The 2026 NFL Draft may be one of the most volatile classes we’ve seen.
At the beginning of summer scouting, pinpointing which names will be in the mix for the top 15 picks is often easy. In 2025, we knew to be aware of Travis Hunter, Will Campbell, Mason Graham, and many others.
But this year, it seems we may have a wide range of outcomes with the quarterbacks, especially with the uncertainty surrounding Arch Manning and whether he declares. With a ton of talented EDGE prospects, offensive tackles, receivers, and cornerbacks, plenty of players could rise throughout the 2025 season.
Let’s examine how the 2026 NFL Draft could look based on early impressions. For simplicity’s sake, Manning isn’t included since he has started so few games, and there are rumblings that he won’t enter the draft.
1) Cleveland Browns
Cade Klubnik, QB, Clemson
If the Cleveland Browns hold the No. 1 overall pick, it will certainly be because they’re still searching for their franchise quarterback. During the final games of 2024, Cade Klubnik flashed the game-commanding talent he brings to any offense.
With a loaded roster around him at Clemson and national-championship expectations on the line, Klubnik could vault himself into the first overall pick conversation. His instincts and decision-making are a big reason to bet on him to be a top pick in this class.
2) New York Jets
LaNorris Sellers, QB, South Carolina
LaNorris Sellers had an eye-opening second half of the season last year, proving he may be the most talented quarterback in this class.
He brings to the table rare strength in the pocket to easily break sacks, the athleticism to turn open rushing lanes into huge gains, and the arm strength to threaten defense over the top. The New York Jets could use that type of talent under center.
3) New Orleans Saints
Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana
While the New Orleans Saints drafted Tyler Shough in 2025, finishing with a top-three pick will completely change their perspective.
Fernando Mendoza is an intriguing quarterback prospect with the tools to improvise and win outside of structure. Kellen Moore will be highly excited about molding his offense around him.
4) Tennessee Titans
T.J. Parker, EDGE, Clemson
T.J. Parker has the highest ceiling among this class’s many talented EDGE prospects. His elite burst and close-down speed are hard to come by in pass rushers, and the Tennessee Titans’ defensive line could use a weapon like him.
5) New York Giants
Caleb Lomu, OT, Utah
If the New York Giants pick this early, an entirely new regime is likely taking over. They could consider taking a quarterback, but it would be more impactful to find a starting right tackle. Caleb Lomu has the hands and anchor to become a high-level starting tackle in the NFL.
6) Carolina Panthers
Caleb Banks, DT, Florida
While Caleb Banks may not be a household name right now, he will be by the end of the season. Banks is a rare athlete for a prospect with his 6’6″, 325-pound build.
While the Carolina Panthers already have Derrick Brown, adding Banks would create the most dangerous defensive tackle duo in the NFL.
7) Indianapolis Colts
Drew Allar, QB, Penn State
The Indianapolis Colts are another team that will need to reset at quarterback if they’re drafting this early in 2026. Drew Allar presents upside as a passer with a thick build, underrated mobility, and a powerful arm.
8) Cleveland Browns
Keldric Faulk, EDGE, Auburn
In this mock draft, the Browns could finish with a promising young quarterback and a dominant pass rusher with Keldric Faulk. Faulk’s length and power would pair well with Myles Garrett, creating a disruptive pass rush.
9) Las Vegas Raiders
Dani Dennis-Sutton, EDGE, Penn State
Drafting Tyree Wilson was a failure; in this spot, the Las Vegas Raiders could reconcile that mistake. Dani Dennis-Sutton is the prototype of what teams look for in raw pass rushers to develop into integral franchise pieces.
10) Los Angeles Rams
Avieon Terrell, CB, Clemson
The Los Angeles Rams have done a fantastic job rebuilding their defense over the last two offseasons, but they still need a premier outside corner. Avieon Terrell is a sticky coverage player who could be a reliable leader in their secondary.
11) Arizona Cardinals
Francis Mauigoa, OT, Miami (FL)
The Arizona Cardinals’ offensive line leaves much to be desired outside of Paris Johnson Jr. Adding a sturdy prospect like Francis Mauigoa will help elevate the protection for Kyler Murray. Mauigoa is versatile enough to slot in at guard or right tackle, depending on what the Cardinals must address most.
12) Dallas Cowboys
CJÂ Allen, LB, Georgia
The Dallas Cowboys have lacked an anchor at middle linebacker for some time, and CJ Allen can fill that hole. Allen’s instincts and explosiveness make him an instant-impact starter for the Cowboys.
13) Miami Dolphins
Caleb Downs, S, Ohio State
The Miami Dolphins’ secondary was gutted this past offseason, and they need a high-IQ football player to join the mix. Downs has elite instincts and flows to the football easily. He could become a multi-use weapon for the Dolphins to deploy uniquely.
Also, before anyone complains about Downs falling this far, I’d like to remind football fans of the typical slide that happens for safeties. Kyle Hamilton and Malaki Starks are perfect examples of how the league doesn’t value safety prospects as high as other positions.
