Full Breakdown
2026 NFL Draft: Underclassmen Declare and Team Strategies Emerge
1/17/2026, 6:36:34 AM
Overview of Underclassmen Declarations
As the 2026 NFL Draft approaches, the league has announced a total of 63 underclassmen who have declared their eligibility. This includes 42 players who received special eligibility after meeting the NFL's three-year requirement and 21 players who completed their degree requirements while retaining college football eligibility. The deadline for underclassmen to declare was January 14, with players from Indiana and Miami having until January 23 due to their participation in the College Football Playoff national championship.
Notable players granted special eligibility include Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love and Ohio State linebacker Arvell Reese, both of whom rank highly on ESPN analyst Mel Kiper Jr.'s Big Board. Oregon quarterback Dante Moore, previously considered a top prospect, opted to return to college for another year, marking a significant decision in the draft landscape.
Official Statements & Responses
The NFL's announcement regarding underclassmen declarations has been met with mixed reactions. While many analysts praise the depth of talent available in the draft, the decision of high-profile players like Dante Moore to remain in college has sparked discussions about the impact of NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) deals on player decisions.
Criticism & Opposition
Critics argue that the trend of underclassmen declaring for the draft may lead to a dilution of talent in college football, as top players opt for early entry rather than completing their collegiate careers. This sentiment is echoed by some coaches and analysts who believe that players benefit from additional development time in college.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
There is a discrepancy in the number of underclassmen declaring for the draft compared to previous years. For instance, 70 underclassmen declared for the 2025 draft, while only 63 have done so for 2026. This raises questions about the overall talent pool and the potential impact of NIL opportunities on player decisions.
What's Next
The 2026 NFL Draft is scheduled to take place from April 23-25 in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. As teams finalize their strategies, the upcoming NFL Scouting Combine will provide further insights into player performances and potential draft stock.
