The 2026 NFL Draft buzz is heating up, and one name making waves is Georgia's Monroe Freeling. While not a consensus top-10 pick, Freeling's stock is rising, thanks to his impressive athleticism and positional value. Standing at 6-foot-7 and weighing 315 pounds, Freeling might just sneak into those coveted top spots, with the Cleveland Browns and Kansas City Chiefs both eyeing him at their respective No. 6 and No. 9 picks.
Freeling's performance at the NFL Combine was nothing short of stellar. He clocked a 4.93-second 40-yard dash, with a 1.71-second 10-yard split, and showcased a 33.5-inch vertical leap alongside a 9-foot, 7-inch broad jump.
Pro Football Network awarded him a near-perfect Relative Athletic Score of 9.99, ranking him second among offensive tackles measured from 1987 to 2026. Only Spencer Brown from Northern Iowa in 2021 outperformed him.
During the 2025 season, Freeling was a key player for Georgia, appearing in all 14 games and starting 13. His efforts earned him a spot on the SEC Coaches All-SEC Second Team and two SEC Offensive Lineman of the Week honors.
Over three seasons, he played in 35 games with 17 starts. Georgia's head coach, Kirby Smart, praised Freeling for his demeanor, leadership, and relentless drive to improve.
Freeling’s resilience was on full display when he played through an ankle injury against Auburn. Initially questionable and a game-time decision, he didn’t warm up pre-game but entered during the second quarter.
His impact was immediate, contributing four knockdown blocks and allowing no pressures or sacks. Smart lauded Freeling’s toughness and team-first mentality, highlighting his determination to play despite the injury.
Freeling's combination of athletic prowess and competitive spirit makes him a compelling prospect. As draft day approaches, he's a player to watch-one who could become a cornerstone for any NFL team willing to take a chance on his immense potential.