2026 NFL Mock Drafts
| # | Team | Player | Pos | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Fernando Mendoza | QB | ||||
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A no-brainer at this point. Mendoza is a perfect fit for Klint Kubiak's offense. Now they need to add more weapons for him in the coming rounds. |
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| 2 | David Bailey | EDGE | ||||
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Aaron Glenn needs a pass rusher right now, and Bailey fits the bill with an FBS-leading 14.5 sacks last year. He may not have Arvell Reese's ceiling, but he's far more technically advanced at the moment. He'll pair with Will McDonald IV to be a terror on third downs. |
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| 3 | Arvell Reese | EDGE | ||||
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Cardinals fans may have PTSD from the term "hybrid linebacker," but Reese is a distinctly different type of prospect than those who came before him with that moniker. He'll likely end up as a pass rusher, given his absurd ability to generate force on contact. The fact that his pass-rushing tape was so strong without formal training bodes well for his potential. |
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| 4 | Jeremiyah Love | RB | ||||
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There may not be receivers worthy of the No. 4 pick, but there is a running back. Love is a difference-maker perfectly suited for the modern game. His ability as a receiver out of the backfield will help Cam Ward as well. |
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| 5 | Francis Mauigoa | OT | ||||
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It's not technically an immediate need, but with Jaxson Dart's injury history, keeping him upright is a must. Mauigoa could start inside at guard and eventually take over for Jermaine Eluemunor. |
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| 6 | Kadyn Proctor | OT | ||||
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The Browns' offensive line revamp continues. With their timeline, they have the luxury of taking a high-ceiling prospect who needs development. Still only 20 years old, Proctor has jaw-dropping traits for a player that young. His improvement over the course of last season makes him easy to buy into. |
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| 7 | Sonny Styles | LB | ||||
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The Commanders have already added multiple players to get more athletic in their front seven, and this would be the cherry on top. Styles is the freakiest linebacker to come out in some time -- maybe ever. His ability to do anything Dan Quinn asks would be a far cry from the limited athletes Washington had at the position last year. |
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| 8 | Carnell Tate | WR | ||||
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Tyler Shough's go balls were one of the most impressive parts of his rookie season, but he didn't have receivers outside of Chris Olave to haul them in. That's Tate's specialty, as he has the body control to consistently come down with passes in tight situations downfield. |
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| 9 | Rueben Bain Jr. | EDGE | ||||
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Two of Brett Veach's worst picks as Chiefs GM -- Breeland Speaks and Felix Anudike-Uzomah -- came at edge rusher. It's a difficult position to find game-changers in the 20s and beyond, where the Chiefs typically draft. Bain's off-field concerns must be vetted, but he qualifies as a game-changer on the field. |
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| 10 | Caleb Downs | S | ||||
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Downs is precisely the floor-raiser the Bengals' secondary needs. His reliability in coverage and as a tackler was missing in Cincinnati last season. Even with the addition of Bryan Cook this offseason, this makes too much sense. |
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| 11 | Mansoor Delane | CB | ||||
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The Dolphins arguably have the worst secondary on paper in the NFL. Delane is a high-floor corner with the kind of scheme versatility new head coach Jeff Hafley will love. |
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| 12 | Jermod McCoy | CB | ||||
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McCoy didn't play this past fall, but that likely won't stop the Cowboys from adding what could be a No. 1 corner at the next level. His ability in man coverage is second to none in this draft class. |
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| 13 | Makai Lemon | WR | ||||
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Lemon feels like a Rams receiver with his savvy as a route runner and physical play style. He can handle more of the dirty work during the season to help keep Davante Adams fresh for the playoffs. |
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| 14 | Kenyon Sadiq | TE | ||||
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Sadiq is essentially Isaiah Likely's replacement in the Ravens' offense -- only with a jetpack. He profiles best as a detached No. 2 tight end who can get vertical and block on the move. |
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| 15 | Olaivavega Ioane | IOL | ||||
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The Buccaneers land the top true guard in the class. Ioane would pair with Tristan Wirfs on the left side to form one of the NFL's top blindside-protecting duos. |
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| 16 | Omar Cooper Jr. | WR | ||||
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Cooper is a rugged slot receiver who can absorb more hits over the middle, helping keep Garrett Wilson and Adonai Mitchell healthy outside. He has reliable hands and is outstanding after the catch. |
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| 17 | Monroe Freeling | OT | ||||
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The Lions' need at tackle is desperate enough to take whoever falls at 17. Fortunately, it's one of the strongest positions in the class. Freeling improved significantly over last season and backed it up with a rare combine performance. |
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| 18 | Dillon Thieneman | S | ||||
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Thieneman is the type of versatile coverage player who can be a weapon in Brian Flores' defense. His range and ball skills are special on the back end. |
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| 19 | KC Concepcion | WR | ||||
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The Panthers go wide receiver in the first round for a third straight year. Concepcion brings juice and separation ability that no one else on the roster can match. |
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| 20 | Spencer Fano | OT | ||||
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Fano may slip due to length concerns, and if he does, the Cowboys would have no issue adding him to a burgeoning offensive line. He could eventually replace Terence Steele at right tackle and give Dallas one of the NFL's best run-blocking lines. |
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| 21 | Ty Simpson | QB | ||||
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The Steelers hired Mike McCarthy to do what Mike Tomlin never could quite get done -- develop a young quarterback. Before injuries hit, Simpson flashed plenty of tools over the first half of the season to grow at the NFL level. |
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| 22 | Peter Woods | DL | ||||
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Woods is exactly what the Chargers need along the defensive line -- someone with the juice to affect opposing passers. Jim Harbaugh has worked wonders with interior defensive linemen, making this a strong landing spot for Woods to grow. |
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| 23 | Max Iheanachor | OT | ||||
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The Eagles haven't taken an offensive lineman in the first two rounds since Cam Jurgens in 2022. Like Jurgens, Iheanachor would be drafted before he's needed. The Arizona State tackle has all the tools to eventually replace Lane Johnson at right tackle. |
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| 24 | Jordyn Tyson | WR | ||||
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A dream scenario for Cleveland, as an extensive injury history causes one of the draft's most talented receivers to fall into its lap. Tyson has the high-end separation ability to be a No. 1 at the next level. |
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| 25 | Keldric Faulk | EDGE | ||||
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Faulk fits perfectly with the Bears' long and physical edge room. He can be an early-down edge-setter, allowing emerging talent Austin Booker to focus on pass-rushing downs. |
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| 26 | Malachi Lawrence | LB | ||||
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Lawrence brings the juice the Bills' edge group is lacking. He's one of the draft's most explosive athletes and showed flashes of turning those traits into production down the stretch last fall. |
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| 27 | Caleb Lomu | OT | ||||
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Lomu is the type of athletic tackle who can thrive in a Kyle Shanahan scheme. He needs to improve his nastiness and play strength, but when Trent Williams decides to hang it up, Lomu should be ready. |
