| # | Team | Player | Pos | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
 |
Fernando Mendoza | QB | |||
 This one looks all but done at this point. The pairing of Mendoza with Klint Kubiak feels like a perfect match. That's because Mendoza is willing to consistently attack the intermediate area of the field where Kubiak's offense loves to operate. Now all they need are more weapons at receiver to get open at that level outside of Brock Bowers. |
||||||
| 2 |
 |
Arvell Reese | LB | |||
|
Reese is the NFL version of a lottery pick. He's got all the traits to be an elite pass rusher, but he's yet to actually deliver. With the success of similar off-ball to edge converts in recent years like Micah Parsons, Jalon Walker and Abdul Carter, the Jets may bet on the upside. Reese is a decidedly different type of off-ball linebacker than those three, with his length and strength serving as his calling cards, but there's still plenty of reason to believe those traits will translate off the edge. |
||||||
| 3 |
 |
Spencer Fano | OT | |||
|
Fano may not be the specimen that comes to mind when you think of a top-three pick, but he's the cleanest offensive lineman in the class. He makes up for limited length with elite mirroring ability. Mike LaFleur will want to shore up the shaky Cardinals offensive line for whoever is at quarterback. |
||||||
| 4 |
 |
David Bailey | EDGE | |||
|
Robert Saleh will have an interesting debate here between Bailey and Miami's Rueben Bain Jr. -- two distinctly different types of edge rushers. Bailey provides something you won't find later in the draft, however: juice. He's the most explosive edge rusher on the board and gives you a movable athlete on third downs. |
||||||
| 5 |
 |
Sonny Styles | LB | |||
|
Styles could be the cherry on top of a budding front seven. He's one of the best off-ball linebacker athletes to come out in recent years, boasting a massive frame and cornerback-like movement skills. |
||||||
| 6 |
 |
Kadyn Proctor | OT | |||
|
The Browns have needs all along their offensive line. Some see Proctor as a guard, but I think he can stick at tackle. His ability to play with balance at 350-plus pounds is special and could give Cleveland the largest tackle tandem in the NFL with Dawand Jones on the other side. |
||||||
| 7 |
 |
Carnell Tate | WR | |||
|
The Commanders need an injection of youth into their aging receiving corps. We saw how much their downfield passing attack suffered when Terry McLaurin was out of the lineup last season. Tate is the best big-play threat in the class with the kind of ball skills that pair perfectly with Jayden Daniels' elite deep ball. |
||||||
| 8 |
 |
Jeremiyah Love | RB | |||
|
Kellen Moore gets his version of Saquon Barkley. Love is a special home-run threat with elite twitch and speed. His ability in the passing game would also make life easier on Tyler Shough. |
||||||
| 9 |
 |
Rueben Bain Jr. | EDGE | |||
 Bain won't be for everyone, but he'll definitely be for Steve Spagnuolo. His power-end skill set and inside-outside versatility are exactly what Spags looks for at defensive end. Kansas City's middling pass rush gets a shot of life. |
||||||
| 10 |
 |
Caleb Downs | S | |||
|
Downs' versatility and reliability would be exactly what the doctor ordered for the Bengals' porous secondary. He could fill the slot role that's growing in value across the NFL or function as a hybrid defender in Al Golden's defense. A safety hasn't gone top 10 in nearly a decade, but Downs is well worth that billing. |
||||||
| 11 |
 |
Mansoor Delane | CB | |||
|
Delane was the stickiest cornerback in the class last fall. His ability to mirror underneath is exceptional. Pairing him with Jack Jones would give new head coach Jeff Hafley two corners capable of holding up in one-on-one situations. |
||||||
| 12 |
 |
Jermod McCoy | CB | |||
|
McCoy had some of the best sophomore tape at corner I've seen in the past decade. The problem is that was the last time we saw him after he missed all of 2025 with a torn ACL suffered last January. He'd give Dallas and new defensive coordinator Christian Parker the ability to play far more man and man-match coverage than they did last year. |
||||||
| 13 |
 |
Jordyn Tyson | WR | |||
|
Tyson is my top wide receiver in the class on tape, but it's hard to ignore that he's missed time in three straight seasons due to injury. That's likely to cause a slide, and the Rams are the beneficiaries here. He'd be the perfect transition piece from Davante Adams as the mid-30s wideout begins to slow down. |
||||||
| 14 |
 |
Francis Mauigoa | OT | |||
|
Mauigoa would help solve the massive issue the Ravens had at guard last season. He's exceptional in a phone booth with the ability to consistently reset the line of scrimmage in the run game. |
||||||
| 15 |
 |
Olaivavega Ioane | IOL | |||
|
The Bucs don't have many needs, although left guard certainly qualifies as one. Lucky for them, Ioane has more than 1,800 snaps at left guard under his belt. He's an outstanding pass protector who would pair with Tristan Wirfs to keep Baker Mayfield's blindside clean for years. |
||||||
| 16 |
|
Makai Lemon | WR | |||
|
The Jets find their slot receiver to pair with Garrett Wilson and Adonai Mitchell. While they still need to sort out the quarterback position, this pick would give whoever is under center one of the best supporting casts in the NFL. Lemon is incredibly reliable, with his limited frame serving as the only real knock. |
||||||
| 17 |
 |
Caleb Lomu | OT | |||
|
With Taylor Decker's future up in the air, addressing left tackle makes sense even if he doesn't retire. Lomu is a crafty, smooth pass protector. His biggest knock is play strength, but that's a trait that can be improved at the next level. |
||||||
| 18 |
 |
Colton Hood | CB | |||
|
Hood was a breakout star for the Volunteers after transferring from Colorado. He's physical at the line of scrimmage and boasts some of the best deep speed at the position in the class. |
||||||
| 19 |
 |
Caleb Banks | DL | |||
|
Putting Banks next to Derrick Brown would give Carolina the most physically imposing defensive tackle duo in the NFL. Banks still needs refinement, though, before he reaches Brown's level. The 6-foot-6, 330-pounder flashes dominant reps but has been inconsistent. |
||||||
| 20 |
|
Blake Miller | OT | |||
|
Dallas loves addressing the offensive line in Round 1, and Miller would fit perfectly with its young unit. Terence Steele has been a sore spot at right tackle the past few years -- the same spot Miller played at Clemson. |
||||||
| 21 |
 |
Ty Simpson | QB | |||
|
Simpson may have his warts, but he has an NFL-caliber arm and flashed special ability in his lone season as a starter. Mike McCarthy has a strong track record of quarterback development and would get a player with a lot of potential to mentor. |
||||||
| 22 |
 |
Peter Woods | DL | |||
|
Jim Harbaugh loves building through the trenches, and the chance to land a physical specimen like Woods may be too good to pass up. He's uniquely powerful for a young defensive tackle, even if his tape this past fall didn't match what we saw in 2024. Harbaugh always gets his defensive tackles to play their best, and that's a scary thought when it comes to Woods. |
||||||
| 23 |
 |
Kenyon Sadiq | TE | |||
|
Even if the Eagles re-sign Dallas Goedert, Sadiq makes sense with the rise of two-tight-end sets leaguewide. He's the perfect complementary tight end with elite athleticism and the ability to block in space. His run-game impact could be as valuable as what he provides as a receiver. |
||||||
| 24 |
|
Denzel Boston | WR | |||
|
After snagging a tackle in the top 10, Cleveland goes back to offense for new head coach Todd Monken. Boston is one of the best possession receivers in the class, possessing outstanding ball skills and physicality as a route runner. |
||||||
| 25 |
 |
Lee Hunter | DL | |||
|
Hunter is the playmaking defensive tackle Chicago has been searching for. He plays violently at the nose and can range sideline to sideline. For a team that ranked bottom five in pressure rate last season, this would be a major boost. |
||||||
| 26 |
 |
KC Concepcion | WR | |||
|
Concepcion is the separator Buffalo lacks. We saw how much an older Brandin Cooks opened up the offense in his limited stint, and Concepcion would bring even more juice. You may have to live with some drops, though, after he posted a drop rate north of 10% last year. |
||||||
| 27 |
 |
Cashius Howell | EDGE | |||
|
Howell is arguably the most skilled pass rusher in the class. Limited length and play strength cap his run defense, but pass rush may be all San Francisco needs. Given the run defenders it drafted last year, that tradeoff works. |
||||||
| 28 |
 |
Monroe Freeling | OT | |||
|
