Top Draft Needs of Every NFL Team in 2026 for Week 9

We're just days away from the NFL trade deadline, which also means we're closer to teams deciding if they're playoff contenders or if they should already be setting their sights on the 2026 draft.

Every week of the season, Bleacher Report writer Alex Ballentine and B/R NFL Scouting Dept.'s Matt Holder will break down each team's biggest needs and highlight potential 2026 draft prospects who could fill them.

The eventual end product will be a full 2026 draft big board for every team heading into the offseason.

All grades and rankings courtesy of the B/R NFL Draft Scouting Department.

Top Draft Needs

Top QB Fits on B/R Big Board

It's time to have a conversation about Kyler Murray. 

Murray and rookie Jaxson Dart are the only quarterbacks to make at least five starts and throw for less than 1,000 yards this season. Also, Pro Football Focus has the seven-year pro 17th out of 37 QBs in overall grade (72.1) and 19th in passing grade (69.5).

Meanwhile, the Cardinals have lost five games in a row since beating the New Orleans Saints and Carolina Panthers in Weeks 1 and 2, and head into the weekend with the ninth overall pick in the 2026 draft. 

If Arizona ends up drafting that high, taking a signal-caller should be on the table.

The organization would take less than $1.5 million of additional salary-cap hit if it releases Murray pre-June 1 compared to if he remains on the roster, per Over The Cap. Additionally, the club could save about $5.75 million with a post-June 1 designation.

With that, it's worth it for the Cardinals to begin looking at this year's quarterback class, starting at the top with Fernando Mendoza.

"Mendoza has the build of a traditional pocket passer and a polished passing skill set that translates well to the NFL," offensive skill positions scout Dame Parson said in the Cal transfer's scouting report. "He excels as a quick post-snap processor and quick decision-maker with the football."

Draft Needs

Top DT Fits on B/R Big Board

Defensive tackle was discussed previously for the Falcons, and the position has moved into the team's top three draft needs this week.

Atlanta heads into Week 9 ranking 23rd in opponent yards per rush attempt (4.6), according to TeamRankings, and not having a strong gap filler in the middle of the trenches is part of the reason why.

All three prospects listed above can fill that role and would be good second- to fourth-round targets for the Falcons this April. Also, Washington offers some pass-rush upside with a decent bull rush and athleticism for his size. He just needs to improve his use of hands as a pass-rusher.

Draft Needs

Top IOL Scheme Fits on B/R Big Board

We've touched on the Baltimore Ravens' long-term need at guard previously, but there has been a lot of change at the top of the position.

What initially looked like a barren guard class has been boosted by a few risers during the college football season. Francis Mauigoa's projection to move inside has helped. He's a solid run-blocking tackle whose pass protection range might force a move inside.

B/R scout Brandon Thorn classifies Mauigoa as, "a densely-built, stout presence with very good play strength and square power to anchor and create movement on day one in the NFL."

Olaivavega Ioane has come on as a pure guard prospect who could be in the first-round conversation. His power as a run-blocker and ability to displace defenders could make him a logical Ravens target.

Emmanuel Pregnon is a tier below the top two guards in the class, but his build isn't much different than Andrew Vorhees' and he's earning hype as a Day 2 fit.

Draft Needs

2nd Tier Scheme Fits on B/R Big Board

The Bills are currently leaning on Jordan Poyer to play alongside Cole Bishop at safety. The 34-year-old is well past his prime at this point, and Buffalo doesn't have a young player who is ready to take over that role outside of Taylor Rapp.

We've touched on the safeties in the top of the class who would fit the need for the Bills, but safety is also a position they may want to wait to draft.

Finding someone who can play as a deep defender in their zone-heavy defense while allowing Bishop to play in the box should be the goal. Keon Sabb might not be an elite athlete, but he's a versatile and instinctual defender. He could fit right in with Sean McDermott's system.

Tao Johnson's skill set would pair nicely with Bishop's, as the former wide receiver is a fluid mover with ball skills. Michael Taaffe also projects as a deep safety with some ability to come up and play in the slot.

Draft Needs

2nd Tier C Fits on B/R Big Board

The Panthers are likely going to be in the market for a center this spring, since both Austin Corbett's and Cade Mays' contracts are set to expire at the end of the year.

