pass-blocking snaps against the Bengals) that he’s developing on schedule and gaining the experience needed behind a veteran who just played in the Super Bowl.
Round 3 (No. 69): Sam Roush, TE. Roush is the third tight end when the Bears are in 13 personnel, which is something fans should expect to see a lot of in 2026. While his targets won’t look like ones Colston Loveland or Cole Kmet get, Roush put some good moments on film in the preseason (two catches for 30 yards against the Bengals) and should contribute on all five special teams units.
Round 3 (No. 89): Zavion Thomas, WR. Thomas showed his 4.28 speed often in training camp and got a ton of reps on offense and as a returner before getting hurt Aug. 9. He’s already working his way back and is expected to make an immediate impact as a primary kick and punt returner while serving as a vertical, deep-threat gadget player in specific packages.
Round 4 (No. 124): Malik Muhammad, CB. Kyler Gordon missing all of training camp paved the way for Muhammad to earn the starting nickel job. Allen said the biggest challenge is that Muhammad will have a constant bull’s-eye on his back from opposing QBs, but the Bears believe Muhammad can hold his own.
Round 5 (No. 166): Keyshaun Elliott, LB. Elliott reported to training camp with back discomfort, which general manager Ryan Poles inferred wouldn’t create a long-term absence. Elliott spent all of camp on the physically unable to perform list (PUP) and is likely to begin his NFL career there when the 53-man roster is set.
Round 6 (No. 213): Jordan van den Berg, DT. Van den Berg impressed early and worked his way into regular reps with the first-team defense. The Bears believe he is one of the steals in the draft, and van den Berg will be in the defensive line rotation. — Courtney Cronin
Round 1 (No. 26): Keylan Rutledge, G/C. Rutledge is a starter, but where he’ll play is unknown, as he began camp at center before moving to left guard. Rutledge adds a toughness to the interior of the offensive line that’s been missing throughout coach DeMeco Ryans’ three-year tenure. Right now, Evan Brown is at center, with veteran guard Wyatt Teller falling to second string, but the fact that the Texans felt comfortable starting Rutledge at multiple positions speaks to how much they value him.
Round 2 (No. 36): Kayden McDonald, DT. McDonald has run mainly with the second-team defense, but he’ll rotate with the starters once the season arrives because of his run-stopping ability.
Round 2 (No. 59): Marlin Klein, TE. Klein has impressed throughout camp with his athletic ability and is easily the most explosive player in Houston’s tight end room. Klein was born in Germany and started playing football late, so his potential is high. While we might not see a ton of production in 2026, he could be an eye-popping player in Year 2.
Round 4, (No. 106): Febechi Nwaiwu, G. Nwaiwu has mainly run with the second-team offense throughout camp and should make the team.
Round 4 (No. 123): Wade Woodaz, LB. With E.J. Speed suffering a long-term injury, Woodaz went from backup linebacker to potential starter if Houston begins a game in a 4-3 formation. He had a pick-six against No. 1 overall pick Fernando Mendoza in the second preseason game.
Round 5 (No. 141): Kamari Ramsey, S. Ramsey had an interception in Houston’s first preseason game and has run with the second-team defense.
Round 6 (No. 204): Lewis Bond, WR. Bond has become a fan favorite with his crafty receiving skills, and it appears he’ll play much earlier than expected because of the injuries to the receivers room.
Round 7 (No. 243): Aiden Fisher, LB. Fisher is a long shot to make the Texans’ 53-man roster. — DJ Bien-Aime
Round 1 (No. 28): Caleb Lomu, OT: The 6-foot-6, 313-pound lineman has practiced at left tackle and right tackle. He projects as the top backup behind 2025 first-rounder Will Campbell and veteran Morgan Moses. Lomu might have started camp as the fourth tackle, but Marcus Bryant sustained a left ankle injury in the second preseason game. Coach Mike Vrabel has said Lomu rarely makes the same mistake twice.
Round 2 (No. 55): Gabe Jacas, Edge. Jacas missed spring practices following a procedure on his knee and a contract impasse, got a late start in training camp and has been playing catch-up on defense and special teams. He projects as a backup behind veterans Dre’Mont Jones and Harold Landry III (PUP list) and second-year player Elijah Ponder.
