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2026 NFL Mock Draft Projections Emerge Amidst Offseason Player Movements and Combine Buzz

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The 2026 NFL Draft season is underway, with initial projections for all 32 first-round selections now available. These projections follow a comprehensive evaluation of college football, combine performances, player declarations, and significant NFL offseason movements, including free agency and salary cap adjustments.

Offseason Overview: Combine, Free Agency, and Salary Cap Adjustments

The NFL offseason has been marked by significant activity impacting team rosters and draft strategies. The free agency negotiation period began on March 9, with official signings starting March 11. The NFL Scouting Combine provided crucial physical and medical assessments.

Notable Free Agency Actions and Contract Projections:

  • Franchise and Transition Tags:

    • Quarterback Daniel Jones (Indianapolis Colts) received a transition tag worth $37.833 million following a career resurgence in 2025.
    • Wide Receiver George Pickens (Dallas Cowboys) was tagged at $27.298 million after a Pro Bowl and second-team All-Pro 2025 season (93 receptions, 1,429 yards, 9 TDs). The Cowboys are reportedly open to having two high-priced wide receivers.
    • Tight End Kyle Pitts (Atlanta Falcons) received a franchise tag of $15.045 million, recording a career-high 88 receptions and 928 receiving yards in 2025.
    • Running Back Breece Hall (New York Jets) was tagged at $14.293 million after a career-best 1,065 rushing yards in 2025.

  • Contract Projections: Center Tyler Linderbaum (Baltimore Ravens) is projected for a market-setting deal potentially exceeding $20 million annually. Quarterback Malik Willis (Green Bay Packers), Wide Receiver Alec Pierce (Indianapolis Colts), Running Back Kenneth Walker III (Seattle Seahawks), Offensive Tackle Rasheed Walker (Green Bay Packers), and Guard Alijah Vera-Tucker (New York Jets) also have projected contract values.

  • Player Movements: Tyreek Hill was released by the Miami Dolphins. Various offensive line and defensive additions were made by teams such as the Las Vegas Raiders, New York Jets, Arizona Cardinals, Tennessee Titans, New York Giants, Cleveland Browns, Washington Commanders, New Orleans Saints, and Dallas Cowboys.

Potential Salary Cap Cuts (Examples):

Teams are actively evaluating rosters for potential salary cap casualties to create financial flexibility.

  • Arizona Cardinals: Running Back James Conner ($8 million savings) due to declining production and injury.
  • Atlanta Falcons: Quarterback Kirk Cousins ($67.9 million savings) to avoid a significant bonus.
  • Chicago Bears: Linebacker Tremaine Edmunds ($15 million savings) to manage cap space.
  • Kansas City Chiefs: Right Tackle Jawaan Taylor ($20 million savings) due to penalties and in-house replacements.
  • Las Vegas Raiders: Guard Alex Cappa ($5 million savings) due to performance.
  • Los Angeles Chargers: Right Guard Mekhi Becton ($9.7 million savings) due to injury and performance.
  • Tennessee Titans: Cornerback L’Jarius Sneed ($11.4 million savings) due to a degenerative knee injury.

First-Round Projections (Picks 1-32)

The initial 18 to 24 picks have established draft order, with various analysts providing projections for all 32 first-round selections.

1. Las Vegas Raiders

  • Projected Player: Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana (majority projection). One analyst projected Dante Moore, QB, Oregon.
  • Player Attributes: Heisman Trophy winner. Led Indiana to an undefeated season and a National Championship Game berth. Noted for 41 passing touchdowns (48 overall), a 133.2 NFL passer rating, 90.3 PFF passing grade, 30 big-time throws, 6.1% big-time throw rate, 2.5% turnover-worthy play rate, and 72.0% completion percentage. Possesses elite arm strength, mobility, and ability to throw into tight windows. Described as pro-ready, tough, and performing in critical moments, with more collegiate starts than some previous quarterback selections. One analyst compared him to Matt Ryan.
  • Team Rationale: Priority to draft a potential franchise quarterback, addressing the team's quarterback needs. Las Vegas has made additions to support Mendoza, including hiring offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak as head coach and signing center Tyler Linderbaum and wide receiver Jalen Nailor in free agency, anticipating a run-heavy, play-action offense. Tom Brady is also noted for his involvement in decision-making processes.

