Diamonds in the Rough: Underrated Players to Know for the 2026 NFL Draft

The 2026 NFL Draft is on the horizon, and while top-tier prospects like Ohio State’s Caleb Downs and Clemson’s T.J. Parker dominate early mock drafts, the heart of NFL Draft Diamonds lies in uncovering the hidden gems—underrated players from smaller schools or overlooked programs who could become steals for NFL teams. These players may not headline big boards yet, but their tape, stats, and intangibles suggest they’re poised to rise during the 2025 college football season. Here’s a look at five under-the-radar prospects for the 2026 NFL Draft, sourced from reliable outlets like ESPN, PFF, and WalterFootball, who could shine as the next small-school sensations or overlooked talents.

Dillon Thieneman, Safety, Oregon

After two standout seasons at Purdue, where he notched six interceptions as a true freshman in 2023, Dillon Thieneman transferred to Oregon, a program known for producing NFL-ready defensive backs. At 6’0” and 207 pounds, Thieneman is a versatile safety who can play free safety, slot corner, or in the box, fitting perfectly into Dan Lanning’s NFL-style defensive scheme. In 2024, he continued to impress with his ball skills and tackling, earning praise from scouts for his instincts and range. PFF ranks him among the top safeties in the 2026 class, noting his 91.2 coverage grade over two seasons. Thieneman’s move to a bigger stage at Oregon could elevate his draft stock, especially if he shines against Pac-12 competition. For teams looking to take a single bet on a defensive back with Day 2 potential, Thieneman is a name to watch.

Jack Endries, Tight End, California

Jack Endries, a 6’4”, 245-pound tight end from California, is another prospect flying under the radar but catching scouts’ eyes. In 2024, he showcased his receiving ability, highlighted by a 57-yard touchdown against Miami, where he shook off a defender and galloped down the sideline. Endries’ size and athleticism make him a mismatch for linebackers, and his reliable hands (70% catch rate in 2024) suggest he could be a security blanket for an NFL quarterback. ESPN’s Matt Miller notes that Endries’ two years of eligibility give him flexibility, but a strong 2025 season could push him into Day 3 consideration. His ability to block in the run game adds to his appeal for teams needing a complete tight end. Keep an eye on Endries as Cal faces tougher competition in 2025.

Denzel Boston, Wide Receiver, Washington

Denzel Boston, Washington

Scouting Report
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Denzel Boston, a 6’3”, 205-pound wide receiver from Washington, is quietly building a case as a top “X” receiver prospect for 2026. In 2024, he exploded for 834 yards and nine touchdowns, including a blistering start with 492 yards in his first six games. PFF highlights his 95.7% catch rate on catchable passes and 52.0% contested catch rate, showcasing his strong hands and physicality. Boston’s size and ability to win at the catch point make him a potential red-zone threat in the NFL, though he’ll need to refine his route-running to avoid being labeled a one-dimensional player. With Washington losing three receivers to the NFL, Boston’s breakout 2024 season positions him as a potential Day 2 or 3 pick if he maintains his trajectory.

Max Llewellyn, Edge Rusher, Iowa

Iowa’s reputation for producing NFL-caliber defensive players continues with Max Llewellyn, a 6’5”, 255-pound edge rusher who could break out in 2025. In a rotational role last season, Llewellyn recorded six sacks, multiple quarterback hits, and 23 pressures, per PFF. His relentless motor and nuanced hand techniques make him a threat off the edge, and with a starting role expected in 2025, he’ll have ample opportunity to showcase his skills against Big Ten heavyweights like Oregon and Penn State. Bleacher Report notes that Llewellyn’s process as a pass-rusher—using well-timed counters and secondary moves—sets him apart as a potential riser.

Bryce Foster, Center, Kansas

Bryce Foster, a 6’5”, 330-pound center from Kansas, is a mauler in the run game with the agility to make blocks in space, earning buzz as a potential early-round pick. After transferring from Texas A&M, Foster made a significant leap in 2024, paving the way for Kansas’ rushing attack alongside quarterback Jalon Daniels. ESPN’s Matt Miller praises his strength and mobility, projecting him as a top interior offensive lineman if he continues to develop. PFF notes his 35 starts at center, highlighting his experience and reliability. Foster’s ability to anchor against powerful defensive tackles and his potential to play guard make him a versatile prospect. If he dominates in 2025, he could climb into Day 2 discussions, offering teams a plug-and-play starter on the offensive line.

Why These Players Matter

The NFL Draft is a game of finding value, much like hitting the right numbers in a Pick 3 prediction lottery. Players like Thieneman, Endries, Boston, Llewellyn, and Foster may not be household names yet, but their skills and situations suggest they’re poised for breakout seasons. Thieneman’s versatility, Endries’ mismatch potential, Boston’s big-play ability, Llewellyn’s pass-rush prowess, and Foster’s line dominance make them prime candidates to rise up draft boards. As the 2025 college football season unfolds, these prospects will have their chance to shine in all-star games, pro days, and the NFL Combine. For teams willing to take a single bet on talent over hype, these diamonds in the rough could become cornerstone players in the 2026 NFL Draft.

Keep tabs on these names as they face stiffer competition and bigger stages in 2025. Their journeys from under-the-radar prospects to NFL contributors embody the spirit of NFL Draft Diamonds—finding value where others overlook it. With the right development and exposure, these players could go from afterthoughts to draft-day steals.