| # | Team | Player | Pos | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Fernando Mendoza | QB | ||||
|
Even after adding Tyler Linderbaum and Jalen Nailor early in free agency, don't expect the Raiders to be done adding offensive talent with this pick. The Fernando Mendoza-Klint Kubiak combination could be a special one in Las Vegas. |
||||||
| 2 | Arvell Reese | EDGE | ||||
|
The Jermaine Johnson II trade earlier this month paved the way for the Jets to go edge rusher at No. 2. Arvell Reese offers the highest theoretical ceiling of any rusher in this class with his high-end explosiveness and unique play strength for an undersized rusher. The only concern is his limited playing time off the edge. |
||||||
| 3 | Spencer Fano | OT | ||||
|
The Cardinals grab an athletic right tackle to round out their offensive line. Spencer Fano is already an elite zone run blocker with the athletic traits to become a plus pass protector in the NFL. It will make life easier for whoever plays quarterback in Arizona. |
||||||
| 4 | Rueben Bain Jr. | EDGE | ||||
|
Putting Rueben Bain Jr. on the same defensive line as Jeffery Simmons would give the Titans some serious attitude. Opposing offensive linemen wouldn't want to see them on the schedule. |
||||||
| 5 | Sonny Styles | LB | ||||
|
Sonny Styles has the kind of athletic profile that can sneak into the top five even at a devalued position like linebacker. Put him next to Tremaine Edmunds, and you'll shut down passing lanes over the middle of the field. |
||||||
| 6 | Monroe Freeling | OT | ||||
|
Monroe Freeling has the most prototypical left tackle traits in this draft class, and his play has been ascending ever since he broke into the starting lineup. With how desperate the Browns are for offensive line help, they could reach here early. |
||||||
| 7 | Jeremiyah Love | RB | ||||
|
Jeremiyah Love next to Jayden Daniels would create the most dynamic backfield in the NFL. You'd be hard-pressed to find a more dynamic backfield in league history. That will keep defenses out of two-high shells. |
||||||
| 8 | Carnell Tate | WR | ||||
|
Carnell Tate is the kind of big-bodied wideout the Saints desperately lacked last year. They gave Tyler Shough help along the offensive line and in the backfield during free agency; now they give him a downfield weapon in Tate. |
||||||
| 9 | David Bailey | EDGE | ||||
|
The Chiefs abandon their usual "type" on the edge to add more speed to their front seven. They don't anticipate drafting in the top 10 again anytime soon and know certain positions, like edge rusher, are harder to find in the 20s. |
||||||
| 10 | Caleb Downs | S | ||||
|
Even after adding Bryan Cook in free agency, Caleb Downs would still be a welcome addition for Bengals fans. His ability to play in the slot or deep would give Al Golden more flexibility with his coverages. |
||||||
| 11 | Kenyon Sadiq | TE | ||||
|
Kenyon Sadiq is the perfect tight end to pair with new quarterback Malik Willis. The Oregon tight end is exceptional as a deep threat, where Willis excels, and he's also outstanding blocking in space, which will come in handy on option keepers. |
||||||
| 12 | Mansoor Delane | CB | ||||
|
Mansoor Delane arguably has the highest floor in the cornerback class after locking down the entire SEC this past fall. If you watched the Cowboys secondary at all last season, you know how valuable that would be. |
||||||
| 13 | Makai Lemon | WR | ||||
|
Makai Lemon is a Rams-type wide receiver. He plays a rugged brand of football and is more than willing to work the middle of the field. His game should translate quickly to the NFL. |
||||||
| 14 | Francis Mauigoa | OT | ||||
|
Francis Mauigoa likely slots in at guard for a Ravens team that had one of the worst guard duos in the NFL last fall. With the loss of center Tyler Linderbaum, adding more interior talent is paramount. |
||||||
| 15 | Kadyn Proctor | OT | ||||
|
Kadyn Proctor could kick inside to left guard next to Tristan Wirfs to form a terrifying double-team combination. We've seen how Baker Mayfield's play has slipped when the line in front of him struggles, so keeping that unit a strength is critical. |
||||||
| 16 | Jermod McCoy | CB | ||||
|
Jermod McCoy is the type of prospect the Jets are uniquely positioned to take a chance on. He'll likely fall below where his tape suggests he should go because he missed last fall with an ACL tear. When healthy, though, he's a top-10 caliber talent at corner. |
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| 17 | Caleb Lomu | OT | ||||
|
Taylor Decker's departure leaves a glaring hole at left tackle that Caleb Lomu can fill. He may not be a high-end run blocker, but he has the tools to become a plus pass protector. |
||||||
| 18 | Dillon Thieneman | S | ||||
|
Dillon Thieneman has the range and coverage versatility to be a weapon in Brian Flores' defense. He's been making plays on the ball since recording six interceptions as a true freshman at Purdue. |
||||||
| 19 | Peter Woods | DL | ||||
|
This should finish the Panthers' multi-year defensive line makeover. Peter Woods is a much more complete three-technique than Tershawn Wharton and should take early-down snaps from the veteran defensive tackle. Alongside Derrick Brown, Jaelan Phillips and Nic Scourton, it could become a formidable unit. |
||||||
| 20 | Blake Miller | OT | ||||
|
The Cowboys never shy away from addressing their offensive line early in the draft, especially given right tackle Terence Steele's play the past couple of years. Blake Miller has the juice to fit perfectly with one of the league's best run-blocking units. |
||||||
| 21 | Ty Simpson | QB | ||||
|
The hiring of head coach Mike McCarthy signaled one thing: the Steelers want someone with a track record of developing quarterbacks. Ty Simpson has shown enough intrigue on tape with his ability to attack downfield to make him an appealing pairing with McCarthy. |
||||||
| 22 | Olaivavega Ioane | IOL | ||||
|
Vega Ioane is another "weapon" for Jim Harbaugh to ensure the offensive line doesn't repeat its 2025 struggles. He looks like an imposing gap-scheme guard until you watch him move with ease in space. |
||||||
| 23 | Max Iheanachor | OT | ||||
|
Max Iheanachor has everything you could want in a high-end developmental prospect. To top it off, he's only been playing football for five years. It's been four years since Howie Roseman drafted an offensive lineman in the first two rounds, and I think that changes this spring. |
||||||
| 24 | Jordyn Tyson | WR | ||||
|
Jordyn Tyson could fall because of his injury history, but he's worth the risk at this point in the draft. He has easy separation ability and the body control to make plays outside his frame. |
||||||
| 25 | Akheem Mesidor | DL | ||||
|
For a Bears defensive line starved for pass-rushing help, Akheem Mesidor can make an immediate impact. He can rush from both the edge and the interior, given his experience doing both in college. |
||||||
| 26 | KC Concepcion | WR | ||||
|
Separation became the buzzword around the Bills' receiving corps last season -- they simply couldn't create enough of it. That changes with KC Concepcion, who routinely gets open with relative ease on tape. It's just the whole catching the ball thing that can trip him up at times. |
||||||
| 27 | Omar Cooper Jr. | WR | ||||
|
Omar Cooper Jr. is the kind of sudden, one-cut route runner with running back-like ability after the catch that the 49ers love. Even after signing Mike Evans in free agency, San Francisco isn't done adding weapons. |
||||||
| 28 | Kayden McDonald | DL | ||||
|
This pick should ensure no one runs the ball on the Texans -- ever. Kayden McDonald is easily the best run defender in the defensive line class. His ability to eat double teams at just 20 years old is special. |
||||||
| 29 | Avieon Terrell | CB | ||||
|
