As summer scouting takes off and a new college football season nears, the depth and talent likely to be available in the 2026 NFL Draft are beginning to take shape. Texas quarterback Arch Manning is widely considered to be the favorite to go No. 1 in most 2026 mock drafts — but what if he decides to stay at Texas another year?
2026 NFL Mock Draft Without Arch Manning
As the highest-paid collegiate athlete in NIL valuations, Manning makes a lot of money at Texas. His projected NIL deal isn’t as substantial as the one a No. 1 pick in the NFL Draft would receive, but with 2025 being his first year as a starter, teams may be deterred by Manning’s inexperience to select him at No. 1.
In this three-round 2026 NFL Mock Draft, we take a look at how the draft could play out if Manning decides to stay in school for another season, and which quarterbacks would jump up the board as a result. The draft order comes from PFSN’s 2026 NFL Mock Draft Simulator, which you can use to create your own mocks.
1) Cleveland Browns
Cade Klubnik, QB, Clemson
Cade Klubnik made considerable strides in 2024. He’s an accurate passer with good poise in the pocket and underrated mobility. His consistency, rhythm, and decision-making all give him a high floor and project him as a potential long-term starter in the NFL.
Although the Cleveland Browns drafted Dillon Gabriel and Shedeur Sanders in 2025, neither came with the kind of draft capital that typically signals a long-term commitment. If Cleveland finishes with the league’s worst record, they’d be smart to take a swing at a true franchise QB.
2) New York Jets
Garrett Nussmeier, QB, LSU
The New York Jets signed Justin Fields to a two-year deal, but if they finish second-to-last in 2025, it likely means he didn’t pan out — putting them right back in the market for a long-term quarterback.
Garrett Nussmeier isn’t the flashiest QB, but he’s accurate, smart, and calm under pressure. His pocket presence and decision-making stand out. LSU has quietly become a factory for pro-ready quarterbacks, and Nussmeier could be next in line.
3) New Orleans Saints
Rueben Bain Jr., EDGE, Miami (FL)
The New Orleans Saints have a handful of glaring needs heading into the 2025 season, but they go with arguably the best player available at a premier position in this mock draft.
Rueben Bain Jr. is my early EDGE1 for 2026. At 275 pounds, he brings power, short-area quickness, and relentless energy. He plays with excellent pad level, can kick inside, and constantly disrupts plays. He’s the kind of edge rusher who can anchor a defense.
4) Tennessee Titans
Peter Woods, DT, Clemson
With Cam Ward now at quarterback, the Tennessee Titans must build around him during his rookie contract window.
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 to pair with Jeffery Simmons.
5) New York Giants
Kadyn Proctor, OT, Alabama
The New York Giants made some big swings in 2025 with Abdul Carter and Jaxson Dart, but they still have work to do. And at No. 5, BPA is the way to go.
At 6’7″ and 360 pounds, Kadyn Proctor fits the bill. He’s a massive presence with long arms and powerful hands. He’s not just big; he’s coordinated and technically sharp, able to handle power and maintain anchor. He checks every box for a perfect running mate alongside Andrew Thomas in New York.
6) Carolina Panthers
Francis Mauigoa, OT, Miami (FL)
The Carolina Panthers seem to be a franchise on the upswing, but they’re still a few pieces away from contention. Their best bet is to invest in premier positions to surround Bryce Young with valuable assets.
Francis Mauigoa, the younger brother of Jets linebacker Francisco Mauigoa, is a dominant presence in the trenches. He plays with a broad base, refined hands, and smooth footwork in pass sets. If Mauigoa declares, there’s a good chance he’s a first-round lock.
7) Indianapolis Colts
Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana
Should the Indianapolis Colts finish with a top-10 pick in 2026, an argument could be made that they look to draft a quarterback to move on from Anthony Richardson. And in this 2026 NFL Mock Draft, they do just that.
Can’t wait to see Fernando Mendoza at Indiana this season. Dude can sling it pic.twitter.com/MzvkBCnEqD
— Drew Beatty (@IronCityFilm) June 2, 2025
Fernando Mendoza possesses the size, arm strength, and flashes of top-notch accuracy to project as a starting quarterback at the NFL level. If his consistency throwing down the field improves, he should compete to be the first quarterback off the board in 2026.
8) Cleveland Browns (via Jaguars)
Caleb Lomu, OT, Utah
Having drafted a quarterback with their first pick in this mock, the Browns can use their extra first-rounder on an offensive lineman to protect their new franchise passer.
Caleb Lomu is a smooth offensive tackle who only allowed two sacks in 425 pass-blocking snaps in 2024. His hand timing, balance, and range in pass protection make him a top tackle prospect, especially if he continues to bulk up.
9) Las Vegas Raiders
Caleb Downs, S, Ohio State
The Las Vegas Raiders would be best served going true best player available in this 2026 NFL Mock Draft, as they currently lack a ton of blue-chip talent on their roster.
You could make the case that Caleb Downs is the best overall player in college football entering 2025. He’s 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.
