Makai Lemon has been named the 2025 Biletnikoff Award winner and named to 2025 Football Writers Association of America All-America First Team after an outstanding season for the USC Trojans.
The dynamic wideout has proved he’s one of the top playmakers entering the 2026 NFL Draft after hauling in 79 receptions for 1,156 yards and 11 touchdowns for the 9-3 Trojans. Those stats included five 100-yard games in 2025 and 502 yards after the catch.
The YAC is really going to have NFL teams clamoring for a receiver who has the skillset of current NFL starts like Amon-Ra St. Brown. That is a good comparison for a 5-foot-11, 195-pound receiver who plays the game like a bigger receiver.
Noted for his top-notch route running, it is the passion in which he plays the game that will intrigues teams selecting in the top 15 of the 2026 NFL Draft to have a player like Lemon high on their draft board.
Makai Lemon is a “warrior who plays with passion”
While other top receivers like Arizona State’s Jordyn Tyson and Ohio State’s Carnell Tate will draw attention, what sets Lemon apart is his ability to separate, his durability and quick acceleration. All these skills were highlighted by ESPN’s Mel Kiper Jr in his latest big board in which he has Lemon ranked as the No. 7 prospect in the nation.
Kiper writes:
“This kid is a warrior who plays with passion. I'd want Lemon on my roster. He snatches the ball away from his body in an attacking manner then runs with a fierce approach after the catch. He is one of my favorite players in the class, and he currently ranks fourth in the nation in receiving yards.”
Also read: Top landing spots for Notre Dame RB Jeremiyah Love in the 2026 NFL Draft
The question surrounding Lemon is could he be the best receiver in the draft?
If drafted into the right situation where he won’t be the top option right away, Lemon will have a productive rookie season. Here are three NFL teams sticking out as top fits for Makai Lemon.
3 NFL teams in position to land Makai Lemon
Pittsburgh Steelers:
Depending on where the Steelers select, Makai Lemon is the type of receiver who could compliment D.K. Metcalf. While quarterback and cornerback have emerged as top needs for the Steelers, if a player like Lemon is available, the Steelers will pounce on the opportunity to add him into the mix. His acceleration and “warrior” mentality are a fit for a team like the Steelers. The quarterback position will still be in flux, but if they get a solid QB like maybe a Kyler Murray, Lemon will have a chance to flourish with Metcalf and tight end Pat Freiermuth on the field.
Other first round options for the Steelers: Carnell Tate (WR), Ty Simpson (QB), Brandon Cisse (CB)
Cleveland Browns:
With two first round picks in the 2026 NFL Draft, the Cleveland Browns could do just about anything with their top pick. Whether they decide to select a quarterback or stick with Shedeur Sanders, Deshawn Watson or Dillon Gabriel as options in 2026, they need to add another playmaker at the wide receiver potion to the mix. Lemon, although on the slender side, would be a dynamic option to add to the mix. His ability to separate in small spaces makes him a red zone threat and his overall yards after the catch ability would make a Browns’ offense very exciting in 2026.
Other first round options for the Browns: Jordyn Tyson (WR), Kadyn Proctor (T), Carnell Tate (WR)
Carolina Panthers:
Makai Lemon was mocked to the Panthers in our latest full first-round NFL Mock Draft. Carolina struck gold with the selection of Tetairoa McMillian in the 2025 NFL Draft, but their first-round pick prior to that, Xavier Legette, has not panned out so far. While there is still hope for Legette, adding another receiver to the mix like Lemon would make the Panthers’ offense complete in that he would give Bryce Young that reliable second receiver. Lemon is also a playmaker who can make the Panthers more prolific offensively with his tenacity in route running and ability to create after the catch.
Other first round options for the Panthers: Carnell Tate (WR), Sonny Styles (LB), Jermod McCoy (CB)