2. New York Jets

  • Projected Player: Projections varied among Dante Moore, QB, Oregon; Arvell Reese, EDGE/LB, Ohio State; Caleb Downs, S, Ohio State; and David Bailey, EDGE, Texas Tech.
  • Player Attributes (Moore): Noted for a 90.3 PFF passing grade and 30 big-time throws.
  • Player Attributes (Reese): Identified as a top non-quarterback prospect. Possesses versatility, noted as strong on the ball, explosive, flexible, and capable of bending. Accumulated 112 tackles since 2024, including 69 combined tackles, 10 tackles for loss, and 6.5 sacks in 2025, earning All-American status. Showed outstanding athletic testing at the combine.
  • Team Rationale: To secure a top quarterback without needing to utilize assets from recent trade acquisitions, supporting defensive roster rebuilding efforts. Other projections focused on strengthening the defense upfront or initiating a defensive rebuilding effort, especially if a top quarterback prospect was unavailable. The Jets strengthened their defense through trades and free agent signings, including T’Vondre Sweat, David Onyemata, Joseph Ossai, Kingsley Enagbare, and Demario Davis.

3. Arizona Cardinals

  • Projected Player: Projections varied among Spencer Fano, OT, Utah; Reuben Bain Jr., EDGE, Miami; Jeremiyah Love, RB, Notre Dame; Arvell Reese, LB/EDGE, Ohio State; and Francis Mauigoa, OL, Miami.
  • Player Attributes (Fano): Allowed only one sack over two seasons and 800+ pass-blocking snaps. Has experience at both left and right tackle. Received high praise at the combine despite shorter arm length.
  • Player Attributes (Mauigoa): Identified as a top offensive lineman. Allowed only three sacks in 1,099 pass-blocking snaps over two seasons, earning freshman All-America honors in 2023. Described as versatile, capable of playing both interior and tackle positions, and having a high floor for an immediate upgrade at right tackle.
  • Team Rationale: To secure a right tackle to complement Paris Johnson Jr. long-term, particularly given the team allowed 59 sacks during the season, their highest total since 1997. The team may also consider a veteran quarterback due to the perceived depth of the rookie quarterback class, with a veteran acquisition deemed more probable than a draft pick. The Cardinals signed offensive linemen Isaac Seumalo and Elijah Wilkinson in free agency.

4. Tennessee Titans

  • Projected Player: Projections varied among Arvell Reese, EDGE/LB, Ohio State; Rueben Bain Jr., EDGE, Miami; Carnell Tate, WR, Ohio State; and Jeremiyah Love, RB, Notre Dame.
  • Player Attributes (Reese): Adaptable as a linebacker or edge rusher, projected as an impact player in the front seven. Possesses a combination of size (6-foot-4, 240 pounds), speed (4.46-second 40-yard dash), power, and flexibility. Recorded 6.5 sacks, 10 tackles for loss, and 69 tackles in 2025.
  • Player Attributes (Bain Jr.): Noted for performance in the College Football Playoff, with 9.5 sacks in the 2025 season, leading edge rushers with 54 hurries and ranking second with 67 pressures. Described as a strong run defender with relentless power as a pass rusher.
  • Team Rationale: Identified multiple roster needs, particularly on the defensive front or for pass catchers. The Titans replenished their defense in free agency, including a trade for Jermaine Johnson.

5. New York Giants

  • Projected Player: Carnell Tate, WR, Ohio State (majority projection). Other projections included Jordyn Tyson, WR, Arizona State; Francis Mauigoa, OL, Miami; and Sonny Styles, LB, Ohio State.
  • Player Attributes (Tate): Identified as a wide receiver prospect with significant potential. His contested catch rate improved from 60 percent in 2024 to 85.7 percent in 2025, and he averaged 3.03 yards per route run in 2025. Recorded 51 receptions for 875 yards and nine touchdowns.
  • Team Rationale: Aims to support quarterback Jaxson Dart's development in his second year. Efforts include strengthening the offensive line and acquiring a receiving partner for Malik Nabers. Some analysts noted the Giants' receiving corps needs improvement. The Giants restructured their defense by replacing Bobby Okereke with Tremaine Edmunds.

