USC Trojans wide receiver Makai Lemon announced his decision to enter the 2026 NFL Draft, forgoing his remaining eligibility after a standout junior season. Lemon, the Biletnikoff Award winner, ranks as the No. 3 wide receiver prospect and No. 17 overall in CBS Sports rankings. He is projected as a potential first-round pick.
Makai Lemon, a Los Angeles native and star wide receiver for the USC Trojans, declared for the 2026 NFL Draft on Wednesday following an impressive junior campaign. In his announcement, Lemon expressed deep gratitude for his time at USC, stating, "USC will forever hold a special place in my heart. I'm a Los Angeles native, and the opportunity to play this game in the city that raised me was something I envisioned long before it became reality. Competing in front of my family, friends, and community made this experience even more meaningful, and I'll always be proud to have represented this university and this city. After careful thought and prayer, I've decided to take the next step in my journey. I will be declaring for the 2026 NFL Draft and will be foregoing my remaining year of eligibility."
During the 2025 season, Lemon recorded 79 catches for 1,156 yards and 11 touchdowns, earning him the Biletnikoff Award as the nation's top wide receiver. He outperformed Ohio State's Jeremiah Smith and UConn's Skyler Bell for the honor and caught at least one touchdown pass in eight games as USC finished 9-3. Over his three-year college career, Lemon amassed 137 receptions for 2,008 yards and 14 touchdowns.
Currently ranked No. 17 overall and No. 3 among wide receivers in the CBS Sports NFL Draft Prospect Rankings, Lemon is viewed as a potential first-round selection. CBS Sports draft analyst Blake Brockermeyer mocked him to the Carolina Panthers at No. 13, praising his "defensive mentality at the catch point and brings a competitive edge. He's a problem in the slot due to his ability to create separation and make plays after the catch." Fellow analyst Josh Edwards projected Lemon to the Pittsburgh Steelers at No. 20, noting he provides a "complementary skillset" as a slot player who excels in space.
Lemon's departure is not unexpected for USC, ranked No. 16 in the final College Football Playoff rankings and set to face TCU in the Alamo Bowl on Dec. 30. He is not expected to participate. Fellow USC wide receiver Ja'Kobi Lane has also declared for the draft, leaving the Trojans to replace their top three pass catchers from this season, including tight end Lake McRee. However, quarterback Jayden Maiava is returning for 2026, and receiver Tanook Hines could see an expanded role after a season with 28 catches for 398 yards and two touchdowns. USC boasts the No. 1-ranked recruiting class for 2026 per 247Sports, setting high expectations for coach Lincoln Riley's fifth year.
