With the 2025 NFL season now fading into the rearview mirror — outside of Seattle — attention has shifted, as it always does, to the NFL Draft. While there has been plenty of discussion about the 2026 class not matching the hype of previous years, there are still several prospects worth getting excited about as April approaches.
This projection was built using PFSN’s Mock Draft Simulator alongside the Draft Pick Trade Calculator. With free agency looming and team needs certain to shift in the coming weeks, much will change — but here’s a look at how the first three rounds could unfold.
1) Las Vegas Raiders
Fernando Mendoza, Indiana | QB
The Las Vegas Raiders can’t draft Fernando Mendoza with the first overall pick until late April, but this connection already feels like old news. Attention will already have turned to how the AFC West strugglers plan to support the former Indiana standout, with offensive line additions a priority.
Brock Bowers provides an elite target, while Ashton Jeanty remains one of the most exciting running backs in the game. If the Raiders can tighten up elsewhere, their offense should be worth watching again from 2026.
2) New York Jets
Rueben Bain Jr., Miami (FL) | EDGE
Aaron Glenn didn’t have the desired impact on the New York Jets’ defense in his first year as head coach. After trading away Sauce Gardner and Quinnen Williams, though, the former Detroit Lions coordinator has plenty of capital to rebuild.
Adding Rueben Bain Jr. is the perfect way to start, offering the Jets an immediate playmaker on the edge. New York needs to find a way to pressure Drake Maye and Josh Allen to be competitive in the AFC East; 20.5 sacks in three years suggest that Bain is the answer.
3) Arizona Cardinals
Francis Mauigoa, Miami (FL) | OT
Like the Jets, the Arizona Cardinals face an uncertain future at quarterback, but due to the lack of elite options in this year’s class, they will have to look elsewhere early on. Both Jonah Williams and his deputy, Kelvin Beachum, are free agents, and Miami’s Francis Mauigoa can immediately solidify the right side of Arizona’s offensive line.
With two talented young tackles and an enviable skill-position group, the Cardinals could be a top landing spot for any of the premium quarterback prospects available in 2027.
4) Tennessee Titans
Carnell Tate, Ohio State | WR
The Tennessee Titans have their quarterback, at least for the foreseeable future, but their efforts to surround Cam Ward with talent fell short last offseason. Chimere Dike looks to have a bright future as an NFL playmaker, but the team needs to add a dominant outside receiver, and where better to look than Ohio State?
Carnell Tate is the latest big-name pass catcher to enter the NFL via Columbus, following in the footsteps of some of the most dominant receivers currently playing in the NFL. Tate’s 875 receiving yards and nine touchdowns from 2025 don’t jump off the page, but he would be far busier in Tennessee, without Jeremiah Smith to compete with for targets.
5) New York Giants
Caleb Downs, Ohio State | S
It’s the start of a new era for the New York Giants, as John Harbaugh gets to work building what he hopes will be a Super Bowl contender. Safety isn’t typically considered a premium position, but if there’s one HC/DC pairing that would value Caleb Downs above any other here, it’s Harbaugh and Dennard Wilson.
Harbaugh’s Baltimore Ravens teams often turned to S Kyle Hamilton to guide the defense. Hamilton’s ability to play the run or the pass has been integral to Baltimore’s success without the ball in recent years.
During Wilson’s lone season as Ravens defensive backs coach in 2023, Hamilton earned his first All-Pro selection in a historically stout defense. Safety isn’t the biggest need for the Giants, but in years to come, drafting Downs could be looked back on as a pivotal move of the Harbaugh era in New York.
6) New Orleans Saints (via CLE)
Arvell Reese, Ohio State | EDGE/LB
Projected Trade: Saints receive No. 6 pick, No. 144 pick; Browns receive No. 8 pick, No. 73 pick, No. 170 pick
The Cleveland Browns traded back in the 2025 NFL Draft with far more blue-chip prospects on the board than there are here. They won’t receive the same haul they did from the Jacksonville Jaguars last April, but it wouldn’t be a surprise to see them repeat a move that worked so well a year ago.
The New Orleans Saints have been linked with several playmakers, but with veteran leaders Cameron Jordan and Demario Davis slated for free agency, Arvell Reese makes sense. Reese could be taken as high as second overall in this year’s draft, but question marks over his best position could see others taken ahead of him.
Whether the Saints like him on the edge or as an off-ball linebacker, sacrificing a third-round pick to move up for the Ohio State product is a no-brainer.
7) Washington Commanders
David Bailey, Texas Tech | EDGE
Having been leapfrogged for Reese, the Washington Commanders end the run of Ohio State stars by taking David Bailey from Texas Tech. Bailey had made steady progress through three years of college, but 14.5 sacks and 19.5 tackles for loss in 2025 have seen him explode into top-10, and maybe even top-five, contention.