6. Cleveland Browns

  • Projected Player: Projections varied among Caleb Downs, S, Ohio State; Carnell Tate, WR, Ohio State; Francis Mauigoa, OT, Miami; Jordyn Tyson, WR, Arizona State; Spencer Fano, OT, Utah; and Monroe Freeling, OT, Georgia.
  • Player Attributes (Mauigoa): A collegiate starter since his freshman year, with potential to develop into a starting right tackle or a Pro Bowl-level guard. Noted for consistent pass protection and possessing the highest floor among offensive linemen in the class.
  • Player Attributes (Fano): Allowed zero sacks in 382 pass-blocking snaps during the 2025 campaign, with only three sacks allowed in three seasons. His combine performance was highly praised.
  • Team Rationale: Due to a perceived difference in talent after the top two quarterback prospects, trading up for a quarterback may be challenging. The team has identified needs for a wide receiver to assist their quarterback or an offensive line overhaul. The Browns proactively reshaped their offensive line by trading for Tytus Howard and signing Zion Johnson, Elgton Jenkins, and Teven Jenkins in free agency, providing flexibility for offensive selections.

7. Washington Commanders

  • Projected Player: Projections varied among Rueben Bain Jr., EDGE, Miami; Arvell Reese, LB, Ohio State; Caleb Downs, S, Ohio State; David Bailey, EDGE, Texas Tech; and Mansoor Delane, CB, LSU.
  • Player Attributes (Bailey): Recorded 14.5 sacks (tied for first in the FBS) and a 21.9 percent pass-rush win rate. Recognized for his explosive twitch and raw power as a pass rusher, enhancing both pass rush and run defense.
  • Player Attributes (Downs): A versatile defensive back projected to improve the secondary and potentially become a unit leader. Noted for versatility, instincts, and awareness.
  • Player Attributes (Delane): Identified as a top cornerback prospect, with strong man coverage ability outside the numbers and strong instincts. He allowed a catch on 37.1% of passes faced in 2025 and earned an 89.1 PFF coverage grade in man coverage.
  • Team Rationale: Washington's defense exhibited vulnerabilities, allowing the most passing yards in the league last season. Dan Quinn’s defense is projected to undergo significant changes, with newly signed Odafe Oweh and K’Lavon Chaisson to rush the passer, Leo Chenal in the middle, and Nick Cross added to the secondary.

8. New Orleans Saints

  • Projected Player: Projections varied among Jordyn Tyson, WR, Arizona State; Keldric Faulk, EDGE, Auburn; Peter Woods, DT, Clemson; Jeremiyah Love, RB, Notre Dame; Makai Lemon, WR, USC; and Mansoor Delane, CB, LSU.
  • Player Attributes (Love): Noted for pass-catching talent and big-play ability, potentially boosting the Saints' offense. One analyst compared him to Jahmyr Gibbs.
  • Player Attributes (Lemon): Recognized as an outstanding wide receiver with a strong feel for operating in space and over the middle.
  • Team Rationale: With Tyler Shough positioned to establish himself as the Saints' starting quarterback, the focus is projected to shift to skill positions or defense. Having solidified the offensive line with top-15 selections in the past two years, the team aims to add talented young players to the receiver corps. Beyond linebacker Kaden Elliss, the Saints' significant free agency spending focused on offense, with guard David Edwards and running back Travis Etienne.

9. Kansas City Chiefs

  • Projected Player: Projections varied among Jeremiyah Love, RB, Notre Dame; Kenyon Sadiq, TE, Oregon; Caleb Downs, S, Ohio State; Spencer Fano, OT, Utah; and Mansoor Delane, CB, LSU.
  • Player Attributes (Love): Accumulated 35 rushing touchdowns since 2024, averaging 6.9 yards per carry over the last two seasons with 2,497 rushing yards. Achieved a nation-leading 93.1 PFF grade in one season.
  • Player Attributes (Sadiq): Identified as a top-10 talent and a potential successor to Travis Kelce. Led all FBS tight ends with eight receiving touchdowns during the season.
  • Team Rationale: The Chiefs' offensive line provides a foundation for the running game. The team seeks to enhance the run game or acquire defensive playmakers. Their rushing offense was ranked 25th, and pressures allowed ranked 28th by one analyst. The Chiefs lost several secondary players this offseason, but added safety Alohi Gilman and cornerback Kader Kohou.