This was discussed ahead of Week 1, but the focus there was on the top prospects at the position. So, let's take a look at a few second-tier options.

Laloulu could be a good mid-round target, but there aren't many other true centers in this year's draft class. 

So, Carolina might have to get creative and draft someone with the intention of having them sliding inside in the pros. The Duke product is a good candidate for that and could follow in the footsteps of another former Blue Devil, Graham Barton, by switching from college tackle to NFL center. 

"Parker II is a hard-nosed, athletic blocker with strong hands and excellent competitive toughness whose sawed off frame makes him an easy projection inside as a high-quality swing interior backup with starter upside," offensive line scout Brandon Thorn said.

Draft Needs

2nd Tier LT fits on B/R Big Board

Left tackle has been at the top of the Bears' draft needs ever since Braxton Jones was benched, and Theo Benedet looks more like a temporary solution than a long-term option. 

While last year's second-round pick, Ozzy Trapilo, is another option on the blind side, he was a right tackle at Boston College and struggled on the left side during the preseason.

It was pretty telling that when the coaching staff benched Jones, they had Trapilo play right tackle for an injured Darnell Wright and moved Benedet to the left.

So, since we looked at the top blindside protectors last time Chicago's trenches were touched on, it's worth keeping tabs on a few second-tier prospects at the position, including a local product.

"Tiernan lacks an elite physical trait but is a technically refined tackle, with an advanced understanding of leverage and is rarely off balance or out of sync," offensive line scout Brandon Thorn said. "As a result, Tiernan looks like an early starter at tackle or guard."

Draft Needs

2nd Tier Scheme Fits on B/R Big Board

The Bengals desperately need help on the defensive side of the ball. Lou Anarumo was the scapegoat last season, and they are running out of places to put the blame. Shemar Stewart hasn't shown much as a rookie, and we're still waiting on Myles Murphy to live up to his draft selection.

Fortunately for the Bengals, there are some interesting prospects who fit what they typically look for. Cincinnati tends to shy away from undersized pass-rush specialists like David Bailey, but a bigger defender such as Matayo Uiagalelei could pique its interest.

The Bears should also like the size and intensity Zion Young brings to the table. He plays with a relentless motor and has some intriguing tools that could make him a serviceable pass rusher.

Dani Dennis-Sutton might not have the bend and quickness to become a huge pass-rushing threat, but his anchor against the run is something Cincinnati desperately needs right now. He's an intriguing Day 2 target.

Draft Needs

Top WR Scheme Fits on B/R Big Board

Any positive momentum Dillon Gabriel and the Browns offense got from their 31-point outing against the Dolphins in Week 7 didn't carry over to Week 8.

Cleveland managed just 13 points against the Patriots while relying heavily on its running backs and tight ends to carry the passing attack. The Browns need a true No. 1 wide receiver and should probably look to find one this offseason to give any quarterback a chance at success.

The no-brainer in this draft class is Jordyn Tyson. He was our top choice for the Browns earlier this season, but Carnell Tate has emerged as another first-round choice. Tate is the latest in a long line of stellar Ohio State prospects at receiver.

"Tate's height and wingspan offer a quarterback-friendly target. He extends the catch point away from his frame and plucks the ball from the air. Tate is a bouncy athlete who can climb the ladder over defenders at the catch point." - Dame Parson

Chris Bell is another fast-riser who has done a lot for his stock and could become a WR1.

Draft Needs

Top CB Fits on B/R Big Board

Cornerback was discussed recently for Dallas, but the focus was on prospects with second-round grades from B/R's scouting department.

Since then, an off-field incident has landed Trevon Diggs on injured reserve, and the organization is keeping quiet about what happened to him. 

Given the two-time Pro Bowler's relationship with the Cowboys hit a bump when the team nixed a $500,000 bonus in his contract this offseason, and his deal contains an out this spring, per Over The Cap, it would be worthwhile keeping tabs on a few of the top corners in the 2026 draft class, too.

Granted, Igbinosun owns a third-round grade and is included just to fill the gap between the previously mentioned corners and Delane, who leads the position group on B/R's big board.

