2026 NFL Draft Risers, Questions & Notes: Which Team Should Draft Kenyon Sadiq?

We’re deep into the 2025 college football season, and while there were a few surprises, like Pittsburgh’s win over Georgia Tech and Wisconsin topping Illinois, the big guns mostly cruised. Oregon even made a huge statement with their victory against USC! But the future is on our minds, and that future is the 2026 NFL Draft.

Even though the draft is still months away, our team of NFL Draft analysts – Mel Kiper Jr., Matt Miller, and Jordan Reid – are constantly evaluating top prospects, updating their rankings, and getting ready for what promises to be an exciting class. They’re watching every snap to bring you the very best insights into the upcoming draft.

Here, we’re diving deep into their observations, answering the crucial questions, spotlighting rising stars, and offering a glimpse behind the curtain of their evaluation process. Let’s get into the Week 13 NFL Draft notes!

Week 13 NFL Draft Analysis

Let’s break down the key takeaways from Week 13 in college football, all with a focus on the 2026 NFL Draft. Who’s rising, who has questions to answer, and where do they fit in the NFL?

Is Kenyon Sadiq the Definite TE1, and Who’s the Best NFL Fit?

Miller: Absolutely! Lock it in. Kenyon Sadiq is the top tight end in the 2026 draft class, without a doubt. He might even be the best overall pass catcher in the entire group, regardless of position! At 6-foot-3 and 245 pounds, he moves like a slot receiver, showcasing incredible quickness in his routes. But he also has the strength to box out defensive backs and the high-point ability to win contested catches. His performance against USC (6 catches, 72 yards, 2 TDs) further solidified his status. The only concerns revolve around his size and limited blocking experience, which could impact his scheme fit.

Think Dalton Kincaid as a player comparison – similar frame and athletic profile. Kincaid was drafted at No. 25 overall in 2023, and Sadiq is currently projected to go even higher after his breakout season (36 catches, 479 yards, eight TDs). He could even be Travis Kelce’s replacement in Kansas City with his route running skills. Perhaps the Eagles could see him as Dallas Goedert’s successor, or maybe the Ravens could use him to replace Mark Andrews. These are just some of the possible fits for the supremely talented Sadiq.

Could Two Utah Offensive Tackles Be Top-20 Picks?

Reid: There’s a strong possibility we see both Spencer Fano and Caleb Lomu selected in the top 20 of the 2026 NFL Draft! Utah’s offensive line has been phenomenal, allowing very few sacks. The big question scouts are asking is: which tackle is the better prospect?

One NFC North scout praised Fano’s foot quickness and physicality. However, an AFC executive leaned towards Lomu, stating that he plays left tackle and therefore is the better prospect. Lomu isn’t as far along in his development as Fano, but with his frame and technique, he has a higher ceiling. He still needs to gain strength to generate more movement in the run game. Both players participated in Senior Day activities, which often hints at declaring for the draft.

Other Notable NFL Draft Observations

Kiper: Penn State guard Olaivavega Ioane was dominant against Nebraska. His blocking was a key reason for Penn State’s strong running game. He’s agile for his size and drives defensive tackles off the ball. Ioane is the top interior blocker in the class and a definite first-round pick, potentially going as high as Tyler Booker did in the previous draft.

Miller: Oregon quarterback Dante Moore is generating major buzz from scouts! Despite his limited starting experience, teams are impressed with his command, poise, and accuracy. One scout said he’s the best in the class based on tools, production, and potential. Moore’s future plans are unknown, but he’s being talked about as a potential top-five pick if he enters the 2026 NFL Draft!

Kiper: Kyle Louis from Pittsburgh is definitely someone to watch. I moved him to my No. 2 safety ranking. He is versatile enough to play all over the field and has the instincts and ball skills to make plays. He is a Derwin James Jr./Kyle Hamilton type of player. His ball-hawking ability is incredibly impressive, and his versatility is unique in the draft. He’s going to be a baller in the NFL.

Reid: I was impressed with Miami offensive lineman Francis Mauigoa. He plays with incredible power and strength. With a 6-foot-6, 335-pound frame, Mauigoa strictly plays right tackle right now, but he’s built like a guard and tops my interior offensive line rankings. And based on conversations I’ve had, multiple scouts agree that he projects better inside.

Miller: Arizona State running back Raleek Brown had a huge game against Colorado. He’s electric in space with incredible speed and quickness. Scouts see him as a Day 3 pick, but his stock is definitely on the rise.

Kiper: Ohio State tight end Max Klare stepped up with a fantastic game against Rutgers, catching seven passes. He’s an experienced player with great hands and the ability to find soft spots in coverage. Klare could be a third or fourth-round pick.

Reid: San Diego State corner Chris Johnson had another impressive game, adding his fourth interception of the season. He excels in press man coverage and has excellent ball skills. Johnson could be a major riser during all-star games.

Kiper: NC State linebacker Cian Slone is someone I need to take a closer look at. He plays with high energy and closes quickly. He has the ability to get to the quarterback and has shown playmaking skills. He wasn’t on my radar initially, but he’s definitely piqued my interest now.

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