The 2026 NFL Draft has another star-studded class of wide receivers ready to make an impact out of college football, but USC star Makai Lemon has made waves at this year’s NFL Combine for something else.
Lemon is projected to be a high first-round pick in April’s draft. The former Trojans standout could even potentially be the first receiver off the board after a solid collegiate career.
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However, NFL teams are a bit confused by Makai Lemon’s actions in Indianapolis during the interview portion of the workouts. That included a viral response when Lemon was asked which NFL wideout he mirrors his game from.
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Makai Lemon was TOO LOCKED IN when asked who he models his game after 😅
(via @NFL_Convo)pic.twitter.com/Sod4zluSV0
— Bleacher Report CFB (@BR_CFB) February 27, 2026
“Probably say Amon-Ra St. Brown,” the USC star said during the NFL Combine. “Type of grit he plays with. The way he can have a positive impact on the team without the ball in his hands.”
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When looking at Lemon’s potential, he’s certainly near the top of the 2026 NFL Draft class, especially on the offensive side of the football. Arizona State’s Jordyn Tyson and Texas A&M’s KC Concepcion are among the other elite wideouts to watch during the first round in Pittsburgh’s draft.
Meanwhile, one of Lemon’s former USC teammates also made headlines recently for an odd situation at his alma mater. Ja’Kobi Lane went viral last week for claiming a USC recruit stole gear and cleats from his locker.
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MORE: Top NFL Draft prospect KC Concepcion opens up on speech impediment
USC Trojans receiver Makai Lemon celebrates after catching a 32-yard touchdown pass. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
Both USC receivers are expected to be drafted this spring, but the recent storylines about them have certainly presented some interesting conversations at the Combine.
Last season, Lemon finished his USC career with 11 touchdown receptions and over 1,156 yards. Both statistics ranked top 10 among Division 1 football stars.
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