2026 Draft Boards, Position Rankings and Mocks

[Cotton]

2026 NFL Mock Draft: College football experts predict the first round​

By Scott Dochterman, Pete Sampson, Cameron Teague Robinson, Ralph D. Russo, Christopher Kamrani, Antonio Morales, David Ubben, Manny Navarro and Matt Baker

Feb. 24, 2026 Updated 7:42 am CST

More than 300 prospects head to Indianapolis this week for interviews and testing at the NFL combine, but 40 times and arm lengths only begin to tell their stories. There’s no better group to discuss their talents and intangibles than the writers who covered them as college stars.

Nine members of The Athletic’s college football staff made selections for 2026’s first round and offered their insights in this NFL mock draft. No trades were allowed in this exercise.

1. Las Vegas Raiders: Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana​

To turn around a once-great franchise toiling in obscurity, you just have to draft the dude who would take notes at the dinner table. No ifs, ands or buts. Mendoza is that guy — the obsessive, detail-oriented mind whose next-level processing time matches his physical attributes and leadership qualities. Can’t wait for Harry Reid International Airport to have Mendoza welcome visitors over the intercom: “WELCOME TO LAS VEGAS, THE GREATEST PLACE TO HAVE FUN!” — Chris Kamrani

2. New York Jets: Rueben Bain Jr., edge, Miami​

Scouts are worried about his short arms and less-than-ideal build for an edge rusher, but Bain was a force against top competition all season and did not slow down at all in the College Football Playoff. Bain was one of the nation’s top freshmen in 2023 before his sophomore season was undercut by injuries, so it’s not as if he just popped in his final season. A higher sack total (9.5 in 16 games) would be nice to see, but five of those came during the Hurricanes’ four-game CFP run. Miami coaches rave about Bain’s professionalism. — Ralph D. Russo

3. Arizona Cardinals: Spencer Fano, OT, Utah​

Arizona’s future at quarterback is uncertain, but what is certain is it needs help up front. Fano is the best offensive lineman in this draft and was the cornerstone of one of the best offensive lines in college football. He’s a prototype with three years of starting experience. — David Ubben

4. Tennessee Titans: Arvell Reese, LB, Ohio State​

The most talented non-quarterback on the board slipping to No. 4? New head coach Robert Saleh won’t need to think twice about this pick. Reese did everything for Ohio State’s defense, basically havoc rate in human form, while working at both middle linebacker and edge rusher. Now, Tennessee gets to choose how to best turn him loose. — Pete Sampson

5. New York Giants: Caleb Downs, S, Ohio State​

Downs, who spent three college seasons playing at an All-America level for Alabama (one) and Ohio State (two), will reignite the debate over positional value. The last safety to be picked in the top 10 was Jamal Adams by the Jets at No. 6 in 2017. Since then, Minkah Fitzpatrick (No. 11 to the Dolphins in 2018) and Kyle Hamilton (No. 14 to the Ravens in 2022) are the only safeties selected in the top 15. Downs (6-feet, 205 pounds) is not as big as the 6-4 Hamilton and hasn’t shown the slot corner skills that Fitzpatrick flashed during a brilliant career at Alabama. But we’ll stick with the high-floor approach and give the Giants a player who, at worst, can be the leader of a secondary for a long time. — Ralph D. Russo

Caleb Downs and Arvell Reese went back-to-back as part of a run of three straight Buckeyes in our writers’ mock, with more Ohio State products to come.Adam Cairns / Columbus Dispatch / USA Today Network via Imagn Images

6. Cleveland Browns: Carnell Tate, WR, Ohio State​

Cleveland needs help everywhere on offense, so it’s hard to pass on the best receiver in the class, according to the latest consensus rankings. The Chicago native and Buckeyes star led the Big Ten with nine catches over 40 yards. He finished 2025 with 875 yards and nine touchdowns alongside 2027 first-rounder-to-be Jeremiah Smith, despite missing multiple games during the regular season. Tate tracks the ball well and has underrated speed, which should make him a strong playmaker for new Browns head coach Todd Monken. — Cameron Teague Robinson

7. Washington Commanders: David Bailey, edge, Texas Tech​

Edge rusher is one of Washington’s biggest weaknesses. Bailey is the best on the board. His 14.5 sacks were tied for No. 1 nationally, and his 19.5 tackles for loss were second. As impressive as linebacker Jacob Rodriguez was, I thought Bailey was the better player on the Red Raiders’ defense and strongly considered putting him on my Heisman ballot (Rodriguez finished fifth in the voting). This was a pretty easy pick. — Matt Baker

8. New Orleans Saints: Jeremiyah Love, RB, Notre Dame​

With Tyler Shough solving its quarterback problem, New Orleans can get a plug-and-play replacement for Alvin Kamara in Love. Some would call taking a running back here a reach, but Love is a threat to score every time he touches the ball. He found the end zone 40 times the past two seasons, including two scores of 90-plus yards. Love also has a lot of tread left on the tires after just 433 career carries at Notre Dame, compared to 750 at Boise State for Ashton Jeanty, last year’s No. 6 pick. — Pete Sampson

9. Kansas City Chiefs: Francis Mauigoa, OT, Miami​

Kansas City faces the first rebuild of the Patrick Mahomes era, and the best way to help out a future Hall of Fame quarterback is to protect him. Mauigoa allowed only two sacks (none after Week 4) and only three QB hits all season, according to Pro Football Focus. A consensus All-America left tackle for the CFP runner-up, Mauigoa could join Josh Simmons to bookend the Chiefs’ offensive line. — Scott Dochterman

