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NFL Draft: Mel Kiper Ranks the Top Players at Each Position | Combine Results

John Canady

Host · Writer

Long Snapper: Luke Basso, Oregon
Previous #1: Luke Basso

Luke Basso has handled long snapping duties with the consistency teams expect at the next level. His accuracy and timing help keep special teams operations clean. While the position rarely gets attention, Basso’s reliability makes him draftable.

Stay ahead of the game and elevate your sports betting experience with SportsGrid.
Mel Kiper's Top Player By Position
As the 2026 NFL Draft cycle enters its most critical phase, the focus shifts to the elite prospects positioned to transform pro rosters. ESPN’s Mel Kiper Jr. has updated his definitive Big Board, identifying the top-ranked talent at every position in this year's class. From franchise-altering quarterbacks to disruptive edge rushers, these rankings represent the current gold standard for NFL front offices.

With the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine now in the rearview, these prospects have officially put their athleticism to the test under the bright lights of Indianapolis. Click through to see which players validated their top-tier status with standout testing numbers and who currently leads Kiper's positional rankings as the draft draws near.

Kiper has new top dogs at wide receiver, center, and defensive tackle as the NFL Draft is less than a month away.
Quarterback: Fernando Mendoza, Indiana
Previous #1: Fernando Mendoza

Fernando Mendoza is the clear-cut favorite to be selected No. 1 overall after a strong season at Indiana. He wins with timing, accuracy, and command, consistently keeping the offense on schedule and limiting mistakes. While he may not have elite physical tools, Mendoza’s decision-making and feel for the position give him a chance to stick at the next level.

Fernando Mendoza's Combine Results
- 40-Yard Dash: n/a
- 10-Yard Split: n/a
- Vertical Jump: n/a
- Broad Jump: n/a
- 3-Cone Drill: n/a
- 20-Yard Shuttle: n/a
- Bench Press: n/a
Running Back: Jeremiyah Love, Notre Dame
Previous #1: Jeremiyah Love

Jeremiyah Love heads toward the draft as one of the most explosive backs in the class, capable of changing a game with a single touch. His acceleration and open-field vision jump off the tape, and he showed he can handle a larger workload as the season progressed. Teams looking for a big-play threat out of the backfield will have him high on their boards.

Jeremiyah Love's Combine Results
- 40-Yard Dash: 4.36
- 10-Yard Split: 1.55
- Vertical Jump: n/a
- Broad Jump: n/a
- 3-Cone Drill: n/a
- 20-Yard Shuttle: n/a
- Bench Press: n/a
Wide Receiver: Makai Lemon, USC
Previous #1: Carnell Tate (Ohio State)

Makai Lemon has separated himself as the top wide receiver in this class, bringing a polished, pro-ready skill set to the table. The USC standout consistently produces at a high level, combining strong hands, route running and playmaking ability to impact every level of the field. After posting 1,156 yards and 11 touchdowns, Lemon looks every bit like a future WR1 at the next level.

Makai Lemon's Combine Results
- 40-Yard Dash: n/a
- 10-Yard Split: n/a
- Vertical Jump: n/a
- Broad Jump: n/a
- 3-Cone Drill: n/a
- 20-Yard Shuttle: n/a
- Bench Press: n/a
Tight End: Kenyon Sadiq, Oregon
Previous #1: Kenyon Sadiq

Kenyon Sadiq offers the type of athletic upside teams covet at tight end, with the ability to stretch the field and create mismatches. He lined up in multiple spots at Oregon and proved he can be a factor in the passing game. As he continues to round out his blocking, Sadiq’s versatility should only boost his stock.
Fullback/H-Back: Eli Stowers, Vanderbilt
Previous #1: Eli Stowers

Eli Stowers brings a unique evaluation to the table as a former quarterback-turned-H-back, showing flashes of versatility that teams value in modern offenses. He can contribute as a blocker, a moving piece, and an occasional pass catcher, giving coordinators flexibility. That background and skill set could carve out a niche role at the next level.

Eli Stowers's Combine Results
- 40-Yard Dash: 4.51
- 10-Yard Split: 1.59
- Vertical Jump: 45.5”
- Broad Jump: 11’3”
- 3-Cone Drill: n/a
- 20-Yard Shuttle: n/a
- Bench Press: 14
Offensive Tackle: Francis Mauigoa, Miami
Previous #1: Francis Mauigoa

Francis Mauigoa looks every bit like a future starting tackle in the NFL, anchoring Miami’s line with power and length. He holds up well in pass protection and shows the strength to move defenders in the run game. With continued technical refinement, Mauigoa has the traits teams look for early in the draft.

Francis Mauigoa's Combine Results
- 40-Yard Dash: n/a
- 10-Yard Split: n/a
- Vertical Jump: n/a
- Broad Jump: n/a
- 3-Cone Drill: n/a
- 20-Yard Shuttle: n/a
- Bench Press: n/a
Guard: Spencer Fano, Utah
Previous #1: Spencer Fano

Spencer Fano projects as a reliable interior lineman who brings toughness and consistency snap to snap. He plays with strong hands and solid leverage, holding his ground against power while contributing to the run game. Fano may not generate headlines, but his steady presence is exactly what NFL teams look for inside.

Spencer Fano's Combine Results
- 40-Yard Dash: 4.91
- 10-Yard Split: 1.72
- Vertical Jump: 32"
- Broad Jump: 9'3"
- 3-Cone Drill: 7.34
- 20-Yard Shuttle: 4.67
- Bench Press: n/a
Center: Jake Slaughter, Florida
Previous #1: Connor Lew (Auburn)

Jake Slaughter headlines the center group as a steady, technically sound anchor in the middle of the offensive line. The Florida standout plays with strong leverage and awareness, consistently winning at the point of attack and keeping the pocket clean. His combination of toughness and reliability gives him the look of a long-term starter at the next level.