Freeling rose throughout his third year at Georgia and is one of the few top offensive linemen who is a surefire tackle. That's key for Houston, which could use a long-term option on the right side with Blake Fisher's development lagging. Freeling is sturdily built and can easily hold up vs. NFL power. |
||||||
| 29 |
|
Avieon Terrell | CB | |||
|
Terrell's size will scare off some teams, but not the Rams, who historically don't operate on strict thresholds. The younger brother of Falcons corner A.J. Terrell shows similar proficiency, with physical play and quick processing. That's just what the Rams need. |
||||||
| 30 |
 |
Omar Cooper Jr. | WR | |||
|
Cooper is the best YAC weapon in the class, making him a perfect fit for Sean Payton's offense. He also has exceptional hands, posting a career drop rate of just 4.2%. Denver can't wait until Day 2 to address weapons for Bo Nix again. |
||||||
| 31 |
 |
Jake Golday | LB | |||
|
Golday is what everyone is looking for in a modern off-ball linebacker. He has edge size with linebacker athleticism, allowing him to seamlessly drop into coverage or rush off the edge. That versatility would be a welcome addition to New England's defense. |
||||||
| 32 |
 |
Anthony Hill Jr. | LB | |||
|
Back-to-back linebackers close Round 1 in what looks like a special class at the position. Hill's fluidity in space jumps off the tape. With few glaring needs, Seattle can opt for one of the best coverage linebackers available. |
||||||
| # | Team | Player | Pos | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
|
Fernando Mendoza | QB | |||
|
Mendoza is a poised, accurate passer who has plus arm talent, consistently delivering catchable balls on time and in rhythm and excelling on layered second-level routes. He shows NFL-level field vision and coverage recognition, consistently ripping throws with anticipation. While not a true creator, Mendoza navigates collapsing pockets effectively and can make accurate off-platform throws, showing a calm, efficient style reminiscent of Jared Goff. |
||||||
| 2 |
|
Arvell Reese | LB | |||
|
An explosive, high-motor LB with a versatile skill set that includes elite closing speed vs. both the run and the pass. He is a terror coming downhill, showcasing his strength and athleticism to shoot gaps, shed blocks and collapse the pocket. Reese is a wrap-up tackling machine who consistently plays with an aggressive edge and the versatility to line up across the front seven. One of the biggest risers over the first month of the college season. |
||||||
| 3 |
|
Francis Mauigoa | OT | |||
|
Road grader/earth mover in the run game with enormous size and insane athleticism for that size. He plays with an edge and is better vs. the run than in pass protection right now but well above average in both departments. He could play right tackle or kick inside to guard. |
||||||
| 4 |
|
Rueben Bain Jr. | EDGE | |||
|
Bain Jr. is an explosive, violent edge rusher with rare power and bend, capable of turning the corner from wide alignments and overwhelming tackles with speed-to-power. He wins with a deep arsenal of pass-rush moves -- from bull rushes to inside counters -- and plays with exceptional contact balance and hand usage to shed blocks both as a rusher and run defender. Relentlessly disruptive and highly explosive off the snap, Bain consistently collapses pockets, sets a firm edge and makes impact plays from whistle to whistle. |
||||||
| 5 |
|
Carnell Tate | WR | |||
|
Tate is a long strider with a big catch radius and reliable hands who makes contested catches downfield look easy. He flashes quickness and short-area agility to create separation at the top of his route and has the ability to make defenders miss after the catch. His ball-tracking, route-running and ability to operate in space make him a Day 1 impact player at the next level. |
||||||
| 6 |
|
Spencer Fano | OT | |||
|
Fano is an athletic, technically sound right tackle who plays with a strong base, quick feet and excellent balance in pass protection. He consistently mirrors speed rushers, handles stunts with patience and control and redirects smoothly against bendy edge defenders. While not an overpowering mauler, he anchors effectively and rarely gets knocked off his spot. In the run game, Fano thrives in wide-zone schemes, using his mobility to reach the second level and finish blocks. |
||||||
| 7 |
|
T.J. Parker | EDGE | |||
|
Parker is an explosive, high-motor edge rusher with the juice to both collapse pockets with a bull rush and the bend to win around the corner. He's stout and disciplined against the run, from setting the edge, to blowing up plays in the backfield with his quickness. He shows surprising versatility, with the athleticism to drop into coverage from wide alignments and disrupt passing lanes. |
||||||
| 8 |
|
Jeremiyah Love | RB | |||
|
Love has legit track speed and high-end acceleration. He can stop on a dime and redirect with rare change-of-direction ability, while playing with good contact balance and the footwork to jump-cut to avoid defenders before hitting the crease. |
||||||
| 9 |
|
Caleb Banks | DL | |||
|
At 6-foot-6 and 330 pounds with 35-inch arms, Banks is surprisingly explosive for his size, playing with power, juice and a nonstop motor. A foot injury sidelined him for parts of the 2025 season, but he took part in all three Senior Bowl practices and was pretty much unblockable on every rep. If he's fully healthy, he has top-10 ability. |
||||||
| 10 |
|
David Bailey | EDGE | |||
|
Bailey brings a mix of power and athleticism off the edge, pairing a strong long-arm move and a nasty bull rush with the burst to win around the corner. At 247 pounds, he's lighter than some, but his strength, motor and variety of pass-rush moves make him a constant problem for tackles who don't anchor well. |
||||||
| 11 |
|
Peter Woods | DL | |||
|
Woods is a powerful, explosive interior defensive lineman who consistently wins at the point of attack with violent hands, low pad level and exceptional strength. He's immovable against the run -- stacking, shedding and disrupting plays in the backfield while maintaining gap integrity -- and can overwhelm interior blockers. Though not reliant on a deep move set, Woods' athleticism, effort and persistence allow him to collapse pockets and create chaos from multiple alignments. |
||||||
| 12 |
|
Caleb Downs | S | |||
|
Downs could be a Troy Polamalu-level talent in the NFL. He's only 5-foot-11, and he may not end up running a 4.35-second 40-yard dash, but I don't care. Not even a little bit. Both Kyle Hamilton and Brian Branch Jr. slipped on draft day because of mediocre 40 times. They're two of the best young defensive backs in football. Downs is a run-game enforcer and has the sideline-to-sideline juice, coupled with the short-area burst, to excel in pass coverage. |
||||||
| 13 |
|
Mansoor Delane | CB | |||
|
A savvy, instinctive CB who excels in both off coverage and press man schemes, Delane is consistently in the WRs' back pocket on intermediate and vertical routes. He has a good understanding of route combinations, will drive on balls in front of him and is a reliable tackler in space. |
||||||
| 14 |
|
Kayden McDonald | DL | |||
|
McDonald is elite in the run game and plays with heavy hands to consistently win early in the rep. He consistently eats up double teams, making him the perfect early-down anchor for any defense looking to get physical up front. As he continues to improve as a pass rusher, he could end up as one of the best players in this draft class. |
||||||
| 15 |
|
Keldric Faulk | EDGE | |||
 First, Faulk just turned 20 in September. Second, he's unofficially 6-foot-6 and 288 pounds, and he is already near-elite as a run defender. The power and athleticism with which he plays make it an easy projection to see him as a dominant pass rusher down the road. Maybe it doesn't happen until, say, Year 2 in the league, but when it all comes together, it's going to be scary. |
||||||
| 16 |
|
Ty Simpson | QB | |||
|
Simpson is a big-armed pocket passer who plays with composure and outstanding mental processing both before and after the snap. He plays with an aggressive confidence and excels at navigating muddy pockets, throwing accurately on short and intermediate routes, and ripping tight-window throws with anticipation -- though he has been historically inconsistent on deep balls. Simpson is athletic enough to buy time with his legs to extend plays and move the sticks. |
||||||
| 17 |
|
Brandon Cisse | CB | |||
|
Cisse is a versatile corner who can consistently lock down receivers in press-man coverage and showcases elite athleticism, with explosive downhill speed and next-level change-of-direction ability. Whether he's driving on quick routes from off coverage or playing in press, he's consistently in position for pass breakup opportunities. He's also one of the best run-defending CBs in this entire class. |
||||||
| 18 |
