Sports
The 25 best boys’ high school basketball players, regardless of class
After a long month of July on the road, it’s time to update the boys high school basketball recruiting player rankings. Several new names from the rising senior class have been knocking on the door of the top 100, including Carlos Medlock Jr., a smart, tough, scoring point guard who recently announced his commitment to Michigan State.
The biggest news of the month however was Babatunde Oladotun, the No. 1 player in the class of 2027, deciding to reclassify to the class of 2026. Where does he land in the top 100?
Reclassifying up definitely comes with challenges and a different form of evaluation. Cooper Flagg and A.J. Dybantsa did it most recently — but they are both rare examples of being able to stay at No. 1 in the rankings. It’s otherwise almost impossible to hold on to the exact same ranking. When you move up a class, you are now judged against seniors with strong bodies and well-known résumés, along with potential. That said, you could be ranked within the same range.
Consider Oldatoun. He is a prototypical big wing with skill and plenty of time on his side. He proved in July an ability to put up real numbers against players from the 2026 class. And, at only 16 years old — which makes him the youngest now-senior — he has a long-term upside that will factor in.
All of which adds up to him slotting into the top 10 of his new class as a five-star recruit. He’s also a top 10 projected lottery draft pick at this stage.
Oladotun has the projection piece down, and will have the opportunity to impact games this high school season, with the potential to do the same in college basketball — and in the NBA.
In addition to Oladotun, some of the biggest updates in this edition of the 2026 player rankings include:
In the class of 2027, Marcus Spears Jr. takes over the No. 1 spot. His progress and potential are converging at the right time. Spears is the son of former college standout and NFL first-round pick Marcus Spears, who was also Louisiana’s Gatorade Player of the Year in basketball, and his mom is Alysha (Smith) Spears, an All-SEC player, top-10 WNBA draft pick and retired pro.
The class of 2028, too, has a new No. 1: A.J. Williams.
How do these players all compare? Let’s look at the top 25 players in high school, regardless of class: a blend of current production, performance in elite events, college potential and NBA draft projection.
Full updated player rankings:
2026 ESPN 100 | 2027 ESPN 60 | 2028 ESPN 25
2026 ESPN 100 ranking: 1 | SF | 6-7 | Uncommitted
Stokes plays with force, physicality and finesse. The more you study his game, the more his passing stands out. At the U19 World Cup, he had 18 assists against just six turnovers for Team USA, while facing older competition. He shot 36% from the 3-point line in EYBL play and remains elite at finishing through contact and drawing fouls. Kentucky, Louisville, Arkansas and Kansas are among the top choices for the top overall high school player.
2026 ESPN 100 ranking: 2 | SG | 6-2 | Uncommitted
The Marcus Smart comparison still fits. Smith is a defensive menace and is the best player on this list at making multiple efforts per possession on that end of the floor. His elite defense passed the eye test and graded well with advanced metrics in the EYBL, where he was the circuit’s most impactful defender. Offensively, he was top-five in scoring efficiency, shooting 58% overall and scoring 1.12 points per possession. His intensity and tenacity can take over games. His final schools are Arkansas, Duke, Georgetown, Kentucky, Indiana and Syracuse.
2026 ESPN 100 ranking: 3 | PF | 6-11 | Uncommitted
Williams might have the greatest potential in the 2026 class. His shot-blocking, rebounding and elite athletic range are eye-catching. He covers ground with long strides, vertical bounce and excellent timing. Offensively, he shows touch both inside and facing up. Two swing skills to watch this year: his face-up game and maintaining consistent intensity. Williams is beginning to turn his immense potential into production.
2026 ESPN 100 ranking: 4 | PF | 6-8 | Uncommitted
Collins is still more potential than production, but he has made real progress. He was top-10 in EYBL in rebounds (8.3) despite averaging just 22.4 minutes through the season, per Synergy. He scores best on putbacks, drives and transition finishes. He’s a long, fluid player with a 7-1 wingspan who’s still growing. His father, D’Angelo Collins, was a McDonald’s All-American. USC, UCLA and Kentucky are in the mix for his recruitment.
2026 ESPN 100 ranking: 5 | PG | 6-3 | Missouri commit
Crowe is the best pick-and-roll player in the country among ranked players, according to Synergy Sports. He’s a constant threat because of his natural shiftiness, ball-handling and aggressive mindset. He has the ability — and the instincts — to score from anywhere on the floor at any time, especially in one-on-one situations or broken plays. He reminds us a lot of incoming Arkansas guard Darius Acuff.
