Pre-combine and mid-combine overall 2026 draft rankings, big boards, and mock drafts across positions

Pre-Combine and Mid-Combine 2026 Draft Rankings: Big Boards, Mock Drafts, and Oregon Prospects

As the 2026 NFL Draft cycle approaches a crucial phase, the focus shifts toward pre-combine and mid-combine rankings, with analysts and teams refining their evaluations based on big boards, positional rankings, and mock drafts. This period provides a clearer picture of where prospects stand and which players are gaining momentum heading into the NFL Scouting Combine and Oregon’s Pro Day.

Pre-Combine Evaluations: Big Boards and Positional Rankings

Leading up to the combine, notable analysts have released updated rankings that highlight the top prospects across positions. Ric Serritella’s pre-combine big board emphasizes the importance of athletic testing and technical development, with Oregon’s Kenyon Sadiq emerging as a standout among tight ends. His rapid rise has seen him climb into the early rounds of many mock drafts, reflecting growing league interest.

Similarly, Sports Illustrated’s top 100 players includes several Oregon prospects, notably wide receivers Troy Franklin and Marvin Mims Jr., who are projected to be mid-round or Day 2 targets. Their consistent production and anticipated strong performances at the combine could elevate their draft stock further.

Updated offensive positional rankings before the combine underscore Sadiq’s profile as a modern, versatile tight end—a player who combines athleticism, technical refinement, and matchup potential. Defensive prospects from Oregon—particularly edge rushers and secondary players—are also gaining recognition, with their speed and pass-rushing prowess making them attractive for early-day selections.

Mock Drafts and Prospect Projections

Recent mock drafts are reflecting these evaluations, with Sadiq projected to be a first-round pick if he performs well at the combine. His elite athletic testing, including projections of a sub-4.6 40-yard dash, vertical leaps exceeding 40 inches, and excellent shuttle times, have elevated him into early-round discussions.

Meanwhile, other Oregon players like Franklin and Mims Jr. are positioned as potential Day 2 selections, with their draft capital hinging on combine results and team interviews. Defensive prospects, especially those with explosiveness and versatility, are also rising in mock drafts, suggesting Oregon’s talent pipeline remains deep and promising.

The Impact of the Combine and Oregon’s Pro Day

The NFL Scouting Combine (February 22 – March 2) and Oregon’s Pro Day are pivotal moments that will clarify and potentially transform these rankings. Athletic testing is expected to be a key driver:

• Kenyon Sadiq is projected to run a sub-4.6 40-yard dash, with a vertical leap over 40 inches, demonstrating the athletic upside NFL teams covet.
• Wide receivers Franklin and Mims Jr. aim to showcase their agility and big-play ability to solidify their positions in the draft.
• Defensive prospects will focus on explosiveness, coverage drills, and ball skills to enhance their profiles.

Team evaluations during these events, along with medical exams and interviews, will be decisive in finalizing rankings. Medical concerns, in particular, could influence the draft order for prospects with injury histories.

Industry Insights and Emerging Trends

Experts like Daniel Jeremiah (NFL Network) emphasize that athletic tight ends with versatility and football IQ are among the most coveted prospects. Sadiq exemplifies this trend, with teams increasingly valuing tight ends who can block inline and serve as mismatched receivers—a dual-threat role that aligns with the modern offensive schemes.

The league’s current evaluation patterns highlight:

• The premium placed on athletic upside—players who can stretch the field and create mismatches.
• The importance of positional flexibility, allowing players to contribute in multiple roles.
• The influence of combine performance on final draft positioning.

Recent Developments and Exclusive Insights

An interview with Kenyon Sadiq during the combine revealed his confidence and focus:

"I’ve worked tirelessly to refine every aspect of my game—whether it’s route running, blocking, or understanding defenses. The combine is a chance to showcase all the hard work, and I’m confident I’ll perform at a high level."

This mindset underscores Sadiq’s readiness for the testing phase and his aspirations to secure a top-five tight end spot in the draft.

Additionally, reports indicate that the Washington Commanders have interviewed a top Oregon wide receiver during the combine, signaling strong interest in Oregon’s pass-catching talents. Such attention could boost Franklin and Mims Jr.’s draft stocks depending on their combine and Pro Day performances.

Final Outlook

Based on current evaluations and projections, the 2026 NFL Draft landscape suggests:

• Kenyon Sadiq is firmly in the first-round conversation, with elite athletic testing likely to cement his status as a top-tier tight end.
• Franklin and Mims Jr. are positioned as Day 2 targets, but strong combine results could push them into the early rounds.
• Oregon’s overall talent pipeline continues to impress, with multiple prospects poised to be drafted early.

Conclusion

As the combine unfolds, performances and medical evaluations will be critical in shaping the final draft order. Sadiq’s athletic upside and technical growth make him a likely first-round selection, setting a promising trajectory for Oregon in the 2026 NFL Draft. Meanwhile, the broader Oregon roster reinforces the program’s reputation as a top NFL talent incubator, with multiple players expected to make an impact at the next level.

Fans and analysts will be watching closely as these prospects showcase their abilities, aiming to elevate their draft status and continue Oregon’s legacy of producing NFL-ready talent. The next few weeks promise to be pivotal in defining the 2026 draft class’s landscape, with Oregon prospects well positioned to leave a strong mark.