With the trade deadline in the rearview mirror, team identities are beginning to become more clear which in turn provides clarity on team needs. Contenders addressed areas of weakness, while rebuilding franchises are adding draft capital and retooling for the future. This 2026 NFL mock draft will reflect updated team needs, shifting quarterback markets, and the ripple effects of midseason trades that altered long-term roster construction.
Here’s how the first round could shake out if the season ended today.
2026 NFL Mock Draft
No. 1: Tennessee Titans — Arvell Resse, LB – Ohio State
Arvell Reese has been the heart of Ohio State’s defense this season, flying around the field and setting the tone with his physicality. He’s shown excellent range, closing speed, instincts in coverage, and stacks and shed with the best of them. This combination of traits make him an ideal modern chess piece capable of playing all over the defense. Where he will make his money at the next level is going to be on the edge which blends well with the Titan’s base 3-4 defense.
Tennessee’s defense has lacked a difference maker outside of Jeffery Simmons. Normally, linebackers can be tricky to value this high, but Reese’s blend of athleticism, leadership, and impact production makes him more than simply a linebacker. Regardless of what position he is called on draft night, consider his a defensive weapon above all else.
No. 2: New Orleans Saints — Reuben Bain, Edge – Miami
Rueben Bain Jr. one of the best edge rushers in the class, and is in consideration for the top overall pick in the draft. Due to elite upside and versatility, Arvell Reese went first overall to Tennessee, allowing Bain to fall into the laps of the Saints at No. 2 overall.
The Saints have Spencer Rattler who played pretty well to start the year, before turning to rookie Tyler Shough who has come on late leading the Saints to their second win of the season against the division rival Caroline Panthers. Look for Shough to keep building during his rookie campaign and do enough for the Saints to looks past quarterback in the 2026 class; and instead, insert a young pass rusher in Bain into their front seven.
Bain consistently wins one-on-one matchups. His hand technique and ability to disengage from blockers make him a versatile pass-rushing threat. He is also a great run stopped with a high motor and takes excellent pursuit. Ultimately Bain is going to be able to pressure the quarterback, set the edge in the run game, and make plays sideline to sideline for the Saints defense.
No. 3: New York Giants — Carnell Tate, WR – Ohio State
Standing 6-foot-3, Carnell Tate can stretch the field vertically while also winning contested catches in traffic, a perfect complement to Malik Nabers. His route-running savvy, coupled with strong hands and run blocking, gives the Giants a versatile weapon who can immediately contribute in multiple offensive sets.
Beyond the tape, Tate’s competitiveness and football IQ align with a Giants culture that values disciplined, high-effort players. Adding him would give New York a dynamic, long-term receiving option capable of transforming their passing attack for their apparent franchise quarterback Jaxson Dart.
No. 4: Cleveland Browns — Ty Simpson, QB – Alabama
Even though the Cleveland Browns had selected Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders in the 2025 NFL draft, I do not believe that would stop them from selecting Heisman hopeful Ty Simpson should he be available to them at No. 4 overall.
Simpson has taken college football by storm after a slow start against Florida State. He has some of theist mechanics you will see, he is accurate to all three levels of the field, and offers good mobility as a play maker. He would easily start over any quarterback currently rosters in Cleveland. The next step for the Browns will be to fortify their offensive line to protect him.
No. 5: New York Jets — Fernando Mendoza, QB – Indiana
The New York Jets have been looking for their franchise quarterback for what feels like forever, they went out and tried to address the issue in free agency with the addition of Justin Fields, but that has slowly fizzled out in recent weeks. This time around, the Jets draft Fernando Mendoza to address the need through the draft.
Mendoza is a perfect fit for the Jets who already have an reestablished offensive line, Garrett Wilson, Mason Taylor, Breece Hall, and recently acquired Adonai Mitchell who has significant talent, but could never solid a role in Indianapolis.
No. 6: Las Vegas Raiders — Dante Moore, QB – Oregon
The Las Vegas Raiders had traded for Geno Smith and then gave him a three year extension. The partnership has not quote worked out to this point for either party, with the Raiders falling to 2-7 and Geno ranking second in the league with 12 interceptions. The Raiders do have an $8 million dollar out of the Geno contact this off-season and could be looking for his successor. Whether the Raiders keep Geno to operate the offense until Moore is ready, bring in another veteran bridge quarterback, or even turn the keys back to Aidan O’Connell until Moore is ready they will have options.
