2026 NFL Mock Draft: Early Round 1 Predictions and Key Storylines

With the College Football Playoff National Championship in the books and the NFL conference championships right around the corner, draft season is officially heating up. While there’s still a long road ahead — free agency, trades, coaching hires, the Combine and pro days — early mock drafts give us a glimpse of how the 2026 NFL Draft could shape up.

This year’s class features one clear-cut franchise quarterback, several elite pass catchers, and impact defenders who could change the identity of teams picking near the top. Below is a look at the top 15 projected picks, focusing on team needs, positional value, and upside.

No. 1 – Las Vegas Raiders

Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana

Las Vegas hits reset at quarterback. After a disappointing experiment with Geno Smith, the Raiders turn to Mendoza — the most complete QB in the class. The Indiana star dominated college football in 2025, posting 41 TDs to just six interceptions while leading an undefeated national championship run. With elite accuracy and poise, Mendoza gives the Raiders a true cornerstone to build around.

No. 2 – New York Jets

Arvell Reese, LB/EDGE, Ohio State

The Jets’ pass rush struggled mightily, ranking near the bottom of the league in sacks. Reese brings versatility, explosiveness, and high football IQ. While New York still needs a quarterback, the value isn’t there yet — making Reese the best defensive player available and a tone-setter for a unit in transition.

No. 3 – Arizona Cardinals

Francis Mauigoa, OT, Miami

Protection comes first. Mauigoa’s physical, battle-tested profile makes him an instant upgrade on the offensive line. With over 40 college starts and a mauling run-blocking style, he gives Arizona stability regardless of who lines up at quarterback in 2026.

No. 4 – Tennessee Titans

David Bailey, OLB, Texas Tech

Defense meets production. Bailey led the nation in sacks and pressures, making him a perfect fit for a Titans team desperate for defensive disruption. Pairing him with Jeffery Simmons could quickly transform Tennessee’s front seven.

No. 5 – New York Giants

Carnell Tate, WR, Ohio State

The Giants add another weapon for their young quarterback. Tate’s crisp route running and reliable hands make him a plug-and-play starter. Ohio State’s recent run of first-round receivers continues — and Tate could thrive in New York’s offense.

No. 6 – Cleveland Browns

Spencer Fano, OT, Utah

Cleveland reinforces the trenches with a versatile tackle who rarely gives up pressure. With multiple offensive linemen set to hit free agency, Fano provides long-term security and flexibility on the line.

No. 7 – Washington Commanders

Rueben Bain Jr., DE, Miami

Washington gets younger and more explosive on defense. Bain’s blend of power and speed makes him a nightmare off the edge — especially important with veteran pass rushers aging out of the roster.

No. 8 – New Orleans Saints

Jordyn Tyson, WR, Arizona State

The Saints prepare for the future at receiver. Tyson’s physicality and contested-catch ability give quarterback Tyler Shough a reliable red-zone target and much-needed depth behind Chris Olave.

No. 9 – Kansas City Chiefs

Jeremiyah Love, RB, Notre Dame

Yes, a running back in the top 10 — and it makes sense. Love is an explosive, do-it-all back who could unlock another level of Patrick Mahomes’ offense. With key RBs hitting free agency, Kansas City reloads in style.

No. 10 – Cincinnati Bengals

Caleb Downs, S, Ohio State

The Bengals address defensive consistency. Downs’ instincts, range, and ball skills help fix a secondary that’s struggled with big plays. He’s a rare safety worthy of top-10 value.

No. 11 – Miami Dolphins

Keldric Faulk, DE, Auburn

Miami adds power off the edge as it reshapes its defense. With uncertainty surrounding veteran pass rushers, Faulk brings strength, upside, and long-term stability.

No. 12 – Dallas Cowboys

Sonny Styles, LB, Ohio State

Dallas badly needs defensive speed and leadership. Styles delivers both, flying sideline to sideline and improving a unit that allowed a league-high 30.1 points per game.

No. 13 – Los Angeles Rams (via Falcons)

Jermod McCoy, CB, Tennessee

Despite missing 2025 with injury, McCoy’s ball skills and upside are too good to ignore. The Rams take a calculated risk in hopes of landing a true CB1.

No. 14 – Baltimore Ravens

Makai Lemon, WR, USC

Baltimore gives Lamar Jackson another dynamic playmaker. Lemon’s competitiveness and production make him a strong complement to Zay Flowers in a revamped passing attack.

No. 15 – Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Kenyon Sadiq, TE, Oregon

With key pass catchers potentially leaving, Tampa Bay invests in a modern tight end. Sadiq’s athleticism and size make him a matchup nightmare and a perfect fit for Baker Mayfield.

Final Take

It’s early — and the board will change — but the 2026 NFL Draft is shaping up to be deep at skill positions and loaded with defensive difference-makers. For bettors and fans alike, keeping tabs on these prospects now could pay off later as draft odds, win totals, and futures markets begin to move.

The road to 2026 has officially begun. 🏈🔥