2026 ESPN 100 ranking: 6 | SF | 6-5 | Uncommitted
Holt is a high-level athlete who uses his speed, quickness and explosiveness on both ends. His defense remains his calling card, but leadership and winning have followed. He thrives in transition and attacking closeouts. In adidas 3SSB play, he posted more steals (32) than turnovers (23) while averaging 7.4 rebounds per game. His 3-point shot improved at both the Adidas EuroCamp (where he was named MVP) and the FIBA U19 World Cup. Auburn, Alabama, Ole Miss and Kentucky are among his suitors.
CALEB DEEP IN HIS BAG 🎒 @iamcalebholt #USABMU19 x #FIBAU19 pic.twitter.com/w9jsne2xXA
— USABJNT (@usabjnt) July 6, 2025
2026 ESPN 100 ranking: 7 | PG | 6-4 | Uncommitted
One of the best on-ball defenders in the class, McCoy stays in his stance and plays with discipline. Offensively, he’s excellent in transition. He pushes the ball with straight-line speed and can make the advance hit-ahead pass. McCoy is a high-level talent who facilitates, finishes well, rebounds down to start breaks and is a capable catch-and-shoot threat when set.
2026 ESPN 100 ranking: 8 | PF | 6-8 | Uncommitted
After his recent reclassification, Oladotun is the youngest player in the senior class: he doesn’t turn 17 until December. His biggest improvement has been finishing through contact with touch. He has also added more strength, though continuing to get stronger is vital for his senior season. His shooting upside, footwork and a teachable mindset make him an attractive long-term prospect. Oladotun plans to visit Maryland and Virginia Tech first, with Arkansas, Duke, Kansas, Gonzaga, Georgetown, Tennessee and others also involved.
2027 ESPN 60 ranking: 1 | PF | 6-7 | Uncommitted
Spears has quickly evolved into a mismatch for opponents with his footwork and skill on offense, plus the mobility and length to guard multiple spots. He had elite per-40 production at the 2025 FIBA U16 Men’s AmeriCup. His handle, vision and willingness to pass bring Lamar Odom to mind. Spears was also one of the best rebounders and shot-blockers in the EYBL 16U. He needs to improve his free-throw shooting and play lower in his stance, but he takes coaching well and is intensely competitive.
2027 ESPN 60 ranking: 2 | SF | 6-5 | Uncommitted
Branch is one of the nation’s best outside shooters off the catch or pull-up. In adidas 3SSB with Compton Magic, Branch shot 39% from deep while creating shots with an effective handle and footwork. His range, ability to finish in the paint and 7-1 wingspan make him a prototypical future NBA wing. Expect him to challenge Spears for the top spot in the junior class this year.
2027 ESPN 60 ranking: 3 | PF | 6-9 | Uncommitted
Osaruyi is a powerful, explosive big man with physically imposing measurables. He stands 6-10 with a 7-2.5 wingspan and a 36-inch max vertical. He scores at a 64% clip at the rim and can step out and hit mid-range pull-up jumpers, although his free throws and 3-point shot need more work. Osaruyi is at his best scoring in the paint off straight-line drives from the perimeter. With more development, he could be scary down the road.
2026 ESPN 100 ranking: 9 | PG | 6-5 | Uncommitted
Mingo is a competitive lead guard effective on and off the ball who has developed a reputation as a winner. He ranked in the EYBL’s top three in free throw attempts (7.4 per game) and converts at a high rate. Mingo scores, rebounds and facilitates. He was named the MVP of the NBPA Top 100 Camp and he’s still just 16 years old.
2027 ESPN 60 ranking: 4 | PF | 6-9 | Uncommitted
Rosser has enormous upside. Now, he needs to start tapping into his gifts. Long and fluid with a 7-2 wingspan, Rosser scored at least 12 points in every EYBL game and was one of the best prospects at the FIBA U16 AmeriCup. He shoots well when set, finishes at the rim and rebounds, though glass production could improve. Kentucky, Duke, Arkansas, North Carolina, USC, Notre Dame and Virginia Tech are early leaders.
2026 ESPN 100 ranking: 10 | SF | 6-5 | Uncommitted
At 6-5 with a 6-11 wingspan, Samuels is a fearless lefty and one of the best scorers in the country. He creates offense off the dribble or via catch-and-shoot and gets to the line often. His 3-point shooting will help his game translate. Samuels hunts his scoring opportunities with an aggressive approach and confidently gets shots off in rhythm, and his college-ready body will help him rack up production at the line. He is looking at UConn, Texas, Georgetown, Tennessee, Villanova and NC State.