Round 3 (No. 95): Eli Raridon, TE. The top backup to veteran Hunter Henry, Raridon hasn’t missed a practice and has been consistent as a pass catcher while holding his own in space as a blocker. When veteran blocking tight end Julian Hill sustained a season-ending knee injury in the spring, Raridon was thrust into the No. 2 spot.
Round 5 (No. 171): Karon Prunty, CB. He’s in the mix for the No. 5 spot on the depth chart (or possibly No. 6) and is a factor on special teams.
Round 6 (No. 196): Dametrious Crownover, OT. Vrabel highlighted Crownover’s play in the second preseason game and developmental upside at a hard-to-find position. He should be on the roster as the fifth tackle option.
Round 6 (No. 212): Namdi Obiazor, LB. If Obiazor makes the roster, it would be as a core special teams player and defensive backup.
Round 7 (No. 234): Behren Morton, QB. He was a developmental prospect behind starter Drake Maye and backup Tommy DeVito, so Morton is trending toward a spot on the 53-man roster because it might not be worth the risk of losing him on waivers to get him to the practice squad.
Round 7 (No. 245): Jam Miller, RB. Some hard-charging running in the preseason has Miller in the No. 3 running back mix, but limited contributions on special teams makes him more likely to land on the practice squad.
Round 7 (No. 247): Quintayvious Hutchins, Edge. Hutchins’ strip-sack with a strong rush off the edge to seal a Week 2 preseason win showcased his promise, but the practice squad is his most likely landing spot. — Mike Reiss
Round 1 (No. 32): Jadarian Price, RB. Price has shown that he can replenish at least some of Kenneth Walker III‘s explosiveness. Price has also flashed receiving skills, which were a question for the running back entering league. He is back after missing a chunk of camp with what Mike Macdonald called lower-body soreness, but expect Price to sit again in the preseason finale. While he could use the reps and might be a bit behind in his development without them, the Seahawks are playing the long game and making sure he’s healthy enough to lead their backfield until Zach Charbonnet is completely back from ACL surgery.
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Where Field Yates believes Jadarian Price deserves to be drafted in fantasy
Round 2 (No. 64): Bud Clark, S. Clark was put on season-ending injured reserve Tuesday after breaking his ankle in the second preseason game. Before that, Clark had been running with the second-team defense, though the Seahawks believed he would eventually push Ty Okada for the starting job opposite Julian Love.
Round 3 (No. 99): Julian Neal, CB. An undisclosed injury has sidelined Neal for much of training camp. He should eventually push for playing time as the third cornerback, but he has fallen behind with the time he has missed. That’s one of the reasons the Seahawks signed Trevon Diggs and plan to sign Terrion Arnold.
Round 5 (No. 148): Beau Stephens, G. There’s no question that Stephens will make the team after the Seahawks traded into the fifth round to draft him, but he doesn’t look quite ready to challenge Anthony Bradford for the starting right guard job.
Round 6 (No. 199): Emmanuel Henderson Jr., WR. Drafted primarily for special teams, Henderson would have a good chance at clearing waivers if the Seahawks wanted to start him on their practice squad until they find him a permanent roster spot.
Round 7 (No. 236): Andre Fuller, CB. The Seahawks had a fifth-round grade on Fuller, and he has shown flashes in camp, but the practice squad seems more likely than the 53-man roster — especially with the Diggs signing.
Round 7 (No. 242): Deven Eastern, DT. Eastern has not done enough to earn a spot on the 53.
Round 7 (No. 255): Michael Dansby, CB. Like Fuller, Dansby has also made plays and looks like someone the Seahawks will want to keep around on their practice squad. — Brady Henderson
Round 2 (No. 33): De’Zhaun Stribling, WR. Stribling has been one of the Niners’ most consistent performers in camp and has staked his claim to a significant role early on. That might not necessarily mean he’s starting, but it’s realistic to think Stribling can step into the F position in the slot right away as a supercharged version of Jauan Jennings.
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Why fantasy managers should be intrigued by De’Zhaun Stribling
Round 3 (No. 70): Romello Height, Edge. Because of injuries, Height has spent a lot of the preseason with the starters at defensive end. The results have been mixed, as he has flashed his speed and bend off the edge but has also struggled when offensive linemen get their hands on him. Height would be best used as more of a specialized pass rusher early as he develops the rest of his game.
