We are more than halfway through the 2025 NFL regular season, and it’s clear at this stage which teams have no chance of making the playoffs. No teams have been eliminated from playoff contention, and no one has clinched a postseason spot yet. That said, there are a handful of teams that would need a miracle at this point in the year to make it.
Luckily for fans of those teams, there’s the 2026 NFL Draft to look forward to. Using the current draft order in the PFSN 2026 NFL Mock Draft Simulator, these are our projections for the first three rounds of next year’s draft.
1) New Orleans Saints
Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana
Tyler Shough replaced Spencer Rattler in the New Orleans Saints’ starting lineup, but early returns on him aren’t much better than his predecessor. Granted, Shough is only a rookie, but that doesn’t mean they have to be married to him. If they get the No. 1 pick like they do in this 2026 NFL Mock Draft, a quarterback would make sense.
In a class of quarterbacks that’s struggling to live up to the hype, Fernando Mendoza has been as good as advertised. He’s a precise pocket passer with great timing behind his throws, an NFL-ready frame, and a strong arm. So far this season, he leads the FBS with a 96.4 QB Impact grade. He reminds me a lot of Jared Goff coming out and has the makings of a potential franchise QB.
2) Tennessee Titans
Rueben Bain Jr., EDGE, Miami (FL)
Cam Ward’s rookie season hasn’t been much to write home about. In his defense, a lot of that has come down to the lackluster support system he has on both sides of the ball. The 2026 NFL Draft would give the Tennessee Titans a chance to add some more blue-chip talent to a porous roster.
Rueben Bain Jr. is a powerhouse off the edge who combines brute strength with explosive short-area quickness and a non-stop motor. He’s the type of impact pass rusher who can become the cornerstone of a defense, which is exactly what the Titans could use.
3) New York Jets
Ty Simpson, QB, Alabama
The New York Jets have Justin Fields under contract for another year after 2025, making it possible they pass on a quarterback in the first round. That said, if they finish with the No. 3 pick like they do in this 2026 NFL Mock Draft, you’d have to consider at least making a change.
One of the breakout stars of this college football season, Ty Simpson, looks much more advanced than your average one-year starting quarterback. He’s a precise, accurate passer who sees the field well and displays good toughness in the pocket. He’s a high-floor QB, which the Jets would find more stable.
4) Miami Dolphins
Caleb Downs, S, Ohio State
The Miami Dolphins are likely looking at a new head coach this offseason, and they’re already for sure going to be in the market for a new general manager. With a lot of big decisions looming, they shouldn’t overthink their first-round pick in this 2026 NFL Mock Draft.
Caleb Downs is a big, brilliant defensive back with elite range, sharp processing, and positional versatility. Downs is effective in coverage, disruptive against the run, and brings strong ball skills and effort as a downhill tackler. He has all the makings of a future All-Pro if he translates his level of dominance into the pros.
5) New York Giants
Arvell Reese, LB, Ohio State
Though the New York Giants are on track to pick fifth in the 2026 NFL Draft, there’s more to be optimistic about than there was last year. Jaxson Dart has been quite solid as a starter, and there are a few young pieces on both sides of the ball worth building around. An early pick in this 2026 NFL Mock Draft gives them a chance to add on.
A massive linebacker at 6’4″ and 243 pounds, Arvell Reese is a big man with impressive athletic ability for his size. He showcases an impressive range as a tackler in pursuit, and he’s one of the most talented blitzing linebackers in recent memory. A move to the edge could make sense for him, though the Giants surely don’t need help there.
6) Las Vegas Raiders
Dante Moore, QB, Oregon
The Geno Smith experiment isn’t working as well as the Las Vegas Raiders had likely hoped. His turnover-prone ways and massive contract mean they could look for an eventual replacement if they pick high enough in this year’s draft.
There’s no guarantee that Dante Moore will declare in 2026, seeing as though he has another year of eligibility and is in just his first full year as a starter. But he’s off to a tremendous start this season, demonstrating a live arm with good anticipation and above-average athleticism for the quarterback position.
7) Cleveland Browns
Spencer Fano, OT, Utah
In this specific 2026 NFL Mock Draft, the Cleveland Browns don’t pick high enough to get one of the top quarterbacks in the class. A nice consolation prize would be a pro-ready, high-upside offensive lineman to help improve their play in the trenches.
Spencer Fano offers the kind of versatility NFL teams covet, with the ability to thrive at either tackle or guard. He’s physical, agile, and technically sound. His tape was fantastic in 2024, and he’s carrying that high level of play into 2025 to look the part of a future top-10 pick.
8) Washington Commanders
Keldric Faulk, EDGE, Auburn
It’s been a brutal year for the Washington Commanders after making the NFC Championship game last season. Jayden Daniels’ eventual return will help them get back into playoff contention next year, but their pass rush proved to be a problem early this season.