2026 ESPN 100 ranking: 11 | SF | 6-5 | Uncommitted
Richardson has been out with a wrist injury, but there aren’t many players better when it comes to transition scoring, off-ball cuts and converting on putbacks. He Improved to 34% from 3 last year and 69% at the rim, per Synergy. The son of former NBA All-Star and dunk champ Jason Richardson and brother of Orlando Magic first-rounder Jase Richardson, Jaxon’s extreme verticality and developing basketball instincts are quite promising. He is looking at Alabama, USC, Creighton, Ole Miss, Louisville and Miami among others.
2026 ESPN 100 ranking: 12 | SF | 6-7 | Arkansas commit
Aggressive, intense and improving every year, Andrews is a great example of a prospect who plays to win. He uses his chiseled frame, speed and explosiveness to fill the stat sheet. Right now his post-up and drive games are hard to stop, and the shooting is coming along. Andrews recently led Bradley Beal Elite to the Peach Jam title and earned MVP honors.
2026 EPSN 100 ranking: 13 | SF | 6-8 | Uncommitted
Thompson shot 39% from deep for Indiana Elite on the adidas 3SSB circuit. At 6-8 with a 7-4 wingspan, his perimeter game and recent production make him a riser, with the talent to make a significant impact in college. Don’t be surprised if he continues to move up the rankings if he continues to turn his upside into more steady production.
2027 ESPN 60 ranking: 5 | C | 6-11 | Uncommitted
At 6-11, 220 pounds, Ekezie has NBA frontcourt size with the mobility to switch and hedge ball screens. He tries to block everything at the rim. He’s the son of former Maryland star and 1999 second-round NBA draft pick Obinna Ekezie.
2026 ESPN 100 ranking: 14 | PF | 6-9 | Uncommitted
Bryant is mobile, long and now an inside-out scorer. He’s best known for his jump hook, rebounding and rim protection. He can be trusted to hit catch-and-shoot 3s with time and space. He’s also a great teammate who is very coachable. Missouri, North Carolina, Cal, Arizona and Michigan are among those recruiting him.
2026 ESPN 100 ranking: 15 | C | 6-9 | Uncommitted
Skilled and deceptive with long arms, Muurinen has advanced instincts and ball skills. He shoots it well from deep and plays out of ball screens, off-ball actions and dribble handoffs. He returned to Finland this offseason and has first-round draft potential.
2026 ESPN 100 ranking: 16 | PF | 6-8 | Uncommitted
Gaskins is physically developed with a beautiful mid-range jumper that impresses both college coaches and NBA scouts alike. He can score in the post, face up and rebound. He also just turned 17, so he’s quite young for the class. Texas, Miami, Florida State, Ole Miss and Louisville are in the fight for him.
2028 ESPN 25 ranking: 1 | SF | 6-6 | Uncommitted
Williams is a high-level talent and deep shot-maker with body balance. He’s quite adept using the “dribble bump” to create separation via his shoulders and get clean looks at the basket. Williams plays with pace, poise and confidence to make tough shots.
2028 ESPN 25 ranking: 2 | C | 6-9 | Uncommitted
Dampier is a monster on the glass, scoring in the paint and blocking shots. He also sets outstanding screens and has strong, secure hands and footwork. Perhaps that’s not a surprise, given he’s the son of former Mississippi State star and 1996 draft lottery pick Erick Dampier.
2028 ESPN 25 ranking: 3 | C | 7-0 | Uncommitted
From Senegal, Touray has explosive bounce and elite shot-blocking timing, making him one of the most intriguing prospects in this sophomore class. Skilled hands and footwork make him a high-upside big. He dominated on the circuit as a freshman and is also an elite dunker. Don’t be surprised if he ranks at the top of his class soon.
2027 ESPN 60 ranking: 6 | SF | 6-5 | Uncommitted
Hampton is a multi-positional player: He has the versatility to score, drive and make plays for others along with good positional size at a young age. He’s shown impressive scoring prowess, shooting touch and bounce on the circuit. Hampton is the younger brother of former ESPN 100 prospect and NBA draft first-rounder R.J. Hampton.
The 2026 men’s NCAA tournament continues as a loaded Sweet 16 tips off Thursday.
ESPN reporters on-site in Houston and San Jose, California are working alongside other analysts and editors to track all the action.