Round 3 (No. 90): Kaelon Black, RB. At the beginning of camp, Black was impressive enough that he seemed poised to claim the No. 2 running back job behind Christian McCaffrey. Black has a natural feel for running outside zone and is decisive and quick when he sees a hole. He still could win that spot, but he also missed most of camp because of an adductor injury. That makes it more difficult to project where he will fit.
Round 4 (No. 107): Gracen Halton, DT. Halton’s pass rush skills have jumped out during camp, and though he has been slowed by a couple of injuries, he should be in the defensive tackle rotation quickly.
Round 4 (No. 127): Carver Willis, G. Willis has missed time because of a concussion and is a work in progress. But he’s battling for the left guard job, and it wouldn’t be a surprise if he starts at some point this season.
Round 4 (No. 139): Ephesians Prysock, CB. Prysock has been a pleasant surprise and has earned a roster spot. He will likely contribute on special teams as he settles in at outside corner.
Round 5 (No. 154): Jaden Dugger, LB. Because of his versatility, Dugger has a real chance to be the team’s “fever ‘backer” to open the season, lining up alongside Fred Warner and Dre Greenlaw in a role that will continue to evolve as the season goes on.
Round 5 (No. 179): Enrique Cruz Jr., OL. Cruz is a developmental project who has struggled mightily at times. He has shown flashes that might make him worth keeping on the roster, but the practice squad seems like a better fit currently. — Nick Wagoner
Round 2 (No. 35): TJ Parker, Edge. As expected, Parker is set to serve as part of the outside linebacker rotation in an important depth role behind Greg Rousseau and Bradley Chubb. Defensive coordinator Jim Leonhard said, “[Parker is] a guy that you want to just continue to feed more to and he’ll get more comfortable, but very pleased with where he’s at.”
Round 2 (No. 62): Davison Igbinosun, CB. With starter Maxwell Hairston missing time because of injury, Igbinosun has received extensive playing time, including with the first-team defense. He’ll be the No. 3 cornerback behind Christian Benford and Hairston.
Round 4 (No. 102): Jude Bowry, OT. Bowry was wearing a boot on his left foot earlier this week and did not play in the third preseason game, so his health status is up in the air. But he’s set to make the 53-man roster and serve as a backup lineman.
Round 4 (No. 125): Skyler Bell, WR. Bell missed two weeks during training camp because of a right groin injury, but he’s back at practice, will make the roster and will play a role on the offense this season.
Round 4 (No. 126): Kaleb Elarms-Orr, LB. A standout since being drafted, Elarms-Orr is competing for a starting job with Dorian Williams. But he’ll see the field either way, something that Leonhard has made very clear.
Round 5 (No. 167): Jalon Kilgore, S. Another player who has dealt with injury, Kilgore has stood out at various points during training camp, including making plays on the ball. He should make the roster.
Round 5 (No. 181): Zane Durant, DT. Durant has also stood out during camp and is in line to make the roster as depth.
Round 7 (No. 220): Toriano Pride Jr., CB. It will be tough for Pride to make the roster based on cornerback numbers, especially with undrafted rookie cornerback Kani Walker putting together some strong performances.
Round 7 (No. 239): Tommy Doman Jr., P. The punting job has been Doman’s job to lose since he was drafted, and he has done enough as a punter and holder to earn the role over veteran Mitch Wishnowsky.
Round 7 (No. 241): Ar’maj Reed-Adams, OL. There are not enough roster spots for Reed-Adams to make the 53, but he could be a practice-squad addition. — Alaina Getzenberg
Round 2 (No. 41): Cashius Howell, Edge. Howell has excelled in his camp. One front office staffer said it’s hard to recall a rookie who has hit the ground running as well as Howell. Expect him to be in the defensive end rotation in Week 1.
Round 3 (No. 72): Tacario Davis, CB. The Bengals were very high on Davis during the predraft process, which has materialized as training camp has progressed. Davis took some first-team reps in place of the injured Dax Hill and is the mix for the No. 3 cornerback spot.
Round 4 (No. 128): Connor Lew, C. Lew is not only a lock to make the team but should be the team’s center of the future.
Round 4 (No. 140): Colbie Young, WR. Young will make a push for offensive snaps as an outside receiving threat.
Round 6 (No. 189): Brian Parker II, OL. Parker will make the squad as a reserve guard. He has played with the second-team offense in camp in that role.