Keldric Faulk is a rare athlete at 6’6″ and 288 pounds, having recorded two sacks through five games in 2025. Coming off a seven-sack sophomore season, he has elite size, power, and excellent athleticism for his frame. His burst off the ball and backside pursuit range are impressive, giving him every tool to be a dominant defensive force.
9) Cincinnati Bengals
Mansoor Delane, CB, LSU
Missing Joe Burrow for most of the season surely hasn’t helped the Cincinnati Bengals, but another major issue remains their porous defense. They would be wise to invest heavily in their defense when the draft rolls around next year.
Though he likely would’ve been a Day 2 pick this past draft cycle, Mansoor Delane has improved significantly in 2025 and could be the top cornerback off the board in the 2026 NFL Draft. He’s a lengthy cornerback who thrives in zone coverage, displaying good fluidity and instincts underneath.
10) Baltimore Ravens
David Bailey, EDGE, Texas Tech
With Lamar Jackson back and healthy, it’s likely the Baltimore Ravens will end up falling down the draft order as they win some more games. Should they end up selecting this high, though, a high-level pass rusher could be exactly what they need.
As of this writing, David Bailey has the highest EDGE Impact grade in the FBS at 93.0. Between his current stint at Texas Tech and his previous tenure at Stanford, he has displayed impressive athleticism, very good flexibility turning the corner, and a high pass-rushing IQ that enables him to use his hands with expert timing.
11) Los Angeles Rams (via Falcons)
Jermod McCoy, CB, Tennessee
Heading into this coming draft with two first-round picks, the Los Angeles Rams have a variety of options they could pursue in Round 1. They could pool those picks together to move up for an eventual replacement for Matthew Stafford, but with no trades going on in this mock, they stay put with Atlanta’s selection and improve the defense.
Jermod McCoy snagged four interceptions in 2024 and showed quick feet, hip fluidity, and strong closing ability. He’s long, competitive, and capable of handling field-side and boundary responsibilities. His physical tools check every box you could think of, and his processing abilities are enough to land him early in this 2026 NFL Mock Draft.
12) Arizona Cardinals
Francis Mauigoa, OT, Miami (FL)
Paris Johnson Jr. looks like a star at tackle for the Arizona Cardinals this year, but they could use another stud lineman on the opposite side to maximize the offense. Whether it’s Kyler Murray, Jacoby Brissett, or somebody else at quarterback in 2026, they’ll need better protection.
Francis Mauigoa is a dominant presence in the trenches. He plays with a broad base, refined hands, and smooth footwork in pass sets. His physicality should translate well to the NFL level. If Mauigoa declares, there’s a good chance he’s a first-round lock.
13) Houston Texans
Peter Woods, DT, Clemson
Whether it’s on offense or defense, the Houston Texans would be smart to invest in the trenches in next year’s draft. That has played a significant role in their lackluster start to 2025.
A twitchy, high-IQ defender with violent hands and pass-rush counters, Peter Woods can control gaps and make an impact inside. He’s a potential game-changer on the defensive line. He could form a dangerous trio with Will Anderson Jr. and Danielle Hunter in Houston if the real draft plays out like this 2026 NFL Mock Draft.
14) Dallas Cowboys
T.J. Parker, EDGE, Clemson
The Dallas Cowboys have two 2026 first-round picks, which should be a significant asset in their quest to bolster the defense. Trading for Quinnen Williams should really help their defensive line, but their edge rusher group still needs work.
Clemson’s defense as a whole hasn’t lived up to expectations this year, but T.J. Parker is still a tremendous player with a high ceiling in the NFL. He had 11 sacks as a sophomore and flashed great burst and lower-body strength. That production hasn’t been matched this season, but the tape demonstrates high-level traits.
15) Minnesota Vikings
Jeremiyah Love, RB, Notre Dame
Kevin O’Connell is one of the brightest offensive coaching minds in the NFL, but the Minnesota Vikings could use some additional firepower to help bring J.J. McCarthy up to speed. In particular, they currently lack a long-term solution at running back.
Jeremiyah Love isn’t far from the Ashton Jeanty comparisons you’ll hear in this class. He’s a dynamic, three-down runner with impressive burst, vision, balance, and fluid cuts. He drops out of the top ten of our 2026 NFL Mock Draft due to positional value, but he’s a top-10 overall prospect in this class.
16) Carolina Panthers
Cashius Howell, EDGE, Texas A&M
Though the Carolina Panthers are stacking up more wins this season, their pass rush still remains a problem. It could make sense for them to add a first-round pick to a room that currently includes second- and third-round picks from the 2025 draft.