That stat line unsurprisingly led to Bailey being named a consensus All-American, and his equally frightening blend of ferocious power and speed will give NFL quarterbacks nightmares.
8) Cleveland Browns (via NOR)
Spencer Fano, Utah | OT
If there weren’t so many holes to fill for the Browns this offseason, they may have stuck at six and drafted Reese or Bailey. However, with their entire starting offensive line due to hit free agency, needs must in Cleveland.
There are other teams in need of offensive line help, and I expect a lot of holes to be filled in free agency, but top NFL tackles rarely see the end of their deals. Too many missed swings have left the Browns in a sorry state, but after a solid 2025 draft, there is hope if they can be sensible this offseason.
A three-year starter at Utah, Spencer Fano brings with him a hulking frame, surprising light-footedness, and a 2025 All-American selection.
9) Kansas City Chiefs
Mansoor Delane, LSU | CB
The Kansas City Chiefs have issues on their offensive line, but there are several needs to address if Andy Reid’s men are to reach the NFL’s summit once more. Mansoor Delane can step straight into the Chiefs’ defensive secondary opposite 2022 first-round pick Trent McDuffie.
The Chiefs could go in a number of different directions with this pick, but in this mock, they take the consensus top cornerback. Delane registered 6 interceptions and 18 passes defensed over his final two years in college, topping it off with All-American honors in 2025.
10) Cincinnati Bengals
Keldrick Faulk, Auburn | EDGE
Another team with seemingly endless holes to fill, the Cincinnati Bengals simply need some playmakers on defense. Having spent the majority of their salary cap on offense, the Bengals then completely alienated the only elite player they had on defense last summer.
Trey Hendrickson is now on his way to greener pastures, and the Bengals could look to Auburn standout Keldrick Faulk to make up for that loss of production. It would be unfair to task any rookie with matching Hendrickson’s numbers from recent years, but Faulk has proven pass-rush ability when deployed on the edge.
The Bengals are a long way off from being competitive on defense, but a 6’6″ edge rusher with the physicality to compete inside when needed would be a good start.
11) Miami Dolphins
Jordyn Tyson, Arizona State | WR
New Miami Dolphins head coach Jeff Hafley will be all too aware of his team’s lack of cornerbacks and general defensive shortcomings. However, if Hafley is to help the Dolphins’ defense turn a corner, the offense will need to do a better job of keeping them off the field.
I penciled this pick in before Tyreek Hill was released, but with Hill now out of the picture, the need for receiving talent is even more glaring. Jaylen Waddle is a phenomenal asset as one half of a 1A/1B receiver partnership, but he is completely isolated as things stand.
With Mike McDaniel gone, more of the passing game should go through Miami’s receivers, rather than being monopolized by De’Von Achane. Jordyn Tyson would have been a top receiver option in last year’s draft and would be a great addition in Miami, with a new quarterback likely on the way in free agency.
12) Dallas Cowboys
Sonny Styles, Ohio State | LB
This seems to be the chalk pick for the Dallas Cowboys, and for good reason. The Cowboys’ defense allowed the most points (511) and the third-most yards (6,409) in 2025, preventing an outstanding offense from mounting a realistic playoff push.
Sonny Styles ranks third overall in PFSN’s Big Board and is second overall in Ian Cummings’ rankings, ahead of Reese. With the offense in a good place, Dallas can tee off on defense in this year’s draft and should be back in playoff contention come December.
13) Los Angeles Rams
Kadyn Proctor, Alabama | OT
The Los Angeles Rams are also fairly set on offense, but the recent retirement of veteran offensive tackle Rob Havenstein after 11 seasons has changed that. While there are some areas of the defense that could use some attention, protecting Matthew Stafford is essential for a Rams team likely in the final year of a Super Bowl window.
Listed at 366 pounds of pure power, Kadyn Proctor entered college as a consensus five-star recruit and left college three years later as a consensus All-American. Proctor finished second on Bruce Feldman’s annual “Freaks List” and was named the best blocker in the SEC in 2025.
14) Baltimore Ravens
Olaivavega Ioane, Penn State | OG
The Ravens could use another playmaker on offense, but protecting Lamar Jackson remains the most crucial consideration. Interior offensive line play was not a strength of Baltimore’s last season, and both Daniel Faalele and Tyler Linderbaum are potential free-agency departures.
Olaivavega Ioane fills an immediate need for a team looking to bounce back after a disappointing season, even if new head coach Jesse Minter would prefer to make a splash.
15) Pittsburgh Steelers (via TB)
Makai Lemon, USC | WR
Projected trade: Steelers receive No. 15 pick, No. 194 pick; Buccaneers receive No. 21 pick, No. 76 pick, No. 159 pick.
