Hidden Gems in the 2026 Draft

These later-round projected draft picks from the SEC could exceed their draft grade.

Hunter Zeisman's Hidden Gems:

5. (OL) Febechi Nwaiwu: Projected 6th Round

An interior offensive lineman from Oklahoma, Nwaiwu is praised for his versatility, having played right guard, right tackle, and center. He gave up no sacks and only two pressures in the last season and is recognized for his leadership, winning prestigious awards like the Don Key Award and the Pat Tillman Award. I project him as a "late steal" for teams like Pittsburgh or Green Bay.

4. (QB) Taylen Green: Projected 6th Round

The quarterback from Arkansas, Green stands out for his athletic ability, size (6'6"), and rushing prowess. He led Arkansas' offense with his read-option plays and demonstrated strong arm talent for sideline throws. Despite some inconsistencies, I believe his talent and potential for development make him an "incredible project" for teams not needing a first-day quarterback, such as the Rams or Cardinals.

3. (S) Michael Taaffe: Projected 4th Round

A safety from Texas with an inspiring walk-on story, Taaffe is an "excellent coverage safety" known for his high motor and ability to play all over the field. He significantly improved his tackling and play recognition, showcasing a high football IQ and strong communication skills. He would excel as a single-high safety & rotated into slot coverage for teams like the New England Patriots or the Cowboys.

2. (TE) Dae'Quan Wright: Projected 5th Round

This tight end from Ole Miss is a big framed wide receiver more than a tight end due to his speed and ability to create mismatches. He was a key target for his offense, accounting for 30 first downs. While his pass-blocking needs development, his ability to catch in stride and gain extra yardage makes him a valuable late-round option, with the Denver Broncos as a potential landing spot.

1. (LB) Xavian Sorey Jr.: Projected 7th Round

A linebacker from Arkansas, Sorey Jr. is seen as one of the "most skilled late-round grabs" due to his top-tier athleticism and versatility. Despite limited collegiate playtime at Georgia and Arkansas, he has shown excellent coverage skills and tackling ability. I believe he can develop into an every down player early in his NFL career for teams like the Kansas City Chiefs, Washington, or Detroit with a track record of LB development.

Randall Ledet Jr.'s Hidden Gems:

5.(RB) Mike Washington Jr.: Projected 6th Round

From Utica, New York to the Senior Bowl stage in Mobile, Mike Washington Jr. took an unconventional road through Buffalo, New Mexico State, and finally Arkansas. At Arkansas, he broke 1,000 rushing yards in his first season as a Razorback, ranking 5th in the SEC. At 6'2", he's a physical downhill runner posting 3.85 yards after contact, with receiving ability at 8.1 yards per catch giving him real three-down upside. I believe his all-around reliability, rather than being elite at one thing, is what draws comparisons to Latavius Murray's 10-year NFL career and makes him a hidden gem worth watching on draft day.

4. (LB) Taurean York: Projected 6th Round

A linebacker out of Texas A&M, Taurean York is the kind of player whose film speaks louder than his draft projection. His 5'10" frame earns him a 4th-round grade, but his football IQ is elite. York reads plays before the snap, coaches his defense into adjustments, and finds the ball wherever it is on the field. His coverage instincts and sideline-to-sideline speed are his true edge. Those traits draw a natural comparison to Elandon Roberts, a Houston Cougar from my alma mater, who turned similar size and smarts into an active 9-year NFL career. Roberts has collected 2 Super Bowl rings and nearly 700 career tackles along the way. I believe York, landing with a winning organization like the Chiefs or Eagles, has every tool to outperform his draft slot.

3. (C) Jake Slaughter: Projected 6th Round

An offensive lineman and center from Florida, Slaughter is considered a potential "day one starter" due to his consistent performance, having given up only four pressures and one sack in 2025. He is a two-time captain and two-time first-team All-SEC player, known for his size and leadership. I believe he could be a franchise center for many years for the right team.

2.(DT) Tim Keenan III: Projected 6th Round

A defensive lineman from Alabama, Keenan III is projected as a strong "run stopper" due to his size (6'2", 320+ lbs) and improved stats. Despite battling injuries, he has consistently improved his tackles for loss and is lauded for his ability to occupy gaps. I envision him as a rotational defensive lineman with the ceiling to be a regular starter, especially for teams such as the Giants, Bengals, or Packers.

1. (DB) Brandon Cisse: Projected 6th Round

A cornerback from South Carolina, Cisse is praised for his essential skill set in stopping the run and his "lockdown corner" ability, particularly in press-man coverage. Despite a deep cornerback draft, Cisse's physicality and ability to jam receivers at the line make him a valuable asset. His Pro Football Focus (PFF) run defense grade of 78.5 ranks him in the PFF Top 10 among cornerbacks last year across the nation. His NFL comps range from Jaycee Horn and Darius Slay. Overall, I believe Cisse's raw, unteachable instincts and tackling ability at DB make him a future CB1 with the right development and fit.