|
Jermod McCoy | CB | |||
|
McCoy is a physical corner who can play man on an island and is also comfortable in zone looks. He's in phase on vertical routes, and in run support he comes downhill looking to thump someone. He's coming off a January ACL injury, and while he's yet to get back on the field, he could end up being the best CB in this class. |
||||||
| 19 |
|
Kadyn Proctor | OT | |||
|
Proctor is a massive, athletic LT with impressive balance and the ability to move effectively in space, making him a first-round talent in both pass protection and perimeter run schemes. When locked in, he can dominate defensive linemen in the run game and neutralize elite edge rushers in pass protection. While his weight, footwork and consistency can be an issue at times, his size, athleticism and upside make him a potential top-tier tackle when fully focused. |
||||||
| 20 |
|
Sonny Styles | LB | |||
|
Styles is a fast, physical linebacker who flies downhill and makes plays all over the field. He's tough enough to take on offensive linemen in the box, athletic enough to cover ground in space and smart enough to handle multiple roles across a defense. Whether he's blitzing, filling a gap or dropping into coverage, he plays with urgency, confidence and the kind of versatility coaches love. |
||||||
| 21 |
|
Jordyn Tyson | WR | |||
|
Tyson is an explosive receiver with the size, speed and catch radius to win at all three levels. A smooth hands-catcher, he consistently makes contested and high-point grabs look effortless while creating surprising separation at the top of his routes for his size. Tyson can hit top-end speed in just a few steps and shows the type of short-area quickness reserved for smaller, shiftier WRs. He's also an asset in the screen game, making him a dynamic threat both outside and from the slot. |
||||||
| 22 |
|
Olaivavega Ioane | IOL | |||
|
Ioane is one of the cleanest prospects in this class, excelling as an earth mover in the run game and showing the athleticism to be effective in both gap and zone schemes. In pass protection, he plays with a strong base, using a well-timed, powerful punch to neutralize the bull rush. |
||||||
| 23 |
|
Max Iheanachor | OT | |||
|
When Iheanachor is locked in, he can make pass rushers disappear -- he plays with light feet, calm hands and the kind of balance that lets him mirror twitchy edge rushers without panicking. If he gets his hands inside, the rep is basically over. He can absorb power, reset against counters and ride speed rushers right past the quarterback. He's not flashy, but he's reliable, athletic and tough to beat clean -- the kind of pass protector coaches trust on an island. And he didn't start playing football until he got to junior college. |
||||||
| 24 |
|
Kenyon Sadiq | TE | |||
|
Sadiq oozes athleticism, will run through arm tackles and is used all over the formation. He can be a quick-game target as an outside WR and is used effectively on jet sweeps. He's also one of the best blocking TEs in college football who is an asset on special teams, too. He reminds me of Kadarius Toney in the quick game and Anquan Boldin in space with the ball in his hands. |
||||||
| 25 |
|
Emmanuel McNeil-Warren | S | |||
|
McNeil-Warren is a sideline-to-sideline missile and an explosive thumper coming downhill. He offers versatility and range on the back end, using his closing speed and ball skills to make plays at all three levels of the defense. |
||||||
| 26 |
|
KC Concepcion | WR | |||
|
Concepcion is a versatile WR who uses his quickness and burst to consistently get open against man coverage, proving himself a deep threat with the speed to stack defenders. He is a natural hands-catcher who runs precise routes to all three levels and adds significant value as a dynamic punt returner with impressive YAC ability. |
||||||
| 27 |
|
Denzel Boston | WR | |||
|
A big, physical WR with a massive catch radius, contested-catch ability and the speed to separate quickly and hit top-end velocity in 2-3 steps. Boston is an effective route runner at all three levels, will run through arm tackles in space, and can outmuscle defenders in the red zone. While primarily an outside threat, his size, strength and hands make him a potential matchup problem in the slot, too. Added bonus: he's a legit threat as a punt returner. |
||||||
| 28 |
|
Lee Hunter | DL | |||
|
Hunter is a heavy-handed presence in the middle who consistently makes life miserable for interior offensive linemen by eating up double teams and shedding blocks to swallow up running backs. While he's still developing as a pass rusher, his ability to collapse the pocket with raw power and chase down plays from the backside shows he's much more than your garden-variety two-gap space-eater. |
||||||
| 29 |
|
Makai Lemon | WR | |||
|
Lemon, who also excels as a returner, is a dynamic, versatile receiver with explosive burst, top-tier route running and exceptional YAC ability, making him a threat at all three levels of the field. He excels in space and consistently creates separation with quickness, balance and body control, and has the tackle-breaking ability to turn short gains into big plays. |
||||||
| 30 |
|
CJ Allen | LB | |||
|
Allen is a consistent problem for offensive linemen trying to block him because of his combination of speed, quickness and power. He has a nose for the ball, rarely takes false steps, and is a reliable, physical tackler who limits yards after contact all over the field. He can more than hold his own in coverage vs. TEs and slot receivers, and he brings juice as a blitzer, too. |
||||||
| 31 |
|
Monroe Freeling | OT | |||
|
Freeling pairs elite length with high-end athleticism. He's incredibly smooth when mirroring pass rushers or climbing to the second level, and while he's still filling out his frame to handle pure power, his ability to lock onto defenders and sustain blocks in the run game already ranks among the best in this class. |
||||||
| 32 |
|
Avieon Terrell | CB | |||
|
Terrell has NFL bloodlines -- his brother is former first-round pick A.J. Terrell. Avieon plays bigger than his listed size (see his matchup in 2024 against former Stanford WR Eric Ayomanor). He can stay in phase on vertical routes, has good ball skills and will try to bait QBs into making throws. In run support, he plays outside CB like a strong safety. |
||||||
| # | Team | Player | Pos | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
|
Fernando Mendoza | QB | |||
|
There is only one quarterback worthy of consideration at No. 1 overall. There is some thought to trading the pick to acquire additional assets, build the roster and plug in a quarterback later. However, Las Vegas also recognizes the difficulty other teams have had identifying the right quarterback and getting into position to add that player. Take the shot when it comes open. Mendoza played in a less-than-ideal situation at California before thriving at Indiana. His accuracy will give Las Vegas' receivers a chance until that room gets reconstructed. |
||||||
| 2 |
|
David Bailey | EDGE | |||
|
Beyond Fernando Mendoza, I would understand players coming off the board in almost any order. It sounds like a copout, but that is the reality of a draft class lacking any obvious blue-chip talents. Safety Caleb Downs may be the safest prospect, but he plays a position most teams do not consider premium. Teams will also have varying opinions of Ohio State's Arvell Reese. Is he a pass rusher? Is he a linebacker? New York takes a finished product who was unblockable this fall. Bailey (81) finished second to Rueben Bain Jr. (83) in pressures this season, according to TruMedia, in two fewer games. His 14.5 sacks led Division I |
||||||
| 3 |
|
Spencer Fano | OT | |||
|
Arizona would likely want to trade back if the opportunity presented itself, but who is coming up -- and for which prospect? Without that opportunity, the Cardinals draft Spencer Fano, who can either replace Jonah Williams at right tackle or slide inside to guard. |
||||||
| 4 |
|
Arvell Reese | LB | |||
|
It would stand to reason that Robert Saleh's interest in having the capability to rush from a variety of angles will carry over from San Francisco. He wants waves of pass rushers and commonly looks for length. Arvell Reese is farther along as a linebacker but offers plenty of potential rushing the passer. In fact, coming out of high school, most programs recruiting him envisioned him one day becoming an impactful pass rusher. |
||||||
| 5 |
|
Carnell Tate | WR | |||
|
Chances are good that New York will not retain Wan'Dale Robinson through free agency. With Malik Nabers returning from a significant injury, Carnell Tate's presence will be needed in both the short and long term. Tate's selection would mark the fifth consecutive year a Buckeye receiver has been drafted in the first round. |
||||||
