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2026 Draft Prospects Name Toughest College Rivals
27 Feb
Summary
- Prospects in the 2026 NFL Draft named their toughest college opponents.
- Seven players received two votes, including C.J. Stroud and Rueben Bain Jr.
- Heisman winner Fernando Mendoza surprisingly received no votes.
In a survey of 42 prospects invited to the NFL Combine for the 2026 Draft, players identified the most challenging opponents they faced in college football. A total of 34 different players were named, with seven receiving two votes each. No single player garnered more than two selections, highlighting the depth of talent across college football.
Among those named twice were former Ohio State quarterback C.J. Stroud, Penn State guard Olaivavega "Vega" Ioane, and Miami (Fla.) edge rusher Rueben Bain Jr. Several players returning to college for the 2026 season also received votes, though none earned more than one. Jeremiah Smith, an Ohio State wide receiver considered a top prospect for the 2027 Draft, was recognized for the second consecutive year.
An unexpected result from the survey was that Fernando Mendoza, the reigning Heisman Trophy winner and a presumptive top draft pick, did not receive any votes from his fellow prospects.