"Delane is a complete cornerback now playing in a defense where he can thrive," defensive backs scout Daniel Harms said in the LSU product's scouting report.

"The 6'0", 190-pound defensive back has been a shutdown corner for the LSU Tigers, putting his top-tier skills on display in the national spotlight, which has improved his standing in Bleacher Report's rankings significantly."

Draft Needs

Top Scheme Fits on B/R Big Board

The Broncos are enjoying solid offensive tackle play right now. Mike McGlinchey and Garrett Bolles are a formidable tackle duo, but they are also an older tackle duo.

Bolles is 34 while McGlinchey is 31 and has an out in his contract after this season. Regardless, the Broncos should be proactive in finding successors through the draft.

Targeting a mid-tier prospect could be an option because of the longer runway they could provide. There's still some merit to releasing McGlinchey and finding a more pro-ready tackle right now.

Utah's Spencer Fano was voted the "most pro-ready" tackle in the class in our latest big board. He and Caleb Lomu have both shown the kind of movement and wide zone blocking that Denver head coach Sean Payton will value.

Caleb Tiernan is a steady prospect B/R scout Brandon Thorn likes.

"Tiernan is not the most physically talented or imposing tackle prospect, but his tape has arguably been the most consistent." - Thorn

Draft Needs

2nd Tier C Fits on B/R Big Board

With Graham Glasgow set to turn 34 years old ahead of next season, which will also be a contract year for him, center will be one of the Lions' top draft needs this April.

Previously, B/R dove into the top three prospects at the pivot and a few guard options in case someone changes positions in the offseason.

Here, we'll focus on a scenario where Glasgow returns as the starter in 2026 and note a few developmental centers in Detroit. Of the players listed above, the Duke product is the biggest name to know, as he could follow in the footsteps of a former Blue Devil, Graham Barton, by switching from college tackle to NFL center. 

"Parker II is a hard-nosed, athletic blocker with strong hands and excellent competitive toughness whose sawed-off frame makes him an easy projection inside as a high-quality swing interior backup with starter upside," offensive line scout Brandon Thorn said.

Draft Needs

Top G Fits on B/R Big Board

It will be interesting to see how the Packers approach their guard spot in the offseason. It's one of the team's biggest weaknesses right now, partially because free-agent signing Aaron Banks has underperformed.

According to Over The Cap, Green Bay could save $18.1 million in cap space by making him a post-June 1 cut this spring.

So, it's worth keeping tabs on this year's interior offensive line prospects, and there have been a few risers on B/R's big board since the last time the position was discussed. One of the biggest is the Penn State product listed above.

"Ioane is the top pure guard in the class thanks to his ability to halt and generate movement on command," offensive line scout Brandon Thorn said. "Ioane has been a notably steady presence on an otherwise inconsistent Nittany Lions offense over the first six weeks of the 2025 season."

Draft Needs

Top IOL Scheme Fits on B/R Big Board

We talked about the Texans' need on the interior offensive line earlier this season and not much has changed in that regard.

Laken Tomlinson is fine at left guard, but he's already 34 years old. Finding his replacement in the draft would help the offense take another step next season.

The overall interior offensive line big board has changed a lot since our initial rankings. In Week 1, there were no interior linemen in the top 30, but Francis Mauigoa has been reclassified as a guard and Olaivavega Ioane has entered the conversation as a top-25 prospect.

Both would be helpful for the Texans as tone-setting run blockers with the athleticism and strength to excel as NFL pass blockers.

If the Texans elect to go elsewhere in the first round, then Emmanuel Pregnon becomes a strong option.

Draft Needs

Top DL Scheme Fits on B/R Big Board

The Colts duo of Grover Stewart and DeForest Buckner have been great leaders in the middle of the defense. However, it's time for Indianapolis to start looking at their eventual replacements.

Targeting an interior defender early in the draft would give the Colts a runway to eventually losing their veteran tandem on the inside.

Peter Woods is the top defensive tackle in the draft. His production isn't where you'd like it to be, but B/R scout Matt Holder compared him to AFC South veteran Jeffery Simmons in his scouting report. His movement skills at 6'3", 310 pounds provide plenty of pass-rush upside.