After trading away their 2025 second-round pick for DK Metcalf last offseason, the Pittsburgh Steelers make another aggressive move for a receiver in this mock. With Tate and Tyson off the board, and several receiver-needy teams ahead of them, the Steelers make a move for the last remaining “sure thing” at receiver in this year’s draft.
Despite investing heavily in Metcalf, receivers were an afterthought in Arthur Smith’s offense last season. With Mike McCarthy likely to be calling plays in 2026, Makai Lemon makes sense as an NFL-ready playmaker with a solid floor and an elite ceiling.
And, conveniently, the former USC man arguably complements Metcalf’s powerful, direct style better than either Tate or Tyson would have. Lemon tallied 1,156 receiving yards and 13 total scores in 2025, and whether you’re more into tape or stats, he stands out as a top prospect who could easily go higher than 15th.
16) New York Jets
Peter Woods, Clemson | DT
It’s hard to build a dominant defense without an imposing interior, and if the Jets want to keep their shiny new edge rusher away from double teams, Peter Woods is a no-brainer. A productive three-year starter at Clemson, Woods is far more than just a big-bodied run stopper.
Credited with a 4.75-second 40-yard dash at 315 pounds, Woods is an explosive disruptor who can make plays all the way to the sideline. With Bain and Woods secured, Jets general manager Darren Mougey’s rebuild is starting to take shape.
17) Detroit Lions
T.J. Parker, Clemson | EDGE
Lining up outside Parker at Clemson was T.J. Parker, whose 21.5 career sacks rank 10th in Clemson history. Parker saw a dip in production in 2025, but that’s only natural after 11 sacks, 19.5 tackles for loss, and 6 forced fumbles in 2024.
The Lions have been wiped out by injuries in back-to-back seasons, first their defensive line in 2024, then their defensive backs in 2025. Injuries aside, Detroit needs to invest in its pass rush, and Parker would be a great fit opposite two-time Pro Bowler Aidan Hutchinson.
18) Minnesota Vikings
Jeremiyah Love, Notre Dame | RB
Jeremiyah Love will be off the board long before now in most mocks, but with the Saints, Chiefs, and Jets all prioritizing elsewhere, this makes sense to me. The Minnesota Vikings attempted to complement the aging Aaron Jones Sr. with Jordan Mason last summer, but not much went right offensively in 2025.
With Jones another year older, and Mason yet to prove himself as a full-time feature back, the Vikings are a great landing spot for the clear No. 1 running back in the draft. Jones and Mason are both free agents next year, and after a miserable 2025 season, a fresh start at the running back position comes a year earlier than planned.
19) Houston Texans (via CAR)
Caleb Lomu, Utah | OT
Projected trade: Texans receive No. 19 pick, No. 156 pick; Panthers receive No. 28 pick, No. 69 pick, No. 165 pick
Trading up nine spots for a tackle might seem like an overly aggressive move, but for a team with a Super Bowl-caliber defense, there is plenty of reason for urgency. The Houston Texans can’t afford to waste another season with poor offensive line play, and with some key players due for extensions, it will likely have to improve via the draft.
The entire right side of Houston’s offensive line is open, with Trent Brown and Ed Ingram hitting free agency. Caleb Lomu’s Utah teammate Fano is already on his way to Cleveland in this mock, so the Texans draft a left tackle and move him across the line to play opposite Aireontae Ersery.
20) Dallas Cowboys
Cashius Howell, Texas A&M | EDGE
So far, the Cowboys have done a great job of navigating the fallout of their decision to trade Micah Parsons to the Green Bay Packers last summer. Kenny Clark and Quinnen Williams have already proven their value, and adding Styles earlier in Round 1 is another step in the right direction.
Donovan Ezeiruaku enjoyed a promising rookie season in 2025, but Dallas needs more quality on the edge to make life easier for its struggling secondary. Cashius Howell registered 11.5 sacks, 14.5 tackles for loss, 6 passes defensed, and a forced fumble in 2025, and the Cowboys keep the All-American in Texas.
21) Tampa Bay Buccaneers (via PIT)
CJ Allen, Georgia | LB
Tampa Bay Buccaneers general manager Jason Licht revealed last April that the team’s phenomenal track record of drafting talent is due to their process. Licht and his team identify talent first, but focus heavily on character traits and personality to avoid draft busts.
In CJ Allen, the Buccaneers get themselves a proven contributor from a top program and a leader both on and off the field. Allen led Georgia in tackles (88), tackles for loss (8), and sacks (3.5) in 2025, as well as forcing two key fumbles.
