The Athletic is providing live coverage for the high-stakes showdown between the Seattle Seahawks and the Washington Commanders on “Sunday Night Football.” As football fans gear up for this crucial game, the college football landscape is rapidly evolving, with just five weekends remaining in the regular season before conference tournaments and the highly anticipated College Football Playoff selection.
In this pivotal moment of the season, players hoping to announce their intentions for the 2026 NFL Draft are seizing the opportunity to catch the eye of pro scouts. Our draft analysts, Dane Brugler and Nick Baumgardner, have identified ten rising stars who have made significant impressions this season.
Among Brugler’s picks is Vega Ioane, a guard from Penn State. Despite the struggles of the Nittany Lions’ offensive line this season, Ioane has shone as one of the nation’s top offensive linemen. Notably, even during a tough loss to top-ranked Ohio State, he showcased his skills in pass protection and versatility in run blocking. With his clean games and effective play, Ioane is positioning himself as a candidate for the first interior offensive lineman to be drafted in April.
Ohio State’s Kayden McDonald also stands out, contributing significantly to the team’s performance against Penn State. Weighing in at 330 pounds, McDonald recorded eight tackles, demonstrating his prowess in stopping the run despite some limitations as a pass rusher. NFL teams seeking a dominant run defender will surely keep an eye on him as the draft approaches.
From Texas Tech, linebacker Jacob Rodriguez has stepped up, especially with his game-changing defensive plays. He forced two crucial fumbles in a recent game against Kansas State, bringing his season total to an impressive seven forced fumbles, making him a player to watch for draft circles.
Texas running back Quintrevion Wisner played a key role in the Longhorns’ victory over Vanderbilt, showcasing his ability to maintain the pace of the game with consistent yardage gains. Though he may not be an early-round prospect, his skills suggest he could be a valuable addition to an NFL backfield.
Miami’s Keionte Scott has emerged as a standout defender with his impressive play during a tough overtime loss against SMU. Recognized for his speed and reading ability, Scott is redefining himself as a versatile defensive back capable of contributing on special teams.
On Baumgardner’s list, Oklahoma edge rusher R Mason Thomas has made headlines for his explosive big-play potential evidenced by a remarkable fumble recovery score against Tennessee. Meanwhile, Vanderbilt’s Eli Stowers showcased his catching prowess with a career-high performance, proving his adaptability after transitioning from quarterback to tight end.
Carter Smith from Indiana has bolstered the Hoosiers’ offensive line, while Texas’s Trevor Goosby continues to develop into a solid prospect. Lastly, Alabama’s Germie Bernard has been a consistent playmaker, contributing significantly to Alabama’s climb into playoff contention.
As the college football season approaches its climax, these players are not only gaining recognition but also paving their paths toward lucrative futures in professional football. Their performances throughout this critical season exemplify the exciting potential waiting to be unlocked at the NFL Draft.