Dante Moore is a dual threat quarterback who is accurate to all levels of the field and is ideal for the new modern NFL offense. He should, however, sit for a period of time before taking his first snaps in the NFL making the Raiders a good fit with all their options to facilitate this.
No. 7: Miami Dolphins — Jermod McCoy, CB – Tennessee
Jermod McCoy brings a rare combination of instinctive ball skills, physicality in coverage, and positional versatility; and the Dolphins need to bolster its secondary next to Minkah Fitzpatrick.
At 6-foot, 193 pounds, McCoy has already proven his ability to lock down receivers in one‑on‑one matchups, disrupt routes with his length and athleticism, and deliver playmaking turnovers. Miami, looking to upgrade its cornerback room and add disruptive defensive backs who can change games, would gain a near‑Day 1 contributor in McCoy. He has yet to play this season as he returns fully from his ACL injury, but his tape prior to his injury was undeniable. He packs the upside to become a cornerstone in the Dolphins defensive for years to come.
No. 8: Washington Commanders — Caleb Downs, S – Ohio State
The Commanders defense is in need of a youth injection. Caleb Downs brings a rare blend of instincts, versatility and physicality that would make him an immediate upgrade for Washington’s secondary. At 6-foot and 205 pounds, he excels in coverage, run support and transitioning between roles whether lining up deep, in the box, or rotating inside.
Downs’ proven ability to diagnose plays pre‑snap, close downhill in run support, and cover a wide range of receivers gives the Commanders a defense‑transforming talent who can help stabilize a back end in need of dynamic playmakers. Adding Downs would not only fill a pressing need but also give Washington a potential long‑term cornerstone in the defensive backfield.
No. 9: Cincinnati Bengals — Peter Woods, DL – Clemson
This was a difficult pick. The Bengals must find a way to protect Joe Burrow, and Francis Mauigoa was under heavy consideration here. Yet, ultimately, the defense is also a disaster and needs reinforcement. In this instance I chose to address the defense and select a defensive centerpiece in Peter Woods, leaving offensive line to be addressed in the following rounds or free agency.
No. 10: Los Angeles Rams — Mansoor Delane, CB – LSU
Mansoor Delane has been the best cover-corners in college football this year. He brings a rare combination of instincts, versatility and polish that aligns well with the Rams defense. At 6-foot, 190 pounds, he has demonstrated strong performance in both press‑man and zone coverage, coupled with ability to tackle downhill and offer substance in run support. His experience across multiple roles—outside corner, nickel, and deep safety—gives the Rams a flexible piece in the secondary. Delane would provide the Dolphins with both an immediate impact in coverage and a long‑term building block in their defensive backfield.
No. 11: Arizona Cardinals — Spencer Fanu, OT – Utah
Spencer Fano’s rare combination of size and athleticism makes him an ideal cornerstone offensive tackle for the Cardinal’s offensive line with Jonah Williams deal set to expire at the end of the season. He showed elite technique and versatility in college, starting as a true freshman and excelling at both left and right tackle.
Arizona, aiming to improve their pass protection and establish a more physical run game, would gain an immediate Day 1 starter in Fano. His ability in pass protection and run blocking matches what the Cardinals need for both immediate impact and long-term stability. Fano, paired with Iris Johnson, is the kind of offensive line talent who can anchor Arizona’s front for years to come.
No. 12: Dallas Cowboys — T.J. Parker, DE – Clemson
The Cowboys, looking to bolster their pass‑rush and bring more consistent pressure would gain an immediate impact player in T.J. Parker, who can set the tone from Day 1. His high motor, disruptive tendencies and capacity to play both the run and the pass make him an ideal long‑term building block for Dallas’ defense.
No. 13: Baltimore Ravens — David Bailey
David Bailey brings elite pass‑rushing explosiveness and disruptive power that align perfectly with the Ravens’ defensive identity. At 6-foot-3 and 250 pounds, Bailey combines first‑step burst, bend off the edge, and strength to win one‑on‑one matchups—skills the Ravens value as they seek more consistent pressure from their front. His production in college (notably double‑digit sacks and forced fumbles) reflects a high motor and playmaker mindset, making him an immediate contributor in a Baltimore scheme built on attacking off the edge.
Adding Bailey gives the Ravens a dynamic piece who can rush the passer, set the edge against the run, and help create turnover opportunities—positioning him as a cornerstone defender in their front‑seven for years to come.
