Quick Buzz Feed
Which other 2026 NFL Draft prospects stood out during the College Football Playoff quarterfinals?
Dane Brugler highlights Ole Miss quarterback Trinidad Chambliss for his outstanding performance in the Sugar Bowl, noting his impressive journey from Division II. There's discussion about whether Chambliss will receive an NCAA waiver for another year of college eligibility or if he'll declare for the NFL Draft, where his playmaking instincts and competitive toughness could make him a Day 2 or Day 3 pick. Nick Baumgardner concurs on Chambliss's strong Playoff showing and draft potential. Baumgardner also praises Georgia's Zachariah Branch as a tough and consistent smaller-bodied receiver, excelling after the catch and adapting to difficult throws, and commends QB Gunner Stockton for his toughness.
Dane Brugler suggests that Indiana's prospects largely had a 'check the box' game. He commends Fernando Mendoza for his in-game adjustments, particularly diagnosing a pre-snap blitz for a touchdown pass. Brugler also highlights the strong play of Indiana's offensive line and running backs, alongside cornerback D’Angelo Ponds' impactful game, which included a forced fumble. Nick Baumgardner expresses hope for a boost in the NFL stock of Indiana's offensive linemen, specifically mentioning Carter Smith and center Pat Coogan, who earned Rose Bowl MVP. Baumgardner lauds Coogan's high football IQ and sees him as an intriguing Day 3 prospect, emphasizing the Hoosiers' dominant performance against Alabama's defensive line after an initial struggle.
Dane Brugler praises Jacob Rodriguez but identifies David Bailey as Texas Tech's most impactful defensive player due to his consistent pressure, pass deflections, and quick run stops, projecting him as a potential top-10 draft pick. He also notes Oregon's cohesive defensive effort and highlights true freshman cornerback Brandon Finney Jr., who recorded two interceptions and was named Orange Bowl Defensive MVP, comparing his size and playmaking ability to Jalen Ramsey. Nick Baumgardner was impressed by Oregon edge rusher Matayo Uiagalelei's strip-sack, admiring his 6-foot-5, 275-pound frame and athleticism, which he compares to Aidan Hutchinson, marking him as a first-round talent. He also commends Texas Tech DT Lee Hunter for his massive size, lateral agility, quick hands, and consistent disruption in big games, accumulating nearly 100 combined run stops over three seasons.
Dane Brugler acknowledges Miami edge rushers Rueben Bain Jr. and Akheem Mesidor's impressive Playoff performances, despite some inconsistency earlier in the season. Bain is projected as a top-20, potentially top-five, pick, with NFL teams interested in his pass-rush skills, even with concerns about his body type as a potential three-technique tackle. Mesidor, at 25 and with a history of injuries, is seen as a Day 2 draft pick, valued for his diverse pass-rushing abilities and immediate impact potential. Regarding Carson Beck, Brugler notes his ability to manage games and avoid mistakes but points out his low yards per attempt and lack of 'exciting' throws, classifying him as a capable NFL backup reaching his ceiling. Nick Baumgardner strongly supports Bain as a top-10, possibly top-five, talent, emphasizing his effectiveness over raw measurables. He is more cautious about Mesidor as a first-rounder, citing his tweener build and doubts about consistent NFL pass-rush production. Baumgardner categorizes Beck as a Day 3 prospect, recognizing his game management but also recalling instances of poor decision-making from earlier in the season.