| 6 |
|
Caleb Downs | S | |||
|
Mock Trade from: CLE Jerry Jones is going to do what Jerry Jones wants. Patience is wearing thin, and the acquisition of 28-year-old Quinnen Williams, to go along with nearly 33-year-old quarterback Dak Prescott, suggests the team is looking for immediate results. Coming off a Super Bowl where defense ruled the roost and safety Nick Emmanwori was an impact performer, Caleb Downs' value may be as high as ever. If the Cowboys need an impact player, their options are dwindling in a sparse class. Details of the trade will be discussed with Cleveland's pick. |
||||||
| 7 |
|
Rueben Bain Jr. | EDGE | |||
|
Rueben Bain Jr. does not possess the length that a Dan Quinn defense often deploys, but he does have the requisite power and ability to set the edge. Bain led all of Division I with 83 pressures last season, according to TruMedia. He had quiet stretches and has a unique build but also took over games on college football's biggest stage |
||||||
| 8 |
|
Sonny Styles | LB | |||
|
Some will finish this process with Sonny Styles Jr. among the top five overall prospects -- perhaps even No. 1. His father played for the rival Falcons, and his brother, Lorenzo, is a cornerback in this draft class. Demario Davis is both 37 years old and open to departing the Saints in free agency. Styles steps in as his replacement. |
||||||
| 9 |
|
Jeremiyah Love | RB | |||
|
Kansas City may be hesitant to make this choice because of how Clyde Edwards-Helaire fared. Jeremiyah Love is a bigger, more explosive player, as well as an impactful pass catcher. Andy Reid may be looking for ways to reinvent himself this year, especially if Travis Kelce moves on with his life. One way to keep defenses on their toes is to have a running back who has to be accounted for and gets defenses moving. |
||||||
| 10 |
|
Mansoor Delane | CB | |||
|
Cornerbacks are about to come off the board back-to-back. Although Tennessee's Jermod McCoy has a higher ceiling, he's also coming off a significant injury and was unavailable for the 2025 season in its entirety. Cincinnati can ill afford to miss on another defensive draft pick, so it takes the safe route. Mansoor Delane is an instinctive cornerback with a great feel for playing within space. |
||||||
| 11 |
|
Jermod McCoy | CB | |||
|
Cornerback was a position of need for Miami coming into the season, and the contributors it was able to gather at that spot are now hitting free agency. Jeff Hafley's background is coaching defensive backs. The team has invested ample resources into a defensive line that remains very much a work in progress while neglecting the secondary. If Jermod McCoy returns to form, he could be one of the best prospects to emerge from this class. |
||||||
| 12 |
|
Jordyn Tyson | WR | |||
|
Mock Trade from: DAL Cleveland's long-term plan at quarterback remains unknown, but it is unlikely to be on the roster. It would be wise to accumulate future resources to potentially make a move in upcoming draft years. Dallas is more focused on the present, so it parts with future resources (No. 12 overall and two future second-round picks) in exchange for No. 6 overall and future fourth- and sixth-round picks. It is a reasonable trade considering the Browns still address one of their two biggest needs (wide receiver and offensive line). |
||||||
| 13 |
|
Francis Mauigoa | OT | |||
|
Rob Havenstein announced his retirement. Perhaps the team is comfortable with Warren McClendon Jr. in a scheme that makes the assignment a bit easier on its linemen, but with two first-round picks, there is an opportunity to address the concern in a big way. Francis Mauigoa should get a chance to stick at right tackle. |
||||||
| 14 |
|
Olaivavega Ioane | IOL | |||
|
Vega Ioane looks like a Ravens offensive lineman, right? He is big, powerful and can grind down the opposition in the rugged AFC North. With Daniel Faalele scheduled to hit free agency and coming off a bit of regression last season, Baltimore has an opportunity to upgrade in the trenches -- a core belief Jesse Minter likely holds given his proximity to both Harbaughs over the past decade. |
||||||
| 15 |
|
Keldric Faulk | EDGE | |||
|
Pass rush is a need for Tampa Bay. Although Keldric Faulk does not immediately elevate the unit in that regard, he brings a higher floor in run defense while also offering the potential to develop into a better pass rusher as he gets older. |
||||||
| 16 |
|
Peter Woods | DL | |||
|
After taking Texas Tech edge rusher David Bailey at No. 2 overall, the Jets address a position weakened by the Quinnen Williams trade. Peter Woods has "slipped," but he never profiled as a locked-in top-five selection. Aaron Glenn gets a few pillars on defense heading into an important year. |
||||||
| 17 |
|
Avieon Terrell | CB | |||
|
Terrion Arnold has struggled to stay healthy, and Ennis Rakestraw Jr. has been a non-factor since the team double-dipped in the draft. Rock Ya-Sin and others in depth roles are slated to hit free agency. Avieon Terrell provides immediate support. |
||||||
| 18 |
|
Caleb Banks | DL | |||
|
Caleb Banks missed most of this season due to injury, but his size cannot be taught. The conversation is similar to Deone Walker last year, and Walker had a good rookie season. Minnesota has an organizational history of taking bigger defensive tackles. |
||||||
| 19 |
|
Cashius Howell | EDGE | |||
|
Nic Scourton developed into a nice player for the Panthers by the end of the season, but they need a rusher with a bit more juice who will instill fear in the opposition. |
||||||
| 20 |
|
CJ Allen | LB | |||
|
Despite trading up to No. 6 overall and selecting Caleb Downs, Dallas is able to keep the 20th pick and take another key piece for its defense in 2026. |
||||||
| 21 |
|
Makai Lemon | WR | |||
|
It would not have been a surprise if Makai Lemon had been taken much earlier, but his availability is Pittsburgh's gain in this instance. Lemon is a fantastic complement to DK Metcalf for whichever quarterback the Steelers empower next season. |
||||||
| 22 |
|
Chase Bisontis | IOL | |||
|
Chase Bisontis is one of the better pass-protecting interior offensive linemen in this draft class. However, that is also a statement on this draft class. There is going to be a lot of volatility, which invites surprises in the first round, and the pool of consideration should go deeper than the same 32 names in mock draft scenarios each week. |
||||||
| 23 |
|
Kadyn Proctor | OT | |||
|
There has been some dialogue that either Lane Johnson and/or Landon Dickerson could retire this offseason. The beauty of Kadyn Proctor is that he could theoretically fill either role. In general, Philadelphia believes in depth in the trenches, and Proctor's mere presence provides insurance for a wide range of possibilities. |
||||||
| 24 |
|
Monroe Freeling | OT | |||
|
After trading back in the first round, the Browns selected Arizona State wide receiver Jordyn Tyson. Every starter along the Cleveland offensive line is slated to hit free agency this offseason, so that is a critical area to address as well. Monroe Freeling is a developing option for blindside protection. |
||||||
| 25 |
|
Kayden McDonald | DL | |||
|
Chicago's defense ranked bottom-10 in EPA against the rush, according to TruMedia. Kayden McDonald may not have a high ceiling as a pass rusher, but he will positively impact the team's ability to stop the run while also allowing it to get younger and cheaper. |
||||||
| 26 |
|
Omar Cooper Jr. | WR | |||
|
Thinking back to the best versions of Buffalo, yes, they had a downfield threat like Stefon Diggs, but they also had a slot merchant like Cole Beasley. Omar Cooper Jr. is not afraid of contact and is also capable of creating yards after the catch. |
||||||
| 27 |
|
Denzel Boston | WR | |||
|
Jauan Jennings is currently slated to hit free agency. The team is also prepared to move on from Brandon Aiyuk and has already done so with Deebo Samuel. The unit is changing, and only Ricky Pearsall has a seat on the bus. Denzel Boston provides a new face to the receiver room as the 49ers look forward. |
||||||
| 28 |
|
Caleb Lomu | OT | |||
|
Houston may be content allowing Aireontae Ersery to continue working through the growing pains of playing left tackle in the NFL, but Caleb Lomu would allow the team to move pieces around in an effort to get its five best linemen on the field. The offensive line should remain a priority for the Texans. |
||||||
| 29 |
|
KC Concepcion | WR | |||
|
Los Angeles found something that worked last season with Puka Nacua and Davante Adams, but Adams is both 33 years old and entering the final year of his contract. The Rams are always forward-thinking, so KC Concepcion's presence may not truly be felt until 2027, but by then he will have a year of experience in the system. |
||||||
| 30 |
|
Kenyon Sadiq | TE | |||
|
