The Athletic Football Show: A show about the NFL Building the Beast: Dane Brugler's midseason top-three at every position
Oct 8, 2025
Halfway through the college football season, rankings are shifting for the 2026 NFL Draft. Discover top quarterbacks like Dante Moore and emerging running backs such as Jeremiah Love. Dane Brugler evaluates wide receivers with impressive route skills and tight ends who may have off-field concerns. The conversation also covers standout offensive and defensive linemen, versatile linebackers, and intriguing cornerbacks. Plus, a look ahead to key matchups testing draft prospects makes for an engaging insight into the future of football.
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Lemon = Pro Route-Runner Not A Freak
- McKay Lemon profiles as a pro route-runner rather than a testing freak, winning with timing, hands, and zone awareness.
- Brugler compares him to NFL examples of smaller, polished receivers who translate reliably at the next level.
Sadiq Could Reach The Teens In Draft
- Kenyon Sadiq is a clear top tight end in this class and could land in the teens on draft day depending on how the uncertain top-10 shapes up.
- Brugler cautions Sadiq is not Brock Bowers level but sees a realistic path into the mid-to-late first round.
Tackle Board Still Fluid
- Tackle rankings are unsettled; Caden Proctor has been inconsistent, while Spencer Fano and Francis Mauii-Noa show steadier play.
- Brugler says Proctor must display urgency in October to regain a top spot after shaky early tape.