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 sense of hope and anticipation to all 32 NFL teams. It’s a time when every team believes that if they make the right moves, they could completely change the future of their franchise.
As we look ahead to the 2026 NFL Draft, there are a few players that stand out as potential game-changers in each round. These are the players that EssentiallySports’ very own Luke Hubbard is highest on, and for good reason.
First Round: Spencer Rattler, Quarterback, Oklahoma
It’s no secret that the quarterback position is the most crucial in the NFL, and finding a franchise quarterback can be the difference between a team’s success or failure. That’s why Spencer Rattler is the player that Luke Hubbard is highest on in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft.
Rattler has all the tools to be a successful NFL quarterback. He has a strong arm, great accuracy, and impressive mobility. But what sets him apart is his poise and decision-making on the field. Despite being just a sophomore at Oklahoma, Rattler has already shown tremendous growth and maturity, and he has the potential to be a top-tier quarterback in the NFL.
Second Round: George Pickens, Wide Receiver, Georgia
In the second round, Luke Hubbard has his eyes on Georgia wide receiver George Pickens. Pickens is a big, physical receiver with excellent hands and route-running ability. He has the potential to be a true number one receiver in the NFL and could be a steal in the second round.
Pickens has shown flashes of brilliance at Georgia, but injuries have hampered his production. However, if he can stay healthy and continue to develop, he could be a game-changer for any team in need of a playmaking wide receiver.
Third Round: Breece Hall, Running Back, Iowa State
Running backs may not be as highly valued in today’s NFL, but that doesn’t mean they can’t make a significant impact. That’s why Luke Hubbard has his sights set on Iowa State’s Breece Hall in the third round.
Hall is a dynamic runner with excellent vision and burst. He can make defenders miss in the open field and has the power to break tackles and gain extra yards. He’s also a reliable receiver out of the backfield, making him a versatile weapon for any offense.
Fourth Round: Zion Nelson, Offensive Tackle, Miami
Protecting the quarterback is crucial in the NFL, and that’s why Luke Hubbard has his eye on Miami’s Zion Nelson in the fourth round. Nelson is a massive offensive tackle with excellent athleticism and footwork. He has the potential to be a starting left tackle in the NFL and could be a steal in the fourth round.
Fifth Round: Jalen Wydermyer, Tight End, Texas A&M
In today’s NFL, tight ends are more than just blockers. They are also valuable weapons in the passing game, and that’s why Luke Hubbard has his sights set on Texas A&M’s Jalen Wydermyer in the fifth round.
Wydermyer is a big, athletic tight end with excellent hands and route-running ability. He can create mismatches against linebackers and safeties and has the potential to be a reliable target in the red zone.
Sixth Round: Ahmad Gardner, Cornerback, Cincinnati
In the sixth round, Luke Hubbard has his eyes on Cincinnati’s Ahmad Gardner. Gardner is a long, athletic cornerback with excellent ball skills and instincts. He has the potential to be a lockdown corner in the NFL and could be a steal in the sixth round.
Seventh Round: Jalen Camp, Wide Receiver, Georgia Tech
In the final round of the draft, Luke Hubbard has his sights set on Georgia Tech’s Jalen Camp. Camp is a big, physical receiver with impressive speed and athleticism. He has the potential to be a deep threat in the NFL and could be a valuable addition to any team’s receiving corps.
In conclusion, the 2026 NFL Draft is still a few years away, but it’s never too early to start looking at potential game-changers. These are the players that EssentiallySports’ Luke Hubbard is highest on in each round, and if they live up to their potential, they