There's a fairly wide gap between Woods and the next interior defensive linemen in the class. LT Overton is a bit of a 'tweener, but Christen Miller could make sense as a 3-technique with excellent hands.

Domonique Orange would make more sense as an eventual replacement for Stewart, he was named the class's best nose tackle on our latest big board.

Draft Needs

2nd Tier DL Scheme Fits on B/R Big Board

We've already talked about how nice it would be if the Jaguars could add the likes of Peter Woods and Keldric Faulk to the interior of their defensive line.

However, the fact that they don't have a first-round pick likely takes them out of that conversation. Instead, James Gladstone will need to see if he can find a gem in the second or third round to bring in interior reinforcements.

Gladstone was part of the front office that drafted Braden Fiske and Kobie Turner in Los Angeles. So finding answers later in the draft isn't an unfamiliar concept. A'Mauri Washington and Zane Durant both made Bruce Feldman's annual list of exceptional athletes in college football. They will be tempting based on their athletic testing and ability to penetrate gaps.

Darrell Jackson Jr. wasn't on that list, but the Jaguars will love his positional versatility, length and pass-rush ability at 6'5", 330 pounds.

Draft Needs

2nd Tier Scheme Fits on B/R Big Board

Isiah Pacheco has ceded a lot of volume to Kareem Hunt this season. Hunt is in the middle of his age-30 season, and both are set to become free agents in 2026.

Breshard Smith has potential as a third-down back and pass-catching specialist in Andy Reid's offense, but it wouldn't be surprising to see them go to the draft to find a powerful runner to pair with Smith moving forward.

We've already discussed some of the biggest names in the class for them. Jeremiyah Love isn't likely to be a target based on his lofty price tag, but Le'Veon Moss and Jonah Coleman are ideal fits on the higher end of the draft class.

If they want to wait until a little later, there are some rising prospects who would provide some pop in the backfield. Kayton Allen fits the description. Nicholas Singleton was one of the top backs in the class going into the season, but Allen has taken over a lot of his role at Penn State.

Jadarian Price takes a back seat to Love at Notre Dame, but his slashing style would pair well with Smith as well. Baxter is a 227-pound bowling bowl who would take over Hunt's role nicely.

Draft Needs

Top LB Scheme Fits on B/R Big Board

Arvell Reese has been one of the biggest risers in this year's draft class. His running mate, Sonny Styles, started the season as the top linebacker in the class, but the Buckeye has been a key player on an elite defense.

He's viewed as the best blitzer, best run-stopper and most versatile on the latest version of our big board. He's the kind of weapon Raiders head coach Pete Carroll could use to rejuvenate the defense.

Styles might have ceded the top position on our board, but he still makes a ton of sense in a Carroll defense. The head coach has traditionally loved linebackers who can hold their own in zone coverage and the former safety does just that.

Allen's athleticism also stands out when looking at his fit with the Raiders. B/R scout Matt Holder praises him for having, "Good speed to help carry wide receivers on vertical routes when playing Tampa 2 and gives him sideline-to-sideline range against the run."

Draft Needs

Top CB Scheme Fits on B/R Big Board

Jesse Minter has been able to put together a strong pass defense with the likes of Benjamin St-Juste and Donte Jackson at cornerback. It's fun to wonder what he could do with a true blue-chipper at his disposal.

Drafting either Mansoor Delane or Jermod McCoy would do that right away. Delane has earned the CB1 spot in this year's class with his play at LSU this season. Jermod McCoy could challenge for it by proving he can return to form after the ACL tear he suffered in January.

There's a bit of a drop-off before you get to 6'2", 193-pound Davison Igbinosun. There are higher-rated corners on our big board, but Joe Hortiz has shown a preference for bigger CBs so undersized players like Chandler Rivers and Avieon Terrell might not be on their big board.

Draft Needs

Top Need Spotlight: QB

While this week's focus is on a secondary need for the Rams, the organization's search for Matthew Stafford's long-term replacement is ongoing. One name that hasn't been discussed yet for Los Angeles but fans should keep tabs on is LSU's Garrett Nussmeier.