22) Los Angeles Chargers
Kayden McDonald, Ohio State | DT
The Los Angeles Chargers need to improve the interior of their offensive line, and if Ioane is available here, he may well be the pick. I fully expect the Chargers to add at least one guard in free agency, though, and it may no longer be an area of need come April.
Instead, I have Jim Harbaugh’s men adding to their defensive front with Ohio State product Kayden McDonald. Newly re-signed Teair Tart will continue to lead Harbaugh’s front three, and McDonald would add another dominant presence alongside him.
McDonald was named the Big 10’s defensive lineman of the year and a consensus All-American in 2025 after tallying 9 tackles for loss, 3 sacks, and 2 forced fumbles.
23) Philadelphia Eagles
Kenyon Sadiq, Oregon | TE
This one may also become a chalk pick unless the Philadelphia Eagles re-sign Dallas Goedert or address tight end in free agency. The consensus top tight end in this year’s draft, Kenyon Sadiq, stepped into a starting role for Oregon in 2025 after Terrance Ferguson left for the NFL.
The former four-star recruit was a fairly even match for Ferguson’s yardage production, but his 8 receiving touchdowns far surpassed anything the now-Ram had produced. With continued question marks surrounding AJ Brown’s future in Philadelphia, Sadiq could become a valuable Day-1 contributor in Sean Mannion’s new offense.
24) Cleveland Browns
KC Concepcion, Texas A&M | WR
The Browns added a tackle with the eighth pick and will likely have at least a couple of free agent additions to their offensive line, so they can afford to splash on a receiver. No matter who quarterbacked the Browns last season, it didn’t work, and a lack of top options was a big reason why.
Cedric Tillman has one year remaining to prove himself worthy of an extension, while Jerry Jeudy has put up WR2 numbers at best when not playing with Jameis Winston. Harold Fannin Jr. could be the team’s leading pass catcher moving forward, but KC Concepcion would give the Browns offense the excitement that it’s been lacking.
A playmaker in both the receiving game and as a kick returner, Concepcion brings his flair to an offense that badly needs it.
25) Chicago Bears
Avieon Terrell, Clemson | CB
While the Chicago Bears did a great job of recruiting talent last offseason, Ben Johnson also sought out players with a particular attitude. Colston Loveland looks ready to fight anyone at any time, while few NFL receivers play with a bigger chip on their shoulder than Luther Burden III.
In just one offseason, the Bears established an aggressive, in-your-face culture and are hellbent on taking over the NFC North and rubbing it in their rivals’ faces. Avieon Terrell embodies that combativeness, while also being a great scheme fit for Dennis Allen’s defense.
Terrell logged 3 sacks, 4.5 tackles for loss, and an incredible 5 forced fumbles in 2025, and would be a key contributor in Chicago from Day 1.
26) Buffalo Bills
Denzel Boston, Washington | WR
NFL GM ignores cries for a first-round receiver for years, team fails to win a title, GM blames his head coach, fires said head coach, and immediately drafts a first-round receiver. Some things are so painfully ironic that they are almost inevitable, and it’s likely there’ll be a receiver in this spot in the vast majority of mocks this offseason.
The Buffalo Bills have been patching together their receiver corps since parting ways with Stefon Diggs in 2024. Neither Amari Cooper nor Brandin Cooks could make the grade, and it’s time for some serious investment at the position.
Denzel Boston can dominate down the sidelines while opening things up for Khalil Shakir and Dalton Kincaid in the middle of the field. The Bills have surrounded Josh Allen with 6’4″ pass catchers in recent years (Kincaid, Dawson Knox, Keon Coleman, Mack Hollins), and Boston would follow in that pattern.
27) San Francisco 49ers
Caleb Banks, Florida | DT
The San Francisco 49ers have a new defensive coordinator this year in the form of former Falcons HC Raheem Morris. It’s yet to be seen whether Morris will bring his 3-4 scheme to the West Coast or adapt to his new team’s previous 4-3 setup.
Either way, Caleb Banks makes a lot of sense for a team needing to rebuild its defense and draw attention away from Nick Bosa upon his return from injury. If Morris sticks with a 4-3, adding Banks would mean that 75% of the 49ers’ starting defensive front will have been drafted in the space of two offseasons (Mykel Williams, Alfred Collins).
Banks missed most of his final season in college through injury, but made up for it with a great performance at the Senior Bowl. His enormous 6’6″, 330-pound frame would be a great addition to a defense that, understandably, pressured opposing QBs at the third-lowest rate last season (16.7%).
28) Carolina Panthers (via HOU)
Keionte Scott, Miami (FL) | DB
Keionte Scott is penciled in a little later for most, but after moving inside to slot duties in 2025, the Miami product blew up as a prolific disruptor and defensive playmaker. Scott tallied 64 tackles, 5 sacks, 13 tackles for loss, 2 forced fumbles, 2 fumble recoveries, and 2 interceptions, both returned for touchdowns.
