The NFL and college football seasons may be nearing their end, but they signal a new beginning: NFL draft season. As college players look to solidify their on-field résumés before the season concludes, updated projections offer a glimpse at where top prospects could land in the 2026 NFL draft.
There has never been a better time to get familiar with this year’s draft class, outlined below and inclusive of mock trades.
1) New York Jets (via Giants, projected trade): Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana
TRADE PROPOSAL: Giants receive No. 7 pick, No. 18 pick via Colts, No. 47 pick via Cowboys, 2027 first-round pick via Colts, 2027 second-round pick; Jets receive No. 1 pick
Though the New York Jets signed Justin Fields to a two-year, $40 million deal last offseason, it is clear he will not be the long-term answer at quarterback, nor the starter in 2026. Additionally, after trading defensive stars Sauce Gardner and Quinnen Williams, the Jets have more than enough draft capital to move up and select their franchise signal-caller.
With that, Heisman hopeful Mendoza lands in New York, where he will look to showcase his accuracy, pocket awareness and poise on one of the NFL’s biggest stages.
2) Las Vegas Raiders: Dante Moore, QB, Oregon
Despite reports indicating Moore may return to school, he has yet to make a final decision. Given the high demand for quarterbacks, he could opt to enter the 2026 draft, which is exactly what happens here — landing in Las Vegas.
The Raiders’ Geno Smith experiment has been a disaster, and they desperately need a solution. Enter Moore, who possesses elite arm talent, a quick release and thrives under pressure. If Las Vegas surrounds him with more weapons beyond Brock Bowers, he could develop into a quality NFL quarterback.
3) Tennessee Titans: Jordyn Tyson, WR, Arizona State
Despite a pressing need for edge rushers — and several still available — Titans general manager Mike Borgonzi could choose to prioritize helping 2025 first overall pick Cam Ward.
Given the investment in Ward, Tennessee must do everything possible to set him up for success. Simply put, a receiver trio of Calvin Ridley, Elic Ayomanor, and Chimere Dike is unlikely to provide sustained production. In Tyson, the Titans add a vertical threat with elite separation ability, instantly becoming their top pass catcher.
4) Cleveland Browns: Caleb Lomu, OT, Utah
The Browns’ offensive line grades out to 51.1 so far this year, according to PFSN’s offensive line impact grades, the second-worst in the NFL. While help may be needed on the left side due to Dawand Jones’ injury history, the more pressing issue is at right tackle.
Jack Conklin, a pending free agent, has also struggled to stay healthy and is unlikely to improve with age. Assuming Cleveland lets him walk, a major hole opens at the position. Lomu’s physicality and anchor ability give him a chance to start on Day 1.
5) Los Angeles Rams (via Saints, projected trade): Ty Simpson, QB, Alabama
TRADE PROPOSAL: Saints receive No. 10 pick via Falcons, No. 31, No. 63, 2027 fourth-round pick; Rams receive No. 5 pick
Matthew Stafford is playing some of the best football of his career as his playing days wind down, but that should not stop the Rams from planning ahead. General manager Les Snead is no stranger to trading picks, and armed with the Falcons’ 2026 first-rounder, he makes a move to secure Stafford’s successor.
Though Simpson could remain at Alabama, his brief run as a starter has intrigued scouts, showcasing advanced processing, pro-style mechanics, and strong anticipation. Here, he would learn under Stafford and Sean McVay before eventually taking over.
6) Washington Commanders: Arvell Reese, LB, Ohio State
The fall for Reese ends here, with a perfect match between him and the Commanders. Head coach Dan Quinn was the defensive coordinator in Dallas when Micah Parsons was drafted, helping develop the similarly hybrid middle linebacker and edge rusher into a dominant pass-rushing force.
With the Commanders’ pass rush lacking outside of the injured Dorance Armstrong Jr., Reese provides an immediate boost as a productive and versatile defender.
7) New York Giants (via Jets, projected trade): Carnell Tate, WR, Ohio State
Wide receivers have never been more valuable, and with extra draft capital, general manager Joe Schoen can afford to select an ideal complement to Malik Nabers. Tate brings elite contested-catch ability and tracking skills at a lanky 6’3″.
With Wan’Dale Robinson potentially departing in free agency, wide receiver could be a more pressing need than anticipated.
8) Arizona Cardinals: Spencer Fano, OT, Utah
The Cardinals face one of the murkiest outlooks in the league, and with top quarterbacks gone, they opt for a safer route by selecting the best offensive lineman available. Fano, the Utes’ standout alongside Lomu, boasts elite run-blocking skills and multiple All-American honors.
In Arizona, he would pair with Paris Johnson Jr. to form a promising young tackle duo, potentially protecting Jacoby Brissett in 2026.
9) Cincinnati Bengals: Caleb Downs, S, Ohio State
The Bengals waste no time keeping Downs in-state. If not for the general devaluation of the safety position, Downs would likely be selected much earlier. A unanimous All-American and Jim Thorpe Award winner, he is a true difference-maker.