10. Cincinnati Bengals: Jermod McCoy, CB, Tennessee​

McCoy did not play in 2025 due to a torn ACL but was so good for the Vols as a transfer from Oregon State in 2024 that he’s worth the top-10 pick for a Cincinnati team that needs help all over its defense. He can play in man coverage but also bait passers in zone coverage. This pick also assumes that McCoy, who had four interceptions and 13 passes defended in 2024, can show NFL teams a promising medical report. — Cameron Teague Robinson

11. Miami Dolphins: Mansoor Delane, CB, LSU​

I was tempted to go with an edge rusher here after the Dolphins traded Jaelan Phillips last season, but it made more sense to take one of the top two corners in the draft. Delane is an elite, scheme-versatile playmaker who did not blink against SEC competition after three years at Virginia Tech. — Manny Navarro

12. Dallas Cowboys: Keldric Faulk, edge, Auburn​

The Cowboys are looking to address a Micah Parsons-shaped hole in their defense. Dallas finished 26th in yards allowed per carry (4.7), and Faulk can not only get after the quarterback (45 pressures, 7 sacks in 2024) but also set the edge. He was dominant against the run in his final college game against Alabama. — Manny Navarro

13. Los Angeles Rams (from Atlanta Falcons): Makai Lemon, WR, USC​

Corner is a significant need for the Rams, but the top two at the position went right before this pick. On paper, receiver might not seem like a pressing priority, but Davante Adams is 33 and under contract for just one more season, and Puka Nacua plays a very physical style. Lemon, who won the Biletnikoff Award as the most outstanding receiver in college football in 2025, is a tremendous technician who plays bigger than his frame and can win from the outside or in the slot. He could also provide a boost in the return game. — Antonio Morales

14. Baltimore Ravens: Peter Woods, DT, Clemson​

This is probably a reach and definitely a cliched selection: an incoming defensive-minded head coach taking a high-upside defensive lineman. At Clemson, the 6-3, 310-pound Woods was athletic enough to play fullback but posted only five career sacks and 14.5 TFLs over three seasons as the Tigers slid from the ranks of perennial title contenders. Baltimore is coming off a woeful defensive season and has to upgrade on this side of the ball. Woods is a risk, but the Ravens probably need to take one. — Pete Sampson

15. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Sonny Styles, LB, Ohio State​

Even if Lavonte David returns, the Bucs’ linebacking corps needs help. Styles, a former safety, is a great athlete with plenty of college production; he was the Buckeyes’ second-leading tackler during the 2024 national championship season and No. 1 last fall. — Matt Baker

16. New York Jets (from Indianapolis): Jordyn Tyson, WR, Arizona State​

This might be dooming Tyson to a Garrett Wilson-esque career, stuck in a dysfunctional organization that can’t develop a quarterback. New York figures to be bad again next season and has a lot of draft capital stored up, so it can address QB with another likely top-five-ish pick in 2027. For now, here’s another receiver to go with Wilson (who is under contract through 2030) or a potential WR1 if the Jets decide to move on from Wilson in the next year or so. — Ralph D. Russo

17. Detroit Lions: Caleb Lomu, OT, Utah​

The Lions’ offensive line has some aging pieces and requires some attention. Lomu, who formed the nation’s top tackle tandem with Fano, played 800 snaps at left tackle last season and allowed only two quarterback hits, according to PFF. That’s the type of stat that will make Jared Goff smile. — Scott Dochterman

18. Minnesota Vikings: Avieon Terrell, CB, Clemson​

Terrell, the younger brother of Falcons starter A.J. Terrell, didn’t record an interception last season because opponents smartly stayed away from him, but he broke up nine passes and forced five fumbles. He makes some plays that are reminiscent of former LSU safety Tyrann Mathieu, only Terrell can do it at corner. — Scott Dochterman

19. Carolina Panthers: Zion Young, edge, Missouri​

The Panthers were one of the NFL’s worst teams in forcing tackles for loss last season, and Young can immediately help fix that. He racked up 16.5 tackles for loss with 6.5 sacks in his final season, as well as 14 quarterback hurries. — David Ubben

20. Dallas Cowboys (from Green Bay): Brandon Cisse, CB, South Carolina​

Cisse, a speedy 6-foot corner with press-man skills, addresses the Cowboys’ other urgent need in this draft. He allowed opponents to complete only 47.4 percent of the passes thrown his way in coverage and is solid in run defense. Once DaRon Bland fully recovers from January surgery on his left foot, he and Cisse could form a dangerous 1-2 punch in coverage. — Manny Navarro

21. Pittsburgh Steelers: KC Concepcion, WR, Texas A&M​

The Steelers need a young quarterback, but I don’t trust Ty Simpson enough to reach for him here. I’d rather fill another hole by adding a versatile playmaker who shined at NC State and in College Station, where he caught nine touchdowns, rushed for another and scored on a pair of punt returns for a Playoff team. I’ll take that ability over someone with better measurables (such as Washington’s Denzel Boston). — Matt Baker

KC Concepcion was a pricey transfer from NC State, but he paid dividends immediately for the Aggies’ offense.Jay Biggerstaff / Imagn Images

​

22. Los Angeles Chargers: Olaivavega Ioane, G, Penn State​

The Chargers’ inability to protect Justin Herbert has been exposed in the postseason two years in a row. They are set at tackle when Rashawn Slater and Joe Alt are healthy, but the interior offensive line needs dramatic upgrades. Ioane was a first-team All-Big Ten performer in 2025 and didn’t allow a sack over his final two seasons with the Nittany Lions. Jim Harbaugh rarely turns down an opportunity to bolster the trenches. — Antonio Morales