The Carolina Panthers have continued to build steadily and earned a playoff berth in January, but their defense still needs work. Jaycee Horn and Mike Jackson form an enviable duo on the outside, and Scott would complement that pairing perfectly from the middle of the field.
29) Los Angeles Rams
Chris Johnson, San Diego State | CB
Jake Bobo was a surprise touchdown scorer when the Seattle Seahawks hosted the Rams in the playoffs, but he shouldn’t have been. Chris Shula’s impressive defense saw him tipped as a favorite for a head coaching job this offseason, but you can’t coach size, and the Rams’ corners just didn’t have it.
Chris Johnson isn’t a physically dominant corner either, but would be a physical upgrade on several of Los Angeles’ corners from 2025. Size aside, Johnson has proven ability as a lockdown outside corner, tallying 9 pass breakups and 4 interceptions last season, two of which he returned for scores.
He contributed as a tackler, too, and is credited with 116 tackles over his final two years in college. In 2025, he tallied his first career sack, as well as 3 tackles for loss, to add to his stellar work in coverage.
30) New York Jets (via DEN)
Ty Simpson, Alabama | QB
Projected trade: Jets receive No. 30 pick, No. 130 pick; Broncos receive No. 33 pick, No. 103 pick, No. 238 pick
I’d hate for the Jets to consolidate their hard-earned draft capital into another big swing on a rookie quarterback next year. But with two defensive pillars already in place, this isn’t a bad spot to take a shot on Ty Simpson.
Simpson’s form dropped off down the stretch in 2025, but he spent much of the season in contention for the Heisman Trophy and the first overall pick in the draft. There are obvious concerns surrounding a one-year starter with only half of an elite season behind him, but there is intriguing upside, too.
I was rightly criticized for listing a QB at Pick. 33 last year. This time around, the Jets trade back into the first and pick up a fifth-year option on a potential franchise quarterback.
31) New England Patriots
Blake Miller, Clemson | OT
The New England Patriots are going to need an offensive tackle in the next year or two, regardless of what they decide to do with Will Campbell. Campbell struggled after returning from a knee injury he picked up in Week 12, and was dominated by Seattle’s ferocious pass rush in the Super Bowl.
Calls for Campbell to move inside to guard may be premature, but even so, Morgan Moses isn’t getting any younger and has no guaranteed money beyond 2026. Blake Miller has experience on both sides of the line; he was a team captain in 2025 and a consistent four-year starter at an elite college program.
32) Seattle Seahawks
Jermod McCoy, Tennessee | CB
Jermod McCoy is considered a top-two cornerback in this year’s class, but it wouldn’t be a shock to see him slide in the draft, potentially into Day 2. Just last year, first-round prospects Will Johnson and Shavon Revel both fell to Day 2 due to injury concerns from their final college season.
McCoy didn’t play a single snap in 2025 after suffering a torn ACL before the season. The talent is undeniable, though, and if he does slide, one team will be picking up a steal in April. In this mock, that team is the Seahawks, who add another star to their already-elite defense in preparation for another Super Bowl run.
Round 2 | 33) Denver Broncos (via NYJ)
Lee Hunter, Texas Tech | DT
John Franklin-Myers is a free agent, and Zach Allen has zero guaranteed salary beyond 2026. However, the Denver Broncos decide to navigate Allen’s contract down the line, adding a monstrous defensive tackle makes sense for both the short- and long-term.
Three straight years of solid production make Lee Hunter a great addition to one of the NFL’s best defenses.
34) Arizona Cardinals
Christen Miller, Georgia | DT
The Cardinals plugged a hole with veteran defensive tackle Calais Campbell in 2025, but having addressed offensive tackle in Round 1, a long-term fix should be a priority. Only eight teams allowed more yards per attempt on the ground than Arizona last season, and Georgia’s Christen Miller improves that situation from Day 1.
35) Tennessee Titans
Colton Hood, Tennessee | CB
The Titans may have been disappointed to see two top cornerback prospects taken late on Day 1, but Tennessee’s Colton Hood is more than a consolation prize. Over his final two years in college, Hood tallied 14 pass breakups, 5.5 tackles for loss, and 3 interceptions, one of which he took to the house.
36) Las Vegas Raiders
Chase Bisontis, Texas A&M | OG
With their new quarterback in the bag, the Raiders can get to work protecting him. Given that their Day 1 pick is tied up in Mendoza, the Raiders’ offensive line should be a priority in free agency, but they pick up an instant upgrade early on Day 2.
37) New York Giants
Monroe Freeling, Georgia | OT
The Giants have a decision to make on Jermaine Eluemunor, who is scheduled to hit free agency. In this scenario, they save themselves some cap space and draft Monroe Freeling to play opposite Andrew Thomas.
