2026 NFL Mock Draft: Bold Pre-Super Bowl First-Round Predictions

Avery K. Bristow

Published: February 8, 2026 10:26 PM ET

The upcoming 2026 NFL Draft is generating robust speculation as teams prepare for the first round. With teams gearing up for the Super Bowl showdown, the focus is on how franchises will strategize their picks to build a winning roster. The draft, particularly the first round, will play a pivotal role in shaping the future of these teams.

2026 NFL Mock Draft: Bold Pre-Super Bowl First-Round Predictions

This year’s draft class features several standout players who are expected to make an immediate impact. Here’s a breakdown of the projected first-round selections:

1. Las Vegas Raiders: QB Fernando Mendoza, Indiana
2. New York Jets: LB Arvell Reese, Ohio State
3. Arizona Cardinals: Edge Rueben Bain Jr., Miami (FL)
4. Tennessee Titans: WR Jordyn Tyson, Arizona State
5. New York Giants: WR Carnell Tate, Ohio State
6. Cleveland Browns: OT Spencer Fano, Utah
7. Washington Commanders: Edge David Bailey, Texas Tech
8. New Orleans Saints: RB Jeremiyah Love, Notre Dame
9. Kansas City Chiefs: Edge Keldric Faulk, Auburn
10. Cincinnati Bengals: S Caleb Downs, Ohio State
11. Miami Dolphins: CB Jermod McCoy, Tennessee
12. Dallas Cowboys: CB Mansoor Delane, LSU
13. Los Angeles Rams: WR Makai Lemon, USC
14. Baltimore Ravens: DT Peter Woods, Clemson
15. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: LB CJ Allen, Georgia
16. New York Jets (from Indianapolis): WR Denzel Boston, Washington
17. Detroit Lions: OT Francis Mauigoa, Miami (FL)
18. Minnesota Vikings: CB Avieon Terrell, Clemson
19. Carolina Panthers: TE Kenyon Sadiq, Oregon
20. Los Angeles Rams (from Dallas Cowboys): LB Sonny Styles, Ohio State
21. Pittsburgh Steelers: CB Brandon Cisse, South Carolina
22. Los Angeles Chargers: IOL Olaivavega Ioane, Penn State
23. Philadelphia Eagles: OT Kadyn Proctor, Alabama
24. Cleveland Browns (from Jacksonville): QB Ty Simpson, Alabama
25. Chicago Bears: DT Christen Miller, Georgia
26. Buffalo Bills: WR KC Concepcion, Texas A&M
27. San Francisco 49ers: Edge T.J. Parker, Clemson
28. Houston Texans: OT Caleb Tiernan, Northwestern
29. Dallas Cowboys (from Los Angeles Rams): Edge Cashius Howell, Texas A&M
30. Denver Broncos: Edge LT Overton, Alabama
31. New England Patriots: DT Kayden McDonald, Ohio State
32. Seattle Seahawks: CB Chris Johnson, San Diego State

Draft Analysis

The first overall pick, QB Fernando Mendoza, is anticipated to create a cultural shift for the Raiders. The Jets are set to secure LB Arvell Reese, recognized as one of the best linebacker prospects in recent history. Meanwhile, teams such as the Cleveland Browns and New York Giants will target offensive line and wide receiver talents to enhance their rosters.

Teams are focusing on building a competitive edge in the league. The draft offers a unique opportunity to capitalize on emerging talents, making the first round crucial for franchise development. As the NFL evolves, the importance of strategic drafting has never been more apparent.

Franchises that effectively leverage the draft in combination with free agency will position themselves as strong contenders for years to come.