14) New England Patriots
Kadyn Proctor, OT, Alabama
Kadyn Proctor is one of the biggest question marks in this class. He has the power and movement skills of a top pick, but lacks the flexibility and consistency to live up to that potential. In this circumstance, the New England Patriots can bank on that upside and start him at guard or tackle.
15) Seattle Seahawks
Spencer Fano, OT, Utah
Continuing to improve their offensive line should be the Seattle Seahawks’ top priority. Spencer Fano is a fluid-moving tackle prospect who excels on double teams and moves easily in pass protection.
16) Chicago Bears
LT Overton, EDGE, Alabama
In the 2025 NFL Draft, the Chicago Bears loaded up on explosive offensive weapons. Now they need to match on defense with athletic, high-ceiling prospects. LT Overton has the bend and burst to become a productive rusher alongside Montez Sweat.
17) Houston Texans
Jeremiyah Love, RB, Notre Dame
Could you imagine the Houston Texans’ loaded offense with a home run threat like Jeremiyah Love in the mix at running back? Love is a smooth prospect with the wheels to zip past defenders every time he touches the rock.
18) Minnesota Vikings
Kamari Ramsey, S, USC
Kamari Ramsey is one prospect I’m ready to pound the table for as a first-round pick in April. On tape, he shines in coverage with the length and aggressiveness needed to force turnovers and incompletions.
19) Pittsburgh Steelers
Garrett Nussmeier, QB, LSU
Once again, the Pittsburgh Steelers need to find a new quarterback and are way out of range to take one of the top prospects. If they don’t trade up, Garrett Nussmeier has the arm talent to become an impactful starter in the NFL. He must improve his decision-making to be picked higher than the top 20.
20) Denver Broncos
Jordyn Tyson, WR, Arizona State
The Denver Broncos’ defense is loaded with talent, and it’s time to boost the weapons available in their offense. Jordyn Tyson was one of the most productive receivers in college football last year and would be an asset to Bo Nix’s ascent into becoming a top quarterback.
21) Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Lawson Luckie, TE, Georgia
While Lawson Luckie isn’t a well-known prospect, he could be another massive riser this season. Luckie is an impressive athlete who can create separation before and after the catch.
22) Los Angeles Chargers
Isaiah World, OT, Oregon
Isaiah World, a former Nevada lineman, was a highly sought-after prospect in the transfer portal this winter. At 6’8″ and over 300 pounds, World’s unreal length will catch the eye of NFL teams after he has fought with Power 4 defensive linemen for a full year.
23) Green Bay Packers
Peter Woods, DT, Clemson
Clemson’s defense is loaded with first-round talent, and their best player may be Peter Woods. He effectively uses his compact frame to get underneath blockers and stymie offensive linemen at the line of scrimmage to disrupt plays consistently.
24) Los Angeles Rams
Sam Leavitt, QB, Arizona State
During the 2026 NFL Draft cycle, it will be a heavy discussion point if the Rams will seek out Matthew Stafford’s replacement. Leavitt’s athleticism and improvisational skills would fit nicely in Sean McVay’s offense.
25) San Francisco 49ers
Antonio Williams, WR, Clemson
It’s been a heavy reset for the San Francisco 49ers at receiver, so selecting another first-round pass catcher for Brock Purdy should be a focal point. Antonio Williams will be a significant piece in Clemson’s success this year if he can make a jump in impact.
26) Cincinnati Bengals
DeMonte Capehart, DT, Clemson
It’s getting redundant at this point with the number of Clemson defensive prospects I’m including, but it’s completely justified. Ahead of the 2024 season, DeMonte Capehart was highly regarded by the NFL and has an opportunity to prove himself again this year.
His massive frame and power would help divert attention away from Shemar Stewart and Trey Hendrickson (assuming the Cincinnati Bengals sign him to a new contract).
27) Washington Commanders
Nicholas Singleton, RB, Penn State
Surrounding Offensive Rookie of the Year Jayden Daniels with more offensive pieces is paramount. Nicholas Singleton’s explosiveness and power would create headaches for NFC East teams that already need to prepare for Daniels.
28) Baltimore Ravens
Carnell Tate, WR, Ohio State
Jeremiah Smith and Emeka Egbuka stole the show during Ohio State’s title run in 2024, but Carnell Tate has the potential to be a first-rounder as well. With an increased role for the Buckeyes, his route-running ability could be showcased consistently this year.
29) Detroit Lions
Anthony Hill Jr., LB, Texas
Anthony Hill Jr. has been a multi-role weapon for the Texas Longhorns over the last two seasons. His quick feet and burst allowed him to fly all over the field and act as a heat-seeking pass rusher.
30) Buffalo Bills
Rueben Bain Jr., EDGE, Miami (FL)
Coming off an injury-filled year, Rueben Bain Jr. has a shot to make a name for himself in the 2026 class. NFL teams will covet his power and physical rushing style, especially the Buffalo Bills, who could use a new face for their defensive line.
31) Kansas City Chiefs
Mansoor Delane, CB, LSU
With a change of scenery and a chance to showcase his talent against SEC receivers, Mansoor Delane will be a name to track in 2026. His length and hips make him a difficult defensive back to break away from.
