2026 NFL Rookie Class Midseason Grades Reveal Early Hits and Performance Gaps
The 2026 NFL season approaches its midway point with Week 8 serving as the key benchmark for evaluating the rookie class. With half the campaign in the books, early draft picks are proving their value while others struggle to adapt to the professional level.
Nearly halfway through their first NFL seasons, early second-round selections are defining the class’s narrative. The Baltimore Ravens’ offensive lineman has exceeded expectations as the most universally liked pick in the group, while Pittsburgh Steelers offensive tackle Max Iheanachor has earned five starts despite being a raw prospect from Arizona State. Across the AFC North, all four rookie offensive linemen are playing well right away, though Iheanachor’s game shows tangible improvement week to week, even as he allowed three sacks in the last two games.
Second-round cornerback Brandon Cisse has compiled 25 solo tackles, 1.5 sacks, and 2.5 tackles for loss through eight games for the Green Bay Packers. His physical play style has helped the defense shut down formidable pass-catching duos, though he has endured difficult moments against elite receivers like Justin Jefferson and Amon-Ra St. Brown. Seventh-round kicker Trey Smack has raised consistency concerns after an inconsistent start, while sixth-round cornerback Domani Jackson is still working to establish himself in the secondary.
Injuries have shrunk the pool of evaluable rookies. Serious setbacks to Chase Bisontis, De’Zhaun Stribling, and Bud Clark have limited their on-field impact. Las Vegas Raiders safety Treydan Stukes recorded an interception in his debut and has shown starting-caliber potential, though the entire Raiders defense has been terrible since his absence. Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Germie Bernard has totaled 194 yards and a touchdown over his last three games, capitalizing on opportunities after a few injuries assisted his role expansion.
The Green Bay Packers entered the 2026 NFL Draft with eight picks to address several holes across a depleted roster. Through a series of trades, the team ultimately turned those eight selections into just six rookies. Second-round cornerback Brandon Cisse has had an opportunity to cement himself as a starter, while third-round defensive tackle Chris McClellan and fourth-round edge rusher Dani Dennis-Sutton have helped bolster the defensive front. Fifth-round center Jager Burton has provided offensive line depth, and sixth-round cornerback Domani Jackson is still working to establish himself. Seventh-round kicker Trey Smack has faced consistency concerns after an inconsistent start.
The Baltimore Ravens are noted for drafting a highly regarded offensive lineman who has exceeded expectations. Pittsburgh Steelers offensive lineman Max Iheanachor has earned five starts despite being a raw prospect from Arizona State. The Green Bay Packers turned eight draft picks into six rookies following a series of trades. Green Bay rookie cornerback Brandon Cisse has competed for a starting role, while kicker Trey Smack has faced consistency concerns. Other Green Bay rookies, including Chris McClellan and Dani Dennis-Sutton, have provided depth to the defensive front.
Las Vegas Raiders rookie safety Treydan Stukes recorded an interception in his debut and has shown starting-caliber potential. Pittsburgh Steelers wide receiver Germie Bernard has totaled 194 yards and a touchdown over his last three games. Cincinnati Bengals rookie EDGE Cashius Howell ranks fifth among rookie defensive ends in pressures (13) while placing third in pass-rush WIN% (12.0). Tampa Bay Buccaneers linebacker Josiah Trotter ranks second among all rookies in tackles (62). Kansas City Chiefs rookie EDGE R Mason Thomas has recorded 19 pressures, trailing just two EDGEs for the rookie lead.
The 2026 NFL season is approaching its midway point, with Week 8 serving as a key benchmark for evaluating the rookie class.
Sources
- List of The Rookie episodes
- Packers Rookie Grades: 2026 Midseason Report Card
- 11 Second-Round NFL Rookies Turning Heads at Midseason: Ranking the Biggest Winners & Surprises
- AFC North rookie OL midseason grades: Browns hit twice, Ravens find a star
- Midseason Dynasty Rankings & Trade Charts for 2026 (Fantasy Football)
- Packers Rookie Grades: 2026 Midseason Report Card
Photo: Gene Gallin / Unsplash (Unsplash License)