With a starting opportunity now in his reach at Texas A&M, Cashius Howell has lived up to the hype in 2025. He has an SEC-best 9.5 sacks in eight games this season, and he’s displayed tremendous acceleration and flexibility off the edge. He’s worked his way into easy first-round territory.
17) Kansas City Chiefs
Colton Hood, CB, Tennessee
Knowing the Kansas City Chiefs’ success in recent years, it’s unlikely they pick this high once the season comes to a close. If they do happen to miss the playoffs, though, they could use their first-round pick on a top cornerback, like they do in this 2026 NFL Mock Draft.
In the absence of Jermod McCoy in Tennessee’s cornerback room for much of the season, Colton Hood has really come into his own as their CB1. He’s a lengthy ball-hawking cornerback who covers with physicality through his stems, with the potential to be an impact starter by Year 2 or Year 3.
18) Chicago Bears
Caleb Lomu, OT, Utah
The Chicago Bears’ offense has gotten a lot better this season, and some of that credit certainly belongs to their improved offensive line. But their left tackle situation is still in question after they benched Braxton Jones for Theo Benedet earlier in the year.
Caleb Lomu is a smooth, polished left tackle who hasn’t allowed a single sack in 300 pass-blocking reps so far this season. His hand timing, balance, and range in pass protection make him a top offensive tackle prospect and a worthy first-round selection.
19) Cleveland Browns (via Jaguars)
Carnell Tate, WR, Ohio State
After adding an offensive lineman with their first pick, the Browns would be smart to double down on their offense with the extra first-round pick they acquired from Jacksonville in the Travis Hunter trade this year.
Though Jeremiah Smith has been Ohio State’s leading receiver this year, Carnell Tate looks the part of a future NFL contributor in his own right. He’s a tall, explosive receiver with good spatial awareness against zone coverage who’s grown a lot as a route-running technician.
20) Pittsburgh Steelers
Jordyn Tyson, WR, Arizona State
DK Metcalf has been a reliable WR1 for the Pittsburgh Steelers this season, but the decision to trade George Pickens is weighing heavily on their offense so far. They could really use another reliable wide receiver to boost their passing attack further.
As of this writing, Jordyn Tyson leads the Big 12 with 57 receptions in just seven games. He is a great YAC receiver thanks to his agility and ball-carrier vision. He’s also explosive coming out of his breaks and exploits leverage spots well against man coverage by adjusting his stems.
21) Detroit Lions
LT Overton, EDGE, Alabama
Al-Quadin Muhammad has developed into a surprisingly valuable asset at edge rusher alongside Aidan Hutchinson this season. The former is 30 years old, though, so the Detroit Lions could still stand to invest in an eventual replacement through the draft.
LT Overton is a powerful, high-motivated defensive lineman with versatility along the front lines. He should defend the run well early on because of his play strength and tenacity, and he has the size-adjusted quickness to project well rushing the passer.
22) Los Angeles Chargers
Olaivavega Ioane, OG, Penn State
Injuries have ravaged the Los Angeles Chargers’ offensive line this year, and they have a dominant tackle duo when both Rashawn Slater and Joe Alt are healthy. That said, their interior offensive line could still use some upgrading.
An All-Big Ten lineman as a redshirt sophomore in 2024, Olaivavega Ioane is on pace to surpass those accomplishments with his play in 2025. He a sturdy guard prospect who knows how to use his hands and pad level to obtain leverage. His anchor strength gives him a higher floor than most at his position.
23) San Francisco 49ers
Kadyn Proctor, OT, Alabama
As ageless as Trent Williams seems, being fourth in OTi grading at 37 years old, the San Francisco 49ers will eventually need to find a replacement for him at left tackle. They do so in this 2026 NFL Mock Draft.
Kadyn Proctor hasn’t been as consistent as one would hope this year, but the upside with him is still palpable. He’s a massive presence with long arms and powerful hands. He’s not just big; he’s coordinated and is able to handle power and maintain an anchor in pass protection.
24) Dallas Cowboys (via Packers)
Avieon Terrell, CB, Clemson
Having used their first selection in Round 1 on an edge rusher, the Cowboys could look to improve their defense further by investing in their secondary with the pick they acquired from the Green Bay Packers.
Avieon Terrell, the younger brother of Atlanta Falcons CB A.J. Terrell Jr., is a sharp cover man with excellent speed and short-area burst. In 2024, he notched two interceptions and 12 pass breakups for Clemson.
25) Buffalo Bills
Makai Lemon, WR, USC
The Buffalo Bills have consistently been a serious threat in the AFC, but they haven’t been able to get over the hump just yet. As they look to stay in that upper echelon of Super Bowl contenders, they could use a little more offensive firepower.
