With the start of the NFL draft just around the corner, the spotlight intensifies around star prospects.
On April 23rd, 2026, at 8 P.M. EST, the NFL draft will open. This year, the draft will take place at the Acrisure Stadium in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, where many fanatics will be anticipating the selection of these top prospects.
Fernando Mendoza
Almost certain to be the No. 1 overall pick in this year’s draft, Mendoza is expected to end up with the Las Vegas Raiders. Mendoza recently led the Indiana Hoosiers to an undefeated season, culminating with a CFP National Championship win against the Miami Hurricanes.
After leaving the University of California, Berkeley, in December 2024, the Miami native transferred to Bloomington in hopes of a better turn out than his 6-6 season with the Golden Bears.
Recently, former Atlanta Falcons quarterback Kirk Cousins joined the Las Vegas Raiders to serve as a mentor/bridge for Mendoza. Cousins speaks about Mendoza in a press interview, “He was here yesterday on his draft visit and we were able to watch film together. He’ll be a great addition to the room.”
Arvell Reese
Ohio State’s standout linebacker, Arvell Reese, is known for his elite athleticism and versatility on the field. In his time as a Buckeye, he has played in the linebacker and edge rusher positions.
Hailing from Cleveland, Ohio, Reese won a championship with his high school team, fostering the speed and production that was seen in his play during college.
In 2025, Reese recorded 6.5 sacks, 34 solo tackles, and 35 assisted tackles. He has grown tremendously from his already strong performance in 2024, where he recorded 0.5 sacks, 18 solo tackles, and 25 assisted tackles.
Jeremiah Love
A fan favorite, Notre Dame’s dominant running back, Jeremiah Love, is a promising top-15 draft candidate.
Love is known for his high effort performances, which have been noticed a multitude of times. In his 2025 performance against the Naval Academy, Love put the fight in Fighting Irish after scoring a 48 yard touchdown after being seemingly tackled at the line of scrimmage.
The St. Louis native has remained consistent in the last two seasons by maintaining a YPC of 6.9, and scoring 17 touchdowns in 2024 and 18 touchdowns in 2025.