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| 28 | Blake Miller | OT | ||||
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The Texans added another wave of stopgaps along their offensive line. This pick addresses the tackle position long term. Miller improved each season at Clemson and has the power to move the line of scrimmage in the run game. |
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| 29 | Chris Johnson | CB | ||||
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The Chiefs lost two starting corners this offseason and backfill with one of college football's best from last fall. Johnson has a strong history in press coverage that should translate well to Steve Spagnuolo's scheme. |
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| 30 | Chase Bisontis | IOL | ||||
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The Dolphins land one of the draft's top pass protectors in Bisontis. His ability to maintain a firm pocket stands out on tape. He could stick on the left side and kick Jonah Savaiinaea back to the right side, where he played in college. |
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| 31 | R Mason Thomas | DL | ||||
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Thomas is the type of edge bender who can clean up the havoc created inside by Christian Barmore, Milton Williams and Cory Durden. He should be able to pick up where K'Lavon Chaisson left off. |
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| 32 | Colton Hood | CB | ||||
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Hood fills the void left by Tariq Woolen on the outside for Seattle. He's a physical, competitive corner and a much better tackler than Woolen was in this defense. |
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| # | Team | Player | Pos | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Fernando Mendoza | QB | ||||
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I know there's been some conversation in the media about whether Ty Simpson can challenge Mendoza for QB1. Maybe in 2-3 years, but not by late April. This is as close to a sure thing as you're going to get. |
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| 2 | David Bailey | EDGE | ||||
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The Jets were incredibly busy during free agency, especially when it came to bolstering the front seven ... but in a class with no QB worth taking No. 2 overall and questions about Arvell Reese's true position, Bailey is the best option here. Is he as good as former top-five edge rushers Abdul Carter and Will Anderson Jr.? Nope, but he was dominant at times for Texas Tech in 2025 and made huge strides from his 2024 campaign at Stanford. |
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| 3 | Francis Mauigoa | OT | ||||
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The Cards need a QB, but Mauigoa is one of the surest bets in the entire class. |
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| 4 | Jeremiyah Love | RB | ||||
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Is this too rich for an RB? Maybe. But there's something to be said for supporting a young QB with as many game-changers as possible. Love would rank behind Ashton Jeanty, Jahmyr Gibbs and Bijan Robinson -- but not by much. He'll immediately add some juice to the Titans RB room, and he's also a threat as a receiver out of the backfield. |
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| 5 | Arvell Reese | EDGE | ||||
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I've said this before, but if the draft were the week after the Super Bowl, we wouldn't have months to create narratives that run counter to what our collective eyeballs told us in the fall. For Reese, it's pretty simple: he's a rare athlete who was one of the best defenders in the country in 2025. That his pro-day bag-drill workout didn't meet expectations shouldn't really carry much weight. He's a freak who is the "positionless player" prototype. |
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| 6 | Monroe Freeling | OT | ||||
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I think this is too high for Freeling, but I can't in good faith mock Kadyn Proctor to Cleveland here, not after all the concerns about Dawand Jones' weight that saw him fall to the fourth round. Plus, even though I consider Freeling a bottom-half-of-the-first-round talent, that doesn't mean teams don't view him higher. Remember the 2013 draft, when the Chiefs were "stuck" drafting OT Eric Fisher No. 1 overall? I mention that draft because some guy named Lane Johnson was OT3 in that class. The point: sometimes -- a lot of times -- players can exceed their pre-draft expectations. |
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| 7 | Rueben Bain Jr. | EDGE | ||||
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Bain feels like a Dan Quinn edge rusher, and this is still a position of need -- even after the Commanders signed Odafe Oweh and K'Lavon Chaisson. |
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| 8 | Sonny Styles | LB | ||||
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Styles can play safety, off-ball linebacker, and you can even blitz him from, well, just about anywhere. He's a 3-for-1 talent for New Orleans. |
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| 9 | Caleb Downs | S | ||||
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Downs is a culture changer, though in Kansas City the culture is in pretty good shape. The secondary needs some restocking and Downs, who gives me Troy Polamalu vibes, has a chance to be truly special. |
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| 10 | Peter Woods | DL | ||||
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This isn't quite worst-case scenario for Cincy, but it's not great, either. The defense desperately needs edge-rush help. And with Bailey, Reese, Bain and even Styles off the board, Plan B would be Downs ... who the Chiefs grabbed at No. 9. Woods isn't a bad consolation prize -- the D-line could use reinforcements -- and the Bengals did add Boye Mafe in free agency. |
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| 11 | Mansoor Delane | CB | ||||
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Delane ran in the 4.3s at his pro day, which answered any remaining questions about his speed. He was as close to a shutdown corner as you're going to get in 2025, and with all the secondary needs in Miami, this pick feels like a layup. |
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| 12 | Akheem Mesidor | EDGE | ||||
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Mesidor will be a 25-year-old rookie ... and I do not care, not even a little bit. If the Cowboys get five good years out of him, it's a sound investment. Plus, Mesidor has the size and versatility to line up at several spots along the defensive line. |
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| 13 | Carnell Tate | WR | ||||
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Almost everyone agrees that Tate is WR1, but in talking to scouts at the Ohio State pro day, a recurring question was if he's a top-10 pick. In this mock, he falls to No. 13, but lands in an ideal spot: a Sean McVay offense with Matthew Stafford somehow still in his prime. |
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| 14 | Olaivavega Ioane | IOL | ||||
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There will be a lot of teams lining up to draft Ioane if the Ravens don't grab him here. He's a Day 1 starter after a stellar Penn State career. |
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| 15 | Keldric Faulk | EDGE | ||||
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Faulk is just scratching the surface on his abilities -- he measured 6-foot-5, 276 pounds and had 34⅜-inch arms at the combine. At 21, he's still growing into his body, but he's flashed all the tools to be an elite pass rusher at the next level. In Tampa, he'll fill a need at pass rusher. |
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| 16 | Makai Lemon | WR | ||||
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Garrett Wilson has been asking for a legit No. 2, and Lemon provides that and then some. He'll draw comparisons to Amon-Ra St. Brown because of his toughness and YAC ability. |
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| 17 | Kadyn Proctor | OT | ||||
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If Penei Sewell moves to the left side, the Lions could look at, say, Spencer Fano here. But if Sewell stays at right tackle, Proctor feels like the natural successor to Taylor Decker. |
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| 18 | Emmanuel McNeil-Warren | S | ||||
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Harrison Smith is a future Hall of Famer, but it appears, for now, that he's played his last snap for the Vikings. McNeil-Warren is a long, athletic ball hawk who also excels in run support. |
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| 19 | Jermod McCoy | CB | ||||
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McCoy didn't play a snap in 2025 after tearing his ACL the previous January, but his 2024 tape is some of the best in the class. Jaycee Horn is elite when healthy, but Mike Jackson is in the final year of his current deal. |
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| 20 | Colton Hood | CB | ||||