Jump to: Game previews
7:10 p.m., CBS
Borzello’s prediction: Purdue, 80-70
Medcalf’s prediction: Purdue, 85-72
How Texas can advance to Elite Eight: Texas has emerged as one of the hottest teams in March, winning three games in five days to go from the First Four to the Sweet 16. Sean Miller has made Matas Vokietaitis an offensive focal point, and the Lithuanian native responded by averaging 20.0 points and 12.5 rebounds in his past two NCAA tournament games. And over his past 12 games, Vokietaitis is averaging 17.6 points and 8.1 rebounds. Purdue has enough size to deal with the 7-foot-1 big man, but the Boilermakers also allowed opponents to shoot better than 56% inside the arc in Big Ten play.
The Longhorns also have to continue their defensive resurgence, which has come out of nowhere after they ranked No. 159 in adjusted defensive efficiency in their final six games before the NCAA tournament. They’re allowing just 1.03 points per possession in three tournament games. The key will be whether that’s enough against Purdue, which is ranked No. 1 in adjusted offensive efficiency. Texas has to make sure it doesn’t let Braden Smith dictate the entire game.
0:59
No. 4 Arkansas vs. No. 1 Arizona game preview
Check out some stats on Arkansas’ Sweet 16 matchup with Arizona in the men’s NCAA tournament.
How Purdue can advance to the Elite Eight: The late-season return to form of Trey Kaufman-Renn and Fletcher Loyer has taken Purdue to a different level — and is likely the Boilermakers’ biggest key. Kaufman-Renn had 20 points in the Big Ten tournament title game and 25 in the first-round NCAA tournament against Queens, then went for 19 points and nine rebounds in the second-round win over Miami. Loyer was perfect from 3-point range (4-for-4) against the Hurricanes and is now shooting 19-for-35 from beyond the arc in his last five games.
While Texas’ defense has tightened up recently, it was still ranked in the bottom half of the SEC, while Purdue enters the Sweet 16 with the best offense in the country. Moreover, the Boilermakers rank in the top 10 nationally in 3-point percentage, while the Longhorns are in the bottom third in 3-point defense. If C.J. Cox, who suffered a knee injury and is listed as questionable, can play and make shots alongside Loyer and Kaufman-Renn, Purdue should be able to light up the scoreboard. — Borzello
7:30 p.m., TBS/truTV
Borzello’s prediction: Nebraska, 66-63
Medcalf’s prediction: Iowa, 65-60
How Iowa can advance to the Elite Eight: We have evidence on how Iowa can beat Nebraska (and vice versa). When the Hawkeyes beat the Cornhuskers on Feb. 17, Bennett Stirtz was relatively inefficient but still finished with 25 points in willing Iowa to a win. When the Hawkeyes lost to the Cornhuskers in the regular-season finale, he finished with 11 points on 10 shots. In the NCAA tournament, Stirtz has received plenty of help from his supporting cast, with Alvaro Folgueiras averaging 14.0 in two wins and Tavion Banks scoring 20 against Florida.
Defensively, the Hawkeyes have to avoid fouling. They ranked last in the Big Ten in defensive free throw rate, and there was a noticeable gap in free throw attempts in the two games against Nebraska. When Iowa won, it was plus-6 at the free throw line. When Nebraska won, Iowa was minus-10.
0:58
No. 3 Illinois vs. No. 2 Houston game preview
Check out some stats on the matchup between Illinois and Houston in the men’s NCAA tournament.
How Nebraska can advance to Elite Eight: Nebraska picked up its first NCAA tournament win in program history last Thursday, then doubled its total in drama-filled fashion Saturday when Vanderbilt’s half-court heave rimmed out. What will the Cornhuskers need to do to win a third — against a team they split the regular-season series with during Big Ten play? Their success all year has been primarily predicated on two factors: 3-point shooting and defense.
They rank top 15 nationally in 3-pointers made per game, 3-point attempt rate and percentage of points generated off 3-pointers. They have four players who made 50 or more 3s this season, and they’ll likely have to make double-digit 3s to win. When they beat Iowa on Feb. 17, they made 10 3s. When they lost, they were 5-for-24. Nebraska led the Big Ten in adjusted defensive efficiency, holding opponents to below 30% from 3-point range and forcing turnovers on nearly 20% of possessions. The Cornhuskers had far more success against Iowa when they forced Stirtz into a tough outing. — Borzello
9:45 p.m., CBS
Borzello’s prediction: Arizona, 89-82
Medcalf’s prediction: Arizona, 93-87
How Arkansas can advance to Elite Eight: With his team battling High Point late in the second round, Darius Acuff Jr. never flinched. The projected NBA draft lottery pick finished with 36 points on efficient 11-for-22 shooting from the field to send Arkansas to its fifth Sweet 16 in six years. The Razorbacks can advance if he can get downhill, draw fouls and create space for his teammates. We saw this blueprint in their win against the Panthers on Saturday. With Acuff drawing multiple defenders, his teammates were able to produce: Malique Ewin (14 points, 12 rebounds) and Billy Richmond III (15 points, 10 rebounds) finished with double-doubles, while Meleek Thomas (19 points) also finished in double-figure scoring.
