NFL scouts are already shifting their focus to the 2026 NFL Draft, compiling initial reports on next year’s class. We’re doing the same here at NFL Mocks. This week’s NFL Draft Notebook dives into why Penn State could be on the verge of a breakthrough, Iowa’s new quarterback situation, early team needs, and more.
Latest NFL Draft news and notes
Is this Penn State’s year?
For the first time since 2016, Penn State has a legitimate shot to win the Big Ten Championship—and this time, they might actually do it. The Nittany Lions return quarterback Drew Allar, and he’ll be supported by one of the top backfields in the country as Kaytron Allen and Nicholas Singleton give Penn State a lethal one-two punch in the run game. They’ve also added a much-needed weapon in the passing game with Trebor Pena, a dynamic receiver transfer from Syracuse. On the defensive side, the unit looks even more dangerous with Jim Knowles now leading the charge. If the pieces come together, this could be the season Penn State finally breaks through.
49ers early draft priority
Expect the 49ers to closely scout offensive tackle prospects this season. After failing to select a tackle in the 2025 NFL Draft, San Francisco will be relying heavily on free-agent late additions Andre Dillard and Nicholas Petit-Frere to play critical roles this season. Miami’s Francis Mauigoa is one early name to watch as a potential fit for the team in 2026.
What type of quarterback is Iowa getting
Iowa landed one of the top quarterbacks in the transfer portal when Mark Gronowski announced he was leaving South Dakota State for Iowa City. So, what kind of quarterback are the Hawkeyes getting? First and foremost, they’re getting a proven leader. Gronowski led SDSU to two national championships and a 49–6 record as a starter. He’s also one of the smartest quarterbacks in college football—he rarely forces throws into traffic, and with a 3.76 GPA in mechanical engineering, he should have no trouble grasping Iowa’s offense. What they’re not getting is a QB with elite physical tools. Gronowski isn’t going to wow anyone with arm strength or mobility, and his NFL upside is likely as a backup. But for Iowa’s system and current roster, his intelligence, poise, and decision-making make him a strong short-term upgrade under center.
Irish to involve Love more in the passing game
Heading into the 2025 season, Notre Dame’s Jeremiyah Love is the top running back prospect in the 2026 NFL Draft and holds a top ten grade on my board. What sets him apart is his rare blend of speed and power. He had a run of 29 yards or more in eight games last season and broke 62 tackles. This year, expect the Irish to expand his role even more. They cross-trained him as a wide receiver during spring ball, and if he can prove himself as a pass-catching threat, it will only boost his draft stock.
Intriguing Tight End Prospect
One of the more unconventional but intriguing names to watch for the 2026 NFL Draft is Clemson’s Ian Schieffelin. He hasn’t played football in five years, instead focusing entirely on basketball. Still, his raw traits make him a player NFL teams might take a late-round flier on. At 6-foot-8, the former power forward has rare size for a tight end and could be a serious matchup problem. He brings a physical edge to the table as well, averaging 9.4 rebounds per game last season. Schieffelin will face a steep learning curve transitioning back to the gridiron, but if he earns meaningful snaps this season, he could work his way into late Day 3 consideration.
Breakout candidate
A Big Ten defender primed for a big season is Michigan’s TJ Guy. This will be his first year as a starter, stepping in for Josaiah Stewart at outside linebacker now that Stewart is with the Los Angeles Rams. Guy looks ready for the role, having finished the 2024 season strong with eight tackles and 4.5 tackles for loss over the Wolverines’ final three games. As a pro prospect, Guy shows impressive strength despite weighing just 250 pounds and does a solid job setting the edge against the run. That weight could be a concern, though, as he projects best as a 4-3 defensive end or 3-4 outside linebacker—he doesn’t have the agility to hold up in coverage.
Special teams ace
Teams looking to upgrade their punt return unit in the 2026 NFL Draft are going to want to take a close look at Baylor’s Josh Cameron. The All-American punt returner averaged an impressive 20.7 yards per return last season, with a long of 73 yards. In addition to being a terrific return man, he also has the production in the passing game to catch scouts’ attention, as he led Baylor in receptions, receiving yards, and receiving touchdowns last season.