Ten college stars who could be steals in the NFL Draft

Players whose college production suggests they'll excel in the NFL even though they won't be picked in the first round.

Apr. 16, 2026 at 1:51pm

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A fragmented, geometric painting in the style of Pablo Picasso, depicting various football players and scenes from the NFL Draft in an abstract, multi-angled composition, conceptually representing the unpredictable nature of the draft process.A cubist illustration captures the chaotic energy and multiple perspectives of the NFL Draft, where talented college players hope to be selected despite perceived flaws.Hollywood Today

The bulk of NFL draft coverage focuses on the first round, but there is plenty of talent to be found later in the draft. This article highlights 10 players whose college production suggests they can be excellent NFL players, even though they have at least one issue that will push them down the draft board.

Why it matters

Finding talented players in the later rounds of the NFL Draft can be the difference between a successful team and a struggling one. These 10 players have the potential to be steals for the teams that are willing to take a chance on them, providing excellent value beyond the first round.

The details

The article profiles 10 players who are projected to be drafted in the 2nd to 7th rounds of the upcoming NFL Draft. It highlights their college production, skills, and potential issues that could cause them to slide down draft boards. The players include cornerback Jayden Ponds, pass rusher Derrick Moore, defensive back Kamren Scott, tight end Caden Klare, offensive lineman Bryce Zuhn, center Logan Jones, edge rusher BJ Perkins, linebacker Jett Taaffe, defensive tackle Jalen Durant, and running back/receiver Maasai Heidenreich.

  • Ponds spent much of high school covering 2027 draft WR1 Jeremiah Smith.
  • Moore made a key tackle on Alabama QB Jalen Milroe in the 2024 Rose Bowl.
  • Scott transferred to Miami in 2025, helping the Hurricanes' defensive turnaround.

The players

Jayden Ponds

A 5-foot-9 cornerback who was capable of smothering top receivers in college despite lacking ideal size for the position.

Derrick Moore

An excellent pass rusher who led Michigan in sacks in 2025 and also played the run well.

Kamren Scott

A versatile defensive back who transferred to Miami and helped the Hurricanes' defense improve in 2025.

Caden Klare

A 246-pound tight end who played alongside talented receivers at Ohio State and can create mismatches with his size and strength.

Bryce Zuhn

An offensive lineman who started 50 games at left tackle for Texas A&M and also filled in at center when needed, showcasing his versatility.

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What they’re saying

“Derrick Moore ran through Markel Bell's face 😳”

— Max Chadwick

The takeaway

These 10 players have the potential to be steals in the upcoming NFL Draft, providing excellent value for teams willing to take a chance on them beyond the first round. Their college production and skills suggest they can excel at the next level, even if they have certain attributes that may cause them to slide down draft boards.