Avieon Terrell is a spitting image of the recently traded Trent McDuffie. He has the tenacity to play in the slot and the feet to stick with receivers on the outside. |
||||||
| 30 | Keldric Faulk | EDGE | ||||
|
Keldric Faulk can fill the gap left by John Franklin-Myers' departure in free agency. He's a ready-made run defender who can grow into a pass-rushing role over time. |
||||||
| 31 | CJ Allen | LB | ||||
|
CJ Allen is another culture fit for the Mike Vrabel-era Patriots in the first round. He's the biggest thumper in the linebacker class and can also be a weapon as a blitzer. |
||||||
| 32 | Emmanuel McNeil-Warren | S | ||||
|
Emmanuel McNeil-Warren can replace what the Seahawks lost when Coby Bryant left in free agency. He's one of the best playmakers in the safety class with 11 career forced fumbles and five interceptions. |
||||||
| # | Team | Player | Pos | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Fernando Mendoza | QB | ||||
|
In a world of uncertainty, this feels like the closest thing to a sure bet. It makes too much sense not to happen. |
||||||
| 2 | David Bailey | EDGE | ||||
|
The Jets are in no position to be rolling the dice on a high-end prospect like Arvell Reese, mostly because they're in we absolutely have to win right now mode -- and those words are in all caps and bold when talking about second-year coach Aaron Glenn. Reese has a chance to be really special. David Bailey has a chance to be really special … next season. |
||||||
| 3 | Carnell Tate | WR | ||||
|
Mock Trade from: ARI You want to get nuts? Let's get nuts. I explained the trade above -- and even devoted 1,800 words to why it makes sense for the Bills to proactively pursue a big-time receiver. |
||||||
| 4 | Sonny Styles | LB | ||||
|
We are now living in a world where Styles is the first Ohio State defender off the board (and the second Buckeye, behind Tate). Some of it has to do with his combine performance, but that athleticism was all over his 2025 tape, when he made huge strides another year removed from safety and fully settled in at linebacker. In the right scheme, he'll be used to rush off the edge too. |
||||||
| 5 | Caleb Downs | S | ||||
|
In a quirky draft where one, maybe two QBs go in Round 1, and the board is littered with really good football players, we could see an off-ball linebacker and a safety go in the top five. History says that's crazy talk, but both Styles and Downs will immediately make their football teams better. |
||||||
| 6 | Francis Mauigoa | OT | ||||
|
With WR1 off the board, the Browns go chalk and take the best offensive lineman in the class to protect Shedeur Sanders … or Dillon Gabriel … or Deshaun Watson … or a QB4 to be named later. The point remains: the offensive line is a huge need and Cleveland addresses it here. |
||||||
| 7 | Arvell Reese | EDGE | ||||
|
Could Reese fall to No. 7? It seems like a long shot, but if the Bills trade up for a WR, things can get interesting quickly. This is a best-case scenario for the Commanders, who have to upgrade their pass rush. |
||||||
| 8 | Jeremiyah Love | RB | ||||
|
This has been a popular pick in recent weeks, and after Love's combine workouts, all the more reason to lean into it here. An explosive RB is every QB's best friend, and that's especially true for second-year passer Tyler Shough. |
||||||
| 9 | Spencer Fano | OT | ||||
|
Fano is a technician on the right side, and the Chiefs have to upgrade the position. Now they'll have two young bookend tackles as they look to reassert themselves in the AFC West. |
||||||
| 10 | Rueben Bain Jr. | EDGE | ||||
|
Depending on the day, Reese and Bain could both be off the board inside the top five, or somehow still be available between picks 6-10. This has very little to do with the players and almost everything to do with how teams ultimately stack their boards. Whatever the explanation, the Bengals would be ecstatic to see Bain staring them in the face at No. 10. |
||||||
| 11 | Mansoor Delane | CB | ||||
|
Delane might not be the most athletic cornerback in this class, but he has the best tape, and it's not particularly close. He was good at Virginia Tech in 2024 and consistently great at LSU last season. |
||||||
| 12 | Jermod McCoy | CB | ||||
|
McCoy tore his ACL in January 2025, didn't play at all last season, and chose not to work out at the combine despite being medically cleared. That will naturally raise questions, but if teams are convinced he's good to go, he'll be among the first DBs off the board based solely on his 2024 tape. Dallas needs a physical, playmaking CB, and McCoy is exactly that. |
||||||
| 13 | Colton Hood | CB | ||||
|
The Rams need to bolster their secondary, and Hood is a physical, ultra-competitive press-man specialist with elite perimeter run-support skills. |
||||||
| 14 | Caleb Banks | DL | ||||
|
The Ravens struggled to stop the run last season, and even with Nnamdi Madubuike at full health, there is room for a game-wrecker like Banks along the defensive line. |
||||||
| 15 | Kenyon Sadiq | TE | ||||
|
Sadiq's 2025 tape might not have been as consistent as what he showed in 2024, but it was still really, really good. He also confirmed his high-end athleticism at the combine. Beyond his God-given traits, he's one of the best blocking TEs in the class and a difference-maker on special teams. Hard to imagine Baker Mayfield wouldn't love throwing to Sadiq and Egbuka on Sundays next fall. |
||||||
| 16 | Makai Lemon | WR | ||||
|
This would be an outstanding start to the draft for the Jets, who land edge rusher David Bailey at No. 2 and then find Lemon staring them in the face here. Lemon reminds me (and a lot of folks, it turns out) of Amon-Ra St. Brown, which is music to Garrett Wilson's ears. |
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| 17 | T.J. Parker | EDGE | ||||
|
I think Parker is a much better player than the media have portrayed during the pre-draft process. Some of that has to do with Parker -- and the entire Clemson team -- not living up to lofty expectations in 2025. Still, he finished with a flourish and reminded everyone at the Senior Bowl that he can take over games when he's locked in. |
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| 18 | Peter Woods | DL | ||||
|
Like Parker, Woods didn't look the same in '25 that he did in '24. That said, he was still frequently dominant, and I could see him going off the board 5-10 picks earlier. The Vikings have serious needs along the defensive line, so they'll happily take Woods here. |
||||||
| 19 | Kadyn Proctor | OT | ||||
|
This isn't the Panthers' biggest need, but it's also unclear when LT Ikem Ekwonu will be fully recovered from a late-season knee injury, and he's entering the final year of his rookie deal. Proctor, meanwhile, is a built-in-a-lab specimen who can take over games when he's focused. |
||||||
| 20 | Keldric Faulk | EDGE | ||||
|
The Cowboys land a CB at No. 12 and a young edge rusher at No. 20. Faulk measured 6-foot-5, 276 pounds with 34⅜-inch arms at the combine. At 21, he's still growing into his body, but he's flashed all the tools to be an elite pass rusher at the next level. |
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| 21 | Denzel Boston | WR | ||||
|
I gave some thought to taking Olaivavega Ioane here, but the guard class is deeper than the WR class when talking about starter-capable talent. Boston is a long-striding, contested-catch machine who has also flashed punt-return ability, and he would be a natural No. 2 on a Steelers team that desperately needs receiving options. |
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| 22 | Olaivavega Ioane | IOL | ||||
|
Ioane is one of the cleanest prospects in the class, and the Chargers have to get better along the interior offensive line. |
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| 23 | Caleb Lomu | OT | ||||
|
