The NFL Draft season is upon us, and for football fans, it’s one of the most exciting times of the year. While watching games every weekend is undoubtedly enjoyable, there’s something special about the draft that brings a unique sense of anticipation and hope to all 32 NFL teams. It’s a time when every team believes that if they make the right picks, they could potentially change the course of their future.
As we approach the 2026 NFL Draft, there’s already a buzz surrounding some of the top prospects and which teams will select them. In this article, we’ll take a closer look at the players that EssentiallySports’ Luke Hubbard is highest on in every round.
Round 1: Trevor Lawrence
It’s no surprise that Trevor Lawrence is at the top of everyone’s list for the first round. The Clemson quarterback has been a standout player since his freshman year and has continued to impress with his natural talent and leadership skills. At 6’6″ and 220 pounds, Lawrence has the size, arm strength, and mobility to excel in the NFL. He’s a true franchise quarterback and is expected to be the first overall pick in the draft.
Round 2: Sam Howell
In the second round, Luke Hubbard is high on North Carolina quarterback Sam Howell. He may not have the same hype as Lawrence, but Howell has shown tremendous potential in his two years as a starter for the Tar Heels. He has a strong arm, is accurate, and has the ability to extend plays with his legs. If he continues to develop and improve, Howell could be a steal for any team in the second round.
Round 3: Chris Olave
Ohio State wide receiver Chris Olave is another player that Hubbard is high on in the draft. Olave has been a reliable target for the Buckeyes, and his speed, route-running, and hands make him a dangerous threat in the passing game. He may not have the size of some other top receivers, but his skill set and playmaking ability make him a valuable pick in the third round.
Round 4: Charles Snowden
Charles Snowden, a linebacker from Virginia, is someone that Hubbard believes could be a steal in the fourth round. At 6’7″ and 235 pounds, Snowden has the ideal size for an NFL linebacker. He’s also a versatile player who can line up at different positions on defense. Snowden has shown flashes of potential in college, and with the right coaching, he could develop into a valuable player in the NFL.
Round 5: Jalen Wydermyer
Texas A&M tight end Jalen Wydermyer is a player that Hubbard is high on in the fifth round. At 6’5″ and 255 pounds, Wydermyer has the size and athleticism to be a reliable target in the passing game. He’s also a capable blocker, making him a well-rounded tight end. With the right team and system, Wydermyer could develop into a starting tight end in the NFL.
Round 6: Darian Kinnard
In the sixth round, Hubbard is high on Kentucky offensive tackle Darian Kinnard. He’s a massive lineman at 6’5″ and 345 pounds, and his strength and physicality make him a force in the run game. Kinnard also has good footwork and technique, making him an underrated pass blocker. With some development and coaching, Kinnard could become a valuable asset for any team in the NFL.
Round 7: Treylon Burks
In the final round of the draft, Hubbard is high on Arkansas wide receiver Treylon Burks. He may not have the same stats as some of the other top receivers in the draft, but Burks has shown flashes of potential with his size, speed, and physicality. He’s a versatile player who can line up both outside and in the slot, making him a valuable option for any team in the seventh round.
In conclusion, the 2026 NFL Draft is shaping up to be an exciting one, and these are just a few of the players that EssentiallySports’ Luke Hubbard is highest on in each round. Of course, there will be surprises and unexpected picks, but one thing is for sure – these players have the potential to make a significant impact in the NFL and change the course of their respective teams’ futures. So, let the countdown begin, and let’s see which teams make the