Sean Payton took a chance on Evan Engram as his tight end of choice, but the need was not fulfilled. Kenyon Sadiq is a threat downfield but also offers serviceable experience in run blocking. Sadiq will allow Payton to dust off a portion of his playbook. |
||||||
| 31 |
|
Max Iheanachor | OT | |||
|
Morgan Moses gave New England exactly what they needed in the first year of the Mike Vrabel era, but the reality is that his career is drawing to a close. Max Iheanachor is a powerful right tackle with good athleticism and a higher technical floor than which he has been given credit. |
||||||
| 32 |
|
Colton Hood | CB | |||
|
Cornerbacks Josh Jobe and Riq Woolen are slated to hit free agency next month. If Seattle wants to get cheaper and younger at the position, Colton Hood provides a nice off-ramp. |
||||||
| # | Team | Player | Pos | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
|
Fernando Mendoza | QB | |||
|
The Raiders are on the clock and in need of help across the board, but quarterback is the first order of business. Fernando Mendoza capped off an impressive season with a national championship in Indiana's RPO-based offense and a strong postseason run, showing consistency and clutch throws in must-have moments. Mendoza makes great decisions and throws with accuracy and touch, and he can create and extend plays outside the pocket and under duress. He's a high-level processor who reads defenses quickly and anticipates well to deliver advantage throws that move the chains. |
||||||
| 2 |
|
Arvell Reese | LB | |||
|
Arvell Reese is a nice piece for a franchise with plenty of holes, thanks to his versatility as both a box defender and an edge rusher. He brings elite twitch and instincts, along with the size and length to hold up in multiple spots. Reese is extremely athletic as a part-time rusher, can go speed to power, and has a strong long-arm move. His pass-rushing ceiling is high with more reps and time on task. Reese also has excellent change-of-direction and speed to match up against backs and tight ends, and he didn't allow a touchdown pass all season. |
||||||
| 3 |
|
Francis Mauigoa | OT | |||
|
Francis Mauigoa excelled during the Hurricanes' playoff run and has been a model of consistency over the past two seasons at right tackle. He's thickly built with excellent power and can move defenders against their will in the run game. He's above average in pass protection with good technique and the feet to play in space. He also has some versatility to kick inside if needed, plus strong leadership and extensive experience as a three-year starter at Miami. |
||||||
| 4 |
|
Rueben Bain Jr. | EDGE | |||
|
Rueben Bain Jr. was as dominant a defensive lineman as we've seen since Will Anderson Jr. at Alabama. He has elite power in both phases and is an excellent technician with his hands, able to win with force or finesse. Bain plays with a high motor and attention to detail. His measurements might not impress everyone, but his film is elite, and he offers versatility to kick inside in pass-rush situations. |
||||||
| 5 |
|
Spencer Fano | OT | |||
|
Spencer Fano plays with good technique and excellent feet, and I believe he can handle either tackle spot. He didn't allow a sack this season and gave up only six hurries. His best days are still ahead, but I like his power at the point, his ability to move people in the run game and the athleticism to pull and clear defenders at the second level. |
||||||
| 6 |
|
Carnell Tate | WR | |||
|
Carnell Tate has extensive experience and the ability to win anywhere on the field. He's a good route runner who tracks and high-points the ball in contested situations. Tate is dependable and trustworthy, with strong hands and the ability to move the chains. |
||||||
| 7 |
|
David Bailey | EDGE | |||
|
David Bailey is a natural edge rusher with the ability to win with speed and exceptional quickness in tight spaces. He's a dynamic player who can wreck a game and has shown improvement against the run. His highest upside comes as a pure pass rusher with his get-off and twitch. |
||||||
| 8 |
|
Jordyn Tyson | WR | |||
|
Jordyn Tyson is exceptional at tracking the ball in the air and shows great contact balance after the catch to maximize YAC. He has long speed to win against press coverage and the ability to thrive over the middle and in the red zone. Tyson battled a hamstring injury, so his medicals will be studied closely. |
||||||
| 9 |
|
Keldric Faulk | EDGE | |||
|
Keldric Faulk has ideal size, length and the ability to rush from anywhere along the front. His stats don't tell the full story given the attention he drew, but he still finished with 30 hurries. He's a slippery rusher with a good get-off and excellent hands, and he's solid against the run with the ability to set the edge and knock back tackles. |
||||||
| 10 |
|
Caleb Downs | S | |||
|
The Bengals' defense, especially the secondary, had a rough season, but help is on the way. Caleb Downs is a high-IQ leader who excels in both phases. He can erase tight ends, play in the box as a run stuffer and is an excellent tackler in space. |
||||||
| 11 |
|
Mansoor Delane | CB | |||
|
Mansoor Delane was arguably the nation's best corner and one of the top defensive players in the country. He's been an eraser in coverage with suddenness and change-of-direction. Delane has good speed and competitiveness at the catch point, and he should transition well despite lacking elite measurables. |
||||||
| 12 |
|
Jeremiyah Love | RB | |||
|
Jeremiyah Love has exceptional vision and patience, plus real value as a receiver. He's a home-run threat every time he touches the ball, with outstanding lateral quickness and explosiveness. He gives me Bijan Robinson vibes every time I watch him. Future superstar. |
||||||
| 13 |
|
Ty Simpson | QB | |||
|
Ty Simpson could benefit from a weak quarterback class and has promising traits. He may have the most upside in the group despite struggling in the second half of the season behind limited protection and run support. He has a strong arm, can hit every area of the field with velocity and touch and processes quickly with strong anticipation. Experience will be his biggest hurdle. |
||||||
| 14 |
|
Kayden McDonald | DL | |||
|
Kayden McDonald is a massive, disruptive run stuffer who has been a force for the Buckeyes' stingy defense. He brings exceptional power at the point and shows good lateral quickness on stunts. He can crush the pocket but still needs development as a pass rusher. |
||||||
| 15 |
|
Cashius Howell | EDGE | |||
|
Cashius Howell wins with speed and a strong long-arm move, with the ability to counter inside when tackles overset. He plays with a great motor and natural pass-rush instincts, and his twitch and get-off can cause problems. |
||||||
| 16 |
|
Caleb Lomu | OT | |||
|
Caleb Lomu is an experienced left tackle with the traits you want protecting the blindside. He has good feet, strong technique and is a solid run blocker with lateral movement and knee bend that helps maximize his lower-body explosion. |
||||||
| 17 |
|
Monroe Freeling | OT | |||
|
Long and athletic, Monroe Freeling is one of the few true pure left tackles in this draft. He shows good feet, versatility to play either tackle spot and solid run-blocking ability with a big frame and strong hand usage. He moves well in space and at the second level. |
||||||
| 18 |
|
Jermod McCoy | CB | |||
|
I'm not a big fan of projecting a first-rounder who didn't play a snap in 2025, but this is a weak year for corners. Jermod McCoy has good length, the ability to play man coverage and should be fully healthy in 2026. He shows a smooth backpedal, quick route breaks and excellent hands. |
||||||
| 19 |
|
Makai Lemon | WR | |||
|
Makai Lemon is an explosive playmaker who can stretch the field as both a receiver and returner. He plays with a defensive mentality and was USC's go-to option in must-have moments. He has top-end speed, physicality and great range. |
||||||
| 20 |
|
Sonny Styles | LB | |||
|
Sonny Styles is an every-down linebacker with ideal size and length who excels in all phases. He's fluid in coverage, understands leverage and matches up well with backs and tight ends. He has great range against the run and is a sure tackler. |
||||||
| 21 |
|
Kadyn Proctor | OT | |||
|
Kadyn Proctor settled in this season and had his best year for the Tide. I'd consider kicking him inside to guard, where I think he can excel. He can maul in the run game and has shown better consistency in protection. |
||||||
| 22 |
|
Olaivavega Ioane | IOL | |||
|
My favorite interior prospect, Olaivavega Ioane is a mauler in the run game and elevated his play in protection in 2025, allowing only three pressures all season. He's physical, plays through the whistle and is a strong puller who can erase defenders. |
||||||
| 23 |
|
Zachariah Branch | WR | |||