Round 7 (No. 221): Jack Endries, TE. Endries is a fluid receiver and has been a willing pass blocker, a combination that will find him a role somewhere on the team.
Round 7 (No. 226): Landon Robinson, DT. Robinson had 1.5 sacks in the second preseason game, which bodes well for his future outlook as a reserve defensive tackle. — Ben Baby
Round 2 (No. 48): Avieon Terrell, CB. Terrell dealt with a hamstring injury in the spring and has been banged up again this summer. But when he has been on the field, he has done enough to compete for the starting nickel job. The Falcons love his obsession with going after the ball.
Round 3 (No. 79): Zachariah Branch, WR. One of the Falcons’ best offensive players in camp, Branch has the fourth wide receiver role locked in and could move up the depth chart as the season goes on. He was more of a gadget guy at Georgia, but Atlanta is opening the route tree for the speedster.
Round 4 (No. 134): Kendal Daniels, LB. The Falcons have trusted him with the green dot at times this summer because of injuries, and Daniels has a legitimate shot at starting at inside linebacker alongside Divine Deablo.
Round 6 (No. 208): Anterio Thompson, DT. Thompson has been injured since the spring and has not practiced at all in training camp. There hasn’t been any intel from the Falcons on the severity of the injury.
Round 6 (No. 215): Harold Perkins Jr., LB. The perfect compact and explosive complement to the long, rangy Daniels, Perkins is pushing to get significant playing time, especially because the Falcons need his pass-rushing ability.
Round 7 (No. 231): Ethan Onianwa, OT. Onianwa was thrown into the fire, getting first-team reps in training camp because of injuries. There have been mixed results, including an uneven performance in the preseason opener. — Marc Raimondi
Round 2 (No. 52): Brandon Cisse, CB. When camp started, it looked like Keisean Nixon would be one starting cornerback and Cisse, Benjamin St-Juste and Carrington Valentine would battle to be the other. But Cisse is now a virtual lock to be a starter, with the veterans vying for the other outside corner spot. The Packers love Cisse’s physical style, ball skills and ability to pick up Jonathan Gannon’s scheme quickly.
Round 3 (No. 77): Chris McClellan, DT. This is one of the Packers’ deepest positions, but McClellan will be in the rotation behind likely starters Devonte Wyatt and Javon Hargrave. McClellan is not just a run-stuffing nose tackle; he has shown pass-rush ability, too. His early production could give the Packers flexibility to trade a defensive tackle to get help at another position if they choose.
Round 4 (No. 120): Dani Dennis-Sutton, Edge. Dennis-Sutton was off to a strong start before a heat-related illness cost him more than a week of practice, but he should be in contention to be active on game days early in the season when star edge rusher Micah Parsons is out.
Round 5 (No. 153): Jager Burton, G. Burton went from an injury fill-in for left guard Aaron Banks (knee) to a legitimate contender to start.
Round 6 (No. 201): Domani Jackson, CB. He fell behind because of missed practice time following core muscle surgery. Jackson is not likely to be in the rotation right away but should make the team, especially considering GM Brian Gutekunst rarely cuts rookie draft picks.
Round 6 (No. 216): Trey Smack, K. Despite some struggles in practice, he has been perfect in the preseason games and appears to have locked up the job. — Rob Demovsky
Round 2 (No. 53): CJ Allen, LB. It was a rocky start for Allen after two separate injuries limited his practice time in camp, but he’s getting acclimated in coordinator Lou Anarumo’s defense. Allen will step in to an immediate starting role, replacing traded veteran Zaire Franklin.
Round 3 (No. 78): A.J. Haulcy, S. The Colts have been pleasantly surprised with how much acumen Haulcy has already displayed, putting him in line to take over the vacant starting job at strong safety. Haulcy has already shown the playmaking potential he demonstrated in college, which raises expectations.
Round 4 (No. 113): Jalen Farmer, G. The starting offensive line seems set, but look for Farmer to be the first guard off the bench and the team’s best O-line depth piece.
Round 4 (No. 135): Bryce Boettcher, LB. He has already established himself as one of the most physical players on the Colts’ defense and is in the mix for a starting role.
Round 5 (No. 156): George Gumbs Jr., Edge. Gumbs looks like a great bet to not only make the final roster but contend for playing time as a rotational edge rusher (likely on passing downs).
