Louis Riddick identified his top NFL draft prospects for the 2026 class, highlighting two players he would prioritize in the first three rounds.
Riddick’s first-round targets are a versatile offensive playmaker and a physically gifted defensive prospect
Riddick’s top choice is a running back who accumulated 1,652 yards from scrimmage and 21 touchdowns last season, emphasizing that he views the player as a game-changing threat rather than a traditional rusher. He praised the prospect’s ability to break long runs, catch passes out of the backfield, and change direction quickly, noting 11 runs of 20 or more yards, six of which resulted in touchdowns.
The second first-round prospect Riddick highlighted is a defensive player listed at 6-5 and 244 pounds, who recorded 77 tackles, a sack, a forced fumble, and an interception last season. Riddick described him as a can’t-miss prospect due to his combination of size, speed, fluid athleticism, and character, saying he would feel confident drafting a player who could become the face of a franchise.
Riddick also pointed to two Day 2 sleepers with high upside potential
Beyond his first-round favorites, Riddick identified two players he would target on the second and third days of the draft if he were running an NFL team. He did not name these sleepers in the provided excerpt but stated they could outperform their projected draft slots based on his evaluation of the class.
Who is Louis Riddick and why does his draft analysis carry weight?
Louis Riddick is a 12-year NFL scout and former Director of Pro Personnel who played in the NFL for six years and graduated from the University of Pittsburgh. He currently works as an ESPN NFL analyst, bringing front-office experience to his evaluations of draft prospects.
When does the 2026 NFL draft begin and where can viewers watch Riddick’s coverage?
The 2026 NFL draft kicks off with Round 1 on April 23, and Riddick said he will be on the ESPN set for all three days of the event, offering analysis throughout the proceedings.