|
Zachariah Branch had his most productive season yet, catching 73 passes for nearly 750 yards with 17 explosive catches. He's elusive in space, can stop and start on a dime, and is always a threat to score as a punt and kick returner. |
||||||
| 24 |
|
Lee Hunter | DL | |||
|
Lee Hunter has been a massive upgrade up front for the Red Raiders, taking on double-teams and freeing linebackers to roam. He has good lateral quickness on stunts and the ability to crush the pocket, finishing with a couple of sacks and 19 hurries. |
||||||
| 25 |
|
Zion Young | EDGE | |||
|
The Bears love size and length up front, and nobody sets the edge quite like Young. He's disruptive with ideal length and pop, and profiles as a strong-side defender with a nice blend of speed, power and a long-arm move. |
||||||
| 26 |
|
KC Concepcion | WR | |||
|
Explosive on screens and slants, KC Concepcion can break tackles and also stretch the defense vertically. He has good acceleration, separates after the catch and attacks the ball in the air. He's also a dangerous return weapon. |
||||||
| 27 |
|
Peter Woods | DL | |||
|
Peter Woods looks the part and has impressive traits, but he didn't have the season many expected. He still shows good power and leverage against double-teams and flashes quickness on stunts and games. |
||||||
| 28 |
|
Kenyon Sadiq | TE | |||
|
Kenyon Sadiq is a fluid mover who runs like a big wide receiver. He catches naturally away from his body, finds soft spots in coverage and is a dependable target you can count on. He offers big-play ability after the catch and is a solid blocker. |
||||||
| 29 |
|
Brandon Cisse | CB | |||
|
Brandon Cisse is a sticky corner with good hips and change-of-direction. He pattern-matches well, contests throws with strong hands and has the recovery ability when slightly beaten. He should look even better behind the Rams' pass rush. |
||||||
| 30 |
|
Denzel Boston | WR | |||
|
Denzel Boston is a big-bodied possession receiver who can body up defenders and become a contested-catch and red-zone nightmare. He works the middle and sidelines well and had only one drop all season. |
||||||
| 31 |
|
Akheem Mesidor | DL | |||
|
Akheem Mesidor has excellent bend and motor, playing with flawless technique as a pass rusher. He uses his hands and hips to finish and has a great first step off the ball. He lacks ideal measurables, but the film doesn't lie -- he's an absolute game-wrecker and one of the most NFL-ready rushers in the class. |
||||||
| 32 |
|
Emmanuel Pregnon | IOL | |||
|
Emmanuel Pregnon is physical at the point with excellent strength and leverage, and he's also effective as a puller. He can maul defenders and has held up well in pass protection with good hands and a strong anchor. Pregnon put together his best season in his lone year at Oregon. |
||||||
| # | Team | Player | Pos | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
|
Fernando Mendoza | QB | |||
|
Mendoza is the slam-dunk pick at No. 1 overall. Not only did he lead the nation in passing touchdowns (41) and total touchdowns (48) in 2025, but he also threw 27 of those passing touchdowns to no interceptions in the red zone. He thrives by throwing with accuracy (72% completion percentage, fourth-best in the FBS in 2025), excellent timing, anticipation and touch on his throws to all levels of the field. His athleticism doesn't jump out on tape like 2023 Heisman Trophy winner Jayden Daniels, but Mendoza can climb the pocket well and deal just fine with throwing off platform. A partnership with new coach Klint Kubiak should be fun. |
||||||
| 2 |
|
Arvell Reese | LB | |||
|
The Jets need playmakers on defense after trading away two All-Pros in defensive tackle Quinnen Williams and cornerback Sauce Gardner at the trade deadline. Reese was an inside linebacker in college for most of his career at Ohio State, but he did play 51% of his snaps as an edge rusher in 2025. That's going to be the 2025 Big Ten Linebacker of the Year's ideal, long-term position as a pro. He'll be able to maximize his athletic gifts while still having above average coverage skills for his position when needed, thanks to collegiate reps at inside linebacker. Reese is exactly what the Jets need after becoming the first team in NFL history without an interception on defense in 2025. |
||||||
| 3 |
|
Francis Mauigoa | OT | |||
|
This is the top offensive tackle in the draft. The consensus All-American simply envelopes edge rushers at the point of attack, playing up to his immense size in the run and pass games. Mauigoa is an absolute tank in the run game -- something yours truly observed at the Cotton Bowl -- and he didn't surrender a sack in the final 12 games of the 2025 season. He could be a long-term bookend right tackle in Arizona opposite Paris Johnson Jr. |
||||||
| 4 |
|
David Bailey | EDGE | |||
|
Bailey is the most explosive player who was a full-time edge rusher in college in this 2026 draft class, and he maximized that explosion into leading the nation with 14.5 sacks. He thrives with elite timing off the snap and winning early with his signature rip move to get low to the ground and arrive at the quarterback. He also has an incredibly fun spin move to the inside. Creating more push once inside the pocket and holding the point of attack in the run game are places to improve. This pick gives new Titans coach Robert Saleh and All-Pro defensive tackle Jeffery Simmons a high-end edge rusher to mold. |
||||||
| 5 |
|
Carnell Tate | WR | |||
|
Tate is the safest wide receiver in the draft based on measurements and traits. He produced a nation-leading six receiving touchdowns of 30 or more air yards in 2025, which is impressive. He also has a wide catch radius thanks to his wingspan. He's also a strong separator in the middle of his routes downfield, especially playing leverage in zone. However, I wasn't impressed by how he struggled to play through contact at the catch point against Miami in the Cotton Bowl. Factoring in how Tate ate against mostly No. 2 corners in college opposite Jeremiah Smith is also worth noting. Fortunately for Tate, he'll be able to play opposite another true No. 1 in Malik Nabers. |
||||||
| 6 |
|
Spencer Fano | OT | |||
|
Whether the Browns' 2026 quarterback is Shedeur Sanders, who will play himself into pressure, Cleveland's offensive line could use an injection of youth. Fano is an athletic right tackle with refined technique. His strong suit in pass protection is his high-level balance and footwork, staying step for step with speedy, bendy edge rushers. Improvement is needed against counter moves. Fano did start 11 games at left tackle before moving to right tackle the last two years at Utah, so he's versatile. He doesn't have a top-tier wingspan, but Fano is a pro-ready run blocker. |
||||||
| 7 |
|
Sonny Styles | LB | |||
|
Styles is the perfect modern inside linebacker. He played his first two seasons at Ohio State as a safety before transitioning to linebacker, so he comes ready to roll in pass coverage. Styles is able to remain in range of slot receivers in the seam, and he can go step for step with tight ends from sideline to sideline. His wingspan allows him to have nice range as a tackler in the run and pass games. Styles blitzes with a jetpack attached to his back, easily steamrolling running backs attempting to pick him up in pass protection. Styles is a slam-dunk replacement for an aging Bobby Wagner, who is headed for free agency. |
||||||
| 8 |
|
Rueben Bain Jr. | EDGE | |||
|
Eight-time Pro Bowl edge rusher Cameron Jordan turned back the clock to lead the Saints with 10.5 sacks in 2025, but he's 36 years old and set to become a free agent. Either way, New Orleans needs to plan for life after Jordan. Yes, Bain is a little undersized in the wingspan department, but that doesn't slow him down. Yours truly watched in person as Bain mauled Ohio State's offensive tackles over and over again in the Cotton Bowl. His superpowers are his play strength, leverage and array of pass-rush moves. Bain will rotate through a rip move, a stutter step, and a powerful hump move to pressure quarterbacks, which he did 83 times in 2025 -- the most in college football. He leveled up against high-level competition with 5.0 of his 9.5 sacks coming in the College Football Playoff. |
||||||
| 9 |
|
Jeremiyah Love | RB | |||
|
The Chiefs desperately need fresh blood at running back. The play of Isiah Pacheco and Kareem Hunt was so rough early in the season that quarterback Patrick Mahomes was the team's leading rusher through the first six weeks. That's why the Chiefs select 2025 Doak Walker Award winner Jeremiyah Love here. He can do everything well. Love explodes through the hole on inside runs, can bounce off defenders because of his power and has breakaway speed to the outside. He also doesn't slow down when he makes a move to make a defender miss. Love runs routes like a receiver. Mahomes gets a new best friend here. |