I talked to Lomu at the combine and he said that while he primarily played left tackle in college, he's working at right tackle during the pre-draft process. Thirty-five-year-old Lane Johnson is returning for a 14th season, but who knows what the future holds beyond that. Lomu, who is one of the most athletic OTs in this class, would be next in line once Johnson retires. |
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| 24 | Jordyn Tyson | WR | ||||
|
Tyson has fantastic tape. The issue -- and this was a frequent topic of conversation at the combine -- is his ability to stay on the field. He has legit WR1 skills, but he's missed time with a range of injuries, both serious and minor. If the Browns are convinced those issues are behind him, he would be a steal here and a welcome addition to a WR room desperately lacking depth and playmaking ability. |
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| 25 | Akheem Mesidor | DL | ||||
|
I don't care that Mesidor will be 25 before he plays his first NFL snap. If he's anything like he was in 2025 for Miami, the Bears will get five fantastic seasons out of him and can decide ahead of the 2030 season whether he's worth a second contract. For now, Montez Sweat is ecstatic. |
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| 26 | Blake Miller | OT | ||||
|
Mock Trade from: BUF The Cardinals are vying to be the latest version of the Pats, Commanders or Texans -- a team that goes from truly terrible to the playoffs in one calendar year. Arizona will have to get the QB right this offseason, but they'll have enough picks to restock the roster and compete immediately. Landing Blake Miller here, to go along with all that fresh draft capital, almost feels like stealing. Miller can man the right side while former first-rounder Paris Johnson Jr. stays at left tackle. |
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| 27 | Omar Cooper Jr. | WR | ||||
|
We'll see what happens with Jauan Jennings in San Francisco, but Brandon Aiyuk may have played his last snap. As it stands, the WR room includes Ricky Pearsall, Demarcus Robinson, Jordan Watkins and Jacob Cowing under contract … and that's it. There's a need at guard too, but Cooper Jr. feels like a Kyle Shanahan-type receiver. |
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| 28 | Kayden McDonald | DL | ||||
|
The Texans would love to land an interior offensive lineman here, but with Ioane long gone, they instead bolster the defensive line with the best run-stuffing defensive tackle in the class. |
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| 29 | Ty Simpson | QB | ||||
|
Some Rams fans may not love the idea of taking Simpson, but I can't say it loudly enough: fit matters. And if Matthew Stafford plays another year -- or two -- Simpson has the game to flourish in Sean McVay's offense. |
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| 30 | CJ Allen | LB | ||||
|
The Broncos have few needs on defense, but they do need to restock the linebacker room. Allen may not be as fluid as Styles, but he's a between-the-tackles enforcer who would fit right into a Vance Joseph unit. |
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| 31 | Emmanuel McNeil-Warren | S | ||||
|
The choice here is to settle for OT6, WR6, ED6 or S2. I love the idea of McNeil-Warren in the same secondary as Christian Gonzalez -- two big, fast, physical, ball-hawking defensive backs. |
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| 32 | Avieon Terrell | CB | ||||
|
The Dark Side gets a new member in Terrell, who plays much bigger than his 5-10, 186-pound frame. That also means he'll fit right into a defense that was among the NFL's best last season and could lose key members of its secondary in free agency. |
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| # | Team | Player | Pos | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Fernando Mendoza | QB | ||||
|
No one is even considering alternatives for Las Vegas. The Tyler Linderbaum signing supports the assumption that Fernando Mendoza will be the No. 1 overall selection, because a veteran center is a huge benefit for a young quarterback. The Raiders need a quarterback, and there's a player worthy of that consideration. |
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| 2 | Arvell Reese | EDGE | ||||
|
I have gone back and forth on how the Jets may perceive this selection. Would Aaron Glenn want a player viewed more as a finished product (David Bailey) or one with potentially more upside (Arvell Reese)? Some of the signings in free agency take the pressure off Reese contributing immediately, which makes the upside play easier to justify. |
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| 3 | David Bailey | EDGE | ||||
|
Edge rusher is a premium position. Although the offensive line is more important, there's not a prospect who warrants consideration at this spot. Arizona adds a ready-made pass rusher to a defense with a tremendous amount of young talent. The trick will be bringing out the best in that group. |
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| 4 | Sonny Styles | LB | ||||
|
Everyone has been quick to associate Rueben Bain Jr. with the Titans, but they did trade for Jermaine Johnson II. There's still room for Bain, and that was considered here, but Sonny Styles is likely to be higher on the board. It'll likely come down to a debate between positional value and best player available in the draft room. It's easy to envision Styles as Robert Saleh's Fred Warner. |
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| 5 | Jeremiyah Love | RB | ||||
|
New York had been in competition for top running back free agents Travis Etienne Jr. and Kenneth Walker III but missed out. That suggests the Giants planned to use the No. 5 overall pick on a position other than running back, but it also shows they were willing to make a steep investment in the position. Do they adjust their plans to add what could be the best player available, who would also be an asset to young quarterback Jaxson Dart? |
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| 6 | Monroe Freeling | OT | ||||
|
Cleveland has filled three of its five starting offensive line positions, with left tackle and center presumably still unaddressed. No. 6 overall is a little too rich for any offensive lineman in this class, but the Browns have an opportunity to add a young prospect with a supreme athletic skill set at a premium position. They pick again at No. 24 overall and would be at the mercy of teams selecting ahead of them, so they get their pick of the litter at No. 6. |
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| 7 | Rueben Bain Jr. | EDGE | ||||
|
The Titans and Commanders picks are closely linked. If Sonny Styles had been available with Rueben Bain Jr. off the board, he would've been the choice. Given the opposite played out in this scenario, Washington adds Bain to a group that includes Dorance Armstrong, Odafe Oweh and K'Lavon Chaisson. Jeremiyah Love would've been a consideration for this team as well. |
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| 8 | Carnell Tate | WR | ||||
|
New Orleans is the latest team to use premium resources to support a young quarterback. It signed Travis Etienne Jr. and offensive guard David Edwards in free agency and now pairs Chris Olave with Carnell Tate. |
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| 9 | Francis Mauigoa | OT | ||||
|
Kansas City is not often in a position to pick in the top 10. The Chiefs need to use that opportunity to add a player at a premium position: offensive line, edge rusher, etc. Jawaan Taylor was released, so the team needs a replacement. The Chiefs missed out on the top edge rushers but settle for offensive line help. |
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| 10 | Caleb Downs | S | ||||
|
The Bengals signed Bryan Cook but still have a void at safety. They take the best player available as they continue to fill out their secondary. Cincinnati had a lot of missed open-field tackles last season, and the hope is that Caleb Downs cuts down on that total despite an 11.5% missed tackle rate in 2025, per TruMedia. |