The Giants have drafted well in recent years and built a promising offense; adding some veteran talent with the money saved in this swap could see them compete in 2026.
38) Houston Texans
Emmanuel Pregnon, Oregon | OG
Having moved up for Lomu in Round 1, the Texans double down on offensive line by adding Oregon’s Emmanuel Pregnon. Pregnon played tackle at Wyoming before excelling at guard for both USC and Oregon. The Texans could look for a running back here, but it would be pointless unless they get straight up front.
39) Cleveland Browns
Dillon Thieneman, Oregon | S
The Browns make it back-to-back Oregon products by taking Dillon Thieneman, whose numbers speak for themselves. Finishing at Oregon in 2025, the former Purdue safety fell four tackles short of making it three consecutive seasons with 100 tackles in college.
Thieneman is a three-year starter who has consistently made plays in both the offensive and defensive backfield. His ball-hawking ability was on full display as a freshman in 2023, when he picked off a ridiculous six passes.
40) Kansas City Chiefs
Max Iheanachor, Arizona State | OT
The Chiefs focus on defense on Day 1, but make up for it by taking Max Iheanachor in Round 2. Iheanachor started all of Arizona State’s games across 2024 and 2025, not giving up a single sack in his final season.
The tackle carries a massive frame, but can carry it quickly, which would allow him to get outside and protect Patrick Mahomes II when he’s extending plays to the right.
41) Cincinnati Bengals
Emmanuel McNeil-Warren, Toledo | S
Emmanuel McNeil-Warren becomes the second safety taken on Day 2, and the third overall. He doesn’t carry the same hype that former teammate Quinyon Mitchell did last year, but there is plenty to get excited about.
Three years of solid coverage production after earning a starting role as a sophomore, while his 9 forced fumbles in four years showcased his playmaking ability as a tackler.
42) New Orleans Saints
Omar Cooper Jr., Indiana | WR
The Saints caught a break with Reese falling outside the top five, and can indulge in a wide receiver early on Day 2. Surrounding Tyler Shough would be the clear priority if it weren’t for the veteran losses, and Omar Cooper Jr. completes an exciting receiver duo with Chris Olave.
There’s a lot more to be done, but through two rounds, the Saints have improved massively on both sides of the ball.
43) Miami Dolphins
Keith Abney II, Arizona State | CB
With their offense taken care of, Miami can get to work building a cornerback room. Keith Abney II didn’t see much action as a freshman, but 5 interceptions and 21 pass breakups in his final two years of college make him an obvious choice here.
44) New York Jets
D’Angelo Ponds, Indiana | CB
D’Angelo Ponds is undersized; there’s no getting around that, but his numbers are impossible to ignore.
A three-year starter in college, Ponds totaled 7 interceptions and 33 pass breakups over three years, while getting downhill to record 10.5 tackles for loss in that time.
45) Baltimore Ravens
Chris Brazzell II, Tennessee | WR
If he’d have put up more consistently impressive numbers earlier in his college career, Tennessee’s Chris Brazzell II would be a lock for a Day 1 pick. The 6’5″ receiver plays with the explosiveness of a much smaller player, and recorded 1,017 receiving yards and 9 receiving touchdowns in his final year with the Vols.
46) Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Max Klare, Ohio State | TE
Cade Otton is slated for free agency, and it remains to be seen whether the Buccaneers decide to bring him back. If they don’t, Ohio State’s Max Klare could be the perfect replacement. Klare has dealt with injuries in college, but has impressed wherever he’s been, though he’ll need to work on his edge blocking.
47) Indianapolis Colts
Chris Bell, Louisville | WR
The Colts traded away Adonai Mitchell as part of their package to acquire Gardner from the Jets, and may also lose Alec Pierce to free agency. Chris Bell isn’t a like-for-like replacement for either, but possesses the frame and speed to win downfield.
On tape, Bell becomes a different animal after the catch, with outlandish acceleration to pull away from chasing defenders, making him a home-run threat on every play.
48) Atlanta Falcons
Anthony Hill Jr., Texas | LB
The Falcons have a decision to make regarding star linebacker Kaden Elliss this offseason, as the veteran is set to become a free agent. If they decide against re-signing Elliss, Anthony Hill Jr. is a must-add here. If they want to keep the veteran, they can recoup almost $6 million in cap space by cutting Divine Deablo instead.
Either way, Hill is a proven playmaker who tallied 249 total tackles, 17 sacks, 31.5 tackles for loss, 3 interceptions, and 8 forced fumbles in three years at Texas.
