The strength of the 2026 NFL Draft was evident throughout the latter rounds . Though the overall class was described as historically weak, that was more of a first-round problem. Scouts and execs agreed that underdog talents were available throughout Day 3.

Finding sleeper prospects in Rounds 3-7 separates good drafts from uninspiring ones . Various organizations navigated those challenges better than others. With that analysis in mind, we've identified a handful of late-round 2026 draft picks with an excellent chance to establish themselves as starters this year.

2026 NFL Draft: Late-Round Selections With Best Chance to Start This Season

Keionte Scott, DB, Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Dec 31, 2025; Arlington, TX, USA; Miami Hurricanes defensive back Keionte Scott (0) returns an interception for a touchdown during the 2025 Cotton Bowl and quarterfinal game of the College Football Playoff at AT&T Stadium.…