Get ready for an exciting NFL draft season! The 2026 NFL mock draft is here, and it's packed with surprises and intriguing picks. From wide receivers to running backs, edge rushers to quarterbacks, this draft class has it all. But here's where it gets controversial: will we see multiple quarterbacks selected in the first round? It's a question on everyone's minds.
As we gear up for the NFL Scouting Combine, let's dive into my second projection for Round 1 of the 2026 NFL Draft. With the combine and free agency on the horizon, the league is buzzing with excitement over this year's edge rushers and wide receivers.
And this is the part most people miss: the prospect with the most to gain is Alabama QB Ty Simpson. Keep an eye on him as we approach the draft.
Now, let's get into the picks and uncover some of the draft's biggest stories.
Pick 1: The Raiders have found their quarterback, and their coach, Klint Kubiak, has a perfect scheme for Mendoza's skill set.
Pick 2: The Jets have a tough choice with the finest edge rushers available. Bailey's explosiveness and production make him the top pick here.
Pick 3: Mauigoa steps in at right tackle, providing an upgrade to a struggling offensive line.
Pick 4: Bain's temperament and playing style are a perfect match for Jeffery Simmons. They share a similar approach to the game.
Pick 5: The Giants add a new weapon for Jaxson Dart with Tate, giving the offense a vertical threat to pair with Malik Nabers.
Pick 6: The Browns hope one of the top offensive tackles is available at No. 6, and they snag Fano to start immediately.
Pick 7: Reese brings versatility and explosiveness to Washington's defense. He might be a bit of a wildcard, having played both edge rusher and off-ball linebacker, but his upside is immense.
Pick 8: The Saints boost Tyler Shough's receiving corps with Lemon, and Kellen Moore will know exactly how to utilize his skills.
Pick 9: Patrick Mahomes finally gets his elite running back in Love. If defenses continue their conservative approach, Love will make them pay.
Pick 10: Cincinnati stays local with this pick, adding Downs to provide consistency and structure to their defense.
Pick 11: The Dolphins, in need of a retooling defense, land the best cornerback in the draft. With key players heading to free agency, this pick is crucial.
Pick 12: The Cowboys address their pass rush and secondary, believing the drop-off at cornerback after McCoy is significant.
Pick 13: The Rams boost their pass defense with McNeil-Warren, creating a nice safety trio with Kamren Kinchens and Quentin Lake.
Pick 14: Baltimore adds offensive firepower with Tyson, a complement to Zay Flowers.
Pick 15: Styles, despite my higher ranking, might not be valued the same by all teams. He can fill the hole if Lavonte David doesn't return.
Pick 16: With a huge need at quarterback, the Jets opt for the best available player, Ioane, an offensive lineman who can fill the void left by injuries and free agency.
Pick 17: Parker, after an underwhelming 2025 season, bounced back at the Senior Bowl and is climbing draft boards once again.
Pick 18: Thieneman's impressive 2025 tape at Oregon, and his earlier career at Purdue, showcase his range and playmaking skills. He's an excellent replacement for Harrison Smith.
Pick 19: Faulk's versatility as an inside and outside rusher is a perfect fit for Carolina, giving them fresh legs up front.
Pick 20: The Cowboys double down on defense, taking an edge rusher after drafting a cornerback at No. 12. Mesidor's age might be a concern, but his dominance in the College Football Playoff cannot be ignored.
Pick 21: Boston is a perfect fit for the Steelers, creating a powerful duo with DK Metcalf on the outside.
Pick 23: Even if Lane Johnson decides to delay retirement, the Eagles are prepared with his eventual replacement.
Pick 24: The Browns land two starting offensive linemen, a huge success for their draft. Freeling joins Fano, and with Dawand Jones healthy, Fano could move inside.
Pick 25: Woods, an explosive defensive tackle, brings much-needed juice to the interior.
Pick 27: Hunter, a run-stopper with pass-rushing potential, joins a talented young trio of defensive linemen.
Pick 28: Lomu and Aireontae Ersery give the Texans young bookends to build their offensive line around.
Pick 29: The Rams strengthen their secondary in Round 1, with free agency threatening their depth at DB.
Pick 30: Denver replaces Alex Singleton with Allen, a steady player to anchor their talented defense.
Pick 31: Young is an excellent fit for Mike Vrabel's defense, a big, rugged edge rusher who dominated the Senior Bowl.
Pick 32: Seattle finds insurance for Rashid Shaheed with Concepcion, a speedy offensive threat and dynamic returner.
There you have it! An exciting mock draft with some intriguing picks and potential controversies. What do you think? Are there any picks you agree or disagree with? Let's discuss in the comments!