Round 6 (No. 214): Caden Curry, Edge. Curry is likely to make the roster and is beginning to carve out a role with his flexibility, providing a presence as an inside pass rusher on passing downs.
Round 7 (No. 237): Seth McGowan, RB. McGowan had a very strong camp and is in pole position to become the top backup behind star running back Jonathan Taylor.
Round 7 (No. 254): Deion Burks, WR. It’ll be a close call for Burks, but he could stick on the roster if the Colts see him as a legitimate option in the return game. — Stephen Holder
Round 2 (No. 56): Nate Boerkircher, TE. Boerkircher is the No. 2 tight end behind Brenton Strange. The rookie wasn’t involved much in the pass game at the beginning of training camp, but that has changed over the past two weeks. He’ll get significant playing time because head coach Liam Coen likes to use 12 personnel.
Round 3 (No. 81): Albert Regis, DT. Regis hasn’t been flashy but has earned a role in the tackle rotation. He recorded a sack in the preseason opener against New Orleans but did not play in the second preseason game after missing practice time because of an undisclosed injury.
Round 3 (No. 88): Emmanuel Pregnon, G. After a slow start, Pregnon has really come on since preseason games began. He is now working with the first-team offensive line at left guard. That has allowed Ezra Cleveland, who started every game last season at left guard, to move to right guard to replace Patrick Mekari (back).
Round 3 (No. 100): Jalen Huskey, S. Huskey is the No. 3 safety behind Eric Murray and Antonio Johnson. He’ll get a lot of playing time when the Jaguars go to their big nickel package. Huskey has outperformed 2025 second-round pick Caleb Ransaw, who missed his rookie season because of a foot injury.
Round 4 (No. 119): Wesley Williams, Edge. Williams will make the roster, but he might have a hard time being active on game day.
Round 5 (No. 164): Tanner Koziol, TE. He’s the third tight end and the team’s tallest pass catcher at 6-foot-7, so expect to see him in the red zone.
Round 6 (No. 191): Josh Cameron, WR. He’s in line to be the punt returner if the Jaguars opt to have Parker Washington solely concentrate on offense.
Round 6 (No. 203): CJ Williams, WR. Williams has flashed throughout camp and will make the roster as the fourth or fifth receiver.
Round 7 (No. 233): Zach Durfee, Edge. Durfee should make the roster, but he’s behind B.J. Green II and Danny Striggow in the pass-rush rotation, so he might have a hard time being active on game day.
Round 7 (No. 240): Parker Hughes, LB. Hughes was placed on IR on Aug. 17 after he suffered an injury in the preseason opener against the New Orleans Saints. — Michael DiRocco
Round 3 (No. 66): Tyler Onyedim, DT. Onyedim has been in the defensive line rotation this preseason. While Eyioma Uwazurike looks to get most of the tackle snaps that once went to John Franklin-Myers, Onyedim has flashed in the pass rush with his quickness off the snap and length. So pass-rush situations will be where he makes the quickest impact, and his playing time will increase as he builds up his strength at the point of attack.
Round 4 (No. 108): Jonah Coleman, RB. It took only one 13-yard run in the preseason opener for coach Sean Payton to see all he needed to see. Coleman is squarely in the backfield rotation and will get plenty of work.
Round 4 (No. 111): Kage Casey, OL. Casey might not be fully ready, but he’s a multipositional player who has shown ahead-of-his-time mechanics in his footwork and hand placement. That likely gets him on the 53-player roster.
Round 5 (No. 152): Justin Joly, TE. The Broncos don’t have many roster spots available, but Joly has shown he’s ready as a pass-catcher. He’s physical to the ball and a tough cover for linebackers. That could be enough for him to get on the 53.
Round 7 (No. 246): Miles Scott, S. The presence of veteran safety Taylor Rapp likely closes the outside shot Scott had at the roster, but his physical and reliable play should make him a practice squad certainty.
Round 7 (No. 256): Dallen Bentley. TE. Bentley offers more consistency as an in-line option than Joly right now, so the type of tight end the Broncos prefer from a rookie — inline or receiving — could determine who makes the roster.
Round 7 (No. 257): Red Murdock, LB. “Mr. Irrelevant” has shown enough to make the 53 with his preparedness — defensive coordinator Vance Joseph has had Murdock making the defensive calls when he’s on the field — and nose for the ball. — Jeff Legwold