I liked what I saw from Makai Lemon in 2024, but his performance in 2025 has taken it to another level. As of this writing, he has an impressive 776 yards and six touchdowns on 50 catches in eight games. He is a sure-handed slot receiver who’s quick after the catch and consistently gets open against both man and zone coverage.
26) Seattle Seahawks
Chris Johnson, CB, San Diego State
Though the Seattle Seahawks didn’t trade Riq Woolen at the 2025 NFL trade deadline, that’s no guarantee they’ll sign him to a contract extension. Should they let him walk, they’ll be in the market for another cornerback in the draft.
With an allowed passer rating of just 17.5 this season, Chris Johnson is my top Group of 5 prospect in this draft and has catapulted himself into first-round pick conversation. He’s a smooth, intelligent cornerback who reads route concepts well and also plays with a scrappy demeanor in run support.
27) Los Angeles Rams
Sonny Styles, LB, Ohio State
The Rams opt for consecutive defenders with their first two picks in this 2026 NFL Mock Draft, following their previous selection of a cornerback. They have a well-rounded defensive line in place, but an investment in a high-profile linebacker could further propel the unit.
In the right system, Sonny Styles could make some serious noise in the NFL. His instincts have shown plenty of improvement over time, and he’s a freak athlete with a large tackling radius and the ability to make plays in coverage.
28) New England Patriots
R Mason Thomas, EDGE, Oklahoma
With Mike Vrabel and Drake Maye leading the charge, the New England Patriots have been one of the biggest breakout teams in the NFL this season. To help keep them near the top of the AFC, a strong pass rush could keep them competitive with some of the conference’s high-powered offenses.
There was a lot to like in R Mason Thomas’ tape last year, and he’s living up to the hype again in 2025. It’s his explosiveness, flexibility, and deep arsenal as a pass rusher that should have him in high demand when the draft rolls around.
29) Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Kenyon Sadiq, TE, Oregon
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ offense has been ravaged by injuries this year, but they still remain one of the top teams in the NFC. When their weapons are healthy, they have a talented group, but they could also use an improvement at tight end.
A backup to 2025 second-round pick Terrance Ferguson last year, Kenyon Sadiq has already bested his 2024 production in 14 games, and in his eight games in 2025. He’s an elite athlete who can separate from man coverage, has reliable hands as a pass catcher, and battles hard as a run blocker for a smaller tight end. His upside as a receiver is through the roof.
30) New York Jets (via Colts)
Chris Bell, WR, Louisville
Having traded Sauce Gardner and Quinnen Williams before the deadline, the Jets are in full-on rebuild mode. They took a quarterback earlier in this 2026 NFL Mock Draft, and they could use another weapon for their new franchise QB to throw to.
Listed at 6’2″ and 220 pounds, Chris Bell is a freak athlete for his size with the raw speed and strength to be a potential force at wide receiver. Being used in a complementary role alongside Garrett Wilson would give him time to develop as a route runner, where he’s still raw but has shown some promise during his time at Louisville.
31) Philadelphia Eagles
Quincy Rhodes Jr., EDGE, Arkansas
The acquisition of Jaelan Phillips should help the Philadelphia Eagles improve their pass rush for the remainder of the 2025 season, but they’ll also have to make sure the unit stays strong going forward. That could see them use an early-round pick on an edge rusher.
A breakout star so far this collegiate season, Quincy Rhodes Jr. is a big-bodied edge rusher at 6’6″ and 275 pounds with impressive length and a powerful frame. He packs a mean punch at the point of attack, he’s quick off the line of scrimmage, and he plays with a high motor in pursuit.
32) Denver Broncos
C.J. Allen, LB, Georgia
The Denver Broncos just keep stacking up wins. Even if things haven’t always been pretty, wins are worth celebrating in the NFL. Should they keep this going into a deep playoff run or even a Super Bowl victory, they’ll still have solid talent to pick from at the end of the first round.
With impressive speed, agility, instincts against the run, and consistent tackling form, C.J. Allen is a true rangy linebacker with elite range as a tackler. He has the potential to be one of the top linebackers in the league in due time.
Round 2 | 33) Tennessee Titans
Denzel Boston, WR, Washington
At 6’4″ with a career drop rate of just 3.4% as of this writing, Denzel Boston is a physical boundary receiver with sticky hands and impressive body control. His ability to win above the rim and come down with catches in tight coverage would make him a valuable security blanket for Cam Ward.
34) New Orleans Saints
Joshua Josephs, EDGE, Tennessee
A rotational defender in 2024, Joshua Josephs has put together some impressive tape with a bigger role on Tennessee’s defense in 2025. He’s a little undersized for an edge rusher but brings impressive acceleration, flexibility, and motor rushing the passer.