23. Philadelphia Eagles: Kenyon Sadiq, TE, Oregon​

Sadiq would make the potential loss of Dallas Goedert far easier to stomach. He’s a big-time blocker and a good route runner who is tough to tackle in space. He’s also fast enough to run away from plenty of linebackers. He had a team-high eight touchdown catches for the Ducks in his final season, despite playing through some injuries. — David Ubben

24. Cleveland Browns (from Jacksonville): Kadyn Proctor, T, Alabama​

After passing on an offensive tackle with their first pick, the Browns had to go for it here. Proctor might not be the sure thing that Fano or Mauigoa are, but his athleticism is obvious. He doesn’t move like he is 360 pounds but when you see how he carries that weight on his 6-7 frame, you understand why he’s garnered a lot of interest from scouts. His technique will need some fine tuning, but he’s a good pass blocker with a high ceiling. — Cameron Teague Robinson

25. Chicago Bears: Kayden McDonald, DT, Ohio State​

The up-and-coming Bears need multiple pieces along the defensive line, and McDonald would help immediately. He’s not quite ready to elevate the pass rush, but McDonald excels against the run and can free up his linemates by eating up blockers. He was the key cog in Ohio State’s elite defense. — Scott Dochterman

26. Buffalo Bills: Denzel Boston, WR, Washington​

It felt like new head coach Joe Brady owed it to Josh Allen to get him a true No. 1 receiver. Boston’s large catch radius and proficiency in traffic will help Allen in the red zone. He produced at least 60 catches and 800 yards in each of the last two seasons and caught 20 touchdowns over that span. — Manny Navarro

27. San Francisco 49ers: Akheem Mesidor, edge, Miami​

San Francisco would probably prefer a receiver or offensive tackle, but I don’t love the options on the board. Instead, we’ll address a defense that had the fewest sacks (20) in the league with the Hurricanes’ other elite defensive prospect. Mesidor had 5.5 sacks during Miami’s Playoff run, and his four forced fumbles were tied for sixth nationally. He’s disruptive and powerful, and the fact that he’s versatile enough to line up inside is a bonus. — Matt Baker

28. Houston Texans: Monroe Freeling, OL, Georgia​

Can somebody please protect C.J. Stroud? It’s step one in reclaiming his breakout rookie season. Freeling is a good start. He lived at right tackle for the Bulldogs and can still add some weight but played his way into the first-round conversation over just 16 career starts. He can grow as a run blocker, but he’d give the Texans some needed help on the edge. — David Ubben

29. Los Angeles Rams: Colton Hood, CB, Tennessee​

Hood is strong in man coverage and not afraid to mix it up in the run game. He’s a solid tackler, too. The Rams need more players who could make things competitive on the perimeter. — Antonio Morales

30. Denver Broncos: CJ Allen, LB, Georgia​

What was already one of the best defenses in the league gets another building block in Allen. He could be the new signal caller for a defense that can once again be one of the most stifling groups in the NFL. He might not have the measurables of recent star Georgia linebackers, but Allen is the perfect glue to connect a dominant front line with an elite secondary. Allen led the Bulldogs with 88 tackles in 2025 and was solid in pass coverage, too. The Broncos have nailed the defensive side of the draft in recent years and would continue that trend here. — Chris Kamrani

31. New England Patriots: Cashius Howell, edge, Texas A&M​

The Patriots produced only 35 sacks last season, putting them in the bottom third of the NFL. Howell comes off the line with big-time speed and quickness, though at 6-2 and 250 pounds, he will need to develop as a run defender. The Bowling Green transfer blew up last season after serving in a rotational role at A&M in 2024, becoming one of the best pass rushers in the country with 11.5 sacks in 13 games. — Ralph D. Russo

32. Seattle Seahawks: Emmanuel McNeil-Warren, S, Toledo​

Fresh off their suffocating performance in the Super Bowl, the reigning champs add a rangy safety who can extend Toledo’s strong recent NFL track record and be another wild card in Mike Macdonald’s defense. With safety Coby Bryant hitting unrestricted free agency, McNeil-Warren can step in and be a back-end force who can play anywhere and everywhere, making life for the opposing quarterback even more of a living hell. — Chris Kamrani

By Scott Dochterman, Pete Sampson, Cameron Teague Robinson, Ralph D. Russo, Christopher Kamrani, Antonio Morales, David Ubben, Manny Navarro and Matt Baker

 

[Cowboysrock55]

Fix the loss of pass rush in Parsons by drafting a DE who mostly stops the run. Kind of a silly thought process there.

 

[bbgun]

I'd be bummed by Faulk at 20 let alone 12

 

[Chocolate Lab]

I'd be bummed by Faulk at 20 let alone 12

I could live with it at 20. He's pretty talented.

Doubt it would happen though.

 

[Genghis Khan]

I don't like Cisse at 20 either.

 

[Cowboysrock55]

I could live with it at 20. He's pretty talented.

Doubt it would happen though.

The problem is the only way I'm really ok with that is if we get a legit pass rusher at 12. Like the old Ware/Spears draft. The problem is outside of Bain, Bailey and Reese I don't know if there is a pass rusher I would take at 12. So then I'd really prefer to look at someone like Howell at 20. It's also why I'd be ok with a trade down from 12.

Also interesting note to take. Christian Parker has a very strong connection with Mike Elko. Mike Elko is obviously the coach at Texas A&M and so if we are talking about players that he will have the inside scoop on, I think Howell is one of them.

 

[bbgun]

Styles at 5? Wow.

 

[Simpleton]

Styles at 5? Wow.

We'd have better made some "significant" FA signings if we went DB/DB with the first two picks.

Our secondary would probably be pretty sweet though.