||||||
| 10 |
|
Caleb Downs | S | |||
|
The Bengals need help on defense on all levels after being the NFL's third-worst scoring defense (28.9 points per game) in 2025. Caleb Downs is Swiss Army Knife of a defensive back who can line up in coverage at strong safety, nickel or even in sub packages as a linebacker. Downs is an A-plus blitzer thanks to his instincts, and he's strong against the run with great tackling angles. He would be a Day 1 starter on Cincy's defense. |
||||||
| 11 |
|
Jermod McCoy | CB | |||
|
Yes, McCoy missed the 2025 season with a torn ACL, but he was electric in 2024. He earned first team All-SEC honors with four interceptions and nine passes defensed. He excels in press man coverage, jamming receivers with one hand in order to remain balanced and under control. McCoy's instincts in zone coverage are top tier as well, which in tandem with his leaping ability to make plays on the football makes him a top prospect in this draft. If healthy, McCoy is an immediate NFL starter. |
||||||
| 12 |
|
Mansoor Delane | CB | |||
|
Dallas needs help at cornerback with DaRon Bland battling nagging foot injuries and Trevon Diggs no longer on the team. That's why Mansoor Delane, a unanimous 2025 All-American, is the pick here. Delane led the SEC with a 24.1 passer rating allowed when targeted, the best in the league among 82 players with at least 30 targets. He's a smooth operator who can change direction with ease, and he has no issues in press man coverage thanks to his ability to reroute receivers at the line of scrimmage before going step for step with them. No matter what style of receiver he is facing, Delane can hang. New Cowboys defensive coordinator Christian Parker will love him. |
||||||
| 13 |
|
Jordyn Tyson | WR | |||
|
Jordyn Tyson is perhaps the best big-play wide receiver in this draft class. So much of his film involves him blowing by people to turn decent grabs into explosive plays after the catch. Tyson has elite timing when it comes to corralling deep balls and in tandem with breakaway speed, he's an incredibly tough cover. He can also win with his footwork off the line of scrimmage thanks to an ability to explode into his route off a single step. The reason why Tyson drops this low is because of his injury history. However, the Rams take a swing on Davante Adams' long-term replacement here. |
||||||
| 14 |
|
Olaivavega Ioane | IOL | |||
|
Ioane is the best interior offensive lineman in this draft. As Penn State's left guard, he didn't allow a sack in his last two college seasons, which spanned 27 starts and 776 pass-blocking snaps. Ioane throws people out of the club in the run game and is strong when elevating to the second level to block linebackers and defensive backs. In pass protection, he stays right up on rushers with great knee bend and change of direction. Baltimore's guards struggled in 2025, so this pick mitigates that issue. |
||||||
| 15 |
|
Colton Hood | CB | |||
|
Hood is a playmaker as the SEC's only player with a pick-six and 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. His speed allows him to run stride for stride down the field on vertical routes, and he's quick when planting and driving to the football in zone coverage. Hood also brings a high motor in the run game. The Buccaneers are set to lose cornerback Jamel Dean in free agency, but Tampa Bay can start over with Hood, who will be just 21 years old for his entire NFL rookie season. |
||||||
| 16 |
|
Makai Lemon | WR | |||
|
Lemon earned the distinction of being named college football's top wide receiver as the 2025 Biletnikoff Award winner. He thrives out of the slot where he frees himself with quickness and agility off the line of scrimmage, well-timed route running and ball skills. Despite being 5-foot-11, 195 pounds, his play style feels bigger than his stature, which is how he regularly breaks tackles for extra yards. The Jets could use him opposite Garrett Wilson, and the only reason Lemon falls this far is his size. |
||||||
| 17 |
|
Akheem Mesidor | DL | |||
|
The Lions need an edge rusher who can come in on the cheap and immediately contribute opposite Aidan Hutchinson. Mesidor, who will turn 25 years old this year, can check those boxes. He ranked among college football's top five nationally in sacks (12.5, tied for third in the FBS), tackles for loss (17.5, tied for fifth in the FBS) and quarterback pressures (67, tied for fourth in the FBS) in 2025 opposite the aforementioned Bain at Miami. Mesidor has the ideal build, pass-rush technique and motor. The power and handwork never stop, and he does a great job freeing himself from offensive tackles. He can also win with speed rushing inside against guards. Mesidor's wingspan and power allow him to anchor down on the edge in the run game. That's what the Lions need. |
||||||
| 18 |
|
Emmanuel McNeil-Warren | S | |||
|
It would be plenty of fun to see McNeil-Warren in Minnesota defensive coordinator Brian Flores' scheme with the 6-foot-2, 202-pounder's highlight reel hits, plays on the ball and explosion. He has no issues dropping the boom on opposing wideouts over the middle of the field, and he's fluid with his change of direction, which is a must in Flores' heavy-disguise defense. McNeil-Warren is a worthy successor to safety Harrison Smith. |
||||||
| 19 |
|
Denzel Boston | WR | |||
|
Yes, this pick is a direct vote of no confidence in Xavier Legette, the team's 2024 first-rounder. Carolina has two surefire long-term guys at receiver in Jalen Coker and 2025 NFL Offensive Rookie of the Year Tetairoa McMillan. Boston could build a massive (all 6-foot-3 or taller), youthful trio for quarterback Bryce Young. Boston is a tank who can line up in the slot and outside and can blow through press coverage without much of a struggle. He's great at sealing off defenders from the football with a wide catch radius and a weapon in the red zone -- exactly what Carolina needs. |
||||||
| 20 |
|
Cashius Howell | EDGE | |||
|
The Cowboys still lack depth at edge rusher in the post-Micah Parsons era. Howell, the 2025 SEC Defensive Player of the Year, can help fix that. His 11.5 sacks in 2025 were the most by an A&M player since Myles Garrett's 12.5 in 2015. Howell wins in a multitude of ways: speed, a bull rush or nifty counter moves back inside. When defending the run, he's adept at setting the edge and has the explosion to break through the line of scrimmage to create tackles for loss. |
||||||
| 21 |
|
Avieon Terrell | CB | |||
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Terrell has great instincts and quickness. The 2025 All-ACC First Team selection set Clemson records for a defensive back in forced fumbles in a season (five in 2025) and career (eight from 2023-25). His eight career forced fumbles were also the most by a cornerback in college football from 2023-25, which was the span of his career. Terrell has great agility and is light on his feet, which makes him an ideal slot corner. He's naturally a great closer in short zone coverage. He can have issues on the outside against bigger receivers, but he's an adept blitzer and strong in the run game. Terrell could add some much-needed youth to the Steelers' secondary besides Joey Porter Jr. |
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| 22 |
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Keldric Faulk | EDGE | |||
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Faulk can line up anywhere along the defensive line with his prototypical stature. He's not a jump-off-the-screen, explosive type, but he's agile. Faulk frees himself up rushing the passer with a bull rush or rip. Faulk could be helped by developing some counter moves when his top options don't yield immediate results. He's also solid against the run. Faulk is somewhat of a project, but he's a nice talent to add to a Chargers defensive line that could be losing Khalil Mack in free agency. |
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| 23 |
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Kenyon Sadiq | TE | |||
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The 2025 All-Big Ten First Team tight end led the nation in receiving touchdowns at the position with eight while primarily lining up on the line of scrimmage or in the slot. However, Oregon did give him some snaps on the outside and out of the backfield. Sadiq is powerful on his release off the line of scrimmage, which allows him to get open on routes up the seam or on wheel routes out of the backfield. That additionally comes in handy as a blocker in the rung game. He's also a weapon off a tight end screen as a receiver. However, he needs to cut down on the drops -- he had six in 2025, which was just one shy of the nation's most among tight ends. Sadiq could be a best player available pick for an Eagles team that could lose Dallas Goedert in free agency. |