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| 11 | Mansoor Delane | CB | ||||
|
Jeff Hafley and the Dolphins have opted not to do a total rebuild; the Malik Willis signing was an example of that. They need to find some reliable pieces for the secondary considering they're losing essentially everyone from last year's team, including Minkah Fitzpatrick, who was traded to the Jets. |
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| 12 | Jermod McCoy | CB | ||||
|
Jermod McCoy has the potential to be one of the best players to emerge from this draft class and certainly the top cornerback, but he was injured all season. Dallas signed safety Jalen Thompson and now has McCoy to pair with DaRon Bland. If Shavon Revel Jr. becomes the player the Cowboys had hoped, then maybe Bland moves back into the slot, where he began his career. |
||||||
| 13 | Kenyon Sadiq | TE | ||||
|
Looking at the board and the players who could make the biggest impact on a team pushing all its chips to the middle of the table in pursuit of a Super Bowl, Kenyon Sadiq stands out as the best option. Last year's second-round selection of Terrance Ferguson, who was Sadiq's teammate at Oregon, doesn't preclude them from adding to the room. |
||||||
| 14 | Olaivavega Ioane | IOL | ||||
|
Baltimore is back on the board at No. 14 overall after it had been involved in the trade for Maxx Crosby. The Ravens could move forward with recently signed John Simpson at right guard and returnee Andrew Vorhees at left guard, but Vega Ioane is a Raven if I've ever seen one. He brings stability for a head coach who wants to instill a physical brand of football. |
||||||
| 15 | Keldric Faulk | EDGE | ||||
|
Keldric Faulk is young but not productive, a description that has fit Travon Walker, Shemar Stewart, etc. Those players tend to be quality edge-setters at the very least, and the hope is they can expand their pass-rush profile. Tampa Bay needs help rushing the passer after getting shut out in free agency, and Faulk has the length the team covets. |
||||||
| 16 | Spencer Fano | OT | ||||
|
New York is no stranger to investing first-round picks in the offensive line. One (Alijah Vera-Tucker) just walked out the door as his replacement (Spencer Fano) enters. Fano is a high-quality offensive lineman, even if there are concerns about his length to play offensive tackle. In this scenario, the Jets have bookend tackles Olu Fashanu and Armand Membou at left and right tackle, respectively, with Fano at guard. Fano could also kick outside in a pinch. |
||||||
| 17 | Blake Miller | OT | ||||
|
Many are likely wondering why Blake Miller is the selection over Kadyn Proctor, Caleb Lomu and others. Miller is the choice to replace Taylor Decker because he's an offensive tackle more in Dan Campbell's image. |
||||||
| 18 | Dillon Thieneman | S | ||||
|
As Minnesota continues to turn the page on last season with a new quarterback and a new general manager, it'll be looking to identify more difference-makers. Dillon Thieneman tested off the charts from an athletic perspective and has also been incredibly productive. |
||||||
| 19 | Emmanuel McNeil-Warren | S | ||||
|
The 2025 season was a step in the right direction for the Panthers, but they haven't been complacent in their newfound success. Carolina delivered one of the biggest splashes in free agency by signing Jaelan Phillips and has continued to build out the roster. Emmanuel McNeil-Warren is another building block for that unit. |
||||||
| 20 | Makai Lemon | WR | ||||
|
Another wide receiver may seem like overkill, but the team is being aggressive with the additions of Quinnen Williams and Rashan Gary. Makai Lemon gives them another slot element and allows them to move some of the chess pieces around the board, but he also provides insurance and creates a potential off-ramp if CeeDee Lamb or George Pickens becomes too expensive. |
||||||
| 21 | CJ Allen | LB | ||||
|
By trading for Michael Pittman Jr., Pittsburgh alleviated some of the pressure to acquire another receiver. The Steelers don't have many pressing needs in the present, but they're an older team that should be looking to get younger. The hope is that CJ Allen and Payton Wilson can be the battery of the future. |
||||||
| 22 | Kayden McDonald | DL | ||||
|
Kayden McDonald at this stage may feel a little rich to some people, but he's a perfect fit for Jim Harbaugh. The Chargers do a great job of uplifting the talent on the roster, but there are question marks moving forward now that Jesse Minter is no longer there to shepherd the unit. They can find blue-chip players to ensure it's more than a mirage and create stability for that group. |
||||||
| 23 | Kadyn Proctor | OT | ||||
|
There has been some dialogue about whether Kadyn Proctor would play guard or tackle in the NFL. The Eagles love that question, quite frankly, because versatility has always been an asset for them. Lane Johnson nearing the end of his career may lead them to identify some contingencies. |
||||||
| 24 | Jordyn Tyson | WR | ||||
|
At one point, Jordyn Tyson was commonly linked to the Browns in the top 10. His brother, Jaylon Tyson, is a guard for the Cavaliers. Tyson wouldn't be available this late in the first round if not for his injury history, and that could present an opportunity for the Browns, depending on how one looks at it. |
||||||
| 25 | Omar Cooper Jr. | WR | ||||
|
Ben Johnson wants to be confident in the trio of receivers he has on the field at any given time. Luther Burden III really began to emerge toward the end of the season, but Chicago is leaving nothing to chance as it aims to prove last season was not an aberration. If you're a Bears fan questioning why the team would draft another receiver, I'd encourage you to think about the possibilities with Johnson pulling the strings. |
||||||
| 26 | T.J. Parker | EDGE | ||||
|
A.J. Epenesa is a free agent as of this writing, so the only edge rushers on the roster probably exempt from major roster decisions are Gregory Rousseau, newly signed Bradley Chubb and last year's third-round pick, Landon Jackson. T.J. Parker has the profile they've been drawn to in the past. Perhaps he'll allow them to get off the carousel of acquiring a new 30-year-old every offseason. |
||||||
| 27 | Caleb Lomu | OT | ||||
|
It seems as though the union between San Francisco and Trent Williams is coming to an end. Caleb Lomu would ideally have a season to learn from Williams but has the athleticism to thrive in Kyle Shanahan's system. |
||||||
| 28 | Max Iheanachor | OT | ||||
|
Houston signed Braden Smith in free agency, but the sense seems to be that he'll play guard. The Texans also have Trent Brown, who is well down the road in his career. Even if he holds off Max Iheanachor for a year, the time will eventually come when Brown retires, and the Texans would have a replacement in the building. |
||||||
| 29 | Avieon Terrell | CB | ||||
|
Kansas City traded Trent McDuffie to Los Angeles, which created a void in the secondary. The Chiefs have been able to take cornerbacks on Days 2 and 3 and turn them into quality players. The team drafted McDuffie in the first round, so there's precedent for using a pick this early on the position, but it doesn't believe in sinking large second contracts into those players. Kansas City addresses the position immediately but keeps its options open long term. |
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| 30 | KC Concepcion | WR | ||||
|
Denver had been searching for help at wide receiver prior to last year's trade deadline. The Broncos fell short in their pursuit of Jaylen Waddle and others but now take matters into their own hands with the selection of KC Concepcion. |
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| 31 | Zion Young | EDGE | ||||