Acuff has to convince Arizona coach Tommy Lloyd that the Wildcats have no chance against Arkansas if he puts only one defender on him. Still, on defense, Arkansas is up against the deepest team in the NCAA tournament field. Each Razorbacks player has to win individual matchups; Richmond and Trevon Brazile especially will have to match the physicality of an elite Wildcats frontcourt without fouling excessively.
How Arizona can advance to the Elite Eight: Arizona can advance with a physically exhausting style that has challenged opponents throughout the season. Utah State cut Arizona’s lead to four points with five minutes to play in Sunday’s second-round meeting — the Wildcats had led by as many as 18 — and staged a serious attempted comeback in the final minutes. But Jaden Bradley drove to the rim and scored, Brayden Burries hit big shots, and Arizona got to the free throw line with 22 attempts in the second half. That’s the taxing style that makes most opponents break. Arizona is relentless. To beat Arkansas, though, its goal must be to stop the best player in this college basketball postseason: Acuff. If Lloyd can devise a defensive game plan against Acuff without sending a lot of help, then his guards can avoid early foul trouble, which could have an impact on the game. But that’s easier said than done. Acuff can make anyone panic, especially in crucial moments down the stretch. Arizona can’t do that if it expects to win. — Myron Medcalf 10:05 p.m., TBS/truTV Borzello’s prediction: Houston, 74-72 How Illinois can advance to Elite Eight: When Illinois jumped out to a 14-5 start against VCU in the second round, it seemed as if the Illini would enter halftime with a substantial edge — then the Rams slowed the game down and upped their defensive pressure to enter the break down just seven points. Ten minutes into the second half, though, they trailed by 22 points. That’s how quickly the game can turn against Illinois, which owns the best offense in America. That’s the Illini’s advantage against a Houston team prone to extensive scoring droughts. They already have wins over Tennessee and Nebraska, both top-15 defenses nationally. Houston and its pressure are unique, and the Illini will hit difficult offensive stretches against the Cougars — but Illinois has proved that it never stays cold. When the shots stop falling for Houston, as they have multiple times this season, Illinois will advance if its impeccable offense can extend a lead. Houston isn’t built for comebacks, while Illinois is equipped to widen the gap against its opponents. Whenever that opportunity arises against the Cougars, the Illini have to seize it. How Houston can advance to Elite Eight: Their defensive strength is their advantage when they force opponents to play methodically and measured. Texas A&M entered its second-round matchup against Houston having played one of the fastest tempos in America, but the Cougars locked the Aggies into a 65-possession affair and recorded a subpar 87 points per 100 possessions. Houston will have to deploy the same method against Illinois. Kelvin Sampson will need efficient efforts from star guards Kingston Flemings and Emanuel Sharp. And Joseph Tugler, last season’s Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year, has spent the last portion of his campaign as an emerging offensive threat. But to beat the best offense in the country, Houston will have to use the same gritty style that has anchored its 7-1 streak in its past eight games. One of the best defensive units in America will have to gain the edge against Illinois, which can turn a trickle of shots into a fire hose. Houston’s defensive strengths will have to be the difference against Brad Underwood’s squad. — Medcalf
Medcalf’s prediction: Illinois, 77-74
Manchester City are expected to seek talks with Rodri this summer before pushing ahead with negotiations over a new contract, sources have told ESPN.
Rodri has a year left on his current deal and, as things stand, could leave the Etihad Stadium as a free agent in 2027.
The 2024 Ballon d’Or winner said on Thursday that “you can’t rule out the best clubs in the world” when asked about potential interest from Real Madrid, opening the door to a possible move.
City are keen to keep the Spain international, who is a central part of Pep Guardiola’s team.
Plans to discuss a new contract were paused after Rodri suffered a serious knee injury in September 2024 in order to let the midfielder focus on his recovery and rehabilitation.
The 29-year-old has been able to play more regularly during the second half of the season and has started nine of City’s last 11 games, including the Carabao Cup victory over Arsenal at Wembley.
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Now approaching full fitness, City are keen to sit down with Rodri’s representatives to see if he’s open to extending his stay.