35) New York Jets
A’Mauri Washington, DT, Oregon
Having traded Quinnen Williams to Dallas, the Jets now have a hole at defensive tackle. A’Mauri Washington is a massive, physical presence up the middle who plugs up gaps well and can move well for a big man.
36) New York Giants
Isaiah World, OT, Oregon
Though Isaiah World excelled at Nevada, the big question was whether he’d be able to make the leap to the Power Four with his move to Oregon. So far, he’s fared pretty well. At 6’8″, he’s a massive, mobile lineman, and his upside is undeniable. If he can stabilize his anchor better, he could be a serious impact lineman in the NFL.
37) Miami Dolphins
DJ McKinney, CB, Colorado
DJ McKinney is a big cornerback at 6’2″ and 190 pounds. He allowed a passer rating of just 58.1 last year with three interceptions for Colorado, and he has five breakups through nine games this season. McKinney’s ball skills and size-adjusted athleticism make him a worthy selection in the top 50 picks of this 2026 NFL Mock Draft.
38) Cleveland Browns
Garrett Nussmeier, QB, LSU
Garrett Nussmeier excels in all the fundamentals: he’s accurate, smart, and composed under pressure. His pocket presence and decision-making stand out. His early-season inconsistency sees him fall down the board a bit, but when he’s on, he displays genuine NFL starting potential.
39) Las Vegas Raiders
Caleb Banks, DT, Florida
A 6’6″, 325-pound interior lineman with more pass-rush juice than expected for a player his size, Caleb Banks has a very high ceiling at the NFL level. He’s powerful and disruptive, only falling into Round 2 due to a foot injury.
40) Cincinnati Bengals
Gennings Dunker, OT, Iowa
Gennings Dunker is a three-year starter at Iowa, having played right tackle and both guard positions in college. He packs a nice punch at the point of attack and can clear defenders off the ball in the run game.
41) Houston Texans (via Commanders)
Brian Parker II, C, Duke
As a collegiate starting tackle, I have Brian Parker II kicking inside to center, although a move to guard could also make sense. Regardless, his coordination, mobility, and high football IQ give him Day 1 starting potential in the pros.
42) Atlanta Falcons
Davison Igbinosun, CB, Ohio State
Davison Igbinosun entered Ohio State as a toolsy, raw prospect with high highs and low lows. That’s still the case, though he’s evened out a bit. His instincts are showing progress in 2025, but it’s his length and athleticism that have him firmly on NFL radars.
43) Arizona Cardinals
Ja’Kobi Lane, WR, USC
Ja’Kobi Lane has been more of a complementary weapon than a true WR1 for USC, but he’s a 6’4″ receiver with tremendous ball skills and better athleticism than most his size. He excels above the rim and could be a great WR2 alongside Marvin Harrison Jr. in Arizona.
44) Houston Texans
Anthony Hill Jr., LB, Texas
Anthony Hill Jr. put up 113 tackles, 16.5 TFL, and eight sacks in 2024. He’s explosive, tough, and rangy, and carries significant blitz upside. Whether it’s as a MIKE or a WILL, I think he develops into a quality starter.
45) Baltimore Ravens
Domonique Orange, DT, Iowa State
Domonique Orange is a physical run-stuffer up the middle who has the power and technical prowess to step into a defensive-line rotation and make an impact in the NFL. That would fit perfectly with what the Ravens are lacking this season.
46) New York Jets (via Cowboys)
Matayo Uiagalelei, EDGE, Oregon
Matayo Uiagalelei, younger brother of Chargers practice squad QB DJ Uiagalelei, had 10.5 sacks in 2024 and already has four sacks in five games in 2025. He’s an advanced technician for his age, with versatility along the entire defensive line and tremendous hand usage.
47) Minnesota Vikings
Kamari Ramsey, S, USC
He’s an average athlete at safety, but Kamari Ramsey is a physical DB with a high football IQ who can make plays in coverage with his quick processing speed. He should end up being a solid starter in the pros and would be a worthy long-term upgrade for Minnesota’s secondary.
48) Kansas City Chiefs
Justice Haynes, RB, Michigan
A rotational back at Alabama before transferring to Michigan this year, Justice Haynes has come into his own as one of the best running backs in college football. He’s a patient back who runs tough and can evade tacklers with both his contact balance and his agility in the open field.
49) Carolina Panthers
Will Lee III, CB, Texas A&M
Will Lee III is a long 6’3″ corner with surprising agility and solid ball skills. He’s totaled four interceptions and 16 pass breakups across his last two college seasons, showing the traits needed to thrive on the boundary.
50) Chicago Bears
Damon Wilson II, EDGE, Missouri
A former five-star recruit in high school, Damon Wilson II is excelling at Missouri with 6.5 sacks through eight games in 2025. He’s an elite athlete with quick hands and a flexible lower half who can really get to the passer off the edge.