|
New England has been able to squeeze all the juice from the lemons it employs at edge rusher, but Zion Young is a hopeful building block for Mike Vrabel's defense. K'Lavon Chaisson departed in free agency, so there's a need to fill. |
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| 32 | Akheem Mesidor | DL | ||||
|
Akheem Mesidor is an older prospect who'll be able to help the defending Super Bowl champions immediately. They allowed Boye Mafe to depart in free agency, but depth remains a strength in their efforts to repeat. |
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| # | Team | Player | Pos | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Fernando Mendoza | QB | ||||
|
The Raiders are on the clock and need help across the board, but quarterback is the first order of business. Fernando Mendoza capped an impressive season with a national championship in Indiana's RPO-based offense and a strong postseason run that showcased his consistency and clutch throws in gotta-have-it moments. Mendoza makes smart decisions, throws with accuracy and touch, and creates and extends plays outside the pocket and under duress. He's a high-level processor who reads defenses quickly and anticipates windows to deliver advantage throws that move the chains. |
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| 2 | Arvell Reese | EDGE | ||||
|
Ohio State's Reese is a nice piece for a franchise with plenty of holes to fill, offering the versatility to play in the box as well as rush off the edge. He brings elite twitch and instincts, along with the size and length to hold up in multiple spots across the defense. Reese is extremely athletic as a part-time rusher and can convert speed to power while using a strong long arm. The Jets need pass rushers, and Reese gives them a bookend opposite Will McDonald IV. If he goes this high, his long-term projection is likely on the edge. His pass-rushing capabilities carry a high ceiling with more reps and time on task. |
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| 3 | Francis Mauigoa | OT | ||||
|
The Cardinals could upgrade at right tackle, and Mauigoa excelled during the Hurricanes' playoff run while serving as a model of consistency over the past two seasons. He's thickly built with excellent power and moves defenders at will in the run game. Mauigoa is above average in pass protection, showing good technique and the feet to get to his spot and play in space. He offers some positional versatility and can kick inside if needed, but he'll no doubt get first crack at right tackle to start. He also brings strong leadership and extensive experience as a three-year starter at Miami. |
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| 4 | Rueben Bain Jr. | EDGE | ||||
|
Bain was as dominant a defensive lineman as we've seen since Will Anderson Jr. at Alabama. He brings elite power in both phases and wins as an excellent technician with his hands, beating opponents with physicality or finesse. Bain has a high motor, plays the game the right way and shows strong attention to detail. His measurements might not wow everyone, but his film is elite, and he offers versatility to kick inside in pass-rushing situations if needed. New Titans coach Robert Saleh has to be licking his chops. |
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| 5 | Spencer Fano | OT | ||||
|
Fano plays with good technique, has excellent feet and shows the ability to play both tackle spots. He didn't allow a sack this season and surrendered only six hurries. His best days are still ahead, but he brings power at the point of attack, the ability to move defenders in the run game and the athleticism to pull and clear out defenders at the second level. Fano would step in at right tackle, giving the Giants another piece to protect Jaxson Dart. |
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| 6 | Carnell Tate | WR | ||||
|
You have to believe the Browns will use free agency and multiple picks to upgrade an aging offensive line. Tate brings extensive experience and the ability to win anywhere on the field. He's a polished route runner who tracks and high-points the ball in contested-catch situations. Tate is a dependable, trustworthy receiver with strong hands who moves the chains and gives Deshaun Watson or Shedeur Sanders a weapon to help jumpstart the offense. |
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| 7 | David Bailey | EDGE | ||||
|
Bailey is a natural pass rusher who wins with speed off the edge and shows exceptional quickness in condensed spaces. He's a dynamic player who can wreck a game and has slightly improved his run defense this season. His highest upside comes as a pure pass rusher, thanks to his explosive get-off and twitch off the edge. The Commanders' pass rush last season was one of the worst in the league |
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| 8 | Jordyn Tyson | WR | ||||
|
Tyson tracks the ball exceptionally well in the air and shows great contact balance after the catch to maximize YAC. He has the long speed to beat press coverage and the ability to thrive in the middle of the field and in the red zone. Tyson battled a hamstring injury, and teams will study his medicals closely. |
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| 9 | Keldric Faulk | EDGE | ||||
|
Faulk has ideal size and length, along with the ability to rush from anywhere along the defensive front. His stats don't tell the full story given the attention he drew, but he still finished with 30 hurries. A slippery rusher with a good get-off and excellent hands, he's also solid against the run, showing the ability to set the edge and knock back offensive tackles. |
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| 10 | Caleb Downs | S | ||||
|
The Bengals defense -- especially the back end -- had a rough season, but help is on the way. A high-IQ leader and alpha presence, he excels in both phases. He can erase tight ends, holds up as a run defender in the box and tackles well in space. |
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| 11 | Mansoor Delane | CB | ||||
|
Jeff Hafley likely targets a corner here, and Delane was arguably the nation's best at the position, and one of the top defensive players in the country, this season. He's been an eraser in coverage thanks to his suddenness and change of direction, has good speed and the ability to battle for the ball, and is a competitive player who should transition well to the next level despite lacking ideal measurables. |
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| 12 | Jeremiyah Love | RB | ||||
|
Love is my favorite to win Offensive Rookie of the Year and the best overall player in the draft. He shows exceptional vision and patience, is a weapon as a receiver and brings home-run ability every time he touches the ball. Love has outstanding lateral quickness and explosiveness and gives me Bijan Robinson vibes every time I watch him. Future superstar. |
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| 13 | Ty Simpson | QB | ||||
|
As great as Matthew Stafford is playing, you have to start thinking about a replacement, and Simpson is a no-brainer QB2 who could have teams like the Jets considering a trade up to snatch him. He stands to benefit from a weak quarterback class and brings promising traits. Simpson arguably has the most upside in the class despite struggling in the second half of the season at Alabama without much of a running game or consistent protection. He has a strong arm, can attack all areas of the field with velocity and touch, processes quickly, anticipates well and layers throws to every level. His lack of experience will be his biggest hurdle to overcome. |
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| 14 | Makai Lemon | WR | ||||
|