 

[Cowboysrock55]

We'd have better made some "significant" FA signings if we went DB/DB with the first two picks.

Our secondary would probably be pretty sweet though.

Wouldn't call it a dream scenario.

More like a reasonable scenario. Dream implies steal. This is more like Delane going where he should and the safety a little high.

 

[Simpleton]

Wouldn't call it a dream scenario.

More like a reasonable scenario. Dream implies steal. This is more like Delane going where he should and the safety a little high.

Yea if we're interested in someone like McNeil-Warren I'd hope that we trade down a bit with him and Thieneman in mind.

 

[Cowboysrock55]

Yea if we're interested in someone like McNeil-Warren I'd hope that we trade down a bit with him and Thieneman in mind.

Honestly if we go DB/DB in the first I hope we at least trade down. To not address the front 7 until the fourth round would be really concerning to me. If I'm going to get a corner and safety at least get me good to great value with both picks. I can see Delane as good value there. The guy has grown on me and I think he would be a terrific fit here. In ways I can see him as a Devon Witherspoon type player.

I like McNeil-Warren but god no not at 20. That's a guy I'd love with a high second round pick. But at 20 it feels like a big luxury type selection. And honestly he isn't even my second favorite safety in this draft. So move down, get a second/third round pick in the process. And then at least be able to go and get a starting middle LBer with one of those extra picks. Or maybe a legit pass rusher depending on who is around. It's a great safety class.

I'm a big Thieneman fan but I also think a guy like Zakee Wheatley later on would be a killer pick. Same with Bud Clark. Absolutely nothing wrong with Emmanuel McNeil-Warren but I feel a little like picking him at 20 is like picking CJ Allen at 20. Good player but I can get some really good players at the same position slightly later in the draft. So maximize the value.

If I'm sticking and picking at 12 and 20 I want to feel like I got the absolute best guys available at those picks. McNeal-Warren doesn't feel like that.

 

[Simpleton]

Honestly if we go DB/DB in the first I hope we at least trade down. To not address the front 7 until the fourth round would be really concerning to me. If I'm going to get a corner and safety at least get me good to great value with both picks. I can see Delane as good value there. The guy has grown on me and I think he would be a terrific fit here. In ways I can see him as a Devon Witherspoon type player.

I like McNeil-Warren but god no not at 20. That's a guy I'd love with a high second round pick. But at 20 it feels like a big luxury type selection. And honestly he isn't even my second favorite safety in this draft. So move down, get a second/third round pick in the process. And then at least be able to go and get a starting middle LBer with one of those extra picks. Or maybe a legit pass rusher depending on who is around. It's a great safety class.

I'm a big Thieneman fan but I also think a guy like Zakee Wheatley later on would be a killer pick. Same with Bud Clark. Absolutely nothing wrong with Emmanuel McNeil-Warren but I feel a little like picking him at 20 is like picking CJ Allen at 20. Good player but I can get some really good players at the same position slightly later in the draft. So maximize the value.

If I'm sticking and picking at 12 and 20 I want to feel like I got the absolute best guys available at those picks. McNeal-Warren doesn't feel like that.

Yea but what about when we sign Nakobe Dean and K'Lavon Chaisson in FA?

 

[Cowboysrock55]

Yea but what about when we sign Nakobe Dean and K'Lavon Chaisson in FA?

I mean I'm still wanting to trade down. Plus I don't know that I'd still trust LBer because of the injury history with both starters and I don't know that I trust Chaisson that much. I'd still be fine with a safety and corner. But the trade down could net me an R Mason or Golday to throw into the mix.

And if I ultimately miss on McNeil-Warren there are other safeties in this draft I could take and feel great about.

 

[boozeman]

I'd be bummed by Faulk at 20 let alone 12

Faulk has to be overvalued by the Scouting Cartel.

I can watch the guy and really have to try to be impressed AND I have to figure out how he fits what we are going to do.

 

[Cowboysrock55]

Faulk has to be overvalued by the Scouting Cartel.

I can watch the guy and really have to try to be impressed AND I have to figure out how he fits what we are going to do.

I see at times what there is to love about Faulk. But it's a big projection. And then you talk need and he doesn't fit what we need. We have Osa, Clark and Williams. All making good money and all are at least good players. Williams is great. Those are your 3 Dlineman in a 3-4. Faulk isn't an OLBer. Could I see Faulk being a good NFL 3-4 DE? Absolutely. But he is a work in progress as that. And I'm not making pick 12 or 20 a project.

 

[boozeman]

I see at times what there is to love about Faulk. But it's a big projection. And then you talk need and he doesn't fit what we need. We have Osa, Clark and Williams. All making good money and all are at least good players. Williams is great. Those are your 3 Dlineman in a 3-4. Faulk isn't an OLBer. Could I see Faulk being a good NFL 3-4 DE? Absolutely. But he is a work in progress as that. And I'm not making pick 12 or 20 a project.

He is a cut rate what Parcells thought Spears was.

 

[Cowboysrock55]

He is a cut rate what Parcells thought Spears was.

And Spears was no one eye Canty either.

 

[ravidubey]

Nothing like some good trades down, using WRs as bait

 

[Cotton]

​

2026 NFL mock draft: Jeremiyah Love joins Fernando Mendoza in top 5 after scouting combine​

By Dane Brugler

March 4, 2026 Updated 5:32 am CST​

​

With my 16th combine in the books, it’s time to translate what happened in Indianapolis into how it could affect the early rounds of the NFL Draft. Obviously, free agency is still going to be a major domino in the process, but the combine gives us breadcrumbs to how teams are thinking.