49) Minnesota Vikings
A.J. Haulcy, LSU | S
After 14 years, including six Pro Bowl campaigns, the Vikings need to find a replacement for Harrison Smith. A.J. Haulcy earned first-team All-SEC honors for his final year at LSU, but he has four years of solid production behind him, including 347 tackles and 10 picks.
50) Detroit Lions
Connor Lew, Auburn | C
Connor Lew becomes the first center off the board and lands in a great spot. The Lions were unusually shaky in 2025 after losing Kevin Zeitler and Frank Ragnow to free agency and retirement, respectively.
Tate Ratledge proved a good addition in last year’s draft, and Lew can further bolster Dan Campbell’s offensive front from Day 1.
51) Carolina Panthers
Jake Golday, Cincinnati | LB
The Panthers traded back in Round 1 and picked up a versatile defensive back to dominate the middle of the field. Jake Golday could help Scott patrol that area of the field, and with 4.55 speed at 6’4″, would be an immediate impact player for a defense that needs one.
After transferring from Central Arkansas to Cincinnati in 2024, Golday registered 163 tackles, 13 tackles for loss, 5 sacks, and 3 forced fumbles in just two years in the Big 12.
52) Green Bay Packers
Brandon Cisse, South Carolina | CB
The Packers were spectators on Day 1 and quickly addressed a key area of concern with their first draft pick. Again, offensive line could be a thought, as could linebacker if the team lets Quay Walker leave, but I’ve gone for a corner here.
Many see Brandon Cisse as a potential first-round pick, and a strong showing at the combine could help that cause. Despite his lightning speed, though, Cisse’s numbers are modest compared to some of the other prospects in the class, and it wouldn’t be a shock to see him available here.
53) Pittsburgh Steelers
Michael Taaffe, Texas | S
Only three teams allowed more net passing yards than the Steelers (4,146) in 2025, and improvement is needed ahead of next season. The team is set to lose multiple safeties in free agency, so Michael Taaffe is a solid pick here.
The Texas product tallied 146 tackles, 6.5 tackles for loss, 3 sacks, and 4 picks over his final two years in college and becomes a Day 1 starter in Pittsburgh.
54) Philadelphia Eagles
Gennings Dunker, Iowa | OL
It wouldn’t have been thought possible in 2024, but the Eagles’ offensive line is a developing problem for Howie Roseman to figure out. Lane Johnson and Landon Dickerson are both expected to be back in 2026, though, news that was music to the ears of Eagles fans.
Roseman has often drafted ahead of schedule, and while the return of two key veterans is a short-term boost, it would be wise to invest in that area with 2027 in mind. Gennings Dunker has lined up predominantly at tackle, but many expect him to move inside. Either way, he can learn the ropes before stepping into a starting role next year.
55) Los Angeles Chargers
R Mason Thomas, Oklahoma | EDGE
Yes, I know, still no offensive lineman. However, the Chargers also project to be short of edge rushers next season, having relied on veterans like Khalil Mack and Joey Bosa in recent years.
R Mason Thomas produced 22 tackles for loss, 15.5 sacks, and 4 forced fumbles in his final two years of college, and is a potential star at the NFL level.
56) Jacksonville Jaguars
Josiah Trotter, Missouri | LB
The Jaguars’ defense made strides under Anthony Campanile in 2025, and Josiah Trotter would be a great fit to further that improvement. His 176 tackles and 17 tackles for loss highlight his drive to get to the ball carrier, a priority Campanile made when he took over in Jacksonville.
57) Chicago Bears
Kamari Ramsey, USC | S
The Bears are again being linked with a move for a premium pass rusher this offseason, and that could open up more opportunities on the back end. Chicago led the NFL in takeaways (33) and interceptions (23) in 2025, but is slated to lose several safeties in March, and USC’s Kamari Ramsey can fill the void.
58) San Francisco 49ers
Elijah Sarratt, Indiana | WR
The 49ers have holes everywhere, but wide receiver may be among the most urgent needs. With George Kittle potentially missing the start of next season, San Francisco’s offense in September currently projects to be Brock Purdy, Christian McCaffrey, and Ricky Pearsall.
Elijah Sarratt would be a great addition on the outside, offering crisp route running and a safe pair of hands. He’s certainly not the fastest receiver, which is why he’ll likely be drafted later than he should be, but his 15 receiving touchdowns in 2025 demonstrate his obvious ability.
59) Houston Texans
Emmett Johnson, Nebraska | RB
Finally, the second running back is taken, and in a potentially surprising move, I’ve opted for Nebraska’s Emmett Johnson. There are more heavily favored backs in the class after Love, but Johnson has proven he can handle a workhorse role and still remain productive.
The Texans have a third-down back in Woody Marks, and land themselves a leadback here, after adding two top prospects to their offensive line.