Sources have told ESPN that City have been aware for a while that Rodri is open to returning to Spain to end his career in La Liga.
He moved to the Etihad from Atlético Madrid in 2019 and has won 11 major trophies in seven years at the club.
Rodri is one of two contract priorities for City along with Phil Foden, who is also set to enter the final year of his deal. Nathan Aké and Mateo Kovacic are two others set to be out of contract in 2027.
Bernardo Silva is expected to leave at the end of the season and City are monitoring players to bolster their midfield ahead of the summer window, regardless of Rodri’s future.
Nottingham Forest‘s Elliot Anderson is one target, although the England international is also attracting interest from Manchester United.
The biggest moves from the 2026 NFL free agency cycle have nearly all been made, as 82 of our top 100 free agents have new contracts. And we can already start to think about next year’s class.
It’s important to remember that most top players primed for free agency in 2027 will sign contract extensions long before we reach next March. Players can also be franchise-tagged. But for now, let’s size up the potential of the 2027 class with the best players who are at least currently slated to hit the open market.
Age, positional value, expected future production and scheme versatility are all factors in making the list. We also included three players who received franchise tags this season and some 2023 first-round picks who are eligible for a fifth-year option in 2027.
Let’s get started with the quarterbacks, led by last season’s MVP.
More on 2026 free agency:
Top 100 | Best remaining free agents
Grading top deals | Overreactions
Jump to a 2027 position group:
QB | RB | WR | TE | OL
Edge | DT | LB | CB | S
Tags | Fifth-year options
Quarterbacks
Stafford led the NFL with 4,707 passing yards and 46 touchdowns last season, and won his first MVP award. A master of pocket movement, he can throw fastballs to every level in coach Sean McVay’s system. Stafford will turn 39 next February, and if he continues to play, the tape tells us he can still produce at a high level.
Mayfield pairs his aggressive throwing mentality with the ability to scramble and make plays outside of structure. His numbers dipped last season despite a strong start, but he threw for 4,500 yards and 41 touchdowns in 2024. Mayfield’s savvy play style is contagious — he battles.
If Murray wins the starting job in Minnesota over J.J. McCarthy, there is major opportunity here for him in coach Kevin O’Connell’s system. With a game plan built around Murray’s dual-threat ability (five seasons of 400-plus rushing yards), defined throws and play-action shots, he could cash in after his one-year deal is up.
Tagovailoa is coming off a rough 2024 season in Miami, with 20 touchdown passes and 15 interceptions before he was officially benched ahead of Week 16. But he now joins new coach Kevin Stefanski on a one-year deal in Atlanta. If Tagovailoa is named the starter over Michael Penix Jr., look for Stefanski to lean on his leveled play-action concepts and cater to the quarterback’s timing-and-rhythm style.
1:58
Orlovsky on Tua in Atlanta: This is the best decision for both parties
Dan Orlovsky and Domonique Foxworth discuss whether Tua Tagovailoa is a good fit for the Atlanta Falcons.
Running backs
One of the league’s premier runners, Taylor combines power, vision and home run juice to rack up big-time production. He led the league with 323 carries and 18 rushing touchdowns last season; his 1,585 rushing yards ranked third. Plus, Taylor can produce as an outlet/underneath target in the passing game (46 receptions in 2025).
Swift boosted his value last season in coach Ben Johnson’s offense. He rushed for a career-high 1,087 yards and nine touchdowns, while adding 34 receptions. Part of a backfield rotation, he fits best in zone-heavy scheme where he can press the ball to daylight and contribute to the pass game.
Wide receivers
London fits the profile of a No. 1 receiver with the versatility to line up inside or outside. In 12 games last season, he caught 68 passes for 919 yards with seven touchdowns.
London creates conflicts for opposing defenses in scoring position. He has 19 red-zone touchdown grabs since entering the league in 2022 (eighth most in that time span).
Olave had 100 receptions, 1,163 yards and nine scores in 2025 (all career highs). He’s a three-level glider who can easily create his own separation. Olave has a history with concussions, including several in the 2024 season, but he answered availability questions in 2025 with 16 starts.
Still one of the league’s best at shaking press coverage, Adams led the league with 14 touchdown receptions last season (league-high 12 in the red zone). He will turn 34 years old in December, but his ability to make himself available to the quarterback from perimeter alignments brings value to any offensive system.
Rice has played in only 12 games over the past two seasons due to injuries and a suspension. When on the field, however, he can operate as a volume target on catch-and-run throws. In three seasons, 69.8% of Rice’s 1,794 receiving yards have come after the catch. Plus, he has the ball skills to win over the top.
