2026 NFL Draft prospects with the most on the line heading into the quarterfinals of the College Football Playoff
These 2026 NFL Draft prospects can completely change their paths to becoming first-round picks with stellar performances in the College Football Playoff.
After an up-and-down first round of the College Football Playoff, the second round promises to be a lot more entertaining. Outside of the quest for a National Championship, players from across the country also have the chance to impress NFL evaluators. They always have their eyes open to the biggest games on the schedule, and there are none bigger than the next few weeks.
With an early eye on the 2026 NFL Draft, several top prospects are hoping to impress in those big games. Along with fellow A to Z Sports NFL Draft analyst Joe DeLeone, we highlighted some of those top players with key matchups on the horizon. In some cases, it could make or break their final evaluation.
Here is who we have our eyes on.
Oregon OT Isaiah World
“Heading into the 2025 college football season, the former Nevada transfer appeared to have a clear path to potentially be the top offensive tackle in the 2026 NFL Draft class. Unfortunately for World, the beginning of the season was extremely up and down. World was clearly getting used to the fan speed, and everything was just moving a touch too fast early on.
“As the season has gone on, World has gotten a ton better for the Ducks at left tackle. His combination of length and movement skills has begun shining through a lot more. With a strong ending to the season, he could end up being a big riser in this class. Against Texas Tech, World has the chance to face two future NFL pass rushers in David Bailey and Romello Height, the former projected to go in the top 15.
“If World has a strong performance, he could catapult himself up draft boards.” – Roberts
Miami DL Rueben Bain
“Reuben Bain has already become the most-debated prospect in the 2026 NFL Draft, despite the cycle just starting. His physical profile doesn’t fit a typical pass rusher, and many are projecting him as a player who could thrive in the interior. But he’s not getting an opportunity to prove himself when it matters the most.
“His opening round performance against a stellar Texas A&M offensive line was eye-opening for many people. He and the entire Miami defensive line were extremely disruptive, recording four TFLs and three sacks.
“A second elite performance, regardless of whether the Hurricanes win, could cement him as a top prospect in the class. If he can get after Julian Sayin and overwhelm the Ohio State offensive line, it will be hard to deny his potential. While it’s hard to project physical outliers, it is easy to project good football players. Those who step up when their teams need them the most are often the prospects who translate to the NFL.” – DeLeone
Ohio State EDGE Kenyatta Jackson Jr.
“With some hype in the preseason, Jackson also got off to a slower start this season. The 6-6, 265-pound defensive end has had a very strong second half of the season, his overall movement skills and length popping on tape consistently. While Jackson isn’t the bendiest rusher of all time, he has several physical skills that should translate very well on the next level. A strong end to the season will help to solidify his standing as a top-100 selection, and possibly even higher when April comes around.
“Jackson will be tested by Miami star right tackle Francis Mauigoa. With Mauigoa specializing in power, the Buckeye standout will be tested in both the run and pass game. Miami left tackle Markel Bell lacks foot quickness and flexibility, but he brings a ton of size. Jackson would be a big beneficiary from a strong showing.” – Roberts
Alabama QB Ty Simpson
“The month of November was not kind to Ty Simpson after he began to build himself up into a top-ten pick in this class. As opposing teams sent relentless heat, he was unfairly blamed for the Crimson Tide’s struggles. Simpson bounced back with several clutch throws against Oklahoma despite the Sooners pressuring him often.
“His ability to step up to the challenge reignited the possibility of him becoming a top quarterback pick in the class. His ball placement in critical situations on difficult throws was that of a first-round pick, but he’ll need to replicate that against Indiana.
“Back-to-back stellar performances and a solid finish to the year will help strengthen his case to go in the first round. In a year with very few quarterback options and a lot of quarterback-desperate teams, Simpson doesn’t need to be perfect. But he does need to end the year on a strong note.” – DeLeone
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