60) Buffalo Bills
Jake Slaughter, Florida | C
The Bills also need to improve up front, with multiple interior offensive linemen set for free agency. Joe Brady’s offense runs predominantly through the legs of Allen and James Cook, so they mustn’t take a step back in protection.
A three-year starter, team captain, and Senior Bowl standout, Jake Slaughter could be snapping the ball for one of the best quarterbacks on the planet come September.
61) Los Angeles Rams
Julian Neal, Arkansas | CB
The Rams took a corner in Round 1, but why stop there? Julian Neal contributed 16 pass breakups and 4 picks in his final two years in college, along with 7 tackles for loss. One year after transferring out of the Mountain West, Neal could find himself on a Super Bowl contender.
62) Denver Broncos
Eli Stowers, Vanderbilt | TE
Maybe it’s just my natural lean towards fantasy football, but Eli Stowers looks like the best tight end in this class to me. I’m aware that’s an unpopular opinion, but I can’t get over the former QB’s intelligence when running routes, or his Velcro hands.
The Broncos targeted a pure receiving tight end in Evan Engram last offseason, and Stowers could immediately step into a massive role on a developing offense.
63) New England Patriots
Ja’Kobi Lane, USC | WR
The Patriots take a wide receiver in the second round; what could go wrong? While Lemon was catching the eye at USC last year, Ja’Kobi Lane was patrolling the outside as a rangy X receiver with a penchant for highlight-reel catches. After shining at the Senior Bowl, Lane lands with one of the league’s brightest young quarterbacks.
64) Seattle Seahawks
Jacob Rodriguez, Texas Tech | LB
Seattle got a steal at the end of the first round in this mock, and Jacob Rodriguez might be another at the end of the second. The former quarterback racked up 128 tackles, 11 tackles for loss, a sack, four interceptions, six pass breakups, and seven forced fumbles, while earning an elite 90.1 PFSN LB Impact grade.
He won the Nagurski, Lombardi, Butkus, and Bednarik Awards, was the Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year, and backed up his honors with an incredible Senior Bowl showing. His smaller frame will likely hurt him in the draft, but very few can match his output.
Round 3
65) Arizona Cardinals
Jadarian Price, Notre Dame | RB
66) Tennessee Titans
Keylan Rutledge, Georgia Tech | OG
67) Las Vegas Raiders
Caleb Tiernan, Northwestern | OT
68) Philadelphia Eagles
Akheem Mesidor, Miami (FL) | EDGE
69) Carolina Panthers (via HOU)
Zachariah Branch, Georgia | WR
70) Cleveland Browns
Sam Hecht, Kansas State | C
71) Washington Commanders
Antonio Williams, Clemson | WR
72) Cincinnati Bengals
Malik Muhammad, Texas | CB
73) Cleveland Browns (via NOR)
Drew Shelton, Penn State | OT
74) Kansas City Chiefs
Jonah Coleman, Washington | RB
75) Miami Dolphins
Jack Endries, Texas | TE
76) Tampa Bay Buccaneers (via PIT)
Romello Height, Texas Tech | EDGE
77) Tampa Bay Buccaneers
LT Overton, Alabama | DL
78) Indianapolis Colts
Genesis Smith, Arizona | S
79) Atlanta Falcons
Darrell Jackson Jr., Florida State | DT
80) Baltimore Ravens
Gabe Jacas, Illinois | EDGE
81) Jacksonville Jaguars
Chandler Rivers, Duke | CB
82) Minnesota Vikings
Deontae Lawson, Alabama | LB
83) Carolina Panthers
Parker Brailsford, Alabama | C
84) Green Bay Packers
Kyle Louis, Pittsburgh | LB
85) Pittsburgh Steelers
Garrett Nussmeier, LSU | QB
86) Los Angeles Chargers
Brian Parker II, Duke | OL
87) Miami Dolphins
Zion Young, Missouri | EDGE
88) Jacksonville Jaguars
Kaytron Allen, Penn State | RB
89) Chicago Bears
Taurean York, Texas A&M | LB
90) Miami Dolphins
Devin Moore, Florida | CB
91) Buffalo Bills
Kendal Daniels, Oklahoma | LB
92) San Francisco 49ers
Germie Bernard, Alabama | WR
93) Los Angeles Rams
Carson Beck, Miami (FL) | QB
94) Denver Broncos
Austin Barber, Florida | OT
95) New England Patriots
Zakee Wheatley, Penn State | S
96) Seattle Seahawks
Nicholas Singleton, Penn State | RB
97) Minnesota Vikings
Skyler Bell, UConn | WR
98) Philadelphia Eagles
Daylen Everette, Georgia | CB
99) Pittsburgh Steelers
Davison Igbinosun, Ohio State | CB
100) Jacksonville Jaguars
Joshua Josephs, Tennessee | EDGE