"Nussmeier is a timing and rhythm quarterback, who delivers highly catchable passes at all three levels of the field," scout Dame Parson said in his scouting report. "He is an excellent fit for teams that prioritize the quick passing game. Nussmeier will work particularly well inside a West Coast offensive system."

Top LB Fits on B/R Big Board

Linebacker isn't a pressing need in Los Angeles since Nate Landman is playing well and Omar Speights has been solid so far. However, Landman is only on a one-year contract, and backup Troy Reeder is also set to hit free agency in the offseason. 

So, Les Snead should take a look at this year's linebacker class, which is the strongest it's been in years. The three prospects above are impressive athletes who can immediately contribute in coverage and have high potential to grow as run defenders, especially the Georgia product.

"Allen is a top-tier athlete who is great in coverage and has enormous potential at just 20 years old (turns 21 in March) to develop into a linebacker who never has to come off the field in the NFL," the Bulldog's scouting report read. 

"...[He has] Impressive hand-eye coordination and vertical jump to make plays on the ball in the air that most linebackers won't."

Draft Needs

Top WR Scheme Fits on B/R Big Board

There's likely a section of Dolphins fans that would love to see Tua Tagovailoa's replacement in the 2026 draft. Financial realities might get in the way of that.

However, the Dolphins have to try a different approach on offense and that might mean parting ways with Tyreek Hill and getting younger at wide receiver.

Jordyn Tyson remains the crown jewel of the receiver class. He's a three-level threat who would still make Jaylen Waddle a dangerous No. 2 option in the offense. However, Carnell Tate is nipping at his heels on the latest big board.

B/R scout Dame Parson noted Tate is, "a bouncy athlete who can climb the ladder over defenders at the catch point. He has soft, reliable hands and excellent ball tracking skills."

Chris Bell would also be an intriguing fit. He's a tough, physical receiver who could change the tenor of the passing attack. His willingness to attack the middle of the field would give the Dolphins a new edge in the pass game.

Draft Needs

Top Need Spotlight: DL

While this week's focus is on a secondary need for the Vikings, the defense could use some help on the interior of the line. Jalen Redmond has been a pleasant surprise this season, but Jonathan Allen and Javon Hargrave have not and both are already in their 30s.

Meanwhile, Clemson's Peter Woods could be in range for Minnesota. He is the top defensive tackle in this year's draft class, due to his impressive ability to stop the run and upside as a pass-rusher with his quickness and athleticism.

Top LB Fits on B/R's Big Board

Linebacker was discussed previously for the Vikings, but there have been a few risers on B/R's big board since then. In the entire draft class, no one has climbed the rankings more than Reese, who has gone from backup last year to the top backer in the country this fall.

"Reese is the most physically impressive linebacker in the 2026 draft class, with elite strength at the point of attack to be a very effective run defender," B/R's scouting department said. 

"At just 20 years old—he turns 21 in late August—the 6'4", 243-pound linebacker has a bright future and can be a quality player at the next level for several years to come."

Draft Needs

Top CB Scheme Fits on B/R Big Board

Christian Gonzalez is one of the Patriots best young assets on the roster. The Patriots would do well to build on that strength by adding a running mate in the next draft.

Mansoor Delane brings the toughness and versatility to the table that Mike Vrabel wants out of his defensive backs. Jermod McCoy showed a lot of the same strengths in 2024. The jury is still out on whether he can do it again after an ACL tear in January.

Muhammad would also be another name to watch in New England. B/R scout Daniel Harms noted he is "a willing run-defender who wants to be a physical player and deliver momentum-altering hits."

That's the kind of player Vrabel loves. His stickiness in man coverage and ability to communicate and pass off routes in the zone would make him a natural fit in New England's multiple scheme.

Draft Needs

Top WR Fits on B/R Big Board

Wide receiver was touched on previously for the Saints, and trade rumors surrounding Brandin Cooks and Rashid Shaheed have popped up ahead of next week's deadline. So, it's a good time to dive into a few wideouts who have risen up B/R's big board since the position was last discussed for New Orleans. 

"Tate's height and wingspan offer a quarterback-friendly target," offensive skill positions scout Dame Parson said in the Buckeye's scouting report. 

"He extends the catch point away from his frame and plucks the ball from the air. Tate is a bouncy athlete who can climb the ladder over defenders at the catch point. He has soft, reliable hands and excellent ball tracking skills."

