The rhythm of the college football season is starting to settle in, and each week we see potential 2026 draft prospects separating themselves from the pack. In the 2026 Draft Spotlight, I’ll highlight one emerging player whose performance and profile are elevating their stock; breaking down what it means for their draft projection, devy value, and long-term dynasty outlook.
This week, that spotlight shifts to USC wide receiver Makai Lemon, one of the most dynamic and complete playmakers in college football. Lemon has been the engine behind USC’s offensive resurgence, showcasing elite route-running, YAC ability, and consistency as the Trojans’ go-to weapon. With over 750 yards and six touchdowns through seven games, he’s proven to be one of the most productive receivers in the country and a name quickly climbing up 2026 draft boards. His polish, versatility, and reliability have made him not only USC’s offensive centerpiece but one of the premier wide receiver prospects in all of college football.
Player Introduction & Context
It’s not often a wide receiver lives up to five-star billing, but USC’s Makai Lemon has done exactly that, and then some. The junior wideout has emerged as one of college football’s most complete playmakers and a legitimate contender for the Maxwell Award, cementing his place among the elite in the 2026 NFL Draft class.
Lemon has been a consistent force in one of the nation’s most explosive offenses. Through seven games, he’s totaled 48 receptions for 758 yards (15.8 YPC) and six touchdowns, ranking second nationally in receiving yards per game (108.3) and first in the Big Ten in all-purpose yards (133.1). Whether it’s creating separation with sharp route-running, breaking tackles after the catch, or impacting the game as a returner, Lemon’s versatility has made him indispensable to USC’s attack.
His 2024 campaign hinted at this breakout; he led the Trojans with 764 receiving yards and 52 catches while adding nearly 750 total return yards. Now, under a more balanced offensive scheme with Jayden Maiava at quarterback, Lemon has taken his game to another level. He’s been nearly automatic as a target, dropping just one pass all season and only three in his career, making him one of the most reliable receivers in the country.
A former Under Armour All-American and MaxPreps First Team All-State selection, Lemon entered USC as a polished, two-way athlete from Los Alamitos (CA), known for his elite hands, toughness, and football IQ. Those traits have carried over at the college level, where he’s blossomed into a complete receiver who thrives on both the boundary and in the slot.
At 5’11”, 190 pounds, Lemon may not boast elite size, but his compact build, YAC ability, and competitive nature evoke shades of Amon-Ra St. Brown, another Trojan-turned-pro who made a career out of doing everything well. With his combination of production, versatility, and polish, Lemon is no longer just USC’s top weapon; he’s a name we’ll be hearing early on draft weekend.
Film Room – What the Tape Shows 🎥
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