As the 2026 NFL Draft approaches, set to take place in Pittsburgh this April, analysts are evaluating the top wide receiver prospects. Matt Williamson, Mike Prisuta, and Max Starks from “On The Clock” have each shared their rankings and insights on this year’s class.
Matt Williamson notes that while there may not be a standout prospect at the level of Ja’Marr Chase, there is significant depth among receivers. He expects as many as 15 wide receivers could be selected in the first two rounds, with strong variety in size and playing style. “Many overreacted to Tate’s 4.53/40 at the Combine. But many of the NFL’s top wide outs ran a very similar time and hey, not to helmet scout, but the Buckeyes have a pretty incredible track record recently of pumping out players at this position. Tate wins at all levels with excellent nuance and body control,” Williamson says about his top pick Carnell Tate from Ohio State.
Williamson’s top five includes Denzel Boston (Washington), Makai Lemon (USC), Jordyn Tyson (Arizona State), and KC Concepcion (Texas A&M). He also highlights Ted Hurst from Georgia State as a sleeper pick for his potential despite facing lower-level competition.
Mike Prisuta emphasizes that talent can be found throughout every round of the draft. He references recent drafts where late-round picks such as Puka Nacua made significant impacts in the NFL. “It’s often said there’s talent to be found at wide receiver in any round of any NFL Draft,” Prisuta states. His rankings also put Carnell Tate at number one: “Tate’s 4.53 40-yard dash at the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis lacked splash but he didn’t need to make one at this juncture.” Other names on Prisuta’s list include Makai Lemon, Jordyn Tyson—who has an injury history but scores touchdowns when healthy—Denzel Boston, and Malachi Fields from Notre Dame.
Prisuta identifies Kaden Wetjen from Iowa as his sleeper choice due to Wetjen’s return abilities on special teams.
Max Starks describes this year’s receiver group as having several top-tier prospects shaped by developments like 7-on-7 leagues and flag football experience. “A top wide receiver is a tricky proposition at times, but when utilized in the right system, something spectacular happens to an offense,” Starks explains.
Starks’ ranking mirrors others with Carnell Tate leading his list for possessing speed, explosiveness, game intelligence, catch radius, and height: “He is an ideal complement to an already established receiver that will garner his own attention.” Jordyn Tyson follows closely behind despite health concerns; Starks points out Tyson’s ability for explosive plays and credits Arizona State coach Hines Ward for his development. Makai Lemon is recognized for competitiveness; Denzel Boston is praised for physicality; KC Concepcion rounds out Starks’ five due to breakaway speed despite inconsistency catching passes.
Chris Bell from Louisville is highlighted by Starks as a sleeper who could still become an effective target thanks to his frame and end zone presence.
The Pittsburgh Steelers organization has a rich history connected with hosting events like the upcoming draft. The team honors its past contributors through initiatives such as its Hall of Honor official website and features artifacts celebrating achievements including six Super Bowl championships official website. The franchise also engages fans through historical celebrations official website and displays memorabilia at Acrisure Stadium’s Hall of Honor Museum official website. As a member club of the National Football League official website, Pittsburgh continues its legacy both on and off the field during major events like this year’s draft.