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| 24 |
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Lee Hunter | DL | |||
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Give the aforementioned Garrett, the 2025 NFL Defensive Player of the Year, as much help as possible to prolong his career. Defensive tackle Maliek Collins will turn 31-years-old this year, and he ended 2025 on injured reserve. Hunter is a strong and wide defensive tackle, which made him an outstanding run defender with Texas Tech in 2025. He can toss interior offensive linemen out of the way like it's nothing, and he can move fluidly from side to side as well, which allows him to lunge for tackles for loss in the run game. Hunter has all the tools in the run game and could stand to improve his pass rush beyond a swim move. Thankfully for Hunter, Garrett can help him with that. |
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| 25 |
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Dillon Thieneman | S | |||
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The Bears are set to see the following safeties hit free agency: Kevin Byard, C.J. Gardner-Johnson and Jaquan Brisker. Thieneman can save Chicago some money at the position. He's versatile with an ability to line up in the slot, back deep and in the box. He's an efficient mover and can close on the ball well thanks to quick plant and drive technique. Thieneman has good instincts in the run game, and he'll use them to fly into the path of the opposing ball carrier. He can do many things well, which makes him an ideal NFL safety in 2026. |
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| 26 |
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CJ Allen | LB | |||
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Bills mainstay Matt Milano and fellow linebacker Shaq Thompson are both set to hit free agency, and Buffalo could find nice value in Allen, who was a 2025 All-American at Georgia. He plays larger than his size in the run game thanks to instincts and a high motor. Allen is also a textbook tackler who can run with running backs and tight ends in coverage. He's sound in zone coverage thanks to his communication and football IQ. Allen is a ready-made pro. |
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| 27 |
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Monroe Freeling | OT | |||
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Twelve-time Pro Bowl left tackle Trent Williams will be 38 years old by the time the 2026 season rolls around, and he can't play forever. Freeling could be a nice apprentice for Williams after being Georgia's full-time left tackle in 2025. The size and agility are there, and he's quick off the line of scrimmage. Freeling needs to work on being better about connecting on his punches toward opposing defensive linemen, which could be aided by a more balanced foundation in his core. He's ready to roll in the run game. |
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| 28 |
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Blake Miller | OT | |||
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C.J. Stroud could use some upgrades along the offensive line, and right tackle Trent Brown is set to hit free agency. Miller, a right tackle at Clemson, possesses the ideal build to be an NFL right tackle. Miller also has the adequate agility to block speedy edge rushers while utilizing his hand work and wingspan to redirect edge rushers. He can also anchor down against power moves like bull rushes while also being quick enough against games (twists and stunts). Miller could improve on his work getting up to the second level in the run game, but he can provide immediate help in Houston. |
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| 29 |
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Kadyn Proctor | OT | |||
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Proctor is massive, but he has the quickness to play offensive tackle in the NFL thanks to his footwork. He uses a strong first step to keep defenders from crowding him off the line of scrimmage, and he can get low to slow down speedier rushers off the edge. He's a road grader on down blocks in the run game. Proctor will have to take care of himself to remain light enough to stay at the tackle position, but he's got a high ceiling. Sean McVay can work with that as Rob Havenstein retiring. |
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| 30 |
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Kayden McDonald | DL | |||
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McDonald has the power and size to be a stout NFL defensive tackle. He thrives against the run where he can push blockers backward and then release with a sudden power. McDonald is more a gap plugger than an explosive creator. He's an NFL ready against the run, but he needs to evolve as a pass rusher. Going to the team that led the NFL sacks in 2025 couldn't be a better fit, especially with John Franklin-Myers set for free agency. |
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| 31 |
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Caleb Lomu | OT | |||
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Drake Maye was sacked an NFL playoff record 21 times, including six times in New England's Super Bowl loss to the Seahawks. Lomu's handwork and consistency in remaining upright prevents edge rushers from blowing past his shoulders, and he has strong instincts. He could stand some more power in the run game, but the elements are there for him to be a mainstay tackle in the NFL. |
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| 32 |
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Brandon Cisse | CB | |||
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A number of defensive backs from the Seahawks' "Dark Side" defense are set to become free agents: Tariq Woolen, Josh Jobe and Coby Bryant. The Super Bowl champs might be able to retain all of them, but their cap space will be tight given all the players who need new deals after their title run. Cisse has ideal NFL size for the cornerback position, and he's got the speed and agility required as well. He relies on his vision and top notch closing speed to close opponents' air space to make plays on the football. He could be better with his physicality in press man coverage and against the run, but Cisse has the perfect coach to help him level up in Mike Macdonald. |
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0:42BREAKING NEWS: QB Dante Moore Returning To Oregon in 2026
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0:28BREAKING NEWS: Ohio State S Caleb Downs Declares for 2026 NFL Draft
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0:46BREAKING NEWS: Alabama QB Ty Simpson has Declared for 2026 NFL Draft
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1:10Raiders Eye Top Draft Pick After Loss to Giants - Who Will They Pick?
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1:25Ryan Wilson: Two Miami Stars Are Legit Top-10 NFL Draft Prospects
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1:30Ryan Wilson's Top 3 First-Round QB Predictions
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1:29Ohio State Players In Ryan Wilson's Mock Draft
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0:54Players To Get A 'D or F' From The 2025 NFL Draft Class
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0:57Players To Get A 'B+' From The 2025 NFL Draft Class
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1:00Players To Get An A+ From The 2025 NFL Draft Class
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1:18Options For Steelers With No. 30 Pick In The 2026 NFL Draft
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1:18Options For Rams With No. 17 & No. 22 Picks In The 2026 NFL Draft
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1:05Options For The Raiders With No. 8 Pick In The 2026 NFL Draft
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1:12Options For The Jets With No. 1 Pick In The 2026 NFL Draft
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1:27Options For The Browns With No. 2 Pick In The 2026 NFL Draft
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1:34Should Teams Consider Passing On Top QB's In This NFL Draft?
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1:57Is Cade Klubnik Worth A 1st Round Draft Pick?
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1:31Can Drew Allar Save His NFL Draft Stock?
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1:46Has Arch Manning's NFL Draft Stock Tanked?
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0:58
Mike Renner's Mock Draft: Cowboys Select 2 Defensive Lineman In 2026