2026 NFL Mock Draft: Insights Post-Super Bowl

The conclusion of the 2025-26 NFL season has shifted focus to the offseason, particularly the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft. With the Panini Senior Bowl completed and the Scouting Combine on the horizon, teams are strategizing their selections. Below is a mock draft projecting how the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft might unfold based on current evaluations.

2026 NFL Mock Draft: Key Predictions

• 1. Las Vegas Raiders: Fernando Mendoza (QB) – Following a Heisman campaign, Mendoza is poised to be selected first overall, aiming to stabilize the quarterback position.
• 2. New York Jets: Rueben Bain Jr. (DL) – The Jets focus on securing an instant-impact player to enhance their defense and continuity heading into 2027.
• 3. Arizona Cardinals: Francis Mauigoa (OT) – Newly appointed coach Mike LaFleur targets Mauigoa to solidify his offensive line, particularly the tackle positions.
• 4. Tennessee Titans: Arvell Reese (LB/EDGE) – Despite being a projection, Reese’s potential as an edge rusher makes him a viable top-five pick.
• 5. New York Giants: Caleb Downs (DB) – Downs’ versatility could greatly impact the Giants’ defense, providing leadership and depth in the secondary.
• 6. Cleveland Browns: David Bailey (EDGE) – Bailey’s impressive season, leading with 14.5 sacks, establishes him as the top choice for Cleveland’s defensive needs.
• 7. Washington Commanders: Sonny Styles (LB) – A strong addition to the second level, Styles brings leadership and athletic ability as a potential immediate starter.
• 8. New Orleans Saints: Makai Lemon (WR) – With the need for a high-end receiver, Lemon’s physicality and route-running abilities make him an appealing target.
• 9. Kansas City Chiefs: Jordyn Tyson (WR) – Tyson’s route running and ability to create big plays address the uncertainty within the Chiefs’ receiving corps.
• 10. Cincinnati Bengals: Peter Woods (DL) – Focusing on defense, Woods’ skills as both a run defender and pass rusher can bolster Cincinnati’s front.

Continuing the Draft Projections

• 11. Miami Dolphins: Mansoor Delane (CB) – A complete cornerback, Delane will immediately boost Miami’s secondary.
• 12. Dallas Cowboys: Jeremiyah Love (RB) – The top running back prospect could be a key addition if the Cowboys don’t re-sign their current back.
• 13. Los Angeles Rams: Spencer Fano (OT) – Fano’s skill set and versatility address urgent needs along the offensive line.
• 14. Baltimore Ravens: Olaivavega Ioane (IOL) – With offensive line needs, Ioane’s technical prowess solidifies a crucial position.
• 15. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Jermod McCoy (CB) – McCoy’s recovery from injury could yield a top cover corner for the Buccaneers.
• 16. New York Jets (via IND): Carnell Tate (WR) – Adding Tate gives the Jets a reliable target for their quarterback.
• 17. Detroit Lions: Caleb Lomu (OT) – Lomu offers a long-term solution at left tackle as the Lions plan for the future.
• 18. Minnesota Vikings: Brandon Cisse (CB) – A necessary addition to the Vikings’ secondary, Cisse has showcased elite skills this season.
• 19. Carolina Panthers: Allen (LB) – A smart and physical linebacker, Allen is essential to strengthen Carolina’s defense.
• 20. Dallas Cowboys (via GB): Cashius Howell (EDGE) – Howell’s combination of explosiveness and production makes him an ideal pass-rushing candidate.

Final Picks of the Round

• 21. Pittsburgh Steelers: Denzel Boston (WR) – A strong outside receiver, Boston enhances the Steelers’ offensive potential.
• 22. Los Angeles Chargers: Caleb Banks (DL) – Banks’ presence can solidify the Chargers’ front against the run.
• 23. Philadelphia Eagles: Zion Young (EDGE) – Young’s recent standout performances make him an ideal fit for the Eagles’ defense.
• 24. Cleveland Browns (via JAX): KC Concepcion (WR) – A dynamic receiver, Concepcion adds depth to the Browns’ corps.
• 25. Chicago Bears: Keldric Faulk (DL) – Faulk’s defensive versatility could improve Chicago’s lineup significantly.
• 26. Buffalo Bills: Emmanuel McNeil-Warren (S) – McNeil-Warren’s physicality suits the Bills’ need for safety depth.
• 27. San Francisco 49ers: Monroe Freeling (OT) – Preparing for Trent Williams’ departure, Freeling’s talent positions him as a future starter.
• 28. Houston Texans: Kadyn Proctor (OT) – Proctor’s skills in both pass and run blocking make him an asset for Texas’ offensive line.
• 29. Los Angeles Rams: Colton Hood (CB) – Hood’s tenacity and instincts can elevate the Rams’ secondary.
• 30. Denver Broncos: Kenyon Sadiq (TE) – Sadiq’s athleticism and skill set fill a significant gap for Denver’s tight end position.
• 31. New England Patriots: T.J. Parker (EDGE) – Parker’s power moves can provide much-needed depth to New England’s defense.
• 32. Seattle Seahawks: Avieon Terrell (CB) – Terrell’s skill in man coverage makes him a valuable addition for Seattle’s cornerback roster.

This mock draft provides a glimpse into how teams might approach their selections as they prepare for pivotal offseason adjustments. Stay informed for updates and further analyses leading up to the 2026 NFL Draft at Filmogaz.com.