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The Cowboys get an edge rusher and cornerback with their first two picks. And if the defense just improves to above-average in 2026, there's no reason the team won't be in the mix for the division title. Hood excels in press-man coverage and is one of the most physical CBs in the class. |
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| 21 | Jordyn Tyson | WR | ||||
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If Tyson is healthy, he's battling for WR1. In Pittsburgh, he'll take the Steelers WR room from "DK and everybody else" to "three dudes," which is great news for Aaron Rodgers, Will Howard or whomever else might be under center in the Steel City. |
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| 22 | T.J. Parker | EDGE | ||||
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The Chargers have needs along the interior offensive line, but Parker is too good to pass up here. Tuli Tuipulotu is one of the best young edge rushers in football, but Khalil Mack and Bud Dupree can't play forever. |
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| 23 | Spencer Fano | OT | ||||
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Fano could go 10 spots higher, but this is how the board fell. And in Philly, he can be next in line after Lane Johnson retires -- and in the meantime, kick inside to guard. |
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| 24 | KC Concepcion | WR | ||||
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The Browns get an offensive tackle and a big-play WR with their two first-rounders -- filling their biggest roster needs. Concepcion can play in the slot or outside, has return ability and is one of the best yards-after-catch receivers in this draft class. |
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| 25 | Caleb Banks | DL | ||||
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If Banks is healthy, he could be a top-10 pick. At 6-foot-6 and 330 pounds with 35-inch arms, he can take over games. The problem has been his inability to consistently stay on the field. If he's cleared medically, Banks is a first-rounder all day long. If teams have questions, he could slip to Day 2 like Jer'Zhan Newton did a few years ago. |
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| 26 | Dillon Thieneman | S | ||||
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If the right wide receiver is still on the board, the Bills could target one, even after trading for DJ Moore. But with four wideouts already gone, Buffalo bolsters its secondary with Thieneman, who made huge strides at Oregon after transferring from Purdue. |
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| 27 | Caleb Lomu | OT | ||||
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We might look back in a few years and Lomu is the best tackle in the class. In San Francisco, he'll be ready to step in for Trent Williams when he eventually moves on. |
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| 28 | Kayden McDonald | DL | ||||
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McDonald is the best run defender in this draft class. He needs to improve as a pass rusher, but he's a perfect fit for DeMeco Ryans' defense. |
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| 29 | R Mason Thomas | DL | ||||
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Thomas' arms measure shorter than 32 inches ... and no one should care. We all overthought it with Nik Bonitto, a second-rounder currently playing like one of the best pass rushers in football. The Chiefs need some juice off the edge, and that's exactly what Thomas brings to the party. |
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| 30 | Denzel Boston | WR | ||||
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The Dolphins traded Jaylen Waddle, and they're replacing him with a long-striding, contested-catch machine in Boston, who should make Malik Willis' already-tough job slightly easier. |
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| 31 | Blake Miller | OT | ||||
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Will Campbell is the Pats' left tackle. The team continues to protect Drake Maye with Miller, who made enormous strides last season after an inconsistent 2024. |
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| 32 | Ty Simpson | QB | ||||
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Mock Trade from: SEA The Steelers have 12 picks, so they package two of them -- Nos. 53 and 76 -- to move up to No. 32 and take Simpson. Yes, next year's QB class is LOADED ... but don't we say that every single year, and every single year it's never quite as loaded as we all predicted? Meanwhile, midway through the season, we talked about Simpson being in the running for QB1 until injuries changed the conversation. |
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| # | Team | Player | Pos | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Fernando Mendoza | QB | ||||
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No one's considering alternatives for Las Vegas. The Tyler Linderbaum signing supports the assumption that Fernando Mendoza will be the No. 1 overall pick, as a veteran center is a huge benefit for a young quarterback. The Raiders need a quarterback, and there's a player worthy of that selection. |
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| 2 | David Bailey | EDGE | ||||
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The Jets are a unique case. It feels as though the general manager and coach are on different timelines. Aaron Glenn will prioritize players who allow him to be competitive in 2026, whereas Darren Mougey may be fine taking a player who is a bit more of a theory than a finished product if he is a better prospect. |
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| 3 | Sonny Styles | LB | ||||
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Arizona invested in its pass rusher group with Zaven Collins, Baron Browning and Josh Sweat. They could absolutely upgrade that spot, but linebacker is a more pressing need. Honestly, Arvell Reese could play either position, but he prefers to play on the edge, so Sonny Styles is a more seamless fit. |
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| 4 | Jeremiyah Love | RB | ||||
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Right or wrong, Tennessee went all in on offense to support Will Levis. It's not far-fetched to think there may be an organizational philosophy to do the same with Cam Ward, even if the regime is new. After spending most of their cap space on the defense, the Titans signed Wan'Dale Robinson in free agency and now add Jeremiyah Love to give Ward an abundance of playmakers. |
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| 5 | Carnell Tate | WR | ||||
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Malik Nabers is returning from a significant injury and Wan'Dale Robinson signed with the aforementioned Titans. Carnell Tate would be an asset to Jaxson Dart when Nabers is unavailable, but also form a talented duo long-term. They have Kayvon Thibodeaux, in addition to Abdul Carter and Brian Burns, so Arvell Reese is not a priority. |
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| 6 | Arvell Reese | EDGE | ||||
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Mock Trade from: CLE Arvell Reese's fall could be a benefit to both the Browns and Cowboys. Dallas wants players that can make an impact immediately, but the Browns are looking towards the future, so future picks are involved rather than this year's. It is interesting that almost every hypothetical trade between the two teams on social media has Dallas receiving surplus value; an anomaly for the team trading up and an unlikelihood. |
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| 7 | Caleb Downs | S | ||||
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The best comparison for Caleb Downs is probably Minkah Fitzpatrick, a high-IQ safety who coordinates the entire defense, but not an uber-athlete. Fitzpatrick went No. 11 overall in a stronger draft. The prospects most often associated with Washington are gone, so Downs is a nice consolation prize. |
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| 8 | Mansoor Delane | CB | ||||
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Cornerback was a point of weakness for New Orleans and Alontae Taylor departed in free agency. The Saints run a higher rate of zone coverage, which happens to be Mansoor Delane's specialty. Delane is a smart cornerback who tested better than his athletic profile may have suggested |
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| 9 | Rueben Bain Jr. | EDGE | ||||
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Andy Reid spent time around Brandon Graham in Philadelphia so there some comfort with pass rushers who possess a less than ideal frame. Rueben Bain Jr. is a risk because he does not look like most NFL edge rushers look, but he wins with overwhelming power and balance. |
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| 10 | Jermod McCoy | CB | ||||
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Cincinnati ranked in the top half of the league in man coverage but they lacked the personnel to reach maximum efficiency. Jermod McCoy is a man coverage cornerback with the size, speed and ball production to prove it. He missed the entire 2025 season while recovering from a torn ACL, but should be ready roll for training camp. |
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| 11 | Francis Mauigoa | OT | ||||
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The Dolphins have a lot of needs to fill and are not reasonably in a position to compete this season. There should be an emphasis on building out the trenches, specifically in support of Malik Willis or next year's rookie quarterback. It makes little sense for them to tear down the offense and leave the unit in a state where they can not appropriately evaluate Willis. |