10. Cincinnati Bengals

  • Projected Player: Projections varied among Peter Woods, DL, Clemson; Caleb Downs, S, Ohio State; Spencer Fano, OT, Utah; Rueben Bain Jr., EDGE, Miami; David Bailey, EDGE, Texas Tech; and Sonny Styles, LB, Ohio State.
  • Player Attributes (Woods): A dominant defensive lineman who was a freshman All-American in 2023. Projected to enhance the interior defensive line in both pass rush and run defense.
  • Player Attributes (Downs): Noted for his versatility and intelligence, capable of playing multiple defensive positions. One analyst highlighted his intelligence and on-field impact.
  • Player Attributes (Bailey): Led all FBS defenders in PFF grade (93.1), pass-rush grade (93.9), pressures (81), and sacks (15) in one season.
  • Team Rationale: The Bengals' defensive performance suggests a need for improvement. The offensive line has shown development, with Joe Burrow experiencing a 30.2% pressure rate, third-lowest among quarterbacks with at least 200 dropbacks.

11. Miami Dolphins

  • Projected Player: Projections varied among Mansoor Delane, CB, LSU; Ty Simpson, QB, Alabama; Kenyon Sadiq, TE, Oregon; Keldric Faulk, EDGE, Auburn; Jermod McCoy, CB, Tennessee; Jordyn Tyson, WR, Arizona State; Francis Mauigoa, OT, Miami; and Rueben Bain Jr., EDGE, Miami.
  • Player Attributes (Delane): Identified as a top collegiate cornerback, surrendering a 26.7 passer rating into his coverage in one season. Noted for versatility and effectiveness in both off-coverage and man-to-man assignments.
  • Player Attributes (Mauigoa): Projected to fill a right-side offensive line position, bringing power for the run game.
  • Team Rationale: The Dolphins' pass defense needs improvement, having allowed opposing quarterbacks to complete 72% of their passes. While the quarterback situation is a significant topic, the team may not be positioned to draft a new quarterback in the first round. The Dolphins added Jamaree Salyer in free agency for offensive line depth.

12. Dallas Cowboys

  • Projected Player: Projections varied among Keldric Faulk, EDGE, Auburn; David Bailey, EDGE, Texas Tech; Cashius Howell, EDGE, Texas A&M; Caleb Downs, S, Ohio State; Sonny Styles, LB, Ohio State; Arvell Reese, LB, Ohio State; and Akheem Mesidor, EDGE, Miami.
  • Player Attributes (Faulk): Identified as a player who can contribute as a pass-rusher and run defender. Characterized by physical attributes, athleticism, and an 89.2 PFF run-defense grade over two years. One analyst noted his strong character and consistent performance since his freshman year.
  • Team Rationale: Dallas holds two first-round selections as a result of the Micah Parsons trade. The initial pick is projected to address the defensive end position or other defensive needs. The Cowboys' front has added veterans, including Kenny Clark, Quinnen Williams, and Rashan Gary.

13. Los Angeles Rams (via Atlanta Falcons)

  • Projected Player: Projections varied among Sonny Styles, LB, Ohio State; Mansoor Delane, CB, LSU; Spencer Fano, OT, Utah; Makai Lemon, WR, USC; Olaivavega Ioane, IOL, Penn State; Kenyon Sadiq, TE, Oregon; and Avieon Terrell, CB, Clemson.
  • Player Attributes (Lemon): Described as a strong receiver. One analyst suggested he could serve as the successor to Davante Adams.
  • Team Rationale: The perceived depth of the quarterback class may influence the Rams' strategy for this pick. Needs include strengthening the front seven, adding cornerbacks due to impending free agency, or reinforcing the offensive line. The Rams are noted for their aggressive team-building strategy. They strengthened their secondary through the Trent McDuffie trade and free agency.

14. Baltimore Ravens

  • Projected Player: Projections varied among David Bailey, EDGE, Texas Tech; Francis Mauigoa, OT, Miami; Olaivavega Ioane, IOL, Penn State; Mansoor Delane, CB, LSU; Makai Lemon, WR, USC; Cashius Howell, EDGE, Texas A&M; Keldric Faulk, EDGE, Auburn; Kenyon Sadiq, TE, Oregon; and Spencer Fano, OT, Utah.
  • Player Attributes (Ioane): Considered one of the draft's top players. Projected as a high-floor guard prospect.
  • Player Attributes (Lemon): Biletnikoff Award winner. Recorded 1,156 yards and 11 touchdowns in 12 games in one season, noted for dynamic movement and elite run-after-catch ability.
  • Team Rationale: The Ravens aim for continued development from existing players and seek additional edge rushers or interior offensive line support. They commonly prioritize size and toughness in roster additions.