51) Pittsburgh Steelers
LaNorris Sellers, QB, South Carolina
LaNorris Sellers is a big-bodied QB with a rocket arm, tremendous athleticism, and great sack avoidance. A lack of growth in terms of accuracy and full-field progression ability hurts him, but he’s an absurdly talented athlete worth gambling on.
52) Detroit Lions
Connor Lew, C, Auburn
Had Connor Lew not torn his ACL, there’s a chance he could’ve worked his way into a first-round selection. He’s a little bit light for a center, but he’s an impressive athlete at the position with good spatial awareness and a high football IQ.
53) Jacksonville Jaguars
Romello Height, EDGE, Texas Tech
David Bailey gets all the attention on Texas Tech’s defensive line, but don’t sleep on Romello Height, either. He’s an extremely efficient pass rusher who’s a little light in the pants but makes up for it with his explosiveness off the snap and red-hot motor chasing the quarterback.
54) San Francisco 49ers
Zion Young, EDGE, Missouri
Listed at 6’5″ and 262 pounds, Zion Young is a high-floor edge rusher with impressive play strength and length that helps him set the edge well in run support. With his continued development as a pass rusher, he could go higher than this in real life.
55) Los Angeles Chargers
Christen Miller, DT, Georgia
Christen Miller is an effective run-defending defensive tackle with good spatial awareness in the trenches, heavy hands, and a study anchor that helps him plug up gaps. His short-area quickness gives him some disruption upside on passing downs, too.
56) Green Bay Packers
Keith Abney II, CB, Arizona State
Keith Abney II has made significant improvements to his stock this season, which lands him in Round 2 of this 2026 NFL Mock Draft. He’s a well-rounded corner with very good ball skills who brings ideal aggressiveness as a tackler.
57) Seattle Seahawks
Trevor Goosby, OT, Texas
In his first season as a full-time starter, Trevor Goosby has proven that he was worthy of the breakout buzz he got heading into 2025. He’s an elite athlete at offensive tackle with ideal length and coordination in pass protection.
58) Los Angeles Rams
Emmanuel McNeil-Warren, S, Toledo
A 6’2″ safety with impressive size, length, and straight-line speed, Emmanuel McNeil-Warren is a potential riser to watch as the draft process goes on. He’s a hard hitter and a smart processor who deserves an early-round pick in this 2026 NFL Mock Draft.
59) Buffalo Bills
Jake Golday, LB, Cincinnati
Jake Golday has come from an under-recruited, 190-pound edge rusher into one of the top linebackers in college football. He’s now 6’4″ and 240 pounds, which, combined with his freakish athleticism, gives him one of the highest ceilings in this linebacker class.
60) New England Patriots
Dillon Thieneman, S, Oregon
Dillon Thieneman’s production dipped in 2024, but his transfer to Oregon has provided new life for him thus far in 2025. As a freshman at Purdue, he had six interceptions and showed elite range. He projects as a rangy, high-upside free safety with playmaker potential.
61) Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Anto Saka, EDGE, Northwestern
Anto Saka is a twitchy, explosive edge rusher with the speed and flexibility to give offensive tackles fits, and he’s a high-motor player with refined hand usage. He factors in as a rotational pass rusher here with the potential to be much more.
62) Indianapolis Colts
KC Concepcion, WR, Texas A&M
Kevin Concepcion is a dynamic receiver with tremendous YAC ability and impressive quickness shooting out of his breaks as a route runner. In eight games for Texas A&M this year, he has 36 receptions for 545 yards and seven touchdowns.
63) Philadelphia Eagles
Michael Trigg, TE, Baylor
Michael Trigg has been on my draft radar for years due to his freakish athletic traits, but it wasn’t until 2025 that he put it all together. His fluidity and ball skills should make him one of the first tight ends picked in the 2026 class.
64) Denver Broncos
Antonio Williams, WR, Clemson
Sliding in this 2026 NFL Mock Draft due to injury, Antonio Williams is still an athletic receiver who can get open outside or in the slot. His agility after the catch and explosiveness coming out of his breaks as a route runner should make him a reliable complementary weapon in the NFL.
Round 3 | 65) New Orleans Saints
Chris Brazzell II, WR, Tennessee
Chris Brazell II is a 6’5″ deep threat with a freakish combination of size and speed. He’s raw as a route runner, but the tools are unmatched.
66) Tennessee Titans
Whit Weeks, LB, LSU
An intelligent MIKE linebacker with NFL-ready physicality and instincts, Whit Weeks feels like a safe bet to at least become a decent starter in the league.