I gathered plenty of NFL feedback during combine week and included some of it in this mock draft (including one interesting trade scenario, noted below by an asterisk).

1. Las Vegas Raiders: Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana​

It was surprising how little Mendoza-to-Vegas buzz there was in Indianapolis. But that likely reflects how much of a foregone conclusion this pairing seems to be at No. 1.

2. New York Jets: Arvell Reese, edge, Ohio State​

Reese had one of the most impressive workouts at this year’s combine — full stop. His athletic testing was outstanding, as expected, but his on-field performance was even more remarkable. His blend of speed, explosion and violence separates him in this class.

“Dude stole the freaking show,” an NFL scout said.

3. Arizona Cardinals: Francis Mauigoa, OT, Miami​

In terms of NFL ceiling, Mauigoa might not be on the level of past No. 3 picks. But this is a different draft, and he brings a high floor — one which would immediately upgrade the Cardinals’ right tackle spot.

4. Tennessee Titans: Jeremiyah Love, RB, Notre Dame​

Should the Titans, at this point in their roster construction, invest a premium pick at running back? Debatable. But with money to spend in free agency, Tennessee should be in a much more stable place before we get to April.

An AFC scout for a team that already has an established running back called Love “the best player in the draft.” Instead of getting hung up on positional value, the Titans should focus on “impact value” and what a talent like Love could do not only for the run game, but the passing game and offense overall. Head coach Robert Saleh spent the last year watching Christian McCaffrey’s impact on the San Francisco 49ers and could see similar potential in Love.

5. New York Giants: Sonny Styles, LB, Ohio State​

For much of the season and pre-draft process, I felt like I had to convince doubters of why Styles deserved to be a top-10 pick. After his workout in Indianapolis, the skeptics have disappeared.

But it wasn’t just what Styles did on the field. His interviews with NFL teams were “phenomenal,” according to a team source, with one team even giving him a standing ovation at the end of a session.

6. Cleveland Browns: Spencer Fano, OL, Utah​

“Easily the best O-line workout this year.”

The feedback from others matched that praise from a team source and was universally glowing about Fano’s combine performance. (“He confirmed the big grade I put on him,” was another good reply from a team scout.)

His shorter arms (32 1/8 inches) will be interpreted differently by each team, but Fano is too well-liked across the league for him to fall down boards.

7. Washington Commanders: David Bailey, edge, Texas Tech​

Head coach Dan Quinn and general manager Adam Peters are looking for speed and violence off the edge, and Bailey offers both. He took a jump as a run defender this past season and would improve the Commanders’ pass rush immediately.

8. New Orleans Saints: Carnell Tate, WR, Ohio State​

Social media seems to care more than NFL teams about Tate’s 40-yard dash time — he clocked in at 4.53 seconds, although that official time has been under dispute. He averaged 32.5 yards per touchdown catch in 2025 and showed the ability to win at all three levels of the field, which is something quarterback Tyler Shough would love to see in the Saints’ offense.

9. Kansas City Chiefs: Rueben Bain Jr., edge, Miami​

It will be interesting to see how the Chiefs address their multiple needs this offseason. If they wait until the draft to make a splash at edge rusher, Bain — and his ability to constrict the pocket with his power — would make sense. He remains a polarizing prospect among NFL teams. He’s got a lot of fans, and plenty of critics.

10. Cincinnati Bengals: Caleb Downs, S, Ohio State​

Count the Bengals among several teams that generally don’t draft safeties early in the first round. But Downs is different and will force front offices to rethink that stance. His intelligence, intangibles and on-field impact immediately will make the other 10 defenders on the field that much better.

11. Miami Dolphins: Monroe Freeling, OT, Georgia​

Over the last few months, I’ve been pushing Freeling as an ascending prospect with talent worth an early-pick investment. His combine performance was uneven (NFL scout: “His testing was good. His positional workout wasn’t good at all.”), but a 1.71-second 10-yard split in the 40 at his size is impressive.

Freeling would be a great building block for a new general manager, Jon-Eric Sullivan, looking to revamp the roster.

12. Dallas Cowboys: Mansoor Delane, CB, LSU​

In the history of their franchise, the Cowboys have drafted only one LSU cornerback (Morris Claiborne) — and it didn’t go well.

Delane doesn’t have elite size or speed (we will see if he runs a 40 before the draft), but he has an outstanding feel for coverage in man or zone, anticipating and driving on routes.

13. Los Angeles Rams (from ATL): Avieon Terrell, CB, Clemson​

History tells us the Rams don’t draft cornerbacks in the first few rounds, but that position on their depth chart needs almost a complete makeover. Terrell, whom several scouts singled out as having the top cornerback workout at the combine, makes plays against both the pass and run.

14. Baltimore Ravens: Vega Ioane, G, Penn State​

Good players have a habit of falling to the Ravens in Round 1, and this would be just the most recent example. Ioane is one of the best players in the draft, although his lack of positional versatility could help him land in Baltimore’s lap.

15. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Kenyon Sadiq, TE, Oregon​

I don’t think general manager Jason Licht is necessarily looking to target a tight end with a top-15 pick, but it wouldn’t be surprising if the Bucs believe Sadiq is the best player available here. He’s been TE1 in this class from the summer until now, and his freaky combine performance was the cherry on top.
https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/7009839/2026/02/10/nfl-draft-2026-rankings-prospects/

16. New York Jets (from IND): Makai Lemon, WR, USC​

Maybe the Jets will opt for more size at receiver to complement Garrett Wilson, but Lemon has the competitive DNA that should speak to head coach Aaron Glenn and general manager Darren Mougey. Glenn had a front-row seat for Amon-Ra St. Brown with the Detroit Lions — it’s a good bet he would want to add a stylistically similar player.