Jake Slaughter's Combine Results
- 40-Yard Dash: 5.1
- 10-Yard Split: 1.74
- Vertical Jump: 32.5"
- Broad Jump: 9'2"
- 3-Cone Drill: n/a
- 20-Yard Shuttle: n/a
- Bench Press: n/a
Defensive End: Rueben Bain Jr., Miami
Previous #1: Rueben Bain Jr.

Rueben Bain Jr. enters the draft process as one of the more disruptive edge defenders in the class. He generates pressure with a mix of power and burst, consistently forcing quarterbacks off their spot. As he continues to expand his pass rush toolbox, Bain’s upside remains significant.

Rueben Bain Jr.'s Combine Results
- 40-Yard Dash: n/a
- 10-Yard Split: n/a
- Vertical Jump: n/a
- Broad Jump: n/a
- 3-Cone Drill: n/a
- 20-Yard Shuttle: n/a
- Bench Press: n/a
Defensive Tackle: Peter Woods, Clemson
Previous #1: Kayden McDonald (Ohio State)

Peter Woods sits atop the defensive tackle group thanks to his rare blend of explosiveness and strength along the interior. The Clemson product flashes disruptive ability with a quick first step and the power to collapse pockets, even if his production hasn’t fully matched the tools yet. His upside as a penetrating interior defender makes him one of the more intriguing prospects in the class.

Peter Woods's Combine Results
- 40-Yard Dash: n/a
- 10-Yard Split: n/a
- Vertical Jump: n/a
- Broad Jump: n/a
- 3-Cone Drill: n/a
- 20-Yard Shuttle: n/a
- Bench Press: n/a
Off-ball Linebacker: Sonny Styles, Ohio State
Previous #1: Sonny Styles

Sonny Styles projects as a versatile defender who can impact the game in multiple ways at the next level. He’s comfortable playing downhill, covering space, and matching up with different personnel groups. That flexibility should make him an attractive option for defensive coordinators.

Sonny Styles's Combine Results
- 40-Yard Dash: 4.46
- 10-Yard Split: 1.56
- Vertical Jump: 43.5"
- Broad Jump: 11'2"
- 3-Cone Drill: 7.09
- 20-Yard Shuttle: 4.26
- Bench Press: n/a
Outside Linebacker: Arvell Reese, Ohio State
Previous #1: Arvell Reese

Arvell Reese has flashed the athletic traits teams want off the edge, showing the ability to pressure quarterbacks and close quickly. He’s still developing consistency, particularly against the run, but the upside is evident. Reese profiles as a player whose best football could still be ahead of him.

Arvell Reese's Combine Results
- 40-Yard Dash: 4.46
- 10-Yard Split: 1.58
- Vertical Jump: n/a
- Broad Jump: n/a
- 3-Cone Drill: n/a
- 20-Yard Shuttle: n/a
- Bench Press: n/a
Cornerback: Jermod McCoy, Tenneessee
Previous #1: Jermod McCoy

Jermod McCoy has put together a strong case as one of the more physical corners in the class, playing with confidence and competitiveness. He challenges receivers at the line and stays engaged throughout the route. His willingness to play through contact will stand out in evaluations.

Jermod McCoy's Combine Results
- 40-Yard Dash: n/a
- 10-Yard Split: n/a
- Vertical Jump: n/a
- Broad Jump: n/a
- 3-Cone Drill: n/a
- 20-Yard Shuttle: n/a
- Bench Press: 14
Safety: Caleb Downs, Ohio State
Previous #1: Caleb Downs

Caleb Downs looks like one of the safest prospects in the class, bringing instincts and range to the safety position. He reads the game quickly and consistently finds himself around the football. Downs has the profile of a player who can step in early and contribute right away.

Caleb Downs's Combine Results
- 40-Yard Dash: n/a
- 10-Yard Split: n/a
- Vertical Jump: n/a
- Broad Jump: n/a
- 3-Cone Drill: n/a
- 20-Yard Shuttle: n/a
- Bench Press: n/a
Punter: Brett Thorson, Georgia
Previous #1: Brett Thorson

Brett Thorson enters the draft as one of the more dependable punters available, consistently delivering strong field position. His leg strength and placement help limit return opportunities. Special teams units value that kind of reliability.
Place Kicker: Dominic Zvada, Michigan
Previous #1: Dominic Zvada

Dominic Zvada has established himself as a trustworthy option in the kicking game, showing the ability to convert from distance. He’s steady under pressure and gives teams confidence in key moments. That consistency will keep him firmly in the mix among specialists.
Long Snapper: Luke Basso, Oregon
Previous #1: Luke Basso

Luke Basso has handled long snapping duties with the consistency teams expect at the next level. His accuracy and timing help keep special teams operations clean. While the position rarely gets attention, Basso’s reliability makes him draftable.

Stay ahead of the game and elevate your sports betting experience with SportsGrid.
Mel Kiper's Top Player By Position
As the 2026 NFL Draft cycle enters its most critical phase, the focus shifts to the elite prospects positioned to transform pro rosters. ESPN’s Mel Kiper Jr. has updated his definitive Big Board, identifying the top-ranked talent at every position in this year's class. From franchise-altering quarterbacks to disruptive edge rushers, these rankings represent the current gold standard for NFL front offices.

With the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine now in the rearview, these prospects have officially put their athleticism to the test under the bright lights of Indianapolis. Click through to see which players validated their top-tier status with standout testing numbers and who currently leads Kiper's positional rankings as the draft draws near.

Kiper has new top dogs at wide receiver, center, and defensive tackle as the NFL Draft is less than a month away.