67) Philadelphia Eagles (via Jets)
D’Angelo Ponds, CB, Indiana
D’Angelo Ponds tallied five interceptions from 2023 to 2024, and he already has a pick and three tackles for a loss through four games in 2025. He’s an undersized cornerback at 5’9″ and 170 pounds, but Ponds is a tremendous athlete with great coverage instincts and a scrappy demeanor near the line of scrimmage.
68) Miami Dolphins
Carson Beck, QB, Miami (FL)
Though he’s not quite the potential No. 1 pick some made him out to be going into 2024, Carson Beck has rebounded quite nicely since transferring to Miami. He’s shown he’s an accurate passer who can distribute the ball on time and serve as an effective game manager for an offense.
69) Houston Texans (via Giants)
Jude Bowry, OT, Boston College
Jude Bowry allowed just two sacks on 335 pass-blocking reps last season. He’s an athletic tackle with a sturdy lower half who could eventually be groomed into a solid starter if he improves as a technician.
70) Las Vegas Raiders
Domani Jackson, CB, Alabama
Last season, Domani Jackson was one of the best run-defending cornerbacks in college football. He’s physical in man coverage with good route-recognition instincts, and while his ball production has dipped in 2025, there’s still solid tape to be found.
71) Cleveland Browns
Dani Dennis-Sutton, EDGE, Penn State
2025 hasn’t been as consistent as Dani Dennis-Sutton likely hoped, but he still has the impressive size, length, and explosiveness to make NFL teams want to take a shot on him as a developmental edge rusher.
72) Washington Commanders
Elijah Sarratt, WR, Indiana
If you’re looking for flashy, Elijah Sarratt might not be your guy. But if you want a reliable target with great hands, a big frame, and a high route-running IQ, he’ll get the job done.
73) Cincinnati Bengals
Jalon Kilgore, S, South Carolina
Jalon Kilgore is a big and versatile DB with significant reps as a deep safety, in the slot, and in the box. He finished with five interceptions in 2024, demonstrating physicality and a high motor on tape.
74) Arizona Cardinals
Sawyer Robertson, QB, Baylor
The Cardinals need to make a change at the quarterback position. They miss out on the top prospects in this 2026 NFL Mock Draft, but Sawyer Robertson has a strong arm with intriguing playmaking abilities in his own right.
75) Miami Dolphins (via Texans)
Darrell Jackson, DT, Florida State
Darrell Jackson Jr. is a pro-ready run defender with extraordinary length and power at the point of attack. He’s a high-floor rotational lineman along the interior, but he also has some juice as a pass rusher up the middle, which could make for an intriguing interior group with Zach Sieler and Kenneth Grant.
76) Baltimore Ravens
Austin Barber, OT, Florida
With ideal size, length, and mobility, Austin Barber has a very high ceiling as a pass protector and will be a four-year SEC starter by the end of the 2025 season. His development as a technician hasn’t been as good as hoped, dropping him to Round 3, but he has a high ceiling.
77) Atlanta Falcons
Harold Perkins Jr., LB, LSU
Injury cut his 2024 season short, but Harold Perkins Jr. is a Swiss Army Knife with impressive athleticism and great pass-rushing value for an off-ball linebacker. His versatility could add another wrinkle to a young Falcons front seven.
78) Pittsburgh Steelers (via Cowboys)
Xavier Scott, CB, Illinois
Xavier Scott stands out to me as a high-floor nickel cornerback who can also play out wide or as a safety. He doesn’t have elite physical tools, but has sharp route-recognition skills, good fluidity in coverage, and ideal physicality as a tackler.
79) Minnesota Vikings
Tacario Davis, CB, Washington
The return of Tacario Davis from his rib injury has been a huge boost for Washington this season. In five games, he has two interceptions and has used his length and fluidity efficiently in coverage.
80) Carolina Panthers
Germie Bernard, WR, Alabama
With his inside-outside versatility, return experience, and consistent hands and ball skills, Germie Bernard feels like a safe bet to be a solid complementary weapon in the NFL, which the Panthers could use.
81) Kansas City Chiefs
Gabe Jacas, EDGE, Illinois
By the end of 2025, Gabe Jacas will be a four-year starter at the Big Ten level. He’s a thick, powerful edge rusher who lacks in flash, but he more than makes up for it with his tenacity, hand activity, and instincts rushing the passer.
82) Chicago Bears
Jadarian Price, RB, Notre Dame
Even though he’s not a starter at Notre Dame, an argument could be made that Jadarian Price would start just about everywhere else in the nation. He’s an intelligent downhill runner with good zone vision, contact balance, and agility, which enables him to make big plays.
83) Jacksonville Jaguars (via Lions)
Max Klare, TE, Ohio State
A high-level producer for Purdue in 2024, Max Klare is an athletic and fluid tight end with a high ceiling on passing downs. He’s faded into the background a bit at Ohio State but is still a tight end with an NFL starting ceiling.