Since entering the league in 2022, Watson has never played a full season due to injuries. But the 2025 tape tells us the arrow could be pointing up for him. With the 4.3 speed and vertical ability to threaten defenses, Watson is a proven target on the boundary who has averaged 17.3 yards per catch over his career.
Tight ends
A back injury limited LaPorta to nine games last season. However, he had 146 catches and 17 receiving touchdowns over his first two NFL seasons. Those marks ranked fourth most and second most among tight ends, respectively.
With the ability to stretch the seams and create favorable matchups from multiple alignments, LaPorta is a top-five tight end when healthy.
Kraft was amid a breakout season in 2025 before an ACL injury in Week 9. At that point, he had 32 receptions for 489 yards and six touchdowns. At 6-foot-5, 259 pounds, Kraft is a physical target in the route tree who can rumble after the catch.
A knee injury in 2024 cut Hockenson’s season short, and sub-par QB play in 2025 reduced his total production. At his best, Hockenson should be viewed as a rugged, three-down tight end who can win in the middle of the field or on seams and corner routes. He had a career-best 95 receptions in 2023.
Goedert is a multilevel target who can produce on manufactured touches in the low red zone. In 2025, his 11 touchdowns were tied for second most in the league despite only 15 appearances.
Kelce is back in Kansas City for this upcoming season after catching 76 passes in 2025. His production and overall play speed has declined, but Kelce can still uncover due to his high-level field awareness. We’ll see if he continues to play in 2027.
Offensive linemen
Williams will turn 38 years old this summer, but he still has ideal tools for an NFL left tackle. He has the power and mobility to win matchups on the edges in both the run and pass game. Williams allowed just three sacks last season; his 79.5% run block win rate ranked sixth among offensive tackles.
Nelson’s tone-setting play demeanor would be a fit for any O-line room in the league, and he’s still producing high-level tape. His 95.5% pass block win rate ranked seventh among guards last season. Plus, he can easily displace defenders in the run game.
A durable interior presence, Brewer has the foot quickness to match defensive tackles in pass protection and operate in a zone run scheme. Last season, his 96.0% pass block win rate ranked sixth among centers.
Edge rushers
Walker battled through a wrist injury last season, leading to a decline in his pass-rush production (3.5 sacks). However, he had at least 10 sacks and 40 pressures in both the 2023 and 2024 seasons. If Walker can stay healthy in 2026, the former No. 1 overall pick could be a problem off the edges.
After 11.5 sacks in 2024, Van Ginkel recorded 7.5 in 12 games last season. His skill set fits best in a defense that schemes one-on-one matchups and stunts for him off the edges as an outside linebacker.
Thibodeaux had 11.5 sacks in 2023, but he has missed 12 games over the past two seasons, getting just 8.5 sacks during that time. He lacks elite bend on the edges, but he should still grade out as a solid starter next free agency.
Defensive tackles
Williams has the versatility and frame (6-foot-5, 310 pounds) to play multiple spots on the defensive front. A physical pass rusher and run defender, Williams has 18 sacks and a run stop win rate of 39.2% over the past two seasons.
At 6-foot-4, 347 pounds, Vea is an athletic plugger in the run game. And on pass plays, he provides an interior push to dent the pocket. In eight seasons with the Bucs, Vea has 35 sacks and 154 solo tackles.
Buckner’s sack totals and pass rush win rate have slipped over the past two seasons in Indianapolis. However, he can fit in a variety of NFL fronts with his powerful traits and 6-foot-7, 295-pound frame.
1:05
Daniel Jones on re-signing with Colts: ‘I’m fired up to be back’
Daniel Jones joins Pat McAfee to discuss his excitement about being back with the Colts and his desire to play Week 1.
Linebackers
Al-Shaair is an urgent run stopper who racked up over 100 tackles in Houston last season. Plus, he showed up in the pass defense with two interceptions and six pass breakups. He should be viewed as a productive three-down defender in free agency.
The scheme fit will be key for Luvu if he makes it to free agency, as he’s a stack linebacker — inside linebacker or 4-3 outside linebacker — who can be set up as a pass rusher or blitzer. With the foot quickness to shake blockers or wrap to the quarterback in tight quarters, Luvu had 11 sacks over the past two seasons.
Queen has the run-and-chase ability to track the ball on the perimeter and hunt down screens. Plus, he can slice into the backfield on blitzes to make splash plays. Queen could improve against the run game at the point of attack, but he has had over 100 tackles in four straight seasons.