His football IQ allows him to diagnose plays quickly, whether dropping into coverage or stepping up to stop the run. Given Cincinnati’s defensive struggles in 2025, this pick is a logical move.
10) New Orleans Saints (via Rams, projected trade): Rueben Bain Jr., EDGE, Miami (FL)
This could be the final season for Saints legend Cam Jordan. As he prepares to pass the torch, Bain Jr. emerges as a fitting successor. The ACC defensive player of the year is disruptive against the run and explosive as a pass rusher.
Bain Jr., Chase Young, and Carl Granderson would form a formidable pass-rushing trio in New Orleans.
11) Minnesota Vikings: Jeremiyah Love, RB, Notre Dame
Through two seasons, the J.J. McCarthy experiment has been shaky. However, McCarthy has lacked a consistent running game to support his development. At Michigan, he thrived alongside Blake Corum, making Love a logical addition.
Love has remained explosive in 2025, averaging 6.9 yards per carry with 1,372 yards and 18 touchdowns. His presence would open up the passing game and help McCarthy develop into Minnesota’s envisioned QB1.
12) Miami Dolphins: Jermod McCoy, CB, Tennessee
McCoy has emerged as one of college football’s premier cornerbacks after transferring from Oregon State. His ball skills, technique, and modern frame at 6’0″, 193 pounds give him a strong case to be the first corner selected.
The Dolphins desperately need help in the secondary following the trade of Jalen Ramsey. McCoy would provide a long-term solution on the back end.
13) Baltimore Ravens: Peter Woods, DT, Clemson
The Ravens are accustomed to controlling the trenches, but that has not been the case in 2025. Defensive tackle Nnamdi Madubuike’s early-season injury exposed a lack of depth.
While Woods is not yet a dominant pass rusher, his rare athleticism allows him to impact games by stuffing the run and collapsing pockets with a quick first step.
14) Kansas City Chiefs: Mansoor Delane, CB, LSU
Kansas City’s defense has struggled more than usual, though it still ranks 10th with a 79.1 grade per PFSN’s Defensive Impact metric. With Jaylen Watson approaching free agency and the departure of L’Jarius Sneed, cornerback becomes a priority.
Delane’s versatility in man and zone coverage would give the Chiefs another strong pairing alongside Trent McDuffie.
15) Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Keldric Faulk, EDGE, Auburn
Faulk has been one of the SEC’s most impressive edge rushers beyond the stat sheet. Despite recording only two sacks, his power, length, and versatility project him as a long-term starter.
With Tampa Bay likely losing either Haason Reddick or Logan Hall in free agency, bolstering the defensive line is a clear need.
16) Dallas Cowboys: David Bailey, EDGE, Texas Tech
The acquisitions of Quinnen Williams and Kenny Clark have boosted the Cowboys’ pass rush, but upgrades are still needed after parting ways with Micah Parsons. Rookie Donovan Ezeiruaku has shined, but he needs a force on the opposite side.
Bailey has accounted for 14 sacks, leading the Red Raiders to the College Football Playoff alongside linebacker Jacob Rodriguez.
17) Detroit Lions: Isaiah World, OT, Oregon
With the Lions’ offensive line aging and offensive tackle Taylor Decker considering retirement, now is the time to think about drafting a franchise left tackle. As Jared Goff gets older, top-tier protection becomes increasingly necessary.
Isaiah World should have no issue adjusting to the NFL with his 6’8″, 312-pound frame. He has improved every year, stepping up in competition from Nevada to Oregon. His blindside pass protection would make him a quarterback’s best friend wherever he lands.
18) New York Giants (via Jets, projected trade): Avieon Terrell, CB, Clemson
Just two years after drafting cornerback Deonte Banks in the first round, the future is not looking promising for him. After being benched for Cor’Dale Flott, it may be time for the Giants to search for a permanent solution at cornerback.
Avieon Terrell, the younger brother of Falcons star A.J. Terrell, has exceptional quickness and the ability to mirror receivers. He is especially sticky in man coverage, which would be useful against divisional receivers Ceedee Lamb, Devonta Smith, and Terry McLaurin, among others.
19) Pittsburgh Steelers: Makai Lemon, WR, USC
It is clear that the Steelers lack sufficient offensive firepower. After many thought Aaron Rodgers would be throwing to the duo of D.K. Metcalf and George Pickens, the latter was traded to Dallas. Throughout the season, Pittsburgh has missed a consistent complement opposite Metcalf.
Lemon is an ideal fit opposite Metcalf. Smaller at 6 feet and 195 pounds, he may be the most explosive receiver in the draft. He stands out on film for his quickness and ball skills, showcasing high-end playmaking ability.
20) Carolina Panthers: Kenyon Sadiq, TE, Oregon
Perhaps the draft’s most versatile offensive weapon lands in Carolina. While the Panthers have invested in skill players through both the draft and free agency, they take it a step further here.
Neither Tommy Tremble nor Ja’Tavion Sanders has emerged as a bona fide No. 1 tight end, combining for fewer than 400 receiving yards so far. Sadiq brings elite after-the-catch ability, allowing Bryce Young to get the ball out quickly and let the play develop.
