The NFL Draft is a treasure trove for teams seeking to bolster their rosters with young talent, and Day 3 is no exception. This year, several offensive prospects stand out as potential starters in 2026, offering a glimpse into the future of the league. Among them, Brenen Thompson, Jonah Coleman, Elijah Sarratt, Skyler Bell, Cyrus Allen, and Bryce Lance emerge as key players who could make an immediate impact. Each brings unique skills and potential to their respective teams, and their stories are worth exploring in more detail.
Brenen Thompson: The Speedster from Mississippi State
Brenen Thompson, a 5'9" wide receiver from Mississippi State, was selected by the Los Angeles Chargers in the fourth round. His speed is remarkable, as evidenced by his 4.26-second 40-yard dash time at the scouting combine. Thompson's ability to line up outside and his explosive route-running skills make him an intriguing prospect for the Chargers' new offense, led by Mike McDaniel. With a focus on speed and the vertical passing game, Thompson could be the missing piece to complement Quentin Johnston and Oronde Gadsden II, and his size and speed make him a versatile asset that McDaniel can utilize in various formations.
Jonah Coleman: The Versatile Back for the Broncos
The Denver Broncos, led by head coach Sean Payton, have always valued versatility and speed at the running back position. Jonah Coleman, a 5'8" back from Washington, fits this mold perfectly. With 758 rushing yards and 15 touchdowns on 157 carries last season, Coleman proved his ability to gain yards after first contact and force missed tackles. His 31 catches for 51 yards and two touchdowns showcase his pass-catching chops, making him a potential franchise back. Payton's confidence in Coleman's selection speaks volumes about his potential, and his skills are highly transferable to Payton's offense.
Elijah Sarratt: The Red Zone Threat for the Ravens
The Baltimore Ravens, seeking to improve their red zone offense, drafted Elijah Sarratt from Indiana in the fourth round. Sarratt, a 6'2½" receiver, caught 64 passes on 87 targets for 824 yards and 15 touchdowns last season. His big body and strong hands make him a contested-catch receiver, and his ability to make back-shoulder fades and run short-area routes makes him a valuable asset in the red zone. Sarratt's mindset and trust in his quarterback will be music to Lamar Jackson's ears, and his skills could make him a key player in the Ravens' offense very quickly.
Skyler Bell: The Moveable Chess Piece for the Bills
The Buffalo Bills, seeking to address their passing game concerns, drafted Skyler Bell from Connecticut in the fourth round. Bell, a 5'11⅝" receiver, caught 102 passes on 141 targets for 1,282 yards and 13 touchdowns last season. His position-versatility and ability to make explosive catches make him a valuable asset. New head coach Joe Brady is intrigued by Bell's potential to become a moveable chess piece, and his skills could be a major piece of the puzzle in the Bills' offense.
Cyrus Allen: The Route-Running Specialist for the Chiefs
The Kansas City Chiefs, seeking to improve their receiving corps, drafted Cyrus Allen from Cincinnati in the fifth round. Allen, a 5'11" receiver, caught 49 passes on 69 targets for 661 yards and 12 touchdowns last season. His route nuance and ability to separate from defenders in short spaces make him a valuable asset. Allen's competitiveness and talent, as noted by Chiefs Vice President of Player Personnel Ryne Nutt, make him a player who will quickly become his quarterback's best friend. The addition of Jeff Caldwell, a bigger and faster receiver, further strengthens the Chiefs' receiving corps.
Bryce Lance: The Big Play Receiver for the Saints
The New Orleans Saints, seeking to improve their receiving corps, drafted Bryce Lance from North Dakota State in the fourth round. Lance, a 6'3" receiver, caught 16 deep passes on 21 targets for 641 yards and three touchdowns last season. His size, speed, and ball skills make him a big play waiting to happen. Lance's ability to learn quickly and his technical skills make him a valuable asset, and his presence will fill a desperate need for the Saints' offense.
