The great jubilation surrounding second-round sensation Marlin Klein has barely died down before the remaining six German draft hopefuls are left disillusioned. The “Mr. Irrelevant” of the 2026 NFL Draft is a linebacker this time.

Day three of the 2026 NFL Draft brought no further success stories from a German perspective.

After the coup for tight end Marlin Klein, who the Houston Texans had already drafted at number 59 in round two, Saturday remained without a name on the draft board for the remaining six German prospects.

Offensive linemen Paul Rubelt, Mark Petry, Florian Staehler and Felix Lepper came away empty-handed, as did defensive lineman Maurice Heims and punter/kicker Leo Blumentritt.

Rubelt and Petry in particular had been touted as possible late-round picks in the run-up to the draft.

This means they will now have to take the classic detour: Contracts as undrafted free agents or invitations to rookie minicamps to recommend themselves for a place in the squad.

Mr. Irrelevant a linebacker this time

The highest-picked quarterback on the third and final day of the draft was Cade Klubnik (Clemson), who was selected in the fourth round by the New York Jets. Surprising was the case of quarterback Garrett Nussmeier, who only went in the seventh round at position 249 to the Kansas City Chiefs. Nussmeier was considered a fourth-round pick at most in the run-up to the draft.

The symbolic end to the draft weekend was set by US linebacker Red Murdock from the University at Buffalo.

The 23-year-old was selected by the Denver Broncos with pick 257 and thus bears the traditional title of “Mr. Irrelevant” of the 2026 draft year.