No. 14: Minnesota Viking — Avieon Terrell, CB – Clemson
Avieon Terrell brings elite ball skills, physicality, and playmaking instincts that would make an immediate impact in Minnesota’s secondary. At 5-foot-11 and 180 pounds, he excels in man coverage, closing quickly in space, and forcing turnovers—traits the Vikings highly value in their defensive backs.
Minnesota, looking to add speed, agility, and versatility to a back-end would gain a player capable of contributing immediately while also projecting as a long-term cornerstone. Terrell’s instincts, discipline, and athleticism give the Vikings a defender who can influence both the pass and run game, strengthening a defense that thrives on pressure in a Brian Flores scheme.
No. 15: Houston Texas — Francis Mauigoa, C – Miami
The Houston Texans need offensive line help wherever they can get it. Francis Mauigoa offers a combination of size, athleticism and technical upside to fortify their offensive line. At 6-foot-6 and 315 pounds, he has the power to maul in the run game and the versatility to play multiple tackle spots. Or, he could bounce inside where he has All-Pro potential at guard – where I believe is his best fit. Mauigoa’s trajectory, regardless of where Houston assigns him, is an upgrade from their current cast. Mauigoa would be a much-needed addition in protection the franchise passer CJ Stroud.
No. 16: Carolina Panthers — Jordyn Tyson, WR – Arizona State
Jordyn Tyson’s size, speed, and route-running polish make him an ideal fit for the Panthers’ offense. At 6-foot-2, he can line up both outside and in the slot, giving Carolina a versatile receiving threat who can stretch the field vertically while excelling in contested catches. His ability to create yards after the catch and make explosive plays aligns perfectly with a Panthers offense looking to add dynamic weapons and improve overall efficiency in the passing game.
Beyond his physical tools, Tyson’s competitiveness and football IQ make him a player who can contribute immediately and develop into a long-term cornerstone of Carolina’s receiving corps alongside Tetairoa McMillan.
No. 17: Kansas City Chiefs — Jeremiyah Love, RB – Notre Dame
Jeremiyah Love brings a rare blend of explosiveness, vision and receiving versatility out of the backfield that aligns well with Kansas City’s offensive identity. At 6-foot and ~210 pounds, Love pairs break‑away speed with contact toughness and pass‑catching chops, giving the Chiefs a multi‑dimensional weapon who can thrive as both a traditional runner and a dangerous threat in the passing game.
In an offense loaded with weapons at receiver and tight end, Love would provide a complementary dimension — a back who can get downhill, force defenders to account for him in space, and elevate the overall attack. Kansas City, looking to keep their offense dynamic and balanced, would gain an immediate contributor and long‑term asset in Love to help sustain success for years to come.
No. 18: San Francisco 49ers — Caleb Lomu, OL – Utah
Trent Williams is on the wrong side of 30, and will likely being ending his Hall of Fame level career in the near-future. That should prompt the 49ers to search for his eventual successor. Caleb Lomu brings the rare blend of size, elite athleticism and technical upside that the 49ers would covet in their zone scheme.
At 6-foot-6 and just over 300 pounds, Lomu moves like a tight end despite his frame, showing lateral quickness, solid kick‑slide in pass protection, and the ability to dominate on the move. For the 49ers, desires of a physical, dominant run game, Lomu offers both an immediate starter and a long‑term tackle who can anchor the line for years after Trent Williams.
No. 19: Cleveland Browns — Olaivavega Ioane, OL – Penn State
Olaivavega Ioane haș been a force for Penn State through an overall underwhelming season. He offers stability inside, where Cleveland is searching for answers on their offensive line. Will McDonald recently posted a four-sack performance against the Browns this past weekend, highlighting the need of offensive line help for this team. While he is an interior pass protector rather than a tackle, his addition would be immense for new signal-caller Ty Simpson in this scenario.
No. 20: Pittsburgh Steelers — Makai Lemon, WR – USC
Makai Lemon offers Pittsburgh a versatile play‑maker who can change the tempo of their offense. Though he’s listed at 5-foot-11 and about 195 pounds, Lemon’s elite quickness off the line, sharp route running and ability to find soft spots in coverage make him a high‑end slot threat who can also line up outside. He has also demonstrated the ability to separate and make contested catches in tight coverage.
Pittsburgh, looking to add speed and explosiveness to its passing game, would gain a weapon capable of generating big plays after the catch and stretching the field horizontally and vertically next to DK Metcalf. Beyond the numbers, Lemon’s return‑unit value and football IQ add roster flexibility, making him both an immediate contributor and a long‑term piece in the Steelers receiving corps.