10) Los Angeles Rams (via Falcons)
Jeremiyah Love, RB, Notre Dame
Kyren Williams is a top running back in the NFL, and it’s entirely possible the Los Angeles Rams sign him to a long-term extension. However, if they don’t, they’ll likely have a chance to draft a tremendous replacement.
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’d be a natural fit as the primary back for Sean McVay in Los Angeles.
11) Arizona Cardinals
Jordyn Tyson, WR, Arizona State
The Arizona Cardinals have a talented young pairing of weapons in Marvin Harrison Jr. and Trey McBride in the passing game. That said, they’re still one-star target away from a truly loaded offense.
Jordyn Tyson 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.
12) Dallas Cowboys
T.J. Parker, EDGE, Clemson
The Dallas Cowboys didn’t re-sign DeMarcus Lawrence this offseason, leaving Donovan Ezeiruaku and Dante Fowler Jr. to compete for a starting spot opposite Micah Parsons. While you can certainly do worse than those players, the Cowboys could still draft an edge rusher early in 2026 if the value’s there.
T.J. Parker would give them one with elite potential. He had 11 sacks as a sophomore and flashed great burst, bend, and lower body strength. If Parker continues to produce at the level he did in 2024, he’ll be a top pick.
13) Miami Dolphins
Avieon Terrell, CB, Clemson
The Miami Dolphins’ roster has top-tier talent, but it’s thin in certain spots, especially in the secondary. The cornerback position stands out as a clear area for improvement entering 2025, assuming the team trades Jalen Ramsey.
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.
14) New England Patriots
Spencer Fano, G, Utah
Will Campbell was a great selection to protect Drake Maye in Round 1 of the 2025 NFL Draft. And in this 2026 mock, the New England Patriots use their first-round pick on another lineman to boost the offense.
Spencer Fano could project very well as either a tackle or a guard. He’s physical, mobile, and technically sound. These traits could translate to an immediate starting value almost anywhere along New England’s offensive line.
15) Seattle Seahawks
Caleb Banks, DT, Florida
The Seattle Seahawks have some talented young defensive linemen up front, but they’re still one or two moves away from completing that unit.
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, making him a solid fit for Seattle’s defensive line rotation.
16) Chicago Bears
Keldric Faulk, EDGE, Auburn
The Chicago Bears signed Dayo Odeyingbo this past free agency, but his pass-rushing reliability has been hit or miss. In this 2026 NFL Mock Draft, they’re in a perfect position to upgrade alongside Montez Sweat.
Keldric Faulk is a rare athlete at 6’6″ and 288 pounds. 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.
17) Houston Texans
Austin Barber, OT, Florida
The Houston Texans struggled in their OL play in 2024. After trading their best lineman, Laremy Tunsil, to Washington this offseason, it’s hard to believe the unit will improve much, if at all, in 2025.
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. If he can improve his pad level and maximize his physical attributes, Barber could rise even higher when it’s all said and done.
18) Minnesota Vikings
Jermod McCoy, CB, Tennessee
The Minnesota Vikings have a loaded front seven, but the secondary leaves much to be desired. If there’s one thing that could hold back their defense in 2025, it’s inconsistent play from their cornerbacks.
Jermod McCoy has CB1 upside. He 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.
19) Pittsburgh Steelers
LaNorris Sellers, QB, South Carolina
Sixth-round pick Will Howard was a solid flier, but the Pittsburgh Steelers may still be searching for their next franchise quarterback.
Though LaNorris Sellers isn’t the consensus QB1 in the 2026 class, he might have the best physical tools of any quarterback in college football. Sellers is strong-armed, athletic, tough to sack, and more accurate than he gets credit for.
20) Denver Broncos
Dillon Thieneman, S, Oregon
A team on the rise with Sean Payton and Bo Nix leading the way, the Denver Broncos go back to the Oregon well in this 2026 NFL Mock Draft.
Dillon Thieneman’s production dipped in 2024, but his transfer to Oregon could help him return to form. 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.
21) Tampa Bay Buccaneers
CJ Allen, LB, Georgia
Lavonte David has been the Tampa Bay Buccaneers’ defensive cornerstone for well over a decade, but he could use a running mate and/or eventual replacement when the time comes for him to call it a career.
With impressive speed, agility, instincts against the run, and consistent tackling form, CJ Allen is a true rangy linebacker with elite range as a tackler.
22) Los Angeles Chargers
Dani Dennis-Sutton, EDGE, Penn State
The Los Angeles Chargers addressed most of their needs throughout the 2025 NFL offseason. But with Khalil Mack only on a one-year deal, they could look to find a long-term option for their defensive line off the edge.
Dani Dennis-Sutton broke out with 8.5 sacks in 2024 and likely would’ve been a Day 2 pick had he declared last year. He’s a strong, long, explosive edge defender who has developed well as a pass-rush technician. Dennis-Sutton would bring real juice to the Chargers’ front seven.
23) Green Bay Packers
DJ McKinney, CB, Colorado
The Green Bay Packers had a weakness at cornerback before releasing Jaire Alexander. Now that the former Pro Bowler is gone, though, the position really stands out as a need on their roster.
