This is PFF’s predictive draft rankings — a forward-looking exercise that blends production, grading and market sentiment to forecast how teams and analysts are likely to value each prospect on draft night, and it’s just one way to explore the class. Users can build their own version of the board with the customizable draft board or run full simulations using the mock draft simulator, toggling between personal rankings and PFF’s predictive outlook to see how the 2026 NFL Draft could unfold.
1. Mansoor Delane, LSU Tigers
Big board rank: 9
Delane is a long, quick outside corner with excellent instincts and ball skills. He has the tools to start in both press and off coverage and match up against top receivers.
2. Jermod McCoy, Tennessee Volunteers
Big board rank: 17
McCoy's medical evaluations will be critical, but based on his measurables and 2024 tape, he profiles as a first-round talent with shutdown potential in press-man coverage.
3. Avieon Terrell, Clemson Tigers
Big board rank: 23
Terrell's lack of length may limit him to zone-heavy schemes, but his elite football IQ and playmaking instincts give him starting potential across multiple systems.
4. Colton Hood, Tennessee Volunteers
Big board rank: 34
Hood is a talented but inconsistent young prospect who needs further development. With only one full season as a starter, he may struggle early if tasked with covering NFL receivers right away.
5. Brandon Cisse, South Carolina Gamecocks
Big board rank: 41
Cisse can lack physicality at times, but his explosiveness and twitch give him the tools to develop into a starting NFL cornerback.
6. D'Angelo Ponds, Indiana Hoosiers
Big board rank: 43
Ponds plays with clear passion and urgency every snap. While his size, athleticism and strength limitations cap his ceiling, his football IQ and instincts give him starter potential as a zone defender.
7. Chris Johnson, San Diego State Aztecs
Big board rank: 46
Johnson is scheme-dependent and best suited for off coverage rather than press. In that role, he excels with physicality, spacing, anticipation and ball skills.
8. Keith Abney II, Arizona State Sun Devils
Big board rank: 50
Abney's lack of length and top-tier athleticism may limit him to zone schemes, but his competitiveness and run-defense mentality make him a valuable rotational defensive back with starter potential.
9. Keionte Scott, Miami (FL) Hurricanes
Big board rank: 55
Scott is a tone-setter in run defense with a physical mentality. His zone coverage is adequate, but man coverage limitations may restrict his role.
10. Treydan Stukes, Arizona Wildcats
Big board rank: 61
Stukes worked his way from walk-on to starter and projects best as a hybrid slot defender. While he lacks top-tier athleticism for outside roles, his instincts and playmaking ability stand out.