32) Philadelphia Eagles
Zachariah Branch, WR, Georgia
A Georgia player going to the Philadelphia Eagles? How creative. Zachariah Branch’s speed and elusiveness can add another layer to the Eagles’ already-loaded receiver room.
Round 2
33) Cleveland Browns
Tacario Davis, CB, Washington
34) New York Jets
Kevin Concepcion, WR, Texas A&M
35) New Orleans Saints
Will Lee III, CB, Texas A&M
36) Tennessee Titans
Denzel Boston, WR, Washington
37) New York Giants
Makai Lemon, WR, USC
38) Carolina Panthers
DJ McKinney, CB, Colorado
39) Indianapolis Colts
Dillon Thieneman, S, Oregon
40) Jacksonville Jaguars
Domani Jackson, CB, Alabama
41) Las Vegas Raiders
Ja’Kobi Lane, WR, USC
42) Atlanta Falcons
Dontay Corleone, DT, Cincinnati
43) Arizona Cardinals
Evan Stewart, WR, Oregon
44) Dallas Cowboys
Barion Brown, WR, LSU
45) Miami Dolphins
A.J. Harris, CB, Penn State
46) New England Patriots
Sonny Styles, LB, Ohio State
47) Seattle Seahawks
Jermod McCoy, CB, Tennessee
48) Chicago Bears
Zakee Wheatley, S, Penn State
49) Houston Texans
Blake Miller, OT, Clemson
50) Minnesota Vikings
Matayo Uiagalelei, EDGE, Oregon
51) Pittsburgh Steelers
Dane Key, WR, Nebraska
52) Denver Broncos
Tyreak Sapp, EDGE, Florida
53) Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Darrell Jackson Jr., DT, Florida State
54) Los Angeles Chargers
Max Klare, TE, Ohio State
55) Green Bay Packers
CJ Baxter, RB, Texas
56) Los Angeles Rams
Fa’alili Fa’amoe, OT, Wake Forest
57) San Francisco 49ers
Emmanuel Pregnon, OG, Oregon
58) Cincinnati Bengals
Keon Sabb, S, Alabama
59) Houston Texans
Zane Durant, DT, Penn State
60) Baltimore Ravens
Harold Perkins Jr., LB, LSU
61) Detroit Lions
Xavier Nwankpa, S, Iowa
62) Buffalo Bills
J. Michael Sturdivant, WR, Florida
63) Kansas City Chiefs
Makhi Hughes, RB, Oregon
64) Philadelphia Eagles
Christian Gray, CB, Notre Dame
Round 3
65) Cleveland Browns
Nyckoles Harbor, WR, South Carolina
66) Philadelphia Eagles
Rod Moore, S, Michigan
67) New Orleans Saints
Deontae Lawson, LB, Alabama
68) Tennessee Titans
Le’Veon Moss, RB, Texas A&M
69) Houston Texans
Tristan Leigh, OT, Clemson
70) Carolina Panthers
Elijah Sarratt, WR, Indiana
71) Indianapolis Colts
David Bailey, EDGE, Texas Tech
72) Jacksonville Jaguars
Jaydn Ott, RB, Oklahoma
73) Las Vegas Raiders
Austin Barber, OT, Florida
74) Atlanta Falcons
Jaishawn Barham, LB, Michigan
75) Arizona Cardinals
Jaeden Roberts, OG, Alabama
76) Pittsburgh Steelers
Davison Igbinosun, CB, Ohio State
77) Miami Dolphins
Eli Stowers, TE, Vanderbilt
78) New England Patriots
Patrick Payton, EDGE, LSU
79) Seattle Seahawks
Gabe Jacas, EDGE, Illinois
80) Chicago Bears
Tim Keenan III, DT, Alabama
81) Miami Dolphins
Lander Barton, LB, Utah
82) Minnesota Vikings
Roman Hemby, RB, Indiana
83) Pittsburgh Steelers
Mikail Kamara, EDGE, Indiana
84) Denver Broncos
Raylen Wilson, LB, Georgia
85) Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Justice Haynes, RB, Michigan
86) Los Angeles Chargers
Xavier Scott, CB, Illinois
87) Green Bay Packers
Trey Zuhn, OT, Texas A&M
88) Los Angeles Rams
Kenyon Sadiq, TE, Oregon
89) San Francisco 49ers
Bear Alexander, DT, Oregon
90) Cincinnati Bengals
Chase Bisontis, OG, Texas A&M
91) Washington Commanders
Germie Bernard, WR, Alabama
92) Baltimore Ravens
Jamal Haynes, RB, Georgia Tech
93) Jacksonville Jaguars
Charles Jagusah, OT, Notre Dame
94) Buffalo Bills
D’Angelo Ponds, CB, Indiana
95) Kansas City Chiefs
Trey Moore, EDGE, Texas
96) Philadelphia Eagles
Earnest Greene III, OT, Georgia
97) Jacksonville Jaguars
Jalon Kilgore, S, South Carolina
