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Former Georgia star makes ESPN’s list of biggest NFL Draft risers

Spenser Davis

By Spenser Davis

Published:

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Former Georgia offensive lineman Monroe Freeling has had a remarkable rise up NFL Draft boards.

With the draft set to take place later this month, ESPN’s Jeff Legwold wrote about 7 prospects who have significantly improved their draft stock over the past year.

Legwold notes that Freeling was considered a potential Day 2 pick at this time last year because of his impressive athleticism and physical traits. However, in his first year as a starter, Freeling proved he could be a first-round pick.

Here’s some of Legwood’s analysis about why Freeling has risen up draft boards:

Scouts who monitor the SEC said they could see Freeling’s pass-protection technique improve in real time. His hand placement got better throughout the season against some of the most explosive defensive players on this draft board. Games against Auburn and Texas last season are frequently mentioned by evaluators.

According to the latest odds on Kalshi, Freeling even has a slight chance of being a top-10 draft pick: Here’s a look at that market:

Prediction Markets
Players Drafted Top 10 in 2026?
Learn more about Prediction Markets
Kalshi
Fernando Mendoza
99%
Arvell Reese
97%
Jeremiyah Love
93%
Carnell Tate
85%
Rueben Bain Jr.
77%
Francis Mauigoa
73%
Mansoor Delane
69%
Caleb Downs
52%
Monroe Freeling
18%
Ty Simpson
8%

UGA has not produced a top-10 pick since defensive lineman Jalen Carter in 2023.

Round 1 of the 2026 NFL Draft is set for April 23.

Spenser Davis

Spenser is a news editor for Saturday Down South and covers college football across all Saturday Football brands.

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