2026 NFL Draft Stock Report: Bailey, Jacas, Nussmeier Rise as Lomu Slips

The 2026 NFL Draft continues to take shape with several prospects climbing and falling in recent evaluations. Defensive end David Bailey is now the projected No. 2 overall pick, while quarterback Garrett Nussmeier is gaining second-round traction. On the flip side, Utah offensive tackle Caleb Lomu is in danger of slipping to the second round.

David Bailey, the Texas Tech defensive end, has solidified his status as the top edge rusher in the class. With a 6'5", 270-pound frame and a 4.54 40-yard dash time, Bailey is seen as a plug-and-play starter. He tallied 12.5 sacks and 22 tackles for loss in 2025, earning him All-Big 12 honors. The New York Jets are heavily considering selecting him with the second overall pick to pair with Will McDonald, creating a formidable edge duo.

Gabe Jacas of Illinois is another rising name. Standing 6'4" and 260 pounds, Jacas brings a relentless motor and exceptional run defense skills to the table. He recorded 6.5 sacks and 18 tackles for loss in 2025 and is being compared to early-career Jadeveon Clowney. Multiple team sources have stated they see no significant gap between Jacas and other projected first-rounders like Akeem Mesidor and T.J. Parker.

Garrett Nussmeier, the LSU quarterback, is gaining momentum as a potential second-round pick. He completed 68% of his passes for 3,400 yards and 28 touchdowns in 2024. Nussmeier's performance at the Senior Bowl and his strong interviews have impressed scouts, with some viewing him as a developmental starter with backup potential in the short term.

Malachi Lawrence of UCF is emerging as a day-two value. The 6'4", 255-pound edge rusher had 9.5 sacks in 2025 and is being compared to a young Melvin Ingram. With his quickness and strength, Lawrence is expected to be selected in the second round.

Chris McClellan, the Missouri defensive tackle, is a sleeper with disruptive potential. He recorded 5.5 sacks and 14 tackles for loss in 2025 and is being compared to John Jenkins. Some teams believe he could be taken in the second or third round.

Caleb Lomu, the Utah offensive tackle, is in danger of slipping to the second round. Despite his size (6'7", 320 pounds), scouts have not been wowed by his tape from his final season. He did not face top-tier competition and failed to stand out in his final collegiate season.

The 2026 NFL Draft will continue to evolve as teams finalize their evaluations. The next wave of pro days and Combine performances will offer more clarity on these prospects' futures.