The Ravens need a complementary receiver to pair with Zay Flowers, and Lemon has the traits to eventually become a No. 1 option down the road. He's an explosive playmaker who can stretch the field not only as a receiver but also as a kick returner. A dynamic player with a defensive mentality, he was USC's go-to option in must-have moments. Lemon brings top-end speed, physicality and strong hands with impressive range. |
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| 15 | Sonny Styles | LB | ||||
|
The Buccaneers need to replace an aging Lavonte David, and Styles would be an ideal fit if he's still available here, given his exceptional athletic traits. He's an every-down backer with ideal size and length in the box who excels in all phases. Fluid in coverage, he understands leverage and matches up with backs and tight ends. He also shows great range against the run, sifts through traffic to reach the ball carrier and finishes as a sure tackler. |
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| 16 | Lee Hunter | DL | ||||
|
If the Jets can't land a quarterback, they'll look to upgrade their defensive front, and Hunter would fit well as a 2i in their scheme. He was a massive upgrade up front for the Red Raiders, taking on doubles and letting their linebackers roam and make plays. He shows good lateral movement and quickness on stunts and games, along with the ability to crush the pocket as a rusher. Hunter is an effective pass rusher who finished with a couple sacks and 19 hurries. |
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| 17 | Monroe Freeling | OT | ||||
|
The Lions need to add a few offensive linemen with retirements and injury concerns surrounding Taylor Decker. Freeling is a long, athletic left tackle and one of the few true pure left tackles in this year's draft. He shows good feet and the versatility to play either tackle spot. A solid run blocker with a big frame and good hand usage, Freeling moves well in space and at the second level and offers a nice ceiling. |
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| 18 | Jermod McCoy | CB | ||||
|
I'm not a big fan of projecting a first-round player who didn't take a snap in 2025, but this is a weak year for corners and the Vikings need help on the island. McCoy showed good length and the ability to play man coverage and will be fully healthy in 2026. He also displayed a smooth backpedal, breaks quickly on routes and has excellent hands |
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| 19 | Kayden McDonald | DL | ||||
|
A massive, disruptive run stuffer who has been a force for the stingy Buckeye defense, McDonald is a powerful player with good lateral quickness on stunts and exceptional strength at the point of attack. He can crush the pocket but needs to continue developing as a pass rusher. He'd be a nice pairing with Derrick Brown. |
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| 20 | CJ Allen | LB | ||||
|
The Cowboys need an upgrade at linebacker, and Allen brings veteran leadership and production as a force in the box stuffing the run. He offers versatility and profiles as a Day 1 starter for a back end that needs an upgrade. |
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| 21 | Kadyn Proctor | OT | ||||
|
Proctor is an XXL human who settled in last year and had his best season for the Tide. I'd kick Proctor inside to guard, where I think he can excel based on his skill set. He mauls defenders in the run game, has shown improved consistency in protection and should benefit from stronger coaching and attention to detail with his technique at the next level. |
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| 22 | Olaivavega Ioane | IOL | ||||
|
The Chargers value size, and Loane is my favorite interior prospect. He's a mauler in the run game who elevated his play in protection in 2025, allowing just three pressures all season. He's a physical player who looks to break an opponent's will and plays through the whistle. Loane is a better athlete in space than he gets credit for and is a solid puller who can erase defenders. |
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| 23 | Zachariah Branch | WR | ||||
|
It feels like A.J. Brown could be on the move, and Branch can replace some of that production as a No. 2 receiver. He had his most productive season yet, catching 73 passes for nearly 750 yards with 17 explosive plays. Branch is elusive in space and can start and stop on a dime to make defenders miss. He also returns punts and kickoffs and is always a threat to take it the distance whenever he touches the ball. |
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| 24 | Cashius Howell | EDGE | ||||
|
Myles Garrett and the Browns' defense would become even more dominant if they pair him with another skilled pass rusher. Howell wins with speed and a strong long arm, and he counters inside when tackles overset. He plays with a great motor and shows natural pass-rush instincts. Howell also has the twitch and get-off to create problems. |
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| 25 | Zion Young | EDGE | ||||
|
Myles Garrett and the Browns' defense would become even more dominant if they pair him with another skilled pass rusher. Howell wins with speed and a strong long arm, and he counters inside when tackles overset. He plays with a great motor and shows natural pass-rush instincts. Howell also has the twitch and get-off to create problems. |
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| 26 | KC Concepcion | WR | ||||
|
The Bills could use more weaponry on offense, and Concepcion would be an explosive addition for Josh Allen. He's dangerous on screens and slants, with the ability to break tackles, maximize gains and stretch the defense vertically. Concepcion shows good acceleration to separate after the catch and attacks the ball in the air. He's also a weapon as a returner, with the threat to score any time he touches it. |
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| 27 | Peter Woods | DL | ||||
|
San Francisco would immediately improve up front with Woods, especially with much of the front sidelined for most of the 2025 season. Woods looks the part and has impressive traits, but he didn't deliver a standout season despite the hype. He shows good power and leverage at the point of attack to handle double teams, along with solid lateral quickness on stunts and games to get home. |
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| 28 | Kenyon Sadiq | TE | ||||
|
Sadiq is a fluid mover who runs like a big wide receiver, with the natural ability to catch the ball away from his body and get north. He gets open, finds soft spots in coverage and is a dependable target you can count on to make plays. Sadiq offers big-play potential after the catch and is also a very solid blocker. |
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| 29 | Caleb Lomu | OT | ||||
|
The Rams are likely in the market for an offensive lineman, and Lomu offers good value here along with positional versatility. He's an experienced left tackle who brings the blindside experience teams look for. Lomu has good feet and plays with strong technique on the edge. He's a solid run blocker with good lateral movement and knee bend, allowing him to maximize his lower-body explosion. |
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| 30 | Denzel Boston | WR | ||||
|
A big-bodied receiver who profiles more as a possession target capable of bodying up defenders than a true deep threat. He has very dependable hands and is a contested-catch, red-zone nightmare for defenders. Boston works the middle of the field and the sidelines well and finished the season with just one drop. |
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| 31 | Akheem Mesidor | DL | ||||
|
