2026 NFL draft comps: Our favorite prospect-to-pro matches - ESPN

Though it can be hard to project how NFL draft prospects will fare in the pros, we can get a better sense of their future by making one-to-one comparisons. So we asked a number of our NFL draft analysts and college football experts to pick their favorite prospect-to-player comparisons for the 2026 class.

Their comps were made based on style of play, physical measurements, production and versatility — or some combination of all those traits. And we opened up the possibility for former NFL players to be selected.

Who does Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza remind us of? Which NFL pros are good matches for star defenders such as Tennessee's Jermod McCoy and Miami's Rueben Bain Jr.? Let's get into our 15 favorite prospect-to-pro comps for this draft class.

Most of the edge rusher prospects are 265 pounds (T.J. Parker and Rueben Bain Jr.) or less, but Faulk is 6-foot-6 and 276 pounds. The Auburn product's ability to play both inside and outside makes him similar to the 287-pound Jordan, who has played defensive end in both 3-4 and 4-3 schemes. — Aaron Schatz, NFL analyst

Fano's athleticism jumps out and can be harnessed whether he remains at tackle or starts off inside. The Utah lineman had almost identical combine measurements to Cross, although his arms are shorter, which might lead to a move to guard. Both Cross and Fano excel with their footwork and move fluidly to gain leverage on defenders. — Adam Rittenberg, college football reporter

Tyson (Arizona State) uses his quickness to separate and has the speed and YAC ability to be an uncoverable receiver against man coverage. Like Jeudy, he can be too complex in his releases and struggle with physicality through the route. But a healthy Tyson can be both a big-play