As the 2026 MLS SuperDraft approaches, a select group of college stars have separated themselves from the pack with exceptional offensive production. From prolific goal scorers to creative playmakers, these athletes have dominated the NCAA statistical leaderboards while catching the attention of MLS scouts across the country.
THE GOAL SCORERS
Edouard Nys, UIC (16 goals, 18 games)
The 5-8 junior midfielder leads all draft-eligible players in goals while ranking third nationally. Nys has been a one-man wrecking crew for the Flames, leading the nation in shots per game (5.50) and shots on goal per game (2.72). His relentless attacking mentality and clinical finishing make him one of the draft's most intriguing offensive talents, proving that size isn't everything in the modern game.
Mitchell Baker, Georgetown (14 goals, 21 games)
Standing 6-4, the sophomore forward brings an imposing physical presence to complement his scoring touch. Baker ranks second nationally in shots on goal per game (2.05) and fourth in total shots per game (3.76), demonstrating consistent threat in the attacking third. His combination of size, athleticism, and finishing ability projects well to the professional level.
Daniel Lugo, High Point (14 goals, 20 games)
The 6-2 sophomore forward from the Big South Conference tied for second nationally in game-winning goals (7), showcasing his ability to deliver in crucial moments. With MLS NEXT Academy experience at Tampa Bay United and Chargers Soccer Club, Lugo enters the draft with both elite production and professional development background.
Daniel Burko, Hofstra (13 goals, 20 games)
The 6-3 senior forward has been lethal in front of goal, ranking second nationally in shot accuracy (0.623) and fifth in shots on goal per game (1.90). Burko's efficiency in converting chances makes him an attractive prospect for MLS teams looking for a proven finisher.
Lilian Ricol, UCF (13 goals, 21 games)
The 6-2 junior forward helped power UCF's successful Sun Belt campaign with 13 goals. Playing alongside nation's assist leader Clarence Awoudor, Ricol has thrived in a dynamic attacking system that could translate well to MLS.
THE PLAYMAKERS
Clarence Awoudor, UCF (15 assists, 21 games)
The 5-7 senior forward/midfielder leads the nation in assists per game (0.71) and total assists, orchestrating UCF's attack with vision and precision. Despite his smaller stature, Awoudor's creativity and ability to unlock defenses make him one of the draft's most exciting prospects.
Richie Aman, Washington (14 assists, 24 games)
The 5-9 senior midfielder from the Big Ten ranks fifth nationally in assists per game (0.58) while providing consistent service for the Huskies. With MLS NEXT Academy experience at Seacoast United, Aman brings both college production and youth development pedigree to the draft class.
Stefan Dobrijevic, Akron (12 assists, 21 games)
The 6-2 senior forward has been a dual threat for the Zips, combining playmaking ability with goal-scoring prowess. Playing for one of college soccer's most storied programs, Dobrijevic enters the draft with championship-level experience and versatility.
Daniel D'Ippolito, Fordham (9 assists, 17 games)
The 5-11 senior midfielder from the Atlantic 10 has been a creative force, demonstrating the ability to control tempo and create chances from the midfield.
Giacomo Zizza, Lehigh (9 assists, 20 games)
The sophomore midfielder has emerged as one of the Patriot League's top playmakers, showing advanced vision and passing ability that should translate to the professional game.
DUAL THREATS
Several players excel in both categories, making them particularly valuable draft prospects:
Jaime Amaro, Bryant (10 goals, 7 assists) - The freshman has burst onto the scene with 17 goal contributions in 22 games
Patrick Cayelli, Penn (9 goals, 8 assists) - The 5-10 senior midfielder provides balanced offensive production
Mamadou Diarra, Florida Atlantic (9 goals, 7 assists) - The senior forward has been a complete offensive weapon for the Owls
MLS NEXT ACADEMY CONNECTIONS
Many of these top performers developed through MLS academy systems before starring in college:
Daniel Lugo: Tampa Bay United, Chargers Soccer Club
Richie Aman: Seacoast United
Lilian Ricol: UCF pathway
Several others with MLS academy backgrounds
This blend of professional youth development and NCAA success creates particularly attractive draft profiles.
LOOKING AHEAD
As MLS teams prepare their draft boards, these offensive standouts represent proven goal scorers and creators who can immediately impact professional rosters. Whether as impact starters or developmental depth pieces, their college production demonstrates the finishing and creativity that translates to the next level.
The 2026 MLS SuperDraft promises to deliver offensive talent across multiple rounds, with these statistical leaders positioned to hear their names called early.