NFL scouts pick 10 early sleepers for the 2026 draft: Which prospects could rise quickly?
NFL Draft Sleepers: Who Could Rise Early in 2026?The NFL draft is a season-long excitement, but some prospects are undervalued while others have the potential to rise quickly. Among those considered "early sleepers" for the 2026 draft class are prospects whose skill sets and future contributions could set them apart from established talent in teams' rosters. scout evaluations often miss these players due to poor focus or over-simplification of their abilities, making them candidates for early drafting. Here’s a look at 10 prospects that the NFL scouts are likely to pick as sleepers.
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### 1. Kyron Lewis
- Why He Might Rise Early: Lewis has consistently shown promise through his athleticism and leadership roles on college teams. His speed, agility, and ability to adapt in opposing defenses make him a valuable asset for teams looking to develop young talent. scouts often overlook his physical skill but recognize his potential as a versatile running back.
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### 2. Julian Edelman
- Why He Might Rise Early: Edelman is known for being one of the league's best running backs, with his ability to dominate opponents and his adaptability making him a dynamic weapon in any scheme. His depth on the offensive line and raw talent make him a key player for teams that rely heavily on their run game.
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### 3. Justin Gippen
- Why He Might Rise Early: The tight ends of modern football have seen significant development since 2019, with players like Justin Gippen rising to the challenge. scouts often overlook his raw talent and ability to integrate into the secondary role due to underappreciation in college training. His potential for consistency and impact could make him a star in a tight-rope situation.
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### 4. Alex Smith
- Why He Might Rise Early: Smith has been a standout running back, showing potential through his speed and explosive power. scouts often miss out on this player due to poor focus during college training, but he remains a viable option for teams looking to develop their running game.
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### 5. Jonathan Farnham
- Why He Might Rise Early: Farnham is a versatile defensive end who has shown promise in college play. While scouts might not focus on him much due to poor expectations, his ability to handle multiple positions and adaptability could make him a key component of teams that need depth in the secondary role.
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### 6. Jaxon Miller
- Why He Might Rise Early: Miller is one of the most undervalued offensive linemen in the draft class. His physical talent and quick hands make him a valuable asset for modern offenses, but scouts often overlook his potential due to poor focus and underappreciation.
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### 7. Javon Hattis
- Why He Might Rise Early: Hattis is known for his speed and ability to read opponents in football. While scouts might not prioritize him much due to poor expectations, his potential as a versatile running back remains significant.
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### 8. Justin "J" Jones
- Why He Might Rise Early: Jones has been a rising star on college teams with the ability to play multiple positions and dictate defense. His potential as a young talent is often overlooked by scouts, but he could make a strong impression in 2026.
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### 9. Justin “R” Johnson
- Why He Might Rise Early: Johnson has consistently been one of the league's best tight ends, with raw talent and depth. While scouts might miss him due to poor expectations from college teams, his potential as a future star is undeniable.
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### 10. Robert Halladay
- Why He Might Rise Early: Halladay is a modern quarterback who has shown promise in college play. While scouts often focus on his skill set and ability to execute plays, his ability to integrate into the franchise’s existing structure remains significant.
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The draft is a highly competitive process where teams compete for talent that can quickly rise. scouts are always looking for ways to identify players who have potential for impact and could make their programs shine. Early sleepers like these prospects offer a glimpse into the future of modern football, and their success in 2026 will determine how many teams end up bringing them back as top-tier talent.
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