The NFL Draft might not be the deepest in recent memory, but there are some standout players about to enter the league at some premium positions.
One of the deepest groups in this year’s class, at least at the top, is at wide receiver, where the position could see at least three players chosen in the top-30 picks.
NFL Draft prospect Makai Lemon draws rave reviews
USC wide receiver Makai Lemon is turning heads inside the league, as the NFL Draft approaches, with one top executive comparing him to one of the most prolific players at the position across the sport.
“We like Lemon a lot,” an AFC Personnel Executive told Between The Hashmarks. “Especially as a slot receiver, but he’s a combo, who can also play the ‘Z.’ He’s in a similar mold to Jaxson Smith-Njigba.”
NFL Draft
Nov 29, 2025; Los Angeles, California, USA; Southern California Trojans wide receiver Makai Lemon (6) celebrates with tight end Walker Lyons (85) after catching a 32-yard touchdown pass against the UCLA Bruins in the second half at United Airlines Field at Los Angeles Memorial Coliseum. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
Lemon, 5-foot-11 and 195 pounds, is an elite route runner with game-altering speed, which helped him average 6.4 Yards After the Catch Per Reception, this past season as a focal point of the Trojans’ vertical passing game.
The Seahawks built much of their passing offense around Smith-Njigba’s ability to create separation and as an after the catch dynamo, and if Lemon can offer that kind of upside at the next level, he’s going to significantly elevate the scheme he walks into after the NFL Draft.