No. 21: Buffalo Bills — Colton Hood, CB – Tennessee
Colton Hood brings a strong combination of athleticism, football IQ, and competitive energy to the secondary. Hood has shown excellent coverage instincts, fluid hips, and the ability to read quarterbacks and jump routes—traits that fit perfectly within Buffalo’s aggressive, zone-heavy defensive scheme. His versatility allows him to line up both outside and in the slot, providing valuable depth and flexibility for a defense that has faced injuries in recent seasons. With his work ethic, leadership qualities, and steady improvement each year, Hood has the potential to develop into a reliable contributor and long-term asset for the Bills’ secondary.
No. 22: Chicago Bears — Keldric Faulk, DE – Auburn
While I thought about corner, the Bears were hammered with injuries at this position; and projecting eventual health between Jaylon Johnson and Kyler Gordon and moving Tyrique Stevenson back to the secondary should largely address this concern. I then pivoted to selecting Keldric Faulk, who brings a rare combination of explosiveness, physicality, and playmaking instincts that fits perfectly with the Bears’ defensive front.
At 6-foot-6, 285 pounds, Faulk can dominate as an edge rusher while also holding his own in run support, giving Chicago a versatile, multi-dimensional defender opposite Montez Sweat. Faulk’s ability to win one-on-one matchups with speed and power, set the edge, and create consistent pressure makes him an immediate impact player for a Bears front looking to re-establish dominance. His motor, discipline, and football IQ align with the culture Chicago values. He will be a Day 1 contributor and a long-term cornerstone for the defense. His size, skillset, and versatility to play up and down the line is also a match with what defensive coordinator Dennis Allen wants.
No. 23: Tampa Bay Buccaneers — Sonny Styles, LB – Alabama
Sonny Styles brings a rare blend of size, athleticism and positional flexibility that aligns well with the Buccaneers defensive who will soon be looking to replace Lavonte David after he retires. At approximately 6-foot-4 and 243 pounds, Styles has the range and speed to cover ground sideline‑to‑sideline, the power to defend the run aggressively, and the instincts to drop into coverage when needed.
The Buccaneers, seeking defenders who can thrive in multiple roles—whether as off‑the‑ball linebackers or hybrid safety/linebacker types—would benefit from Styles’ versatility and playmaking profile. His football IQ, leadership pedigree, and elite physical traits give Tampa Bay a defender capable of contributing early and projecting as a long‑term cornerstone in the heart of their defense.
No. 24: Detroit Lions — Cashius Howell, Edge – Texas A&M
Cashius Howell offers the Lions a dynamic, high-motor linebacker capable of impacting both the run and pass games. At 6-foot-2 and 248 pounds, he combines sideline-to-sideline speed with physicality at the point of attack. It allows him to fill gaps, make tackles in space, and disrupt timing for opposing quarterbacks.
Howell’s instincts, football IQ, and versatility make him a natural fit for Detroit’s defensive scheme. They value aggressive, playmaking linebackers who can cover tight ends, support the run, and contribute on blitz packages. Adding Howell gives the Lions an immediate Day 1 contributor and a long-term pass rusher opposite Aidan Hutchinson.
No. 25: Dallas Cowboys — A.J. Harris, CB – Penn State
AJ Harris offers a blend of size, athleticism, and high-end coverage ability developed at Penn State. A former five-star recruit, Harris combines natural physical tools—length, strength, and fluid movement—with strong instincts and discipline in both man and zone schemes. His experience competing in the Big Ten against physical receivers has sharpened his press technique and tackling consistency, qualities that fit perfectly with the Cowboys’ defensive. Harris’s competitive mindset and versatility would give Dallas a young, confident corner capable of locking down the boundary or matching up in the slot. It makes Harris a valuable long-term addition to Dallas’ secondary.
No. 26: Los Angeles Chargers — Gennings Dunker, OT – Iowa
Gennings Dunker brings the physical edge, toughness, and athletic versatility that perfectly match the Chargers offensive line identity. With this selection also comes a move inside to help further solidify the interior for Justin Herbert, who has been among the most-sacked quarterbacks in 2025.
Los Angeles has prioritized linemen who play with a nasty streak and can move defenders off the ball in the Harbaugh era, and Dunker embodies that mindset. His ability to play both guard and tackle gives the Chargers flexibility. Meanwhile, his aggressive demeanor and high motor fit seamlessly into the culture of physical, tone-setting football that Chargers are known for. Dunker would be an immediate starter at guard. However, he also has the flexibility to bounce outside to tackle in the event of injury like the Chargers are experiencing this year.