15. Tampa Bay Buccaneers

  • Projected Player: Projections varied among Cashius Howell, EDGE, Texas A&M; Sonny Styles, LB, Ohio State; David Bailey, EDGE, Texas Tech; Akheem Mesidor, EDGE, Miami; Keldric Faulk, EDGE, Auburn; Kenyon Sadiq, TE, Oregon; and T.J. Parker, EDGE, Clemson.
  • Player Attributes (Howell): An All-American with 11.5 sacks as a senior. One analyst noted his First-Team All-American status.
  • Player Attributes (Styles): Described as an athletic off-ball linebacker suitable for contemporary defensive schemes, capable of covering tight ends and receivers and rushing the passer. Identified as the best inside linebacker in the draft, with experience starting at both safety and linebacker.
  • Team Rationale: The Buccaneers have recurring needs at the edge rusher position or may need to add a defender to their second level as a succession plan at linebacker.

16. New York Jets (via Green Bay Packers or Indianapolis Colts)

  • Projected Player: Projections varied among Avieon Terrell, CB, Clemson; Makai Lemon, WR, USC; Matayo Uiagalelei, EDGE, Oregon; Peter Woods, IDL, Clemson; Jermod McCoy, CB, Tennessee; Colton Hood, CB, Tennessee; Kayden McDonald, IDL, Ohio State; Ty Simpson, QB, Alabama; and Jordyn Tyson, WR, Arizona State.
  • Player Attributes (Lemon): Described as effective in short-area play and after the catch, projected to ease a rookie quarterback's transition alongside Garrett Wilson. Noted for his competitive DNA.
  • Player Attributes (Simpson): One analyst projected him as a potential franchise quarterback, though this projection was met with skepticism regarding the team's strategy.
  • Team Rationale: After addressing the quarterback position (if selected earlier), the Jets' defensive or offensive needs are prioritized. The team concluded one season without an interception, highlighting a critical need in the secondary.

17. Detroit Lions

  • Projected Player: Projections varied among Francis Mauigoa, OL, Miami; Olaivavega Ioane, IOL, Penn State; Peter Woods, IDL, Clemson; Kayden McDonald, IDL, Ohio State; Akheem Mesidor, EDGE, Miami; Monroe Freeling, OT, Georgia; Kadyn Proctor, OT/G, Alabama; and Blake Miller, OT, Clemson.
  • Player Attributes (Mauigoa): Assessed for both tackle and guard positions, projected to provide immediate interior offensive line support with a potential future role at tackle.
  • Player Attributes (Proctor): Identified as a large tackle prospect capable of driving defenders in the run game. Allowed five sacks in over 930 pass-blocking snaps.
  • Team Rationale: Identified offensive line issues, with needs for interior offensive line support or a future replacement at tackle. Also, a need to retool the defense in the trenches or add another edge rusher.

18. Minnesota Vikings

  • Projected Player: Projections varied among Jermod McCoy, CB, Tennessee; Avieon Terrell, CB, Clemson; Emmanuel McNeil-Warren, S, Toledo; Dillon Thieneman, S, Oregon; and Mansoor Delane, CB, LSU.
  • Player Attributes (McCoy): His draft stock may be affected by absence from the 2025 season due to a knee injury. He is presented as a high-potential player who could upgrade the Vikings' cornerback position, noted for talent in 2024 with length in coverage and zone awareness.
  • Player Attributes (Terrell): Characterized as a physical cornerback with proficient man coverage skills and zone awareness, projected to immediately improve Minnesota's secondary.
  • Team Rationale: Needs identified at cornerback or safety positions. One analyst noted a potential fall for Mansoor Delane to this pick, benefiting the Vikings.

