The 2025 college football season is on the horizon, and with that, plenty of future NFL talent will be on display. There’s an abundance of wide receivers worth following this upcoming fall, but who are some that stand out? The 2026 NFL Draft will offer a variety of skill sets at wide receiver, whether it be blazing speed, crisp route running, or imposing physical dominance. While freshmen standouts Jeremiah Smith and Ryan Williams aren’t eligible for another year, there are still some names to watch for.
Top Five Wide Receivers in the 2026 NFL Draft
1. Jordyn Tyson, Arizona State
Tyson played a critical role in Arizona State’s Big 12 title run, catching 75 passes for 1,101 yards and 10 touchdowns. When it comes to traits, Tyson checks most of the boxes teams are looking for at the next level. His combination of burst and ability to quickly change directions makes him incredibly dangerous after the catch. Tyson also has reliable hands and can to go up and win jump balls. The biggest concern with Tyson is health, as his 2024 season was cut short due to injury. If Tyson can stay healthy, there’s a strong chance he will be a first-round pick in April.
2. Antonio Williams, Clemson
The Clemson wide receiver room looks to be its strongest in recent years, largely because of Williams. 2024 was a breakout season for Williams, going for 904 receiving yards and catching 11 touchdowns as a junior. Williams is a skilled route runner and has good spatial awareness to beat zone coverage. His top-end speed isn’t elite, but he is still a consistent deep threat. His sure hands and ability to track the ball enabled him to catch passes in tight windows. Williams is on the smaller end for a wide receiver, so there are concerns about beating press coverage. The Tigers primarily use Williams in the slot, where his game is best suited on Sundays.
3. Denzel Boston, Washington
Boston had to wait for his opportunity in a wide receiver room consisting of Rome Odunze, Ja’Lynn Polk, and Jalen McMillan. The said opportunity came in 2024 after all three went pro. Boston led the Huskies with nine receiving touchdowns and had 834 receiving yards. He has the size necessary to play on the line of scrimmage as an X-receiver and win in press coverage. His frame also allows him to make catches in the more congested middle of the field and the red zone. Boston creates separation pretty well for a bigger receiver and is a smooth route runner. While the size and route running are there, Boston doesn’t have that extra gear to be a consistent threat after the catch.
4. Carnell Tate, Ohio State
Ohio State has been a factory for NFL wide receivers for many years. Tate showed glimpses of a dominant receiver in 2024 and should only improve upon that this season with the departure of Emeka Egbuka. Play strength is a positive with Tate, as he consistently makes contested grabs and works the middle of the field well. Tate also does a good job sitting in the soft spots of zone coverage to find space. His speed isn’t spectacular, limiting his ability to beat defenses vertically. The combination of strong technique and getting the best coaching under Brian Hartline gives Tate a fairly high floor.
5. Nyck Harbor, South Carolina
Harbor is a bit of a wild card in this upcoming draft class. Measuring at 6-foot-5 and 236 pounds, Harbor is one of the most physically imposing athletes in college football. Harbor’s combination of size and speed makes him a can’t-miss prospect based on traits. Although the traits are certainly present, the production hasn’t matched. Through two seasons with South Carolina, Harbor has just 38 catches for 571 yards and four touchdowns. His jump ball abilities are phenomenal; however, his route running still needs development. If Harbor can refine the more technical aspects of the position, he should skyrocket on draft boards.
Main Photo: Joe Nicholson-Imagn Images
The post Early Top Five Wide Receivers in the 2026 NFL Draft appeared first on Last Word on Pro Football.