2026 NFL Draft: Best late-round option for every offensive role

The late rounds of the draft are often where teams find the hidden contributors who help complete a roster. Here are the best Day 3 options at every offensive role in the 2026 class.

Mar. 17, 2026 at 1:04pm

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North Dakota State quarterback Cole Payton has the athletic upside to risk a late-round pick on, while Iowa wide receiver Kaden Wetjen is worth drafting on Day 3 due to his ability to impact a team in multiple ways. The article also highlights late-round options at running back, tight end, and offensive line.

Why it matters

The late rounds of the NFL Draft are often where teams find valuable contributors who help complete their rosters. Identifying the best late-round options at each offensive position can give teams an edge in the draft and help them build a more well-rounded team.

The details

The article profiles several late-round prospects, including North Dakota State quarterback Cole Payton, who has impressive athletic upside despite limited starting experience. Iowa wide receiver Kaden Wetjen is also highlighted for his versatility as a receiver, runner, and return specialist. Other late-round options include Penn State running back Kaytron Allen, Penn State running back Nicholas Singleton, BYU tight end Carsen Ryan, and several offensive linemen.

  • The 2026 NFL Draft is set to take place in the coming months.

The players

Cole Payton

A quarterback from North Dakota State who has the athletic upside to be a late-round draft pick.

Kaden Wetjen

A wide receiver from Iowa who can impact a team in multiple ways as a receiver, runner, and return specialist.

Kaytron Allen

A running back from Penn State who demonstrated durability and production over his four-year career.

Nicholas Singleton

A running back from Penn State who can contribute as a receiver and pass protector out of the backfield.

Carsen Ryan

A tight end from BYU who was highly productive as a receiver in 2025.

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The takeaway

The late rounds of the NFL Draft are where teams can find hidden gems who can contribute in a variety of ways. By identifying the best late-round options at each offensive position, teams can build a more well-rounded roster and gain a critical roster-building edge.