As NFL talent evaluators put the finishing touches on their scouting reports of the 2026 draft class, they’ll look at current pros with similar traits as another data point to project how the prospects might perform in the pro game. Most scouts utilize pro comparisons to paint a picture for NFL decision-makers who make the calls when on the clock.
With the 2026 draft approaching, here are my pro comps for the top prospects in this years class.
The Heisman Trophy winner is a lock to come off the board as the No. 1 overall pick on Thursday. Mendoza has impressed scouts with his intelligence, toughness and management skills, while also flashing pinpoint accuracy and touch as a rhythm passer. The combination of skills and a winning pedigree makes it easy to envision the Indiana standout thriving as a QB1 for a team running a system that prioritizes mistake-free football and clutch playmaking.Â
Although Mendoza lacks elite physical tools, his superpowers as a high-IQ game manager could result in better performance and production than his natural talent would suggest.Â
Pro comparison: Detroit Lions QB Jared Goff
The silky-smooth pass-catcher checks all the boxes as a potential No. 1 receiver. Tate can impact the game as a three-level playmaker, displaying big-play potential as a vertical threat or catch-and-run specialist. Additionally, the Ohio State star shows elite route-running skills by twisting defenders into knots with his electric stop-start quickness and ballerina-like body control.Â
With Tate also flashing ridiculous ball skills and body control as an acrobatic pass catcher, the 6-foot-2, 194-pounder is a dominant weapon on the perimeter with “take over the game” potential as a pro. Â
Pro comparison: Rams WR Davante AdamsÂ
It is hard to find a safety with a high IQ, positional flexibility, ball skills and a “hit stick” mentality that enables him to play as a center fielder or hybrid linebacker in a multi-faceted scheme. Downs not only excels as a jack-of-all-trades, but he has mastered the art of playmaking in a “see ball, get ball” defensive scheme.
While skeptics dismiss his impact potential due to his modest physical traits, the evaluators who love “ball players” easily identify the game-changing skills the Ohio State star brings to the table. Considering how championship-level defenses thrive with a game changer in the middle of the field, Downs versatility and adaptability give him a chance to emerge as a star as a designated playmaker in a creative defensive scheme.Â
Pro comparison: Cardinals S Budda BakerÂ
The energetic speed rusher took college football by storm during his lone season with the Red Raiders. Bailey terrorized opponents with his speed, quickness and burst, as he showcased a “dip-and-rip” maneuver and slick spin move to harass quarterbacks in the backfield. The persistent pressure and constant chaos created by his relentless approach force offensive coordinators to alter their pass-protection plans when facing the dynamic pass rusher.Â
As Bailey acclimates to the pro game and elite pass protectors, the shifty sack artist could produce double-digit sacks annually as a speed-rushing specialist.Â
Pro comparison: Giants OLB Brian BurnsÂ
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The pinpoint, quick-rhythm passer operates like a coach on the field, with his instincts, awareness and anticipation enabling him to pick apart coverages with surgical precision. Simpsons flawless pocket mechanics and footwork make him a quarterback coachs dream at first glance. With his strongest supporters citing the 2025 Crimson Tid