Mesidor shows excellent bend and motor and plays with polished technique as a pass rusher. He uses his hands and hips to finish, has an outstanding first step off the ball and has been one of the most disruptive players in the country. He lacks ideal measurables on the edge, but the film doesn't lie — an absolute game wrecker and the most NFL-ready pass rusher in the class from a technical standpoint. |
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| 32 | Chris Brazzell II | WR | ||||
|
Brazell gives the Seahawks a nice complementary receiver to pair with Jaxon Smith-Njigba. He can beat press coverage, stretch the field and provide a big target who becomes a red-zone and contested-catch nightmare. Brazell also delivered a strong rebound season at Tennessee after a productive career at Tulane. |
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| # | Team | Player | Pos | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Fernando Mendoza | QB | ||||
|
Mendoza is the obvious first overall pick after leading the country in touchdown passes, winning the 2025 Heisman Trophy and powering Indiana to its first football national championship. The Raiders also paved the way for him to start right away after trading Geno Smith to the Jets and signing three-time Pro Bowl center Tyler Linderbaum to the biggest contract for a center in NFL history. |
||||||
| 2 | Arvell Reese | EDGE | ||||
|
The Jets completely remade their defense with numerous moves, like trading for defensive tackle T'Vondre Sweat from the Titans and five-time Pro Bowl safety Minkah Fitzpatrick from the Dolphins. They also signed Pro Bowl cornerback Nahshon Wright to a one-year deal. Adding the explosive Arvell Reese to beef up their pass rush could be exactly what the doctor ordered for a defense that became the first to not have an interception in a season in 2025. |
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| 3 | Francis Mauigoa | OT | ||||
|
The Cardinals are ready to tank for Arch Manning in 2027 with a quarterback room of Jacoby Brissett and Gardner Minshew. They have enough receiving and rushing options, especially after signing Tyler Allgeier to pair with James Conner, but they could continue to fortify their offensive line. Mauigoa is a massive right tackle with refined technique, and he would fill a void at that position for Arizona, where he will be a dominant run blocker from Day 1. |
||||||
| 4 | Jeremiyah Love | RB | ||||
|
The Titans spent a whopping $270.715 million across the first two days of free agency to address numerous needs on both sides of the ball. Their defensive line is restocked, so they don't need to draft an edge rusher here. That's why Tennessee selects the best running back prospect in Notre Dame's Jeremiyah Love as the Titans aim to take a major leap in Year 2 of the Cam Ward era. |
||||||
| 5 | Carnell Tate | WR | ||||
|
The Giants added another solid pass-catching option with the signing of Ravens tight end Isaiah Likely, but they still need another legit wide receiver opposite Malik Nabers. Carnell 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. He'll help further quarterback Jaxson Dart's growth in 2026. |
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| 6 | Spencer Fano | OT | ||||
|
The Browns completely remade their offensive line in free agency by signing left guard Zion Johnson and center Elgton Jenkins and trading for right tackle Tytus Howard. However, there's still an opening at right guard with Wyatt Teller hitting the open market. Even though Fano played right tackle the last two years at Utah, he expressed openness at the combine to playing inside. That would be best given his 32 1/8-inch arms. |
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| 7 | David Bailey | EDGE | ||||
|
The Commanders signed former Chiefs linebacker Leo Chenal in order to feel like they don't have to reach for a non-premium position in the top 10 of this draft. That signing will empower them to select college football's 2025 sacks leader in Texas Tech's David Bailey. Pairing him with free agent acquisition Odafe Oweh should be a lot of fun. |
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| 8 | Rueben Bain Jr. | EDGE | ||||
|
The Saints don't need to think about running back after signing Travis Etienne in free agency. 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. Yes, Bain is a little undersized in the wingspan department, but that won't stop him and Chase Young from forming a fun pass rush duo. |
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| 9 | Sonny Styles | LB | ||||
|
Sonny Styles' historic combine performance led to him being compared physically to Pro Football Hall of Fame wide receiver Calvin "Megatron" Johnson. The Chiefs saw linebacker Leo Chenal walk in free agency, and even though Kansas City has a glaring need at cornerback, general manager Brett Veach drafts the best player available. |
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| 10 | Caleb Downs | S | ||||
|
The Bengals need help on defense at all levels after performing as the NFL's third-worst scoring defense (28.9 points per game) in 2025. Downs can line up in coverage anywhere: at strong safety, nickel or even in sub-packages as a linebacker. Yes, Cincy signed Chiefs safety Bryan Cook, but Downs can start next to him and take Jordan Battle's place. |
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| 11 | Mansoor Delane | CB | ||||
|
Nearly all of Miami's secondary hit free agency, and new Dolphins coach Jeff Hafley would love nothing more than to have a true No. 1 corner. Delane, a unanimous 2025 All-American, makes the most sense here. Delane led the SEC with a 24.1 passer rating allowed when targeted, the best in the conference among 82 players with at least 30 targets. He's a smooth operator who can change direction with ease. |
||||||
| 12 | Jermod McCoy | CB | ||||
|
Dallas addressed edge rusher with the trade for Rashan Gary, but cornerback is still a major problem. DaRon Bland is working through nagging foot injuries, and Trevon Diggs is long gone. Cowboys fans shake their heads here after Dallas selected another corner coming off a torn ACL in the 2025 draft's third round in Shavon Revel. McCoy missed the 2025 season with a torn ACL, but he was electric in 2024, earning first-team All-SEC honors with four interceptions and nine passes defensed. |
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| 13 | Jordyn Tyson | WR | ||||
|
The Rams addressed their glaring cornerback issues in free agency with the trade and signing of Trent McDuffie plus the free agency signing of Jaylen Watson. That allows them to select Tyson, who is arguably the most explosive receiver in this draft. His film involves him blowing by people to turn decent grabs into big plays after the catch, and Davante Adams can help train Tyson into being his long-term successor. |
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| 14 | Olaivavega Ioane | IOL | ||||
|
The Ravens' interior offensive line will feel Tyler Linderbaum's absence, but Ioane can help mitigate that loss in front of Lamar Jackson as his left guard in 2026. He didn't allow a sack in his last two college seasons, which spanned 27 starts and 776 pass-blocking snaps. |
||||||
| 15 | Colton Hood | CB | ||||
|
After losing cornerback Jamel Dean to the Steelers, the Buccaneers draft his replacement in Colton Hood, 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. |
||||||
| 16 | Makai Lemon | WR | ||||
|
The Jets overhauled their defense in free agency and at the top of the draft, so now it's time to fill out the offense. Makai Lemon earned the distinction of being named college football's top wide receiver as the 2025 Biletnikoff Award winner. The Jets could use him opposite Garrett Wilson, and the only reasons Lemon falls this far are his size and his weird press conference at the combine. |
||||||
| 17 | Akheem Mesidor | DL | ||||
|
