Top 5 Defensive Tackle prospects in 2026 NFL Draft

Field Level Media|published: Thu 19th February, 09:07 2026

Clemson defensive lineman Peter Woods (11) during the second quarter at Memorial Stadium in Clemson, S.C. Saturday, September 6, 2025.

Ahead of the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine, Field Level Media draft analysts ranked the top prospects at every position.

All defensive linemen follow an itinerary in Indianapolis calling for arrival on Tuesday, media Wednesday and on-field workouts Thursday. The entire position group tests in the bench press on Friday.

1. Peter Woods, Clemson

6-3, 315

Exceptional athlete with light feet, sudden agility and explosive power. He's projected to clock in the 4.8s in the 40.

2. Kayden McDonald, Ohio State

6-2, 326

Big-bodied nose tackle with disruptive effort and consistent push. Instincts are excellent, but he's still refining technical elements of his game.

3. Caleb Banks, Florida

6-6, 334

Rare size and athleticism, a legitimate run-stuffer at nose tackle. Can be explosive off the ball. Has an injury history to overcome.

4. Lee Hunter, Texas Tech

Profile: 6-3, 322

Surprising movement skills for his size but active and a challenge for blockers to square up and sustain blocks against.

5. Domonique Orange, Iowa State

6-2, 325

Strong and disruptive run stopper, he'll be one to watch for the bench press total. Overall agility and arm length to be scrutinized.

Zane Durant (Penn State) might defer his full workout to the campus pro day but with ground to make up in the position pecking order, don't be surprised if the 285-pounder decides to show his insane straight-line speed by at least running the 40 on Thursday.

--Field Level Media

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