19. Carolina Panthers

  • Projected Player: Projections varied among Makai Lemon, WR, USC; Kayden McDonald, DT, Ohio State; Kenyon Sadiq, TE, Oregon; Akheem Mesidor, EDGE, Miami; Cashius Howell, Edge Rusher; Kadyn Proctor, OT, Alabama; Jordyn Tyson, WR, Arizona State; Omar Cooper Jr., WR, Indiana; C.J. Allen, LB, Georgia; and Jeremiyah Love, RB, Notre Dame.
  • Player Attributes (Lemon): Projected to join an existing receiver and provide support for quarterback Bryce Young. Noted for his ability to create separation.
  • Player Attributes (Sadiq): Identified as a physically dominant and explosive tight end target.
  • Team Rationale: Aims to support quarterback Bryce Young's development. The Panthers have utilized top-40 picks on wide receivers in recent drafts. They added Jaelen Phillips (edge), Devin Lloyd (LB), and signed T Rasheed Walker in free agency.

20. Dallas Cowboys (via Green Bay Packers or Cleveland Browns)

  • Projected Player: Projections varied among C.J. Allen, LB, Georgia; Jermod McCoy, CB, Tennessee; Malachi Fields, WR, Notre Dame; Avieon Terrell, CB, Clemson; Keldric Faulk, EDGE, Auburn; Mansoor Delane, CB, LSU; and T.J. Parker, EDGE, Clemson.
  • Player Attributes (Allen): Projected to complete the Cowboys' revamped front seven, pairing with DeMarvion Overshown to bolster the defensive unit. Noted for intelligence, range, and toughness.
  • Player Attributes (Faulk): Noted for his performance as a run defender, with an 85.5 PFF run-defense grade in 2025.
  • Team Rationale: After an initial pick addressing the defensive end position, this selection aims to add another defensive player or bolster the linebacker unit. The Cowboys are noted for their scoring ability and continue to allocate assets to their defense.

21. Pittsburgh Steelers

  • Projected Player: Projections varied among Denzel Boston, WR, Washington; KC Concepcion, WR, Texas A&M; Ty Simpson, QB, Alabama; Makai Lemon, WR, USC; Omar Cooper Jr., WR, Indiana; and Olaivavega Ioane, OG, Penn State.
  • Player Attributes (Boston): Recorded 20 touchdowns over two years at Washington, projected to offer another physical target. Described as an outside vertical threat whose receiving capabilities could match the quarterback's arm talent.
  • Player Attributes (Simpson): Projected as a potential franchise quarterback, noted for 30 big-time throws in one season.
  • Team Rationale: The Steelers seek additional receiving talent beyond DK Metcalf or a potential franchise quarterback. The Steelers offense aims to dominate in the trenches, making interior offensive line a potential target.

22. Los Angeles Chargers

  • Projected Player: Projections varied among Kadyn Proctor, OL, Alabama; Peter Woods, DT, Clemson; Sonny Styles, LB, Ohio State; Caleb Banks, IDL, Florida; Olaivavega Ioane, Interior Offensive Line; Lee Hunter, DT, Texas Tech; and Jermod McCoy, CB, Tennessee.
  • Player Attributes (Ioane): Considered a top interior offensive line prospect. Did not allow a sack or hit in one season.
  • Team Rationale: Aims to support the Chargers' offensive line or inject playmakers into the front seven. With the return of starting tackles, the offensive line unit is projected to improve. Mike McDaniel joined the team this offseason, and the Chargers aim to equip his offense for success.

23. Philadelphia Eagles

  • Projected Player: Projections varied among Kenyon Sadiq, TE, Oregon; T.J. Parker, EDGE, Clemson; Makai Lemon, WR, USC; Damon Wilson II, EDGE, Missouri; Akheem Mesidor, EDGE, Miami; Max Iheanachor, OT, Arizona State; and Blake Miller, OT, Clemson.
  • Player Attributes (Sadiq): Noted as a receiver who can also contribute as an in-line blocker, potentially valuable for Philadelphia's run game. Led FBS tight ends in receiving touchdowns in one season.
  • Team Rationale: This pick aligns with the Eagles' typical strategy of replenishing the trenches. They seek a tight end to potentially replace Dallas Goedert, or to address a need on the edge.

