There are four Day 3 wide receivers that will outperform their selection spot in the 2026 NFL Draft. While this class boast a lot of quality, high end talent that will likely see several wide receivers come off the board in the first two rounds, there are others that have a real chance to become immediate contributors in the right system. Possessing a combination of production, athleticism, and versatility, these four names should be watched for going into the third day of the draft.
CJ Daniels, Miami (Projected: Round 6)
Standing in at 6′-2″ and weighing 202 pounds, Daniels brings good size and length for the outside receiver spot. Daniels put in six collegiate seasons starting at Liberty, then Ole Miss, and finally landing at Miami. CJ posted 50 receptions for 557 yards and seven touchdowns in 2025 despite missing time with a foot injury. His contested-catch rate sits above 80 percent over the past two seasons, and he forced 31 missed tackles on just 50 catches.
Daniels posted pro day numbers include a 4.58-second 40-yard dash, 34.5″ vertical, and 10′3″ broad jump. He uses his frame and strong hands to win at the catch point, especially on contested catches, and shows nice YAC ability for a player with his size. Concerns focus on his injury history and occasional drops, but his ball skills and toughness make him a reliable depth piece who can step into a starting role if needed.
CJ Daniels athletically profiles similar to Demarcus Robinson of Florida. Robinson has continually earned playing time in the NFL by being a reliable target for his quarterback that is unafraid of contact and willing to participate in the run game. CJ’s most likely path to sticking on an NFL roster will be similar, as gaining trust from his passer, fighting for yardage and refusing to be outworked are always going to be coveted, transferable skills.
Gridiron Heroics Christian Lance currently ranks CJ Daniels at No. 86 overall.
Chris Bell, Louisville (Projected: Round 4)
Measuring in at 6′-2″ and weighing 222 pounds, Bell dominated at the high school level in Mississippi before becoming a standout at Louisville. In 2025, Bell made his mark as a vertical threat with strong production. Unfortunately, a late season ACL tear kept him from testing at the combine.
Bell wins with physicality at the line, strong hands, and the ability to stack defenders vertically. While route refinement and the ability to stop/start needs upgraded, his play strength and willingness to block make him a solid complimentary player to have rostered.
Chris Bell athletically profiles similar to Quincy Enunwa of Nebraska. There’s an upside here that, if it can be realized, puts Bell on a path to meaningful snaps as a professional.
Gridiron Heroics Christian Lance currently ranks Chris Bell at No. 52 overall.
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