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| 12 | Monroe Freeling | OT | ||||
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Mock Trade from: DAL Cleveland trades back, picks up additional draft capital and still lands a raw, but extremely talented left tackle. Monroe Freeling was playing his best football at the end of the season, but no one has to tell Browns coach Todd Monken about his potential; Monken helped recruit him to Athens as Georgia's offensive coordinator. |
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| 13 | Spencer Fano | OT | ||||
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Spencer Fano has five positional flexibility but the plan is to start him at right tackle in this scenario. He has good feet and functional play strength to be an asset on an offensive line with championship aspirations. Los Angeles is not often in a position to address a premium position of need. |
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| 14 | Olaivavega Ioane | IOL | ||||
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Daniel Faalele signed with the Giants. Baltimore accounted for his departure with the signing of John Simpson, but neither his presence nor Andrew Vorhees should stop the team from addressing a long-term replacement. Vega Ioane can be a high end starter at the position. |
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| 15 | Keldric Faulk | EDGE | ||||
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Tampa Bay has a need at edge rusher that was not addressed in free agency. Keldric Faulk does not add a lot of juice to the operation immediately but he can set the edge and is still a relatively young player. The Buccaneers are entering a crossroads season with coach Todd Bowles. |
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| 16 | Makai Lemon | WR | ||||
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New York has inside outside versatility with Garrett Wilson and a bit of height with AD Mitchell. Makai Lemon's skillset fits in as the missing piece for a team with five first-round picks over the next two years. There may be competing interests if head coach Aaron Glenn is entering a make-or-break season. |
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| 17 | Kadyn Proctor | OT | ||||
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Giovanni Manu is set to start at left tackle with Taylor Decker and Detroit parting ways. One would imagine Dan Campbell and Brad Holmes seek an alternative at the position. Kadyn Proctor is a big body who does a good job executing some of the blocks in space that the team has executed in the past. |
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| 18 | Dillon Thieneman | S | ||||
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Safety may not be the highest priority but it is a need for Minnesota. NFL teams salivate over prospects with ball production and premium athletic traits; Dillon Thieneman checks both of those boxes. It is difficult to envision him lasting much longer than this stage of the first round. |
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| 19 | Omar Cooper Jr. | WR | ||||
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Wide receiver will not stand out as a pressing need for the Panthers, but this is a pivotal year for Bryce Young. Omar Cooper Jr. brings an energy level that they are missing. The vision is Tetairoa McMillan and Cooper serving as the two cogs in the Carolina pass game while cycling through the third receiver role, which is currently filled by Jalen Coker. |
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| 20 | Colton Hood | CB | ||||
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Dallas traded up to select Ohio State pass rusher Arvell Reese without sacrificing its other first-round pick. The Cowboys now add two impact performers on defense while pushing all in on this version of the team led by Dak Prescott. |
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| 21 | Blake Miller | OT | ||||
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If Pittsburgh is going to move forward with Aaron Rodgers at quarterback, then they had better finish the offensive line. In this scenario, the team would move Troy Fautanu back to his natural left tackle position and plug Blake Miller in at right tackle. |
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| 22 | Emmanuel McNeil-Warren | S | ||||
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Emmanuel McNeil-Warren and Derwin James are two versatile, physical pieces in that Los Angeles secondary. In looking at the prospects available, McNeil-Warren was the best available even if it was not the team's biggest area of need. The Chargers' starting safeties on Ourlads right now are Elijah Molden and Tony Jefferson, who stepped away from the game for a period of time. |
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| 23 | KC Concepcion | WR | ||||
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Most seem to think Philadelphia will utlimately deal A.J. Brown elsewhere, but that may not come to fruition until June. Who are they going to get to replace him in June? No one will be available unless they want to be the team that gambles on Brandon Aiyuk. If Brown is going to get dealt, fans may get their first real hint regarding that possibility later this month. |
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| 24 | Jordyn Tyson | WR | ||||
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Jordyn Tyson would not be available if it were not for a history of injuries and having not worked out this pre-draft process is concerning. Perhaps he is intentionally tanking his stock so he can live in his brother's (Cavaliers guard Jaylon Tyson) guest room. I jest. |
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| 25 | Peter Woods | DL | ||||
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Peter Woods was once regarded as a potential top-five overall selection. Although I never saw him as a clear and obvious blue-chip talent, this is good value for the Clemson product and fills a need for the Bears. Chicago has bodies at the position, but no one really moves the needle in the way Woods could. |
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| 26 | Chase Bisontis | IOL | ||||
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Buffalo lost David Edwards (no relation) in free agency and now replace him with one of the best pass-blocking offensive guards. Chase Bisontis had a strong performance at the NFL combine and is now tasked with protecting Josh Allen. |
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| 27 | Kenyon Sadiq | TE | ||||
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This is the latest Kenyon Sadiq has been available in a mock draft exercise in quite some time. There are a number of teams who make sense for Sadiq but none that are obvious. Kyle Shanahan can get wonky with his personnel packages with George Kittle and Sadiq on the field in the short-term. |
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| 28 | Caleb Banks | DL | ||||
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DeMeco Ryans comes from San Francisco where they have trended towards the long defensive linemen. Caleb Banks has to stay healthy, but he could prove to be a steal this late in the first round. Houston gets some long-term stability between Will Anderson Jr. and Danielle Hunter. |
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| 29 | Chris Johnson | CB | ||||
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There are likely at least 40 prospects, and potentially more, who could hear their names called in the first round in the right set of circumstances. Chris Johnson is on that list. He is a prospect who grew on me over time. He has the size and tested really well, but the tape is really clean also. |
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| 30 | Avieon Terrell | CB | ||||
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Everything is on the table for Miami. It may come as a surprise to come away from the first round without a wide receiver selection, but there are so many needs and the team can not force a position. Jon-Eric Sullivan and Jeff Hafley will ultimately be judged on how this draft plays out with seven top-100 overall selections. |
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| 31 | Max Iheanachor | OT | ||||
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There was a viral video recently of Patriots coach Mike Vrabel getting hands-on in Max Iheanachor's workout. Right tackle is a position of need, and Iheanachor's play style matches the physicality Vrabel is trying to instill. |
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| 32 | T.J. Parker | EDGE | ||||
|
Seattle drafts T.J. Parker as the Boye Mafe replacement. Mafe signed a lucrative deal with the Bengals in free agency. Parker is a reliable edge setter with limited pass rush potential, but Mike Macdonald can put him in a position to produce. Seattle is also a candidate to trade back given they only have four picks. The objective should be filling positions lost in free agency, such as cornerback, edge rusher and running back. |
||||||
| # | Team | Player | Pos | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Fernando Mendoza | QB | ||||
|