24. Buffalo Bills

  • Projected Player: Projections varied among KC Concepcion, WR, Texas A&M; Denzel Boston, WR, Washington; C.J. Allen, LB, Georgia; Jordyn Tyson, WR, Arizona State; and Dillon Thieneman, S, Oregon.
  • Player Attributes (Boston): Projected to enhance the Bills' wide receiver group. A larger, physical receiver with strong ball skills. Noted for tracking deep balls and making contested catches, projected as a significant offensive upgrade alongside D.J. Moore.
  • Team Rationale: The Bills aim to enhance their wide receiver group or improve the defensive unit's ability to stop the run. The team requires a large, perimeter threat for red zone situations.

25. Chicago Bears

  • Projected Player: Projections varied among Kayden McDonald, DL, Ohio State; Caleb Banks, DT, Florida; Romello Height, EDGE, Texas Tech; R Mason Thomas, Edge, Oklahoma; Peter Woods, DT, Clemson; Christen Miller, DI, Georgia; and Zion Young, EDGE, Missouri.
  • Player Attributes (McDonald): Recognized as this year's Big Ten Defensive Lineman of the Year. Fits the profile of a run-stuffing defensive lineman.
  • Team Rationale: The Bears require a run-stuffing defensive lineman to advance their defense. Chicago's run defense was identified as an area for improvement, with the team allowing 135.5 rushing yards per game in one season.

26. San Francisco 49ers

  • Projected Player: Projections varied among T.J. Parker, EDGE, Clemson; Cashius Howell, EDGE, Texas A&M; Caleb Lomu, OT, Utah; KC Concepcion, WR, Texas A&M; Omar Cooper Jr., WR, Indiana; Denzel Boston, WR, Washington; Jermod McCoy, CB, Tennessee; and Will Campbell, OT.
  • Player Attributes (Lomu): A high-ceiling prospect who allowed only two sacks in 807 pass-blocking snaps over two seasons. Noted for athletic footwork and movement control, suggesting a bright future as a potential successor at left tackle.
  • Team Rationale: The return of Nick Bosa and Mykel Williams is anticipated to address defensive line needs. The team also plans for future needs on the offensive line, particularly for the protection of their quarterback as current players age.

27. Houston Texans

  • Projected Player: Projections varied among Olaivavega Ioane, OL, Penn State; Caleb Lomu, OT, Utah; Kadyn Proctor, OT, Alabama; Emmanuel Pregnon, OG, Oregon; Blake Miller, OT, Clemson; Peter Woods, DL, Clemson; and Max Iheanachor.
  • Player Attributes (Ioane): Projected as a physical guard. Allowed no sacks over 300 pass-blocking snaps in one season.
  • Player Attributes (Lomu): Noted for an 82.1 PFF pass-blocking grade.
  • Team Rationale: The Texans' defense is established, and recent investments in receivers are expected to yield results. This allows for continued offensive line development to ensure the offense operates at full capacity. The Texans are projected to adopt a 'best player available' approach, with the 38th pick (via Commanders) available for interior offensive line.

28. Cleveland Browns (via Jacksonville Jaguars or Houston Texans)

  • Projected Player: Projections varied among Ty Simpson, QB, Alabama; Kadyn Proctor, OT, Alabama; KC Concepcion, WR, Texas A&M; Zachariah Branch, WR, Georgia; Jordyn Tyson, WR, Arizona State; and Monroe Freeling, OT, Georgia.
  • Player Attributes (Simpson): Positioned as the clear No. 2 quarterback in the draft by some. His performance varied, with some reports suggesting injury involvement.
  • Player Attributes (Proctor): Described as a large, powerful tackle effective in the run game, though needing refinement in pass protection technique.
  • Team Rationale: This selection projects taking a top defensive talent early and then a quarterback, or further bolstering the offense by adding a wide receiver or offensive lineman. One projection involved a trade with the Vikings to acquire an earlier pick, then selecting an offensive lineman to complete a rebuilt offensive line.

29. Los Angeles Rams

  • Projected Player: Projections varied among Colton Hood, CB, Tennessee; Chris Bell, WR, Louisville; Trinidad Chambliss, QB, Ole Miss; Kadyn Proctor, OT, Alabama; Brandon Cisse, CB, South Carolina; Ty Simpson, QB, Alabama; Avieon Terrell, CB, Clemson; and KC Concepcion, WR, Texas A&M.
  • Player Attributes (Simpson): A one-year starter who struggled with pressure in 2025. Recorded 3,567 passing yards and 28 touchdowns in one season, identified as a developmental project given Matthew Stafford's continued tenure.
  • Team Rationale: The Rams utilize their second first-round pick on a defensive back or consider quarterback succession. The team's secondary performance has been noted, and they have several cornerbacks entering free agency.