17. Detroit Lions: Kadyn Proctor, OT/G, Alabama​

The return of Taylor Decker in 2026 gives the Lions options on draft night, but it doesn’t eliminate offensive line from being the move here. Proctor has the talent to give Detroit immediate depth at both tackle and guard, especially after the release of Graham Glasgow. He’d be a long-term building block.

18. Minnesota Vikings: Dillon Thieneman, S, Oregon​

With Harrison Smith’s future in question, the Vikings will have safety near the top of their wish list this offseason.

Thieneman was expected to test well at the combine. Based on the reactions from teams, he surpassed even those high expectations and solidified himself in the mid-first-round range. (NFL scout: “It’s hard to find anything bad with ‘T-man.’”)

19. Carolina Panthers: Akheem Mesidor, edge, Miami​

General Manager Dan Morgan, a member of the Hurricanes’ Ring of Honor, isn’t going to draft a Miami player because of the connections to his alma mater. But it wouldn’t hurt, especially with the Panthers in the market for a charged-up edge rusher.

20. Dallas Cowboys (from GB): Keldric Faulk, edge, Auburn​

The Cowboys addressed their secondary at No. 12 in this mock, and they add an edge rusher here.

One of the youngest prospects in the class, Faulk will enter the league as a physical edge setter with a developing pass-rush arsenal.

21. Pittsburgh Steelers: Omar Cooper Jr., WR, Indiana​

The third wide receiver off the board in this mock, Cooper has the ball skills that would make him a great fit for the Steelers’ quick-strike offense. His strong lower body and toughness make him a chore for defenders to finish to the ground.

22. Los Angeles Chargers: Jermod McCoy, CB, Tennessee​

This is a value pick for the Chargers. McCoy, now more than a year removed from ACL surgery, didn’t work out at the combine and remains a wild card in this class. There might be a discount sticker on his tag come draft weekend.

23. Philadelphia Eagles: Max Iheanachor, OT, Arizona State​

Iheanachor would give the Eagles short-term insurance behind Lane Johnson, and a long-term answer at right tackle. He’s still relatively new to football, so a year spent sitting behind a future Hall of Famer would be a master class for Iheanachor’s development.

24. Cleveland Browns (from JAX): Jordyn Tyson, WR, Arizona State​

Make it back-to-back Sun Devils off the board.

Without any concerns about durability, Tyson likely would be a top-10 pick. However, a lingering hamstring issue might create doubt in the minds of some decision-makers, which could in turn lead a team such as Cleveland to find awesome value in the back half of Round 1.

25. Chicago Bears: Peter Woods, DT, Clemson​

Woods is a frustrating study, because the talent is evident but doesn’t equate to consistent disruption. Still, his “good” tape is enough for teams hunting interior help to consider him in the late first round.

26. Buffalo Bills: Denzel Boston, WR, Washington​

If the Bills draft a wide receiver in the first round, should they go with a speedy, smaller option or a bigger, more physical target? Boston would be the latter, with outstanding size and ball skills (and he isn’t a slug, either).

27. San Francisco 49ers: Caleb Lomu, OT, Utah​

Lomu will benefit from another year of strength development, which would leave him ready just in time to potentially take over for Trent Williams at left tackle. His athletic footwork and movement control suggest he has a bright future.

28. Arizona Cardinals (from HOU)*: Ty Simpson, QB, Alabama​

The only proposed trade in this mock draft has the Cardinals getting back into the first round (just ahead of the Rams) to nab a quarterback, giving up a second-rounder (No. 34) and 2027 third-rounder to do so. This would be back-to-back years the Texans have traded down to No. 34 with a team looking for a quarterback (they made a similar deal last year with the Giants, who then selected Jaxson Dart).


With the Kyler Murray era in the rearview, the Cardinals could be in the mix for Malik Willis in free agency or get creative on draft weekend to address their quarterback spot. Simpson has the NFL-level processing and instincts to be a starter, although his pro ceiling is the question mark.
https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/7084465/2026/03/03/kyler-murray-released-cardinals-nfl-free-agency/

29. Los Angeles Rams: KC Concepcion, WR, Texas A&M​

With Davante Adams in the final year of his deal, Concepcion would give the Rams’ offense immediate firepower plus a long-term solution if Adams isn’t on the roster in 2027. His dynamic inside-outside versatility would be a fun addition to an already exciting passing attack.

30. Denver Broncos: Emmanuel McNeil-Warren, S, Toledo​

The Broncos have been doing their homework on McNeil-Warren, a long, athletic safety who makes plays in coverage and versus the run. Safety might not be the Broncos’ No. 1 need, but McNeil-Warren’s range would be a nice fit in their secondary.

31. New England Patriots: T.J. Parker, edge, Clemson​

Upgrading the pass rush (in multiple ways) is expected to be top priority for the Patriots this offseason. And Parker is a well-rounded player who offers a reliable foundation built on leveraged power and a consistent motor, which will speak to Mike Vrabel.

32. Seattle Seahawks: Brandon Cisse, CB, South Carolina​

The Seahawks plucking another Gamecocks defensive back in this year’s draft would be a fun story. But more importantly, Cisse would give Seattle much-needed cornerback depth, especially if Josh Jobe and Riq Woolen both depart in free agency.

 

[Genghis Khan]

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2026 NFL mock draft: Jeremiyah Love joins Fernando Mendoza in top 5 after scouting combine​

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By Dane Brugler​

March 4, 2026 Updated 5:32 am CST​

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With my 16th combine in the books, it’s time to translate what happened in Indianapolis into how it could affect the early rounds of the NFL Draft. Obviously, free agency is still going to be a major domino in the process, but the combine gives us breadcrumbs to how teams are thinking.