"Lemon is pound-for-pound the toughest receiver in the nation and terrorizes defenses after the catch. Lemon plays both in the slot and outside as the Z-receiver. His toughness, spatial awareness and tackling-breaking prowess enable him to consistently gain yards after the catch." – Parson

"Bell is a physically imposing receiver, who puts defenses in conflict after the catch. He is built as an outside receiver but brings usage and alignment versatility to an offense, and is the perfect height, weight and speed receiver for NFL teams to bet on early in the draft process." – Parson

Draft Needs

Top LB Fits on B/R Big Board

Linebacker has been on and off the Giants' list of draft needs this season, due to Micah McFadden being in a contract year and Bobby Okereke having a down season. 

Also, McFadden hasn't played since Week 1 while dealing with a foot injury, and Okereke's deal only carries about $5.5 million of dead cap space this offseason, per Over The Cap.

So, it's worth it to keep tabs on a few second-level defenders in the 2026 draft class, especially one of the biggest risers over the last couple of months. 

"Reese is the most physically impressive linebacker in the 2026 draft class, with his elite strength at the point of attack to be a very effective run defender," B/R's scouting department said of the Buckeye defender. 

"At just 20 years old--he turns 21 in late August--the 6'4", 243-pound backer has a bright future and can be a quality player at the next level for several years to come."

Draft Needs

2nd Tier WR Scheme Fits on B/R Big Board

The offense might have clicked against the Cincinnati Bengals to the tune of a 23-point fourth quarter, but they still have a long way to go.

At 1-7, the Jets should be looking for a quarterback at the top of the first round and could be looking for a new offensive weapon with their next pick. That takes them out of the running for the likes of Jordyn Tyson and Carnell Tate, but there are some good options outside of the top tier.

Denzel Boston started the season in the top tier in our rankings, but he has dropped a bit. Still, the 6'4", receiver offers a physical downfield threat that would pair nicely with Garrett Wilson.

Germie Bernard isn't going to impress with his physical tools, but he does all the dirty work and could be a reliable second or third receiver in the league for a long time.

Ja'Kobi Lane has also seen his overall stock take a hit but will be a nice complementary player. He would thrive in an offense where Wilson commands the attention of the secondary every week.

Draft Needs

Top Need Spotlight: Edge

While this week's focus for the Eagles is on a secondary need, the club recently lured Brandon Graham out of retirement to help solve the defense's edge-rush issue.

That's a good temporary solution, but the organization could use a long-term option, especially considering Josh Uche is only on a one-year contract.

Texas Tech's Romello Height should be on Howie Roseman's radar this spring. The Red Raider is a twitched-up pass-rusher who has logged a career-high five sacks in eight games during his first season in Lubbock. 

Top WR Fits on B/R Big Board

Wide receiver was discussed previously as a need in Philadelphia. Since then, trade rumors have surfaced surrounding A.J. Brown as he continues to make cryptic posts on social media that suggest he's unhappy with his role in the offense. 

Granted, reports are that Brown won't be dealt at the trade deadline, but an offseason trade could be on the table. Regardless, the Eagles could afford to add a third wide receiver. So, it's worth it to keep tabs on a few more prospects at the position, especially the Louisville product.

"Bell has become one of the most impactful receivers in college football," offensive skill positions scout Dame Parson said. "He's the perfect height, weight, and speed receiver for NFL teams to bet on.

"Bell is a physically imposing receiver who puts defenses in conflict after the catch. He is built as an outside receiver but brings usage and alignment versatility to an offense."

Draft Needs

Top WR Scheme Fits on B/R Big Board

The Steelers are going to have to figure out who is throwing passes next season.

Aaron Rodgers is likely a one-year experience. However, they could be in the veteran market given how often the team opts to retool. Regardless, they'll have to continue building out the receiver room. DK Metcalf is an explosive No. 1 option, but they could still use a second receiver who plays well off of him.

Jordyn Tyson would be a dream pairing. He's a three-level threat who dominates the intermediate.