84) Jacksonville Jaguars
Jonah Coleman, RB, Washington
If you like your running backs in the bowling ball phenotype, Jonah Coleman is your guy in the 2026 NFL Draft. He’s a stout back who runs with low pads and plays with great ball-carrier vision, patience, and contact balance in between the tackles.
85) Pittsburgh Steelers
Chase Bisontis, OG, Texas A&M
One of multiple future NFL players along Texas A&M’s offensive line, Chase Bisontis won’t wow you as an athlete, but is a sturdy guard with heavy hands who lands his strikes accurately. His motor would fare well along the Steelers’ interior.
86) Los Angeles Chargers
Cayden Green, OG, Missouri
Due to injuries, Missouri has Cayden Green started at left tackle, but he’s a natural guard who I think will kick back inside in the pros. He has the power, athleticism, and hand placement to be a long-term starting guard in the NFL.
87) San Francisco 49ers
Malik Muhammad, CB, Texas
Malik Muhammad is a scrappy cover man who broke up eight passes last year. He’s physical, instinctive, and brings solid athleticism to the table, making him a potential starting option down the line for the 49ers in this 2026 NFL Mock Draft.
88) Green Bay Packers
Gracen Halton, DT, Oklahoma
Gracen Halton is undersized for a defensive tackle at 6’2″ and 291 pounds. But he’s a fantastic athlete with good pad level, quick hands, and a high football IQ. He could be a serious difference maker up front.
89) Los Angeles Rams
Jake Slaughter, C, Florida
After only allowing one sack in 402 pass-blocking reps last year, Jake Slaughter has kept his sterling reputation clean so far in 2025. He’s an innovative and mobile center prospect with eventual starting upside.
90) Buffalo Bills
Tyreak Sapp, EDGE, Florida
Tyreak Sapp is a versatile, high-floor defensive lineman who can win inside or outside on passing downs. Sapp has an explosive first step and a low center of gravity, and he excels at taking on blocks head-on and breaking them down against the run.
91) Seattle Seahawks
Logan Jones, C, Iowa
A converted defensive lineman who started right away and has since become an anchor of Iowa’s offensive line, Logan Jones is an athletic and powerful center with some injury history, but the tape of a future NFL starter.
92) New England Patriots
Zachariah Branch, WR, Georgia
Through two seasons at USC before his transfer to Georgia, Zachariah Branch was one of the most dynamic receivers in football. He’s undersized but thrives in space with elite athleticism and ball-carrier vision that shines when he returns kicks and punts.
93) Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Iapani Laloulu, C, Oregon
Iapani Laloulu is a stout center with a low center of gravity, a powerful anchor, and a red-hot motor. He’s somewhat limited athletically but thrives competing at the point of attack.
94) Indianapolis Colts
Jaishawn Barham, LB, Michigan
Even if Jaishawn Barham won’t wow you as an athlete for the linebacker position, he’s as physical as they come and can deconstruct blocks at a very high level near the line of scrimmage.
95) Miami Dolphins (via Eagles)
Caleb Tiernan, OT, Northwestern
Caleb Tiernan is a massive blocker, standing at 6’7 “and weighing 329 pounds, with gap-zone run-blocking versatility. He has the size, strength, hand usage, and spatial awareness to become a good starter in the NFL.
96) Denver Broncos
Kayden McDonald, DT, Ohio State
Kayden McDonald has shown he can rush the passer a bit up the middle, tallying three sacks thus far in 2025. He’s a thickly-built defender in a 1-technique’s body but has the pass-rushing chops of a 3-technique.
97) Minnesota Vikings (compensatory pick)
Deontae Lawson, LB, Alabama
With his size, physicality, and closing speed as a run defender in pursuit, Deontae Lawson has NFL starting physical tools and could reach his potential in a defensive system like Brian Flores’.
98) Philadelphia Eagles (compensatory pick)
Eric Singleton Jr., WR, Auburn
In two seasons at Georgia Tech, Eric Singleton Jr. showcased inside-outside versatility and elite speed on tape. He’s carried on those traits over to Auburn, so there’s no reason to think he can’t be a serious complementary weapon in the NFL.
99) Pittsburgh Steelers (compensatory pick)
Dontay Corleone, DT, Cincinnati
A stout player with ideal pad level and good hands, Dontay Corleone is one of the best run-stopping defensive tackles in the upcoming 2026 draft class. He’s also quite athletic for a man listed at 335 pounds.
100) Jacksonville Jaguars (compensatory pick via Lions)
Bryce Lance, WR, North Dakota State
The younger brother of Chargers backup QB Trey Lance, Bryce Lance, is a big-bodied deep threat with the size and speed to take the top off the defense. He’s been averaging nearly 71 receiving yards per game over his last two seasons.