2026 NFL Draft: American Conference prospects to watch

LANDOVER, MARYLAND - DECEMBER 14: Running back Eli Heidenreich #22 of the Navy Midshipmen celebrates after scoring a touchdown against the Army Black Knights during the third quarter of 125th America's Game between the Army Black Knights and the Navy Midshipmen at Northwest Stadium on December 14, 2024 in Landover, Maryland. (Photo by Patrick Smith/Getty Images) | Getty Images For the fourth-straight year, the American Conference did not produce a first-round NFL Draft selection. Although that streak remains in tact, the conference remains rich in talent for the six remaining rounds, similar to previous years.

In 2025, the American generated six draft picks with East Carolina cornerback Shavon Revel Jr. and Tulane cornerback Caleb Ransaw hearing their names first as day two selections. This year, the league aims to match or exceed that number.

Four American prospects were invited to the 2026 NFL Combine — Eli Heidenreich, Travis Burke, Robert Henry Jr. , and Chris Adams — and these are among the conference’s most likely day two and day three selections in the 2026 draft. However, there are also several intriguing non-Combine invites that may elicit interest from NFL franchises.

Here’s a look at 10 American Conference prospects to monitor during the final six rounds on Friday and Saturday, as well as during the early stages of post-draft free agency: Eli Heidenreich, RB/WR, Navy 6’0”, 198 pounds NFL Combine measurements: 4. 44-second 40-yard dash; 35. 5-inch vertical; 10-foot-0-inch broad jump Heidenreich is one of the most intriguing prospects in the 2026 class.