However, Makai Lemon would also make a lot of sense. He's a nuanced route-runner who plays much bigger than his size (5'11", 190). Chris Bell is also rising up draft boards with an intriguing skill set. Much like Metcalf, he's hard to bring down once he has the ball, but he thrives over the middle of the field.

Draft Needs

Top CB Fits on B/R Big Board

The 49ers are heading into Week 9 ranking 23rd in passing yards allowed per game (229.3) on the season and 30th over the last three weeks (265.3), per TeamRankings.

The defense needs to get improved cornerback play and more specifically, they could use some size at the position to help protect the perimeter of the secondary. 

All three prospects above are at least 6'0"—Igbinosun and Hill are 6'2"—and the Texas product could be a good fit in Robert Saleh's defense. He has leaned heavily on quarters coverage in recent years, which incorporates a lot of man-to-man principles.

"For those who love watching ultra-competitive, twitchy-man coverage corners who frustrate wide receivers, Malik Muhammad is a must-watch," scout Daniel Harms wrote in the Longhorn's scouting report.

"[He] uses elite short-area footwork to mirror receivers movements in man coverage, and does a great job passing off route responsibilities in zone coverage."

Draft Needs

2nd Tier C Fits on B/R Big Board

The top centers in the 2026 draft class were discussed previously for the Seahawks. So this week's focus is on a few second-tier prospects at the position, and a Blue Devil who could follow in another Duke product's footsteps, Graham Barton.

Like Barton, Parker is a good candidate to slide inside from tackle to guard in the pros. 

"Parker II is a hard-nosed, athletic blocker with strong hands and excellent competitive toughness whose sawed-off frame makes him an easy projection inside as a high-quality swing interior backup with starter upside," offensive line scout Brandon Thorn said.

Draft Needs

Top Need Spotlight: LB

While this week's focus is on a secondary need for the Buccaneers, it's widely expected that the team will be looking for a linebacker and edge-rusher this spring. 

That makes Ohio State's Arvell Reese a good target for Tampa Bay since Reese has been one of the best linebackers in the country and has 5.5 sacks through seven games to potentially contribute as a rusher at the next level. 

Top DT Fits on B/R Big Board

It wouldn't be surprising if Jason Licht looks to draft a run stuffer to play next to Vita Vea in the trenches, especially since Greg Gaines is about to be a 30-year-old free agent. While filling this need was covered previously, there have been a few risers on B/R's big board since then.

All three prospects listed above can fill this role and would be good second- to fourth-round targets for the Bucs this April. Also, Washington offers some pass-rush upside with a decent bull rush and athleticism for his size. He just needs to improve his use of hands as a pass-rusher.

Draft Needs

Top Edge Scheme Fits on B/R Big Board

We featured the Titans need at edge-rusher back in Week 4 and not much has changed atop our board. However, Brian Callahan's firing now makes it harder to know what the Titans scheme will look like. That has moved Cashius Howell up the board here to match our overall big board. Bain Jr. has established himself as the top edge-rusher, but Howell has caught B/R scout Matt Holder's attention.

"Cashius Howell was one of the most underrated NFL draft prospects heading into the season and has proven why he should be a first-round pick in the 2026 class during the early stages of the campaign." - Holder

The scout goes on to praise Howell for his ability to win with multiple moves and his bend around the edge before giving him a comparison to Harold Landry III. That's a player that Titans fans are well-acquainted with.

Draft Needs

Top CB Fits on B/R Big Board

Cornerback is a new addition to the Commanders' top draft needs. While rookie Trey Amos has shown promise this season, Marshon Lattimore hasn't lived up to expectations since the organization traded for him a year ago. 

Through the first seven games of this season, Pro Football Focus has Lattimore on the hook for 258 receiving yards allowed and an ugly 42.0 coverage grade. Considering he has no dead money left on his contract after this year, per Over The Cap, Washington should take a hard look at the top corners in the 2026 draft class.

"Delane is a complete cornerback now playing in a defense where he can thrive," defensive backs scout Daniel Harms said of the No. 1 player at the position on B/R's big board via the LSU product's scouting report.

"The 6'0", 190-pound defensive back has been a shutdown corner for the LSU Tigers, putting his top-tier skills on display in the national spotlight, which has improved his standing in Bleacher Report's rankings significantly."