2026 NFL Mock Draft: First-Round Selections and Forecasts
With the conclusion of the NFL Divisional Round, attention shifts to the upcoming 2026 NFL Mock Draft. Here’s a detailed look at the first-round predictions based on team needs and player potential.
2026 NFL Mock Draft: First-Round Selections
1. Las Vegas Raiders
Fernando Mendoza (QB – Indiana)
The Raiders hold the top pick, selecting quarterback Fernando Mendoza. Although he lacks elite physical traits, Mendoza excels in decision-making and intelligence on the field.
2. New York Jets
Arvell Reese (LB – Ohio State)
In need of defensive help, the Jets snag linebacker Arvell Reese. Known for his versatility, he can play both edge and off-ball positions, addressing the team’s significant pressure issues.
3. Arizona Cardinals
Spencer Fano (OL – Utah)
The Cardinals may consider trading down, but for now, they select offensive lineman Spencer Fano. His agility stands out, though he needs to increase his bulk to compete effectively at the NFL level.
4. Tennessee Titans
Rueben Bain Jr. (EDGE – Miami)
The Titans bolster their defense with Rueben Bain Jr., an edge rusher known for his disruptive capability. His arm length is a topic of discussion, but his impact on the field is undeniable.
5. New York Giants
Jordyn Tyson (WR – Arizona State)
The Giants opt for wide receiver Jordyn Tyson, who brings significant upside. After past injuries, if he’s cleared medically, he could fit well as a complementary receiver in their system.
6. Cleveland Browns
Carnell Tate (WR – Ohio State)
Adding to their receiving corps, the Browns select Carnell Tate. He’ll provide a reliable presence, particularly as the team transitions to a new quarterback.
7. Washington Commanders
Caleb Downs (S – Ohio State)
Defensive back Caleb Downs is the pick for the Commanders. He’s viewed as one of the best overall talents in the draft, fulfilling critical needs in their secondary.
8. New Orleans Saints
Makai Lemon (WR – USC)
The Saints add another weapon by picking wide receiver Makai Lemon, who could create a formidable duo with Chris Olave and improve their aerial attack.
9. Kansas City Chiefs
Jeremiyah Love (RB – Notre Dame)
Coming off a challenging year, the Chiefs enhance their running game by selecting Jeremiyah Love, a highly regarded running back prospect.
10. Cincinnati Bengals
Francis Mauigoa (OT – Miami)
The Bengals prioritize protecting quarterback Joe Burrow, selecting offensive tackle Francis Mauigoa to shore up their offensive line.
11. Miami Dolphins
Jermod McCoy (CB – Tennessee)
Addressing their secondary issues, the Dolphins pick cornerback Jermod McCoy, who possesses notable athletic ability despite a prior injury.
12. Dallas Cowboys
David Bailey (EDGE – Texas Tech)
The Cowboys select edge rusher David Bailey, who has showcased impressive stats, including 14.5 sacks last season.
13. Los Angeles Rams
Mansoor Delane (CB – LSU)
The Rams look for defensive depth with cornerback Mansoor Delane. His versatility makes him an asset for their defensive schemes.
14. Baltimore Ravens
Kadyn Proctor (OL – Alabama)
At 6-foot-7 and nearly 370 pounds, Kadyn Proctor is selected to strengthen the Ravens’ offensive line with powerful play.
15. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Sonny Styles (LB – Ohio State)
The Buccaneers add linebacker Sonny Styles, who offers positional versatility and experience, potentially replacing an aging Lavonte David.
16. New York Jets
Peter Woods (DL – Clemson)
The Jets, dealing with trade ramifications, draft defensive lineman Peter Woods to reinforce their front line.
17. Detroit Lions
Keldric Faulk (EDGE – Auburn)
Shoring up their pass rush, the Lions take edge rusher Keldric Faulk, adding depth alongside Aidan Hutchinson.
18. Minnesota Vikings
Avieon Terrell (CB – Clemson)
The Vikings opt for cornerback Avieon Terrell, enhancing their secondary with his aggressive style of play.
19. Carolina Panthers
Kayden McDonald (iDL – Ohio State)
Addressing defensive needs, the Panthers select interior defensive lineman Kayden McDonald, pairing him with Derrick Brown for a solid front.
20. Dallas Cowboys
KC Concepcion (WR – Texas A&M)
If George Pickens departs, the Cowboys target KC Concepcion as a potential robust complement to CeeDee Lamb.
21. Pittsburgh Steelers
Caleb Lomu (OT – Utah)
In need of offensive line help, the Steelers pick Caleb Lomu, aiming to fortify their pass protection.
22. Los Angeles Chargers
Olaivavega Ioane (OG – Penn State)
The Chargers add guard Olaivavega Ioane, focusing on improving the protection for quarterback Justin Herbert.
23. Philadelphia Eagles
T.J. Parker (EDGE – Clemson)
The Eagles opt for edge rusher T.J. Parker, who may be higher on many boards given his potential impact.
24. Cleveland Browns
Gennings Dunker (OL – Iowa)
As a powerful lineman, Gennings Dunker is selected to fit the traditional AFC North style of football.
25. Chicago Bears
Caleb Banks (iDL – Florida)
To boost their defensive performance, the Bears take interior defensive lineman Caleb Banks, focusing on run defense.
26. Buffalo Bills
Denzel Boston (WR – Washington)
Needing a strong receiving presence, the Bills select Denzel Boston, who could become a primary target for quarterback Josh Allen.
27. San Francisco 49ers
Cashius Howell (EDGE – Texas A&M)
The 49ers enhance their pass rush with Cashius Howell, known for his significant sack production in college.
28. Houston Texans
Christen Miller (DL – Georgia)
Miller is chosen to replenish the Texans’ defensive line as they prepare for free agency departures.
29. Los Angeles Rams
Colton Hood (CB – Tennessee)
The Rams double down on defensive backs, selecting cornerback Colton Hood to strengthen their secondary.
30. New England Patriots
Mason Thomas (EDGE – Oklahoma)
To regain pressure, the Patriots pick edge rusher Mason Thomas, who brings needed explosiveness off the edge.
31. Denver Broncos
Kenyon Sadiq (TE – Oregon)
With potential to excel in a new scheme, tight end Kenyon Sadiq is a valuable pick for the Broncos.
32. Seattle Seahawks
Chris Bell (WR – Louisville)
Despite a recent injury setback, the Seahawks select Chris Bell for his future potential at wide receiver.
This mock draft presents an exciting glimpse into the future of the NFL, showcasing emerging talents and strategic team decisions.