No. 27: Los Angeles Rams — Blake Miller, OT – Clemson
This selection will be a surprise to some. However, I am actually a big fan of the Clemson offensive tackle Blake Miller who offers great athleticism for the position, and has improved his density and anchor in the 2025 season. Blake is phenomenal at picking up stunts and defensive line games which will be greatly appreciated by quarterback Matthew Stafford.
He can still be found on the ground a little too often, and his punch location can still improve. However, Miller would be a great succession plan to Rob Havenstein at right tackle. Overall, he would be a welcomed addition to the Rams offensive line to help keep the franchise passer chase another Super Bowl win.
No. 28: New England Patriots — Denzel Boston, WR – Washington
Drake Maye has been playing like an MVP with an average stable of receivers at the helm. Stefon Diggs is getting older, DeMario Douglas is solid, but is most effective in the slot. New England could add a big bodied threat outside like Denzel Boston.
Boston brings a rare combination of size, body control, and route-running polish that fits perfectly into a developing offense. As a wide receiver from Washington’s explosive passing attack, Boston has shown the ability to win at all three levels. Using his 6-foot-4 frame to make contested catches, he also displays the agility to separate on intermediate routes. Boston’s strong hands and crisp route technique would give the Patriots’ young quarterback a reliable target, especially in critical third-down and red-zone situations.
With New England rebuilding its offensive identity, Boston’s football IQ, work ethic, and experience in a pro-style system make him an ideal fit to help revitalize the Patriots’ receiving corps and add a dynamic playmaking element to their passing game.
No. 29: Philadelphia Eagles — Kadyn Proctor, OT – Alabama
Kayden Proctor could be a smart long-term investment for the Philadelphia Eagles despite an underwhelming season at Alabama. While his play this year hasn’t fully met expectations, Kadyn Proctor’s immense physical upside and raw talent remain undeniable.
At 6-foot-7 and over 330 pounds, he has the size, length, and athletic profile that offensive line coach Jeff Stoutland has consistently developed into Pro Bowl-caliber players. Philadelphia’s strong culture and proven track record of nurturing young linemen make it an ideal environment for Proctor to refine his technique and improve his balance. With time and coaching, he has the potential to become a dominant tackle who can anchor the Eagles’ offensive line for years to come, making him a high-upside project worth betting on.
No. 30: Denver Broncos — Kenyon Sediq, TE – Oregon
Kenyon Sediq brings the size, athleticism, and versatility that make him an ideal addition to Denver’s evolving offensive attack. At 6-foot-3 and 245 pounds, Sediq is a fluid mover with soft hands, strong route-running instincts, and the ability to stretch the field vertically or work underneath as a reliable safety valve.
The Broncos have lacked a true mismatch tight end since the peak of their early 2010’s offenses. Sediq’s blend of blocking toughness and receiving upside could give them exactly that. His ability to create separation against linebackers and contribute in the run game makes him a natural fit for an offense looking to balance power and explosiveness. This selection gives Denver a versatile weapon who can become a focal point of the passing game for years to come.
No. 31: Seattle Seahawks — Anthony Hill Jr., LB – Texas
Anthony Hill brings the instinctive play style, leadership potential, and physical skill set that make him a natural fit for Seattle. At 6-foot-2, 235 pounds, Hill is a sideline-to-sideline linebacker with elite range, tackling efficiency, and a sharp football IQ. Hill can step in and command the middle of the field with the same mix of speed, awareness, and aggression. His ability to diagnose plays quickly, shed blocks, and cover tight ends makes him an ideal modern in Mike Macdonald’s defense.
No. 32: New York Jets — Caleb Banks, DT – Florida
Caleb Banks brings the kind of size, athleticism and upside that makes him an intriguing fit for the Jets’ defensive front. At 6-foot-6 and 330 pounds, Banks already has the physical tools to line up inside and collapse the pocket. It matches well with New York’s need for disruptive interior pass-rushers.
During his time at Florida Gators (and previously at Louisville Cardinals), he showed flashes of high-impact potential. And, the Jets’ coaching staff — which emphasizes developing young front-liners — could unlock further growth.
Banks’ capacity to absorb blocks, change gap dynamics and eventually generate pressure could bolster the Jets’ rotation up front and help them against both the run and pass. While he may need refinement in technique and consistency, the Jets could view him as a developmental piece with a significant ceiling who fits their broader defensive rebuild.
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