The 2026 NFL Draft’s wide receiver class isn’t the deepest ever, but it offers solid options for teams looking to upgrade their passing attacks.
Most NFL teams need to fill two outside receiver spots plus a slot role. This year’s class provides the variety to meet those different needs.
Here’s a breakdown of the top 10 receivers who should hear their names called in the first two rounds:
Ranking the 10 best wide receivers in 2026 NFL Draft
1. Carnell Tate, Ohio State (6-2, 192 pounds)
Tate has developed into a complete receiver during the draft process. He’s got the routes, hands, speed, and quickness that make him look like the next great Ohio State pro.
The Buckeyes have sent Garrett Wilson, Chris Olave, Jaxon Smith-Njigba, and Emeka Egbuka to the NFL recently. Tate fits that mold perfectly.
He can handle everything on the outside – big plays downfield and red zone targets.
Draft projection: Early first round
2. Jordyn Tyson, Arizona State (6-2, 203 pounds)
Tyson isn’t far behind Tate with his size, strength, and speed combination. He might not be as explosive downfield, but he’s a smooth route-runner.
Teams will love him as an intermediate target who can also work from the slot.
Draft projection: Early-to-mid first round
3. Makai Lemon, USC (5-11, 192 pounds)
Lemon profiles as a slot receiver in the mold of former Trojan Amon-Ra St. Brown, who’s now starring for the Lions.
He’s quick and tough running inside routes. Gets open in shorter areas and can break big plays after the catch.
Draft projection: Early-to-mid first round
4. Omar Cooper Jr., Indiana (6-0, 196 pounds)
Cooper has been the biggest riser during draft season. Playing with projected No. 1 overall pick QB Fernando Mendoza didn’t hurt his stock.
He’s a solid route-runner with underrated speed to make plays downfield and after catches.
Draft projection: Mid-to-late first round
5. KC Concepcion, Texas A&M (6-0, 196 pounds)
Concepcion doesn’t have ideal size for outside receiver work, but he makes up for it with speed and quickness.
He’s got a knack for turning catches into long gains. Think Tyler Lockett-type upside.
Draft projection: Late first round
6. Denzel Boston, Washington (6-4, 212 pounds)
Boston falls behind the top five because he lacks game-breaking speed. But he uses his frame and strength well on the outside.
Shows toughness before and after the catch that NFL teams value.
Draft projection: Late first round to early second round
7. Chris Bell, Louisville (6-2, 222 pounds)
Bell is similar to Boston – a big, strong receiver who wins routes with body positioning.
His hands are reliable, and he can overpower shorter cornerbacks.
Draft projection: Early-to-mid second round
8. Germie Bernard, Alabama (6-1, 206 pounds)
Bernard has moved up draft boards because he’s such a versatile weapon. He can line up anywhere on the field.
He’s especially dangerous in the open field after catches. Has some Chris Godwin qualities to his game.
Draft projection: Early to mid-second round
9. Chris Brazell II, Tennessee (6-4, 190 pounds)
Brazell is a possession receiver who works well on the boundary. He’s tough to handle in the red zone.
Also brings value as a blocker in the running game.
Draft projection: Mid-to-late third round
10. Elijah Sarratt, Indiana (6-3, 210 pounds)
Sarratt isn’t far behind his former teammate Cooper as another solid target from the Hoosiers.
He’s better suited for outside routes but needs to be more consistent using his size advantage.
Draft projection: Mid-to-late third round
