Nfl Mock Draft 2026: Second projection ahead of the Combine and the April 23-25 draft

The timing matters: this second projection lands with the league gathering in Indianapolis for the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine and just before the free agency frenzy — a window where on-field testing at Lucas Oil Stadium can alter evaluations and draft priority. This nfl mock draft 2026 forecast maps Round 1 in Pittsburgh (April 23-25) and flags which teams and prospects could see their standing shift after the Combine events.

How the Combine timing changes first-round math

Expect moves in the pecking order as measurable testing and interviews at Lucas Oil Stadium feed into an already fluid landscape. Live coverage will begin Feb. 26, and teams that enter the process with open schematic questions are most likely to revise plans. Here’s the part that matters: a strong Combine performance can turn a developmental candidate into a Day 1 target, while a poor week can push otherwise intriguing names down boards.

Nfl Mock Draft 2026: projected fits and immediate consequences

Raiders: The projection opens the Klint Kubiak era with what is described as a perfect quarterback match. Mendoza's pinpoint passing and clutch playmaking are expected to energize an offense that already features blue-chip talent at running back and tight end.

Jets: With Aaron Glenn taking over defensive play-calling duties, the team could prioritize a pass rusher to create more takeaway opportunities in 2026 and beyond. Bailey is characterized as a spectacular sack specialist with the explosiveness to wreak havoc on quarterbacks.

Cardinals: Whether Kyler Murray remains in place or not, the Cardinals need a tackle to guard the right side opposite left tackle Paris Johnson Jr. Mauigoa is profiled as a talented edge blocker with the size, strength and nastiness to bully opponents at the point of attack.

Titans: Robert Saleh is noted as someone who cannot resist taking a chance on an explosive athlete who can play off-ball linebacker and edge rusher. Reese is flagged as having only one season as a full-time starter at Ohio State, so his overall development could take time, but Tennessee's defensive-minded head coach might unlock his potential.

Ravens: Given John Harbaugh's success working with All-Pro safeties (Ed Reed and Kyle Hamilton are mentioned), the head coach could press for a multi-faceted defensive playmaker to strengthen a unit that disappointed in 2025. Downs is singled out for IQ, communication and playmaking traits that could boost a Giants defense that otherwise doesn't lack talent.

Browns: The offensive line is identified as an area that must be revamped to control the trenches. Fano is described as an athletic people mover with quickness and agility suited to zone-based or gap schemes.

Falcons/Defensive Fit: A high-motor defender labeled as a relentless, power-based pass rusher could remind Dan Quinn of a young Dante Fowler Jr. Bain's disruptive potential reportedly exceeds his production, making him a complementary piece to a more traditional edge rusher.

Saints: Adding a dynamic playmaker is projected to help Tyler Shough take a leap in Year 2. Love could spend a season apprenticing to Alvin Kamara or pair with the five-time Pro Bowler to form a 1-2 backfield punch.

Chiefs: An acrobatic pass catcher is seen as a potential big-play threat for the passing game. Tate's speed and explosion would allow Kansas City to run combination routes with Xavier Worthy and the Ohio State standout creating perimeter mismatches.

Bengals: Despite an unrefined pass-rush toolset, Faulk could be considered for his disruptive edge potential. As a rugged run defender with explosive strength and power, the Auburn product might fit as a base end in Al Golden's scheme.

Dolphins: A talented technician could help match up with high-powered offenses leaguewide. Delane's instincts, awareness and versatility are cast as a strong mesh with Jeff Hafley's vision-and-break scheme.

Cowboys: The projection references the Cowboys' installation of a Vic Fangio-like scheme under new defensive coordinator "C" — the remainder of that description is unclear in the provided context.

Key takeaways

• The Combine's testing at Lucas Oil Stadium and the Feb. 26 live coverage window create a short-term inflection point for Round 1 evaluations.
• Several teams are tied to schematic pivots: Raiders at QB, Jets on the pass rush, Cardinals at right tackle, and Browns on the offensive line.
• Prospects flagged as high-upside but raw (Reese, Bain, Faulk) may benefit or stall depending on development paths and coaching fits.
• One incomplete note remains about the Cowboys' new defensive coordinator; clarity on that front is unclear in the provided context.
• These projections are set just before the free agency frenzy and ahead of April 23-25 in Pittsburgh, so movement is likely.

It’s easy to overlook, but the interplay between Combine performance and schematic fit is the biggest immediate lever that can reorder a first round—especially for players whose athletic upside tempts defensive coaches and for teams still searching for clear answers at quarterback or on the line.

Writer's aside: Multiple team-by-team notes in this projection prioritize schematic fit and developmental timelines over raw rankings, which helps explain why certain prospects are paired with particular clubs even when production varies.