The opening round of the 2026 NFL Draft concluded Friday evening, leaving several talented prospects who were once considered first-round material still waiting to hear their names called. As teams prepare for Saturday’s second round, here are the top players still available:
Tennessee cornerback Jermod McCoy remains on the draft board after missing all of the 2025 season with a torn ACL in his right knee. Sources indicate his recovery process still requires additional work, which explains his unexpected slide. Despite the injury setback, McCoy’s performance during the 2024 campaign demonstrated elite-level talent that would have likely placed him in the top 10 selections if he had stayed healthy.
Another Tennessee defensive back, cornerback Colton Hood, surprisingly made it through the first round despite being fully healthy. Hood’s explosive speed and physical style of play seemed to make him a natural choice for an early pick. Some analysts wonder if McCoy’s injury situation may be negatively affecting how teams view Hood as well.
Toledo safety Emmanuel McNeil-Warren was passed over even though two safeties were selected in round one, which is uncommon. His Group of 5 conference background and questions about his man-to-man coverage skills may have contributed to his slide. However, McNeil-Warren’s zone coverage instincts and athletic ability should make him an attractive early second-round selection.
Texas A&M edge rusher Cashius Howell likely fell due to concerns about his arm length, which measures between 30 and 31 inches depending on the source. Most edge rushers chosen Thursday had more conventional measurements, except for Rueben Bain Jr., who dropped to the 15th pick. Teams willing to overlook the physical limitation will land one of the draft’s most effective speed rushers who excels at turning quarterback pressure into sacks. Howell also performs well when dropping back into pass coverage.
Ohio State defensive tackle Kayden McDonald watched four of his Buckeye teammates get drafted Thursday but remained available heading into day two. Teams may view McDonald as limited to run-stopping duties at nose tackle, which could explain his slide. However, clubs needing a reliable anchor for their defensive line should consider McDonald early in round two, especially since his pass-rushing ability may be undervalued.