The Raiders are on the clock and need help across the board, but quarterback is the first order of business. Fernando Mendoza capped an impressive season with a national championship in Indiana's RPO-based offense and a strong postseason run that showcased his consistency and clutch throws in gotta-have-it moments. Mendoza makes smart decisions, throws with accuracy and touch, and creates and extends plays outside the pocket and under duress. He's a high-level processor who reads defenses quickly and anticipates windows to deliver advantage throws that move the chains. |
||||||
| 2 | Arvell Reese | EDGE | ||||
|
Ohio State's Reese is a nice piece for a franchise with plenty of holes to fill, offering the versatility to play in the box as well as rush off the edge. He brings elite twitch and instincts, along with the size and length to hold up in multiple spots across the defense. Reese is extremely athletic as a part-time rusher and can convert speed to power while using a strong long arm. The Jets need pass rushers, and Reese gives them a bookend opposite Will McDonald IV. If he goes this high, his long-term projection is likely on the edge. His pass-rushing capabilities carry a high ceiling with more reps and time on task. |
||||||
| 3 | Francis Mauigoa | OT | ||||
|
The Cardinals could upgrade at right tackle, and Mauigoa excelled during the Hurricanes' playoff run while serving as a model of consistency over the past two seasons. He's thickly built with excellent power and moves defenders at will in the run game. Mauigoa is above average in pass protection, showing good technique and the feet to get to his spot and play in space. He offers some positional versatility and can kick inside if needed, but he'll no doubt get first crack at right tackle to start. He also brings strong leadership and extensive experience as a three-year starter at Miami. |
||||||
| 4 | Rueben Bain Jr. | EDGE | ||||
|
Bain was as dominant a defensive lineman as we've seen since Will Anderson Jr. at Alabama. He brings elite power in both phases and wins as an excellent technician with his hands, beating opponents with physicality or finesse. Bain has a high motor, plays the game the right way and shows strong attention to detail. His measurements might not wow everyone, but his film is elite, and he offers versatility to kick inside in pass-rushing situations if needed. New Titans coach Robert Saleh has to be licking his chops. |
||||||
| 5 | Spencer Fano | OT | ||||
|
Fano plays with good technique, has excellent feet and shows the ability to play both tackle spots. He didn't allow a sack this season and surrendered only six hurries. His best days are still ahead, but he brings power at the point of attack, the ability to move defenders in the run game and the athleticism to pull and clear out defenders at the second level. Fano would step in at right tackle, giving the Giants another piece to protect Jaxson Dart. |
||||||
| 6 | Carnell Tate | WR | ||||
|
You have to believe the Browns will use free agency and multiple picks to upgrade an aging offensive line. Tate brings extensive experience and the ability to win anywhere on the field. He's a polished route runner who tracks and high-points the ball in contested-catch situations. Tate is a dependable, trustworthy receiver with strong hands who moves the chains and gives Deshaun Watson or Shedeur Sanders a weapon to help jumpstart the offense. |
||||||
| 7 | David Bailey | EDGE | ||||
|
Bailey is a natural pass rusher who wins with speed off the edge and shows exceptional quickness in condensed spaces. He's a dynamic player who can wreck a game and has slightly improved his run defense this season. His highest upside comes as a pure pass rusher, thanks to his explosive get-off and twitch off the edge. The Commanders' pass rush last season was one of the worst in the league |
||||||
| 8 | Jordyn Tyson | WR | ||||
|
Tyson tracks the ball exceptionally well in the air and shows great contact balance after the catch to maximize YAC. He has the long speed to beat press coverage and the ability to thrive in the middle of the field and in the red zone. Tyson battled a hamstring injury, and teams will study his medicals closely. |
||||||
| 9 | Keldric Faulk | EDGE | ||||
|
Faulk has ideal size and length, along with the ability to rush from anywhere along the defensive front. His stats don't tell the full story given the attention he drew, but he still finished with 30 hurries. A slippery rusher with a good get-off and excellent hands, he's also solid against the run, showing the ability to set the edge and knock back offensive tackles. |
||||||
| 10 | Caleb Downs | S | ||||
|
The Bengals defense -- especially the back end -- had a rough season, but help is on the way. A high-IQ leader and alpha presence, he excels in both phases. He can erase tight ends, holds up as a run defender in the box and tackles well in space. |
||||||
| 11 | Mansoor Delane | CB | ||||
|
Jeff Hafley likely targets a corner here, and Delane was arguably the nation's best at the position, and one of the top defensive players in the country, this season. He's been an eraser in coverage thanks to his suddenness and change of direction, has good speed and the ability to battle for the ball, and is a competitive player who should transition well to the next level despite lacking ideal measurables. |
||||||
| 12 | Jeremiyah Love | RB | ||||
|
Love is my favorite to win Offensive Rookie of the Year and the best overall player in the draft. He shows exceptional vision and patience, is a weapon as a receiver and brings home-run ability every time he touches the ball. Love has outstanding lateral quickness and explosiveness and gives me Bijan Robinson vibes every time I watch him. Future superstar. |
||||||
| 13 | Ty Simpson | QB | ||||
|
As great as Matthew Stafford is playing, you have to start thinking about a replacement, and Simpson is a no-brainer QB2 who could have teams like the Jets considering a trade up to snatch him. He stands to benefit from a weak quarterback class and brings promising traits. Simpson arguably has the most upside in the class despite struggling in the second half of the season at Alabama without much of a running game or consistent protection. He has a strong arm, can attack all areas of the field with velocity and touch, processes quickly, anticipates well and layers throws to every level. His lack of experience will be his biggest hurdle to overcome. |
||||||
| 14 | Makai Lemon | WR | ||||
|
The Ravens need a complementary receiver to pair with Zay Flowers, and Lemon has the traits to eventually become a No. 1 option down the road. He's an explosive playmaker who can stretch the field not only as a receiver but also as a kick returner. A dynamic player with a defensive mentality, he was USC's go-to option in must-have moments. Lemon brings top-end speed, physicality and strong hands with impressive range. |
||||||
| 15 | Sonny Styles | LB | ||||
|
The Buccaneers need to replace an aging Lavonte David, and Styles would be an ideal fit if he's still available here, given his exceptional athletic traits. He's an every-down backer with ideal size and length in the box who excels in all phases. Fluid in coverage, he understands leverage and matches up with backs and tight ends. He also shows great range against the run, sifts through traffic to reach the ball carrier and finishes as a sure tackler. |
||||||
| 16 | Lee Hunter | DL | ||||
|
If the Jets can't land a quarterback, they'll look to upgrade their defensive front, and Hunter would fit well as a 2i in their scheme. He was a massive upgrade up front for the Red Raiders, taking on doubles and letting their linebackers roam and make plays. He shows good lateral movement and quickness on stunts and games, along with the ability to crush the pocket as a rusher. Hunter is an effective pass rusher who finished with a couple sacks and 19 hurries. |
||||||
| 17 | Monroe Freeling | OT | ||||
|
The Lions need to add a few offensive linemen with retirements and injury concerns surrounding Taylor Decker. Freeling is a long, athletic left tackle and one of the few true pure left tackles in this year's draft. He shows good feet and the versatility to play either tackle spot. A solid run blocker with a big frame and good hand usage, Freeling moves well in space and at the second level and offers a nice ceiling. |
||||||
| 18 | Jermod McCoy | CB | ||||
|
I'm not a big fan of projecting a first-round player who didn't take a snap in 2025, but this is a weak year for corners and the Vikings need help on the island. McCoy showed good length and the ability to play man coverage and will be fully healthy in 2026. He also displayed a smooth backpedal, breaks quickly on routes and has excellent hands |
||||||
| 19 | Kayden McDonald | DL | ||||
|
A massive, disruptive run stuffer who has been a force for the stingy Buckeye defense, McDonald is a powerful player with good lateral quickness on stunts and exceptional strength at the point of attack. He can crush the pocket but needs to continue developing as a pass rusher. He'd be a nice pairing with Derrick Brown. |
||||||
| 20 | CJ Allen | LB | ||||
|
The Cowboys need an upgrade at linebacker, and Allen brings veteran leadership and production as a force in the box stuffing the run. He offers versatility and profiles as a Day 1 starter for a back end that needs an upgrade. |
||||||
| 21 | Kadyn Proctor | OT | ||||
|
Proctor is an XXL human who settled in last year and had his best season for the Tide. I'd kick Proctor inside to guard, where I think he can excel based on his skill set. He mauls defenders in the run game, has shown improved consistency in protection and should benefit from stronger coaching and attention to detail with his technique at the next level. |
||||||
| 22 | Olaivavega Ioane | IOL | ||||
|
