Clark’s two picks underlined his playmaking ability and leadership. Scouts noted how quickly he read routes, broke on the ball, and helped coordinate coverages with cornerbacks, showcasing traits that could translate to versatility in NFL schemes. His performance on Day 3 elevated his status among evaluators watching the defensive backs group this week.
Owen Heinecke, Oklahoma, continued to impress with instincts that outpaced his measurables. At 6-foot-1 and 224 pounds, Heinecke isn’t viewed as a standout athlete, but his diagnostic ability and football IQ stood out. Heinecke was active against the run, diagnosing schemes early and repeatedly getting to ball carriers in the backfield or in space, while showing solid awareness on special teams.
North Dakota State’s Cole Payton displayed the form that made him a late-round to mid-round consideration. The 6-foot-2½, 229-pound quarterback moved well in and out of the pocket, delivering accurate throws and off-platform deliveries with a calm presence. Payton’s pocket poise and arm strength were repeatedly highlighted by coaches, and his ability to process pressure and deliver quickly helped keep the offense on schedule.
Max Llewellyn, Iowa, provided twitch and explosion that thrilled observers, even as scouts cautioned that production hasn’t always matched upside. The 6-foot-5¼, 255-pound defensive end flashed burst off the edge, the ability to bend and flatten into the backfield, and shifty movement for a player his size. While his 2025 production (26 tackles, 6.5 sacks) wasn’t eye-popping, evaluators noted the upside and his potential to win with athleticism.
Arkansas running back Mike Washington Jr. was another high-wiber on the final day, delivering a strong all-around performance. Washington measured just over six feet and 228 pounds and played with power between the tackles, consistently gaining yardage after contact and showing reliable hands as a receiver out of the backfield. His consistency and physical style could make him an appealing Day 3 option for teams seeking a short-yardage back who can contribute in multiple roles.
Missouri wide receiver Kevin Coleman Jr. closed strong, showing the speed and burst that had scouts noting his big-play potential. At 5-foot-10 and 174 pounds, Coleman isn’t the biggest receiver, but he ran with velocity, separated efficiently, and caught the ball smoothly at full speed, offering a quick-strike option for offenses looking to stretch the field.