Cornerbacks
Humphrey has 10 interceptions over his past two seasons, and his physicality in coverage still shows up nine years into his NFL career. Plus, he is willing to set the edges of the defense in the run game. Humphrey should be viewed as a scheme versatile corner if he reaches free agency.
After signing a one-year deal in Philadelphia, Woolen can boost his free agent value in 2026 under coordinator Vic Fangio. Woolen must show improved eye discipline and more consistent tackling to match his elite length and speed. He has the tools of a top cover corner.
More of a ball disruptor than playmaker (three career interceptions), Porter’s 12 pass breakups in 2025 tied for the fifth most in the league. He has 25 over his three seasons in Pittsburgh. Porter has the play demeanor to challenge in press coverage, plus the vision to locate the ball in zone coverage.
Safeties
A three-level playmaker, James is one of the best at the position. At 6-foot-2, 215 pounds, he can blitz, match in coverage or patrol the deep zones of the field. He produced three interceptions, two sacks, 13 pressures and 94 tackles in 2025.
It’s hard to find safeties who consistently make plays on the ball from the third level of the field. Bates checks that box with 13 interceptions over his past three seasons in Atlanta, and a total of 27 in his career.
An Achilles injury limited Branch to 12 games in 2025. When healthy, he can play over the top, cover the slot and impact the game near the line of scrimmage. He has difference-making ability.
Franchise tags
With 22 receptions of 20 or more yards (fourth most in the league), Pickens has the explosiveness to flip the field. Plus, he finished third with 1,429 receiving yards. Splash plays pay in free agency. Pickens also improved with his route running at all three levels in Dallas, which boosts his free-agent profile even more.
2:57
Stephen A.: Franchise-tagging George Pickens is a ‘huge mistake’
Stephen A. Smith sounds off on the Cowboys’ decision to franchise-tag George Pickens, calling it a “huge mistake.”
Hall has 188 receptions in his career and averages 90 scrimmage yards per game. He also has 87 rushes of 10 or more yards over four seasons. A three-down back with big-play juice, Hall should be in line to receive a multiyear deal in 2027.
Pitts plays tight end like a wide receiver, and his numbers were up in 2025. He caught 88 passes (career high) for 928 yards and five touchdowns, showing that he has the tools to thrive from a variety of alignments.
Fifth-year option candidates
Young threw for 3,011 yards and 23 touchdowns in 2025, both career highs. Plus, he delivered the ball with better location and timing in his second season under coach Dave Canales. In January, general manager Dan Morgan said the team plans on picking up his fifth-year option.
Stroud completed a career-best 64.5% of his throws last season in 14 games. An upgraded Texans offensive line, plus the trade for running back David Montgomery, should create more balance and better passing opportunities for Stroud in 2026.
Anderson had 12 sacks and 53 pressures in 2025; his 22.7% pass rush win rate ranked fourth in the league. He’s a game-wrecker who can win with power, speed and counter moves.
Robinson should be viewed as an offensive playmaker with the speed and splash-play chops to stress defenses. Last season, he had 2,298 scrimmage yards, 11 touchdowns and 36 rushes of 10 or more yards (tied for third most in the league).
In 11 games last season, Carter had three sacks and 21 pressures. At his best, he is a disruptive defensive tackle who can take over games.
A powerful mauler who can displace defenders in the run game, Wright had his best season as a pass protector in 2025. His 95.2% pass block win rate ranked fourth among tackles. He’s an ascending player who can lock down the right side of the line.
Skoronski’s 96.0% pass block win rate ranked fourth among guards, and he has the run-blocking ability to thrive in any scheme. He could develop into one of the league’s blue-chip guards.
A dual-threat back with big-time acceleration ability, Gibbs had 77 receptions last season and 1,839 scrimmage yards (fifth most in the NFL). On tape, it looks like Gibbs is playing at a different speed than his opponents.
With his long frame and pass-rushing range, McDonald has the physical traits to disrupt the pocket. He had eight sacks in 2025 after 10.5 in 2024.
Gonzalez didn’t record an interception in 2025 but had nine pass breakups as the anchor of New England’s secondary. I see the tools of a high-level cover corner on tape.
A catch-and-run maestro, Flowers caught 86 passes for 1,211 yards in 2025 (both career highs). Flowers is dynamic in space, while playcallers can get him to make splash plays on manufactured touches.
Smith missed five games last season due to a triceps injury, finishing with three sacks and 19 pressures. He was much more productive in a healthy 2024 season, with 6.5 sacks, one forced fumble and 4.5 run stuffs.
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