The Chargers value size, and Loane is my favorite interior prospect. He's a mauler in the run game who elevated his play in protection in 2025, allowing just three pressures all season. He's a physical player who looks to break an opponent's will and plays through the whistle. Loane is a better athlete in space than he gets credit for and is a solid puller who can erase defenders. |
||||||
| 23 | Zachariah Branch | WR | ||||
|
It feels like A.J. Brown could be on the move, and Branch can replace some of that production as a No. 2 receiver. He had his most productive season yet, catching 73 passes for nearly 750 yards with 17 explosive plays. Branch is elusive in space and can start and stop on a dime to make defenders miss. He also returns punts and kickoffs and is always a threat to take it the distance whenever he touches the ball. |
||||||
| 24 | Cashius Howell | EDGE | ||||
|
Myles Garrett and the Browns' defense would become even more dominant if they pair him with another skilled pass rusher. Howell wins with speed and a strong long arm, and he counters inside when tackles overset. He plays with a great motor and shows natural pass-rush instincts. Howell also has the twitch and get-off to create problems. |
||||||
| 25 | Zion Young | EDGE | ||||
|
Myles Garrett and the Browns' defense would become even more dominant if they pair him with another skilled pass rusher. Howell wins with speed and a strong long arm, and he counters inside when tackles overset. He plays with a great motor and shows natural pass-rush instincts. Howell also has the twitch and get-off to create problems. |
||||||
| 26 | KC Concepcion | WR | ||||
|
The Bills could use more weaponry on offense, and Concepcion would be an explosive addition for Josh Allen. He's dangerous on screens and slants, with the ability to break tackles, maximize gains and stretch the defense vertically. Concepcion shows good acceleration to separate after the catch and attacks the ball in the air. He's also a weapon as a returner, with the threat to score any time he touches it. |
||||||
| 27 | Peter Woods | DL | ||||
|
San Francisco would immediately improve up front with Woods, especially with much of the front sidelined for most of the 2025 season. Woods looks the part and has impressive traits, but he didn't deliver a standout season despite the hype. He shows good power and leverage at the point of attack to handle double teams, along with solid lateral quickness on stunts and games to get home. |
||||||
| 28 | Kenyon Sadiq | TE | ||||
|
Sadiq is a fluid mover who runs like a big wide receiver, with the natural ability to catch the ball away from his body and get north. He gets open, finds soft spots in coverage and is a dependable target you can count on to make plays. Sadiq offers big-play potential after the catch and is also a very solid blocker. |
||||||
| 29 | Caleb Lomu | OT | ||||
|
The Rams are likely in the market for an offensive lineman, and Lomu offers good value here along with positional versatility. He's an experienced left tackle who brings the blindside experience teams look for. Lomu has good feet and plays with strong technique on the edge. He's a solid run blocker with good lateral movement and knee bend, allowing him to maximize his lower-body explosion. |
||||||
| 30 | Denzel Boston | WR | ||||
|
A big-bodied receiver who profiles more as a possession target capable of bodying up defenders than a true deep threat. He has very dependable hands and is a contested-catch, red-zone nightmare for defenders. Boston works the middle of the field and the sidelines well and finished the season with just one drop. |
||||||
| 31 | Akheem Mesidor | EDGE | ||||
|
Mesidor shows excellent bend and motor and plays with polished technique as a pass rusher. He uses his hands and hips to finish, has an outstanding first step off the ball and has been one of the most disruptive players in the country. He lacks ideal measurables on the edge, but the film doesn't lie — an absolute game wrecker and the most NFL-ready pass rusher in the class from a technical standpoint. |
||||||
| 32 | Chris Brazzell II | WR | ||||
|
Brazell gives the Seahawks a nice complementary receiver to pair with Jaxon Smith-Njigba. He can beat press coverage, stretch the field and provide a big target who becomes a red-zone and contested-catch nightmare. Brazell also delivered a strong rebound season at Tennessee after a productive career at Tulane. |
||||||
| # | Team | Player | Pos | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Fernando Mendoza | QB | ||||
|
Fernando Mendoza is the clear-cut first overall pick after leading the country in touchdown passes, winning the 2025 Heisman Trophy and powering Indiana to its first football national championship. The Raiders have clearly operated this offseason with his selection in mind. They traded Geno Smith to the Jets and signed three-time Pro Bowl center Tyler Linderbaum to the richest contract for a center in NFL history. Las Vegas also spent heavily on defense, signing edge rusher Kwity Paye, linebacker Quay Walker and linebacker Nakobe Dean to give Mendoza a unit more likely to keep him in neutral game situations. |
||||||
| 2 | Arvell Reese | EDGE | ||||
|
The Jets completely reconfigured their defense with a litany of moves, including trading for defensive tackle T'Vondre Sweat from the Titans and five-time Pro Bowl safety Minkah Fitzpatrick from the Dolphins. They also signed Pro Bowl cornerback Nahshon Wright to a one-year deal. Adding the explosive Arvell Reese to beef up their pass rush could be exactly what's needed to apply enough pressure to help generate the Jets' first defensive interception since the 2024 season. |
||||||
| 3 | Francis Mauigoa | OT | ||||
|
The Cardinals are ready to continue beefing up their offensive infrastructure for whichever quarterback they select in the 2027 NFL Draft. They have enough receiving and rushing options, especially after signing Tyler Allgeier to pair with James Conner, but they could continue to fortify their offensive line at right tackle. Francis Mauigoa is a massive right tackle with sound technique, and he would fill a void at that position for Arizona, where he would be a dominant run blocker from Day 1. |
||||||
| 4 | David Bailey | EDGE | ||||
|
The Titans remade their defensive line in new head coach Robert Saleh's image by acquiring three of his former Jets: edge rusher Jermaine Johnson II and defensive tackles John Franklin-Myers and Solomon Thomas. However, one of their edge rusher spots could use more depth alongside 2025 second-round pick Oluwafemi Oladejo. Saleh could push Tennessee to go all in on his defense with this draft choice by selecting college football's 2025 sacks leader, Texas Tech edge rusher David Bailey. |
||||||
| 5 | Carnell Tate | WR | ||||
|
The Giants added solid pass-catching options with the signings of Ravens tight end Isaiah Likely and Falcons wide receiver Darnell Mooney, but they still need another legitimate receiver opposite Malik Nabers on the outside with Wan'Dale Robinson now with the Titans. Carnell Tate is the cleanest wide receiver in the draft based on his measurements and traits. He produced a nation-leading six receiving touchdowns of 30 or more air yards in 2025. He'll help quarterback Jaxson Dart's development in new offensive coordinator Matt Nagy's offense. |
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| 6 | Spencer Fano | OT | ||||
|
The Browns completely reworked their offensive line in free agency by signing left guard Zion Johnson and center Elgton Jenkins and trading for right tackle Tytus Howard. However, there's still an opening at right guard with Wyatt Teller gone and Teven Jenkins on a one-year deal. Despite Spencer Fano playing right tackle the last two years at Utah, he expressed openness at the combine to playing inside. That would be best given his 32⅛-inch arms. |
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| 7 | Jeremiyah Love | RB | ||||
|
Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels missed 10 games in 2025 after suffering three different injuries: a knee sprain, a hamstring strain and a dislocated elbow. The Commanders need a run game that isn't so reliant on Daniels' legs; he ran for an NFL rookie quarterback record 891 yards in 2024. As Washington aims to rebound in 2026, selecting the top running back prospect in Notre Dame's Jeremiyah Love could help extend Daniels' NFL longevity. |
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| 8 | Mansoor Delane | CB | ||||
|
Mansoor Delane crushed his LSU Pro Day with a blazing 4.35-second 40-yard dash. That's on top of leading the SEC with a 24.1 passer rating allowed when targeted, the best mark in the conference among 82 players with at least 30 targets. Saints general manager Mickey Loomis had an extended chat with Delane at the Pro Day, and he keeps Delane in Louisiana to beef up his secondary. |
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| 9 | Sonny Styles | LB | ||||
|
Sonny Styles would be an animal in defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo's defense. The Chiefs saw linebacker Leo Chenal walk in free agency, and even though they have a glaring need at cornerback, general manager Brett Veach drafts the best player available. |
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| 10 | Caleb Downs | S | ||||
|
The Bengals need help on defense at all levels after fielding the NFL's third-worst scoring unit (28.9 points allowed per game) in 2025. Downs can play anywhere: strong safety, nickel or even in sub-packages as a linebacker. He's the type of versatile chess piece Cincinnati needs. |
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| 11 | Jermod McCoy | CB | ||||
|
