2026 NFL Draft Sleepers: 7 Underrated Prospects Who Could Be Steals

The 2026 NFL Draft is just hours away, with top prospect Fernando Mendoza expected to be the first player selected. However, the draft spans 257 picks, from the Las Vegas Raiders at No. 1 to the Denver Broncos at No. 257, meaning many players will slip through the cracks—including potential sleepers.

Here are seven underrated prospects who could exceed expectations in this year’s class:

Cole Wisniewski, S, Texas Tech

While Texas Tech has several defenders poised for early selections—including pass rusher David Bailey (potential Jets pick), linebacker Jacob Rodriguez, defensive tackle Lee Hunter, and pass rusher Romello Height—safety Cole Wisniewski may slide into Day 3 of the draft.

Wisniewski’s 2025 season was impressive: 78 total tackles, 6 pass breakups, and 1 sack, all after missing the entire 2024 season due to a foot injury. His versatility stands out—despite being a deep safety, he weighed 220 pounds, allowing Texas Tech to deploy him in the box in certain situations. His ability to read run plays and make tackles was evident in a standout performance against UCF.

"Threading some more draft clips for content purposes, starting with Texas Tech S Cole Wisniewski—"
— Mark Schofield (@markschofield.bsky.social)

With multiple Texas Tech defenders likely to be drafted, Wisniewski remains a late-round gem. Expected Draft Round: Rounds 6-7

Lewis Bond, WR, Boston College

Lewis Bond dominated at Boston College, setting a new team record with 88 receptions for 993 yards and 1 touchdown in 2024. His 213 career receptions rank first in school history, while his 2,385 career receiving yards place him fifth all-time. A second-team All-ACC selection, Bond’s production and consistency make him a potential late-round steal.