The Lions restocked their offense with the signing of center Cade Mays and running back Isiah Pacheco, but they still need a cheap edge rusher who can immediately start opposite Aidan Hutchinson. Mesidor, who will turn 25 this year, can do just that. He ranked top five nationally in sacks (12.5, tied for third in the FBS), tackles for loss (17.5, tied for fifth) and quarterback pressures (67, tied for fourth) in 2025 opposite the aforementioned Bain at Miami. |
||||||
| 18 | Emmanuel McNeil-Warren | S | ||||
|
The cornerback position is set in Minnesota after the free agency signing of James Pierre, but safety still needs to be addressed with Harrison Smith all but officially retiring. McNeil-Warren's fluidity would fit well in defensive coordinator Brian Flores' scheme. |
||||||
| 19 | Kenyon Sadiq | TE | ||||
|
The Panthers went all out to fix their front seven with the signings of edge rusher Jaelan Phillips and linebacker Devin Lloyd. Here, they add a legit receiving tight end to give Bryce Young enough firepower to win a playoff game. Sadiq, the 2025 first-team All-Big Ten honoree, led the nation in receiving touchdowns at the position with eight while primarily lining up on the line of scrimmage or in the slot. |
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| 20 | Jacob Rodriguez | LB | ||||
|
Dallas whiffed on linebackers Nakobe Dean and Devin Lloyd in free agency, so it takes future fan favorite Jacob Rodriguez, the consensus All-American who helped power Texas Tech to a Big 12 title in 2025. He put concerns about his athleticism to bed with an outstanding combine performance, and Jerry Jones will have Rodriguez Cowboys jerseys flying off the shelves as his fan base supports a Red Raider whose wife is a U.S. Army Black Hawk helicopter pilot. |
||||||
| 21 | Dillon Thieneman | S | ||||
|
Safety Kyle Dugger is a free agent, and Dillon Thieneman can provide the Steelers a long-term answer who can line up anywhere from deep safety to nickel in coverage. He moved as fluidly as a cornerback at the combine, and he's an instinctual player. Entering the NFL and learning from Jalen Ramsey is an ideal situation for the Steelers and Thieneman. |
||||||
| 22 | Keldric Faulk | EDGE | ||||
|
After the departure of Odafe Oweh to the Commanders in free agency, the Chargers draft his replacement. Faulk can line up anywhere along the defensive line with his prototypical stature. Learning from Khalil Mack, who returns to Los Angeles in 2026, makes plenty of sense for a team that needs more youthful depth in its front seven. |
||||||
| 23 | Denzel Boston | WR | ||||
|
The Eagles have been throwing darts at their WR3 spot next to A.J. Brown and Devonta Smith for years. Boston would be a worthy complement to both. He is a tank who can line up in the slot and outside and blow through press coverage, but learning how to use his body in the pros from Brown could take Boston's game to new heights. |
||||||
| 24 | Lee Hunter | DL | ||||
|
The Browns ought to give Myles Garrett, the 2025 NFL Defensive Player of the Year, as much help as possible to prolong his career. They could create an excellent, long-term defensive tackle duo between Mason Graham and Lee Hunter. Hunter is a strong and wide defensive tackle, which made him an outstanding run defender with Texas Tech. Garrett and others can help him improve as a pass rusher in the NFL. |
||||||
| 25 | Monroe Freeling | OT | ||||
|
Monroe Freeling could be Caleb Williams' new left tackle 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, as evidenced by an excellent combine effort. Freeling needs to work on better connecting on his punches toward opposing defensive linemen, which could be aided by a more balanced foundation, but he's ready to roll in the run game. Ben Johnson will love that about him. |
||||||
| 26 | CJ Allen | LB | ||||
|
Bills mainstay Matt Milano and fellow linebacker Shaq Thompson are free agents. Buffalo could find nice value in Allen, a 2025 All-American at Georgia. At the combine, he said the Bulldogs let him call the game with the exception of specific situational play calls here and there. Allen is also a textbook tackler who can run with running backs and tight ends in coverage. |
||||||
| 27 | Caleb Lomu | OT | ||||
|
Trent Williams and the 49ers are in the midst of a contract dispute. Plus, Williams turns 38 in July. Lomu's handwork and consistency in remaining upright prevent edge rushers from blowing past his shoulders, and he has strong instincts. |
||||||
| 28 | Omar Cooper Jr. | WR | ||||
|
Christian Kirk is a free agent, and who knows if Tank Dell will ever be the same player after all the injuries. Cooper, one of Mendoza's top targets, displays strong hands and an explosive lower body, allowing him to make plays against tight coverage; Cooper's game-winning catch at Penn State was a perfect example of that. His ability to break tackles is underrated, and he has big-play ability: Cooper's nine receiving touchdowns of 10-plus yards were the most in the Big Ten in 2025. |
||||||
| 29 | Avieon Terrell | CB | ||||
|
The Chiefs desperately need help at cornerback with both Trent McDuffie and Jaylen Watson suiting up for the Rams in 2026. With the pick they acquired to trade McDuffie away, the Chiefs add one of the best takeaway generators at the cornerback position in this draft class in Avieon Terrell. He set Clemson records for a defensive back in forced fumbles in a season (five) and a career (eight from 2023-2025). |
||||||
| 30 | Kadyn Proctor | OT | ||||
|
Proctor is a tank, but he has the quickness to play offensive tackle in the NFL because of his footwork. He uses a strong first step to keep from crowding him off the line of scrimmage, and he can bend just enough to hang with speed rushers off the edge. Both of Denver's tackles are in their thirties, so this pick is a future investment in quarterback Bo Nix's health. |
||||||
| 31 | Caleb Banks | DL | ||||
|
The Patriots lost defensive tackle Khyiris Tonga to the Chiefs, so they replace him at the back end of Round 1 with the uber-athletic Caleb Banks. He wreaked havoc in 2024 but played just three games in 2025 due to a foot injury. This is the type of big swing the defending AFC champs can afford. |
||||||
| 32 | Brandon Cisse | CB | ||||
|
Several defensive backs from the Seahawks' "Dark Side" defense left in free agency, including Tariq Woolen and Coby Bryant. Cisse offers ideal NFL size for a cornerback, along with the speed and agility to match. He trusts his vision and top-tier closing speed to shrink throwing windows and make plays on the ball, which Mike Macdonald will love. |
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-
1:51How Jeremiyah Love Stacks Up With This RB Free Agent Class
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1:35Is Fernando Mendoza The Best Prospect In The Draft?
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1:25OT Kadyn Proctor Is Worth Betting On At 6'6", 352 LBS
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1:45Post-Combine Mock Draft: Bills Move Up To No. 3 To Select WR Carnell Tate
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1:22Post-Combine Mock Draft: Titans Select LB Sonny Styles 4th Overall
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1:16Post-Combine Mock Draft: Brandon Cisse, KC Concepcion Fall Out Of 1st Round
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1:19Post-Combine Mock Draft: Buccaneers Select TE Kenyon Sadiq 15th Overall
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1:18Post-Combine Mock Draft: Travis Hunter Deal Completed With Browns Selecting WR Jordyn Tyson 24th
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1:56Sonny Styles Jumps Out The Room With 43.5" Vertical Jump At Combine
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1:43Where Does Caleb Downs Go In NFL Draft?
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1:31Ohio State Has Chance To Make History At NFL Draft
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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