Jermod McCoy missed the 2025 season with a torn ACL, but he was electric in 2024, earning first-team All-SEC honors with four interceptions and nine passes defensed. New Dolphins head coach Jeff Hafley saw almost all of his defensive backs hit free agency. Miami is a perfect landing spot for McCoy because it won't rush him back for the 2026 season, which is clearly a rebuilding year in Year 1 of the Packers South regime. |
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| 12 | Rueben Bain Jr. | EDGE | ||||
|
The Cowboys get lucky as 11 NFL teams overthink Miami All-American edge rusher Rueben Bain Jr.'s lack of arm length (30⅞ inches). Bain stood out at his pro day during position drills, something Cowboys head coach Brian Schottenheimer, defensive coordinator Christian Parker and vice president of player personnel Will McClay all watched up close. Dallas lands a young edge rusher who can grow alongside Donovan Ezeiruaku and Rashan Gary. |
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| 13 | Makai Lemon | WR | ||||
|
Makai Lemon earned the distinction of being named college football's top wide receiver as the 2025 Biletnikoff Award winner, and he did all his damage just down the road from the NFC runner-up Rams in Los Angeles. Lemon could push into the top 10, though his size and a viral combine press conference have created some variability in where he may land. Neither figures to matter to Sean McVay and Les Snead, who pair Lemon with Puka Nacua and Davante Adams as part of an "all-in" 2026 season. |
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| 14 | Olaivavega Ioane | IOL | ||||
|
The Ravens' interior offensive line desperately needs help after Tyler Linderbaum's departure, and Olaivavega Ioane can help soften that loss in front of Lamar Jackson as a left guard in 2026. He didn't allow a sack over his final two college seasons, spanning 27 starts and 776 pass-blocking snaps. |
||||||
| 15 | Denzel Boston | WR | ||||
|
Denzel Boston is a tank who can line up in the slot and outside and blow through press coverage, but learning some of the finer points of route running from Chris Godwin could take his game to new heights. This is Tampa Bay's replacement for Mr. Buccaneer himself, Mike Evans, now that he's with the 49ers. |
||||||
| 16 | Jordyn Tyson | WR | ||||
|
Jordyn Tyson is arguably the most explosive receiver in this draft. His film shows him blowing by defenders and turning routine catches into big plays after the catch, but the concern is a nagging hamstring injury that is scaring away some teams picking higher. New York doesn't mind if he can't play right away given it is building for the future. |
||||||
| 17 | Akheem Mesidor | EDGE | ||||
|
The Lions' roster is about to get expensive, so they need a cheap edge rusher who can immediately start opposite Aidan Hutchinson. Akheem Mesidor, who will turn 25 this year, stood out in position drills at his pro day alongside Rueben Bain Jr. He ranked top five nationally in sacks (12.5, tied for third in the FBS), tackles for loss (17.5, tied for fifth) and quarterback pressures (67, tied for fourth) in 2025 opposite Bain at Miami. |
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| 18 | Dillon Thieneman | S | ||||
|
The cornerback position is set in Minnesota after the free agency signing of James Pierre, but safety still needs to be addressed with Harrison Smith all but officially retired. Dillon Thieneman's movement in position drills at the combine looked as good as any defensive back's. He is an instinctual player who would thrive in defensive coordinator Brian Flores' scheme. |
||||||
| 19 | Kenyon Sadiq | TE | ||||
|
The Panthers had one of the best offseasons in the NFL after signing edge rusher Jaelan Phillips and linebacker Devin Lloyd. They also patched up the offensive line by getting Rasheed Walker on the cheap. Here, they add a legitimate receiving tight end in Kenyon Sadiq, the 2025 first-team All-Big Ten honoree who led the nation at the position with eight receiving touchdowns while primarily lining up on the line of scrimmage or in the slot. |
||||||
| 20 | CJ Allen | LB | ||||
|
New defensive coordinator Christian Parker enjoyed having former Georgia linebacker Nakobe Dean in his Eagles defense, so now he gets another high-IQ Georgia linebacker in CJ Allen. At the combine, Allen said the Bulldogs let him call the defense, with the exception of specific situational play calls. That's exactly what Parker is looking for in his middle linebacker. |
||||||
| 21 | Emmanuel McNeil-Warren | S | ||||
|
Safety Kyle Dugger is a free agent, and Emmanuel McNeil-Warren can provide the Steelers with a long-term answer who can line up all over the formation. Entering the NFL and learning from Jalen Ramsey is an ideal situation for both the Steelers and McNeil-Warren. |
||||||
| 22 | Keldric Faulk | EDGE | ||||
|
The Chargers need some youth opposite Khalil Mack at edge rusher. Keldric Faulk can line up anywhere along the defensive line with his prototypical stature, and learning from Mack, who returns to Los Angeles in 2026, makes plenty of sense for a team that needs more youthful depth in its front seven with Odafe Oweh now with the Commanders. |
||||||
| 23 | Monroe Freeling | OT | ||||
|
Eagles general manager Howie Roseman sure does love his Georgia Bulldogs, and the end appears near for All-Pro right tackle Lane Johnson. Monroe Freeling was a left tackle at Georgia, but the Eagles will look to mold him into their long-term right tackle, even with renowned offensive line coach Jeff Stoutland leaving the staff. |
||||||
| 24 | Omar Cooper Jr. | WR | ||||
|
The Browns desperately need more juice at wide receiver next to Jerry Jeudy. Omar Cooper Jr. has that juice: his nine receiving touchdowns of 10-plus yards led the Big Ten in 2025. He also comes from a winning culture at Indiana, which is sorely needed in Cleveland these days. |
||||||
| 25 | Caleb Lomu | OT | ||||
|
Caleb Lomu's handwork and ability to stay upright prevent edge rushers from blowing past his shoulders, and he has strong instincts. That's exactly what Chicago needs in Caleb Williams' long-term blindside protector. |
||||||
| 26 | Cashius Howell | EDGE | ||||
|
Doesn't 2023 feel like a lifetime ago? That's the last time the Bills had a player record double-digit sacks in a season, when Leonard Floyd finished with 10.5. Howell, the 2025 SEC Defensive Player of the Year, racked up 11.5 sacks for the Aggies, the most by a Texas A&M player since Myles Garrett had 12.5 in 2015. |
||||||
| 27 | Blake Miller | OT | ||||
|
Blake Miller is one of the most experienced offensive linemen in the 2026 NFL Draft with 54 starts at Clemson. While he played right tackle for the Tigers, he could learn the finer points of left tackle from All-Pro Trent Williams -- if he's still on the team -- before eventually emerging as his successor in San Francisco. |
||||||
| 28 | Lee Hunter | DL | ||||
|
Lee Hunter is a strong, wide defensive tackle, which made him an outstanding run defender at Texas Tech. Will Anderson Jr. and Danielle Hunter can help improve his pass-rushing chops at the NFL level, and he can learn the ropes from Sheldon Rankins for a couple of years before being relied on more heavily during passing downs. |
||||||
| 29 | Colton Hood | CB | ||||
|
After losing both Trent McDuffie and Jaylen Watson to the Rams, the Chiefs draft a replacement in Colton Hood, the SEC's only player with a pick-six and a fumble return touchdown in 2025. He was also the only SEC player with four-plus tackles for loss and eight-plus passes defended last season. That's the kind of playmaking Steve Spagnuolo will have fun molding. |
||||||
| 30 | KC Concepcion | WR | ||||
|
The Dolphins need to replace the speed lost by trading away Jaylen Waddle to the Broncos, and they do just that with the first-round pick they received in the deal, selecting Texas A&M's KC Concepcion. He was the first FBS player with over 900 receiving yards and over 450 punt return yards in a season since Oklahoma legend Ryan Broyles in 2009. His speed will give new Miami quarterback Malik Willis a weapon to grow with. |
||||||
| 31 | Kadyn Proctor | OT | ||||
|
Kadyn Proctor is a tank, but he has the quickness to play offensive tackle in the NFL because of his footwork. He uses a strong first step to avoid getting beat off the line of scrimmage and can bend enough to handle speed rushers off the edge. Proctor might be a project, but he'll be able to learn from Morgan Moses before eventually replacing him. |
||||||
| 32 | Avieon Terrell | CB | ||||
|
Several defensive backs from the Seahawks' "Dark Side" defense left in free agency, including Tariq Woolen and Coby Bryant. Avieon Terrell is one of the best takeaway generators at the cornerback position in this draft class. He set Clemson records for a defensive back in forced fumbles in a season (five) and a career (eight from 2023-2025), a skill set Mike Macdonald will love to have. |
||||||
| # | Team | Player | Pos | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Fernando Mendoza | QB | ||||
|
The idea that he isn't the best quarterback in this class is misguided. He will -- and should -- be the pick by the Raiders. |
||||||
| 2 | Arvell Reese | EDGE | ||||
|
Ok, so maybe his pro day workout wasn't great. But his tape is impressive. You don't draft off pro days. |
||||||
| 3 | Rueben Bain Jr. | EDGE | ||||
|
They have to get better on defense and Bain will help make that possible. He would join Josh Sweat to give them a nice pass-rush group. |
||||||
| 4 | David Bailey | EDGE | ||||
|
They have three really good players up front, so why not add another speed rusher? Bailey isn't great against the run, but he has the explosive ability off the edge. |
||||||
| 5 | Sonny Styles | LB | ||||
|