I gathered plenty of NFL feedback during combine week and included some of it in this mock draft (including one interesting trade scenario, noted below by an asterisk).

1. Las Vegas Raiders: Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana​

It was surprising how little Mendoza-to-Vegas buzz there was in Indianapolis. But that likely reflects how much of a foregone conclusion this pairing seems to be at No. 1.

2. New York Jets: Arvell Reese, edge, Ohio State​

Reese had one of the most impressive workouts at this year’s combine — full stop. His athletic testing was outstanding, as expected, but his on-field performance was even more remarkable. His blend of speed, explosion and violence separates him in this class.

“Dude stole the freaking show,” an NFL scout said.

3. Arizona Cardinals: Francis Mauigoa, OT, Miami​

In terms of NFL ceiling, Mauigoa might not be on the level of past No. 3 picks. But this is a different draft, and he brings a high floor — one which would immediately upgrade the Cardinals’ right tackle spot.

4. Tennessee Titans: Jeremiyah Love, RB, Notre Dame​

Should the Titans, at this point in their roster construction, invest a premium pick at running back? Debatable. But with money to spend in free agency, Tennessee should be in a much more stable place before we get to April.

An AFC scout for a team that already has an established running back called Love “the best player in the draft.” Instead of getting hung up on positional value, the Titans should focus on “impact value” and what a talent like Love could do not only for the run game, but the passing game and offense overall. Head coach Robert Saleh spent the last year watching Christian McCaffrey’s impact on the San Francisco 49ers and could see similar potential in Love.

5. New York Giants: Sonny Styles, LB, Ohio State​

For much of the season and pre-draft process, I felt like I had to convince doubters of why Styles deserved to be a top-10 pick. After his workout in Indianapolis, the skeptics have disappeared.

But it wasn’t just what Styles did on the field. His interviews with NFL teams were “phenomenal,” according to a team source, with one team even giving him a standing ovation at the end of a session.

6. Cleveland Browns: Spencer Fano, OL, Utah​

“Easily the best O-line workout this year.”

The feedback from others matched that praise from a team source and was universally glowing about Fano’s combine performance. (“He confirmed the big grade I put on him,” was another good reply from a team scout.)

His shorter arms (32 1/8 inches) will be interpreted differently by each team, but Fano is too well-liked across the league for him to fall down boards.

7. Washington Commanders: David Bailey, edge, Texas Tech​

Head coach Dan Quinn and general manager Adam Peters are looking for speed and violence off the edge, and Bailey offers both. He took a jump as a run defender this past season and would improve the Commanders’ pass rush immediately.

8. New Orleans Saints: Carnell Tate, WR, Ohio State​

Social media seems to care more than NFL teams about Tate’s 40-yard dash time — he clocked in at 4.53 seconds, although that official time has been under dispute. He averaged 32.5 yards per touchdown catch in 2025 and showed the ability to win at all three levels of the field, which is something quarterback Tyler Shough would love to see in the Saints’ offense.

9. Kansas City Chiefs: Rueben Bain Jr., edge, Miami​

It will be interesting to see how the Chiefs address their multiple needs this offseason. If they wait until the draft to make a splash at edge rusher, Bain — and his ability to constrict the pocket with his power — would make sense. He remains a polarizing prospect among NFL teams. He’s got a lot of fans, and plenty of critics.

10. Cincinnati Bengals: Caleb Downs, S, Ohio State​

Count the Bengals among several teams that generally don’t draft safeties early in the first round. But Downs is different and will force front offices to rethink that stance. His intelligence, intangibles and on-field impact immediately will make the other 10 defenders on the field that much better.

11. Miami Dolphins: Monroe Freeling, OT, Georgia​

Over the last few months, I’ve been pushing Freeling as an ascending prospect with talent worth an early-pick investment. His combine performance was uneven (NFL scout: “His testing was good. His positional workout wasn’t good at all.”), but a 1.71-second 10-yard split in the 40 at his size is impressive.

Freeling would be a great building block for a new general manager, Jon-Eric Sullivan, looking to revamp the roster.

12. Dallas Cowboys: Mansoor Delane, CB, LSU​

In the history of their franchise, the Cowboys have drafted only one LSU cornerback (Morris Claiborne) — and it didn’t go well.

Delane doesn’t have elite size or speed (we will see if he runs a 40 before the draft), but he has an outstanding feel for coverage in man or zone, anticipating and driving on routes.

13. Los Angeles Rams (from ATL): Avieon Terrell, CB, Clemson​

History tells us the Rams don’t draft cornerbacks in the first few rounds, but that position on their depth chart needs almost a complete makeover. Terrell, whom several scouts singled out as having the top cornerback workout at the combine, makes plays against both the pass and run.

14. Baltimore Ravens: Vega Ioane, G, Penn State​

Good players have a habit of falling to the Ravens in Round 1, and this would be just the most recent example. Ioane is one of the best players in the draft, although his lack of positional versatility could help him land in Baltimore’s lap.

15. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Kenyon Sadiq, TE, Oregon​

I don’t think general manager Jason Licht is necessarily looking to target a tight end with a top-15 pick, but it wouldn’t be surprising if the Bucs believe Sadiq is the best player available here. He’s been TE1 in this class from the summer until now, and his freaky combine performance was the cherry on top.
2026 NFL Draft rankings: Who are the top 100 prospects in this year’s class?