30. Denver Broncos or New England Patriots

  • Projected Player: Projections varied significantly due to differing team assignments for this pick, including R Mason Thomas, EDGE, Oklahoma; LT Overton, DL, Alabama; Zion Young, EDGE, Missouri; Chris Bell, WR, Louisville; T.J. Parker, Edge Defender; Jake Golday, LB, Cincinnati; Anthony Hill Jr., LB, Texas; Emmanuel McNeil-Warren, S, Toledo; Avieon Terrell, CB, Clemson; KC Concepcion, WR, Texas A&M; and Francis Dunker, T, Clemson.
  • Player Attributes (Thomas): An explosive edge-rusher.
  • Player Attributes (Overton): Noted for his versatility, playing various defensive line positions for Alabama.
  • Player Attributes (Parker): A well-rounded edge rusher known for his leveraged power and consistent motor.
  • Team Rationale: The Broncos are noted for having few identified roster needs or prioritizing linebacker. The Patriots emphasize versatility in their selections or seek to address defensive line/edge rusher needs.

31. Denver Broncos or New England Patriots

  • Projected Player: Projections varied, including Caleb Banks, DL, Florida; C.J. Allen, LB, Georgia; Kayden McDonald, IDL, Ohio State; Anthony Hill Jr., LB, Texas; Abdul Carter, EDGE, Penn State; Jake Golday, LB, Cincinnati; DI Caleb Banks, Florida; Malachi Lawrence, EDGE, UCF; and Cashius Howell, EDGE, Texas A&M.
  • Player Attributes (Banks): A talented defensive lineman whose stock may have been affected by injury absence. Flashed as a pass rusher in late 2024 with 17 pressures on 92 snaps.
  • Player Attributes (Allen): Noted for athleticism and a skillset as an every-down linebacker, capable of covering pass catchers and shedding blockers against the run.
  • Team Rationale: Both teams are projected to address defensive line, edge rusher, or linebacker needs.

32. Seattle Seahawks

  • Projected Player: Projections varied among Emmanuel Pregnon, OL, Oregon; Jermod McCoy, CB, Tennessee; KC Concepcion, WR, Texas A&M; Colton Hood, CB, Tennessee; Brandon Cisse, CB, South Carolina; T.J. Parker, EDGE, Clemson; Keith Abney II, CB, Arizona State; and Jadarian Price, RB, Notre Dame.
  • Player Attributes (Pregnon): Projected to strengthen the interior offensive line, supporting consistency in the run game.
  • Player Attributes (Cisse): An explosive cornerback, projected as a potential replacement for outgoing free agents in the Seahawks' secondary.
  • Player Attributes (Price): Played behind Jeremiyah Love at Notre Dame, identified as a potential star with an NFL-ready physique, breakaway speed in zone running, and pass protection abilities.
  • Team Rationale: Seattle's offense demonstrated significant passing production. Needs include strengthening the interior offensive line or acquiring younger talent at cornerback due to potential free agency departures (Kenneth Walker departed in free agency).

Teams Without First-Round Picks

Four NFL teams do not possess a first-round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft due to prior trades:

  • Indianapolis Colts: Projected to select at No. 47 in the second round. Needs include quarterback (depending on organizational approach to Daniel Jones), linebacker, defensive line, and edge. Potential players include defensive tackles A’Mauri Washington and Christen Miller, pass rushers Romello Height and R Mason Thomas, and linebacker Anthony Hill Jr.
  • Atlanta Falcons: Projected to select at No. 48. Needs include wide receiver, tight end, and cornerback. Potential options include wide receivers Germie Bernard and Elijah Sarratt, and cornerbacks Brandon Cisse, Colton Hood, or Keith Abney.
  • Green Bay Packers: Their 2026 first-round pick was traded. Their projected second-round pick is No. 52. Needs include defensive line, edge, and cornerback.
  • Jacksonville Jaguars: Do not possess a first-round pick. Their projected second-round pick is No. 60. Needs include cornerback, defensive line, and wide receiver.