John Harbaugh loves having a playmaking middle linebacker on his defense. Styles is that and more. As a converted safety, he can really run. |
||||||
| 6 | Monroe Freeling | OT | ||||
|
This is high for him in my book, but there are lot of teams that like him. The Browns need a left tackle for the long run and he could be that guy. |
||||||
| 7 | Jeremiyah Love | RB | ||||
|
They've added to their defense in free agency, which they needed to do, so why not take a playmaking running back to help the offense? Love has the explosive speed to turn short runs into home run touchdowns. |
||||||
| 8 | Carnell Tate | WR | ||||
|
This would be continuing to build around Tyler Shough. They need a receiver to go with Chris Olave, so taking Tate works. |
||||||
| 9 | Mansoor Delane | CB | ||||
|
They have a glaring need at corner and Delane would be an immediate starter. They could go receiver here, but I think this is a must for them in the first round. |
||||||
| 10 | Caleb Downs | S | ||||
|
They need playmakers on the defensive side of the ball. He has range to allow him to do a lot of things in their defense. |
||||||
| 11 | Jermod McCoy | CB | ||||
|
He is coming off a torn ACL, but he is back running and should be ready for the season. They have a messy corner room, so they need a guy who can step in and give them a true No. 1 corner. |
||||||
| 12 | R Mason Thomas | DL | ||||
|
I am sticking with this pick. With the two top corners off the board, it just works. Thomas is an ideal fit in their scheme. He will go higher than the draft cult thinks. Teams love him. |
||||||
| 13 | Spencer Fano | OT | ||||
|
Are they convinced their line is a finished product? I don't think so. So it makes sense to take a player in Fano who can play guard or tackle or maybe even center. |
||||||
| 14 | Francis Mauigoa | OT | ||||
|
He has played right tackle but has the look of a dominating guard. They have had great success moving college tackles inside to guard over the years with guys like Marshal Yanda. |
||||||
| 15 | Akheem Mesidor | EDGE | ||||
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They have to get more pressure on the quarterback. He is an older player at 25, but that shouldn't matter to a team that needs help now. |
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| 16 | Jordyn Tyson | WR | ||||
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They need to get somebody to play opposite Garrett Wilson. Tyson has played inside and outside in his career. When he's on the field -- and he missed time the past two seasons -- he might be the best receiver in this class. |
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| 17 | Olaivavega Ioane | IOL | ||||
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Their revamped line needs a mauler inside to help the run game, which keys the offense for this team. Ioane is the most complete guard in this draft. |
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| 18 | Peter Woods | DL | ||||
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The interior of their defensive line needs a boost after they let go of Jonathan Allen and Javon Hargrave. Woods was dominant in 2024, but his play tailed off some last year. The talent is there. |
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| 19 | Kenyon Sadiq | TE | ||||
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A playmaking tight end for Bryce Young would be a nice addition to the offense. They could also look at a receiver in this spot. Helping the offense is a must. |
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| 20 | Avieon Terrell | CB | ||||
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After getting an edge player with their first pick, they come back and add a corner with their second. They could consider linebacker here as well, but the corner position is more valuable. |
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| 21 | Emmanuel Pregnon | IOL | ||||
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They could possibly take Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson in this spot, but they should wait until next year to get one. Pregnon is a plug-and-play at left guard. |
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| 22 | Caleb Banks | DL | ||||
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Adding him to Jamaree Caldwell would give them a nice, young inside duo. Banks just has to stay on the field since injuries have slowed his career. |
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| 23 | Max Iheanachor | OT | ||||
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He is a raw player who could take a little time, but the tools are there. He would be the replacement when Lane Johnson retires. |
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| 24 | Ty Simpson | QB | ||||
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Their quarterback room isn't good right now, so why not add to it? They can wait until next year, but with a new coach in Todd Monken this works. |
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| 25 | Blake Miller | OT | ||||
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The left tackle spot is a concern and Miller has the tools to step in and play right away. They could also consider defensive tackle here. |
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| 26 | Malachi Lawrence | LB | ||||
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They need a young edge player to come in and supplement what they have there. Bradley Chubb isn't a kid, and they are seemingly in never-ending pursuit of speed off the edge. |
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| 27 | Kadyn Proctor | OT | ||||
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When focused, he is dominant. Spending a year learning from Trent Williams will really help his game. He just needs more from a play-to-play standpoint. |
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| 28 | Kayden McDonald | DL | ||||
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Adding to a dominant defense would seem strange, but they need some more help inside. McDonald is a power player who would be a nice addition to their defense. |
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| 29 | Makai Lemon | WR | ||||
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They need to get some juice on the offense and this kid can help with that. The Chiefs could also consider more defensive help. |
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| 30 | Dillon Thieneman | S | ||||
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They get a corner with their first pick and follow that up with a rangy safety. Thieneman will excel in their scheme with his range. Receiver is in play here too. |
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| 31 | Zion Young | EDGE | ||||
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They need to get pass-rush help in the worst way. Taking Young would help fill what is a major need. They could consider receiver here as well. |
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| 32 | Cashius Howell | EDGE | ||||
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They lost Boye Mafe, one of their rotational pieces, to the Bengals in free agency, so they need more help. They won the Super Bowl because of their front. They could also consider a back here, but I think they wait. |
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1:35No. 5 Team Under The Most Pressure Entering The 2026 NFL Draft: Miami Dolphins
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1:59No. 4 Team Under The Most Pressure Entering The 2026 NFL Draft: Kansas City Chiefs
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1:49No. 3 Team Under The Most Pressure Entering The 2026 NFL Draft: Detroit Lions
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1:55No. 1 Team Under The Most Pressure Entering The 2026 NFL Draft: New York Jets
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1:36Pete Prisco's 2026 NFL Draft Better-Than Team: R Mason Thomas
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1:12Pete Prisco's 2026 NFL Draft Better-Than Team: Jaishawn Barham
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1:24Pete Prisco's 2026 NFL Draft Better-Than Team: Kaleb Proctor
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1:18Pete Prisco's 2026 NFL Draft Better-Than Team: Eli Heidenreich
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1:32Pete Prisco's 2026 NFL Draft Better-Than Team: Jadarian Price
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1:12Pete Prisco's 2026 NFL Draft Better-Than Team: Athan Kaliakmanis
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1:01Ryan's Top 5 WR's In 2026 NFL Draft: No. 1 Carnell Tate
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0:42Ryan's Top 5 WR's In 2026 NFL Draft: No. 2 Makai Lemon
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1:00Ryan's Top 5 WR's In 2026 NFL Draft: No. 3 Denzel Boston
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1:07Ryan's Top 5 WR's In 2026 NFL Draft: No. 4 Jordyn Tyson
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0:32Ryan's Top 5 WR's In 2026 NFL Draft: No. 5 KC Concepcion
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0:46Ryan's Top Day 2 WR Prospects In NFL Draft
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0:51S Caleb Downs Scouting Report: Weaknesses
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0:51S Caleb Downs Player Comparison
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1:07S Caleb Downs Scouting Report: Strengths
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0:36TE Kenyon Sadiq Player Comparison




































