2026 NFL Draft Notebook: Matayo Uiagalelei’s ceiling, the Domani Jackson experience, and some underrated prospects to know

The real Uiagalelei 

Before Oregon defensive end Matayo Uiagalelei made it out to Eugene, his older brother DJ was considered a five-star recruit for the Clemson Tigers. While his career didn’t work out, Matayo’s is progressing very well. The 6-5, 270-pounds pass rusher is fresh off of a sophomore season where he was able to record 37 total tackles, 11.5 tackles for loss, 9.5 sacks, and an interception.

Uiagalelei is a power-based end who is an extremely smooth athlete. He is still only 19 years old, and you can tell he is still getting comfortable in his own skin. When Uiagalelei can threaten the outside shoulder, he is a hard player to stop. The physical tools are there for him to be a big riser in 2026 if he takes a solid jump. 

 The Gators defensive line 

The Florida Gators quietly have a lot of defensive line talent entering the 2025 college football season. I have spoken a lot about defensive tackle Caleb Banks already, and his chance to be a potential top ten pick if he develops, but there is a lot more talent than just him. That includes defensive end Tyreak Sapp. 

At 6-4 and 274 pounds, Sapp has an outstanding frame as a strong side defensive end. While he isn’t the bendiest athlete, Sapp has a good first step and can really convert speed to power. I don’t think he’ll be a high-volume sack artist on the next level, but I do think that Sapp is going to be a really good run defender who brings some alignment upside in obvious passing situations. 

Former Northern Illinois transfer George Gumbs Jr. is also an interesting pass rush prospect. He is the bendier athlete compared to Sapp, but doesn’t have as good of a frame. 

2026 quarterback sleeper 

If you love touch throwers that excel pushing the football down the field, then you are going to love Duke quarterback Darian Mensah. While he isn’t the biggest signal caller of all time at 6-3 (generous) and 205 pounds, there is a lot to like about Mensah. He opted for the Transfer Portal this offseason, and now will star for the Duke Blue Devils. 

Pure arm velocity doesn’t always pop on the film for Mensah, but he also doesn’t always set his feet as a thrower either. As Mensah continues to add to his frame, the velocity should continue to improve. There are moments of tremendous play inside of the pocket, but Mensah does look to escape the pocket too much at times. There is a lot of developmental potential, whether it is for the 2026 class, or potentially in 2027.