21) Philadelphia Eagles: Francis Mauigoa, OT, Miami (FL)
With experience on the right side, Mauigoa projects to eventually settle into Lane Johnson’s role. Johnson, the perennial All-Pro, has battled injuries, and it appears his best years may be behind him. His absence has been a major reason the Eagles’ running game has struggled to find consistency.
Mauigoa’s excellence in the run game and comfort in traffic could help Philadelphia reestablish its identity — controlling the line of scrimmage and imposing its will on the ground.
22) Houston Texans: Caleb Banks, DT, Florida
The rich get richer on defense. Perhaps the Texans’ only weakness has been the interior defensive line, which currently features Sheldon Rankins and Mario Edwards Jr. While both have been productive, Edwards Jr. is undersized, allowing offenses to scheme inside runs against him.
Banks addresses that issue at 6’6″ and 329 pounds. He moves uncharacteristically well for his size and has flashed legitimate interior pass-rush ability.
23) Chicago Bears: Kadyn Proctor, OT, Alabama
One of the most physically gifted tackles in college football, Proctor has done a solid job protecting the blindside for both Jalen Milroe and Ty Simpson over the past two seasons. His massive wingspan naturally deters rushers, and he has shown he can handle both speed and power.
The Bears have a glaring need at left tackle. Providing Caleb Williams with Proctor’s blindside protection would aid his continued development.
24) Buffalo Bills: Sonny Styles, LB, Ohio State
Injuries have plagued the Bills in recent seasons, particularly at linebacker. Matt Milano and Terrell Bernard have struggled with availability, and with Milano set to hit free agency, changes could be coming.
Styles offers range and athleticism, allowing him to cover ground quickly. He has a nose for the football, highlighted by three forced fumbles during his Buckeyes career.
25) Los Angeles Chargers: A’Mauri Washington, DT, Oregon
The Chargers boast one of the more complete rosters in the NFL but still lack depth at certain defensive positions, including defensive tackle. Da’Shawn Hand is on a one-year deal, and Justin Eboigbe could depart in free agency.
Washington brings upside, strength and power, projecting as an immediate run-stuffing presence. His ability to occupy space would free up Tuli Tuipulotu, who continues to enjoy a strong season.
26) San Francisco 49ers: Anthony Hill Jr., LB, Texas
At No. 26, the 49ers land Hill Jr., one of the draft’s most athletic linebackers. He has demonstrated the short-area quickness and closing speed required at the position and would fit seamlessly next to Fred Warner.
San Francisco’s defense thrived when Warner was paired with Dre Greenlaw, and Hill Jr. could serve as the next high-end running mate.
27) Cleveland Browns (via Jaguars): Denzel Boston, WR, Washington
Boston is the Huskies’ star receiver and has prototypical No. 1 receiver size at 6’4″ and 209 pounds. His large catch radius and strength make him effective in contested situations and a threat in the red zone.
He would complement Jerry Jeudy well, as Jeudy excels as a route runner who creates separation. Outside of Jeudy and rookie Harold Fannin Jr., the Browns need additional weapons for whoever lines up at quarterback in 2026.
28) Dallas Cowboys (via Packers): Colton Hood, CB, Tennessee
The Cowboys use the pick acquired in the Micah Parsons trade to bolster their secondary, as they may be headed toward a split with longtime starter Trevon Diggs.
Hood plays with confidence and aggression, showing fluid hips and the ability to change directions smoothly. With receivers becoming increasingly shifty, Hood profiles as a natural fit at the next level.
29) Seattle Seahawks: Olaivavega Ioane, G, Penn State
Seattle’s interior offensive line remains the offense’s biggest concern, plagued by inconsistent play and poor technique. Anthony Bradford has struggled at right guard and may no longer be a viable starter.
Ioane brings tremendous power and excels in pass protection, allowing zero sacks and only a handful of pressures during his time as a starter at Penn State.
30) New England Patriots: KC Concepcion, WR, Texas A&M
From a broader perspective, Drake Maye lacks weapons outside of Stefon Diggs, who is on the wrong side of 30. Concepcion is a versatile offensive weapon built for today’s NFL.
He has produced more than 1,400 all-purpose yards this season with nine receiving touchdowns. His hands and body control should benefit Maye for years.
31) New Orleans Saints (via Rams, projected trade): Chris Bell, WR, Louisville
After trading Rashid Shaheed to Seattle midseason, the Saints are in need of a playmaker on the outside. Bell’s after-the-catch ability and physical route running make him an intriguing late first-round option.
If head coach Kellen Moore wants to give Tyler Shough a legitimate opportunity in 2026, surrounding him with weapons is essential.
32) Denver Broncos: Kayden McDonald, DT, Ohio State
With the potential loss of John Franklin-Meyers in free agency, Denver reloads its defensive line with McDonald. He is a space-eater who collapses the interior and disrupts the run game before it can develop.
With McDonald in the fold, the Broncos can maintain their defensive dominance heading into 2026.
READ MORE:Â 2026 3-Round NFL Mock Draft: Browns Build Around Shedeur Sanders, While 4 Ohio State Stars Go Early
