The NFL Draft season is upon us, and for many football fans, it’s one of the most exciting times of the year. We spend months analyzing mock drafts, debating potential picks, and eagerly waiting to see which players our favorite teams will select. And this year, the anticipation is even higher as the 2026 NFL Draft approaches.
Watching games every weekend is undoubtedly enjoyable, but there’s something special about the draft. It’s the one time of the year when all 32 NFL teams are equally excited and hopeful about the future. Every team has a chance to completely change their fate if they make the right moves in the draft. And for fans, it’s a time filled with endless possibilities and dreams of a championship-winning team.
As we look ahead to the 2026 NFL Draft, there are several players that stand out as potential game-changers. These are the players that EssentiallySports’ own Luke Hubbard is highest on in every round.
First Round: Malik Willis, Quarterback, Liberty
Quarterback is arguably the most crucial position in football, and finding a franchise quarterback can change the entire trajectory of a team. That’s why Malik Willis is the player that Luke Hubbard is highest on in the first round.
Willis has been turning heads with his impressive performances at Liberty University. He has a strong arm, excellent mobility, and a natural ability to extend plays and make something out of nothing. His dual-threat abilities make him a nightmare for opposing defenses, and he has the potential to become a true franchise quarterback in the NFL.
Second Round: Treylon Burks, Wide Receiver, Arkansas
In today’s NFL, having a dynamic wide receiver can make all the difference for an offense. That’s why Treylon Burks is the player that Luke Hubbard is most excited about in the second round.
Burks has been a standout at Arkansas, showcasing his size, speed, and route-running abilities. He has the potential to become a true number one receiver in the NFL and could be a game-changer for any team that selects him in the second round.
Third Round: George Karlaftis, Edge Rusher, Purdue
The third round is where teams often find hidden gems, and George Karlaftis could be just that for any team in need of a pass rusher. Luke Hubbard is highest on Karlaftis in the third round because of his explosive burst off the line and his relentless pursuit of the quarterback.
Karlaftis has been a force at Purdue, and his combination of size, strength, and speed make him a threat to any offensive line. He has the potential to develop into a dominant edge rusher in the NFL and could be a steal for any team in the third round.
Fourth Round: Jalen Wydermyer, Tight End, Texas A&M
Tight end is another position that has become increasingly important in today’s NFL. Jalen Wydermyer is the player that Luke Hubbard is highest on in the fourth round because of his versatility and playmaking abilities.
Wydermyer has been a reliable target for Texas A&M, showcasing his pass-catching abilities and his willingness to block in the run game. He has the potential to become a dual-threat tight end in the NFL and could be a valuable asset for any team in the fourth round.
Fifth Round: Breece Hall, Running Back, Iowa State
In the fifth round, teams are often looking for depth and potential steals. Breece Hall could be just that for any team in need of a running back. Luke Hubbard is highest on Hall in the fifth round because of his impressive production at Iowa State and his well-rounded skillset.
Hall has been a workhorse for the Cyclones, displaying his speed, power, and vision on the field. He has the potential to become a starting running back in the NFL and could be a valuable addition for any team in the fifth round.
Sixth Round: Ahmad Gardner, Cornerback, Cincinnati
In the sixth round, teams are looking for players with potential and upside. Ahmad Gardner fits that description perfectly, which is why Luke Hubbard is highest on him in the sixth round.
Gardner has been a lockdown corner at Cincinnati, using his size, speed, and instincts to shut down opposing receivers. He has the potential to develop into a starting cornerback in the NFL and could be a hidden gem for any team in the sixth round.
Seventh Round: Jahan Dotson, Wide