16. New York Jets (from IND): Makai Lemon, WR, USC​

Maybe the Jets will opt for more size at receiver to complement Garrett Wilson, but Lemon has the competitive DNA that should speak to head coach Aaron Glenn and general manager Darren Mougey. Glenn had a front-row seat for Amon-Ra St. Brown with the Detroit Lions — it’s a good bet he would want to add a stylistically similar player.

17. Detroit Lions: Kadyn Proctor, OT/G, Alabama​

The return of Taylor Decker in 2026 gives the Lions options on draft night, but it doesn’t eliminate offensive line from being the move here. Proctor has the talent to give Detroit immediate depth at both tackle and guard, especially after the release of Graham Glasgow. He’d be a long-term building block.

18. Minnesota Vikings: Dillon Thieneman, S, Oregon​

With Harrison Smith’s future in question, the Vikings will have safety near the top of their wish list this offseason.

Thieneman was expected to test well at the combine. Based on the reactions from teams, he surpassed even those high expectations and solidified himself in the mid-first-round range. (NFL scout: “It’s hard to find anything bad with ‘T-man.’”)

19. Carolina Panthers: Akheem Mesidor, edge, Miami​

General Manager Dan Morgan, a member of the Hurricanes’ Ring of Honor, isn’t going to draft a Miami player because of the connections to his alma mater. But it wouldn’t hurt, especially with the Panthers in the market for a charged-up edge rusher.

20. Dallas Cowboys (from GB): Keldric Faulk, edge, Auburn​

The Cowboys addressed their secondary at No. 12 in this mock, and they add an edge rusher here.

One of the youngest prospects in the class, Faulk will enter the league as a physical edge setter with a developing pass-rush arsenal.

21. Pittsburgh Steelers: Omar Cooper Jr., WR, Indiana​

The third wide receiver off the board in this mock, Cooper has the ball skills that would make him a great fit for the Steelers’ quick-strike offense. His strong lower body and toughness make him a chore for defenders to finish to the ground.

22. Los Angeles Chargers: Jermod McCoy, CB, Tennessee​

This is a value pick for the Chargers. McCoy, now more than a year removed from ACL surgery, didn’t work out at the combine and remains a wild card in this class. There might be a discount sticker on his tag come draft weekend.

23. Philadelphia Eagles: Max Iheanachor, OT, Arizona State​

Iheanachor would give the Eagles short-term insurance behind Lane Johnson, and a long-term answer at right tackle. He’s still relatively new to football, so a year spent sitting behind a future Hall of Famer would be a master class for Iheanachor’s development.

24. Cleveland Browns (from JAX): Jordyn Tyson, WR, Arizona State​

Make it back-to-back Sun Devils off the board.

Without any concerns about durability, Tyson likely would be a top-10 pick. However, a lingering hamstring issue might create doubt in the minds of some decision-makers, which could in turn lead a team such as Cleveland to find awesome value in the back half of Round 1.

25. Chicago Bears: Peter Woods, DT, Clemson​

Woods is a frustrating study, because the talent is evident but doesn’t equate to consistent disruption. Still, his “good” tape is enough for teams hunting interior help to consider him in the late first round.

26. Buffalo Bills: Denzel Boston, WR, Washington​

If the Bills draft a wide receiver in the first round, should they go with a speedy, smaller option or a bigger, more physical target? Boston would be the latter, with outstanding size and ball skills (and he isn’t a slug, either).

27. San Francisco 49ers: Caleb Lomu, OT, Utah​

Lomu will benefit from another year of strength development, which would leave him ready just in time to potentially take over for Trent Williams at left tackle. His athletic footwork and movement control suggest he has a bright future.

28. Arizona Cardinals (from HOU)*: Ty Simpson, QB, Alabama​

The only proposed trade in this mock draft has the Cardinals getting back into the first round (just ahead of the Rams) to nab a quarterback, giving up a second-rounder (No. 34) and 2027 third-rounder to do so. This would be back-to-back years the Texans have traded down to No. 34 with a team looking for a quarterback (they made a similar deal last year with the Giants, who then selected Jaxson Dart).


With the Kyler Murray era in the rearview, the Cardinals could be in the mix for Malik Willis in free agency or get creative on draft weekend to address their quarterback spot. Simpson has the NFL-level processing and instincts to be a starter, although his pro ceiling is the question mark.
Cardinals inform Kyler Murray they plan to release him: Sources

29. Los Angeles Rams: KC Concepcion, WR, Texas A&M​

With Davante Adams in the final year of his deal, Concepcion would give the Rams’ offense immediate firepower plus a long-term solution if Adams isn’t on the roster in 2027. His dynamic inside-outside versatility would be a fun addition to an already exciting passing attack.

30. Denver Broncos: Emmanuel McNeil-Warren, S, Toledo​

The Broncos have been doing their homework on McNeil-Warren, a long, athletic safety who makes plays in coverage and versus the run. Safety might not be the Broncos’ No. 1 need, but McNeil-Warren’s range would be a nice fit in their secondary.

31. New England Patriots: T.J. Parker, edge, Clemson​

Upgrading the pass rush (in multiple ways) is expected to be top priority for the Patriots this offseason. And Parker is a well-rounded player who offers a reliable foundation built on leveraged power and a consistent motor, which will speak to Mike Vrabel.

32. Seattle Seahawks: Brandon Cisse, CB, South Carolina​

The Seahawks plucking another Gamecocks defensive back in this year’s draft would be a fun story. But more importantly, Cisse would give Seattle much-needed cornerback depth, especially if Josh Jobe and Riq Woolen both depart in free agency.

Don't mind Delane at 12 but if this is the way things fall I'm trying HARD to trade down at 20 with the hopes of picking up Hyphen and getting a pass rusher on day two after adding a day two pick with the trade down.