DJ McKinney is a big cornerback at 6’2″ and 190 pounds. He allowed a passer rating of just 60.5 last year with three interceptions for Colorado. McKinney’s ball skills and size-adjusted athleticism make him a worthy selection late in the first round.
24) Los Angeles Rams
Malik Muhammad, CB, Texas
After grabbing a running back earlier, the Rams turn their attention to the secondary with their second first-rounder. With a young DL already in place, they target help in the defensive backfield.
Malik Muhammad is a scrappy cover man who broke up eight passes last year. He’s physical, instinctive, and brings solid athleticism to a secondary that’s almost complete.
25) San Francisco 49ers
Ar’maj Reed-Adams, G, Texas A&M
The San Francisco 49ers have more questions than answers along their offensive line. Even with Trent Williams being an ageless wonder and Dominick Puni coming off a strong rookie year, they’re still a few pieces away.
A powerful guard prospect with a sturdy 330-pound frame, Ar’maj Reed-Adams could be the best pure guard in the 2026 draft. He’s dominant at the point of attack with a strong anchor and underrated short-area quickness.
26) Cincinnati Bengals
Matayo Uiagalelei, EDGE, Oregon
With Tee Higgins, Ja’Marr Chase, and Joe Burrow all locked up, the Cincinnati Bengals should focus on rebuilding the defense.
Matayo Uiagalelei, younger brother of QB DJ Uiagalelei, had 10.5 sacks in 2024 and earned first-team All-Big Ten honors. He’s an advanced technician for his age, with versatility along the entire defensive line and tremendous hand usage.
27) Washington Commanders
Nicholas Singleton, RB, Penn State
With weapons like Terry McLaurin and Deebo Samuel Sr., the Washington Commanders are in good shape in the passing game. However, their RB group currently leaves much to be desired.
After rushing for over 1,000 yards in 2024, Nicholas Singleton is one of the top returning senior prospects in the 2026 NFL Draft. He’s an explosive north-south runner with the speed and power to serve as a bowling ball up the middle.
28) Baltimore Ravens
Carnell Tate, WR, Ohio State
Zay Flowers seems to be the WR1 the Baltimore Ravens have needed in recent years. However, with DeAndre Hopkins a short-term addition and Rashod Bateman better suited for a complementary role, adding another receiver in Round 1 makes sense, given the value in this 2026 NFL Mock Draft.
Ohio State WR Carnell Tate is the epitome of smooth pic.twitter.com/2jU1H0yVtg
— Joe DeLeone (@joedeleone) June 3, 2025
Keep an eye on Carnell Tate now that he doesn’t have Emeka Egbuka competing for touches in Ohio State’s offense. He’s a tall, explosive receiver with good spatial awareness against zone coverage. He has serious deep-threat potential.
29) Detroit Lions
Cayden Green, G, Missouri
The Detroit Lions have few holes, but their interior offensive line has questions after Frank Ragnow and Kevin Zeitler’s departures this offseason.
Missouri had Armand Membou selected in the first round this year, and don’t be surprised if they have another offensive lineman go in Round 1 in 2026 with Cayden Green. He has the power, athleticism, and hand placement to be a long-term starting guard in the NFL.
30) Buffalo Bills
Anthony Hill Jr., LB, Texas
The Buffalo Bills are deep up front, but loading up their defense will be key to keep pace with contenders like Kansas City and Baltimore.
Anthony Hill Jr. put up 113 tackles, 17 tackles for loss, and eight sacks in 2024. He’s explosive, tough, and rangy, and he carries significant blitz upside.
31) Kansas City Chiefs
A.J. Harris, CB, Penn State
While the Kansas City Chiefs remain the class of the AFC, they could stand to add some investments in the secondary going forward, particularly at cornerback alongside Trent McDuffie.
At 6’1″ and 193 pounds, A.J. Harris has ideal size and length for the CB position. Though he’s a taller corner, Harris is a tremendous athlete with fluid hips and encouraging lateral quickness coming out of his breaks.
32) Philadelphia Eagles
Christen Miller, DT, Georgia
The Philadelphia Eagles have shown a penchant for two things: consistently investing in the defensive line and drafting Georgia players. This accomplishes both!
Christen Miller is a stout run defender with upside on passing downs due to his short-area quickness. He should get more reps in 2025 to boost his stock.
Round 2 | 33) Cleveland Browns
Antonio Williams, WR, Clemson
The Browns have maximized Jerry Jeudy’s potential, giving them a legitimate WR1. That said, they could still use another dynamic offensive weapon.
Antonio Williams is an athletic receiver who can get open outside or in the slot. His agility after the catch should make him a reliable complementary weapon in the NFL.
34) New York Jets
Denzel Boston, WR, Washington
Garrett Wilson has been an excellent investment for the Jets, but they’ll need another wide receiver for their new quarterback. At 6’4″ with a career drop rate of just 4.1%, Denzel Boston is a physical boundary receiver with sticky hands and good body control.
35) New Orleans Saints
Drew Allar, QB, Penn State
Is Tyler Shough going to be the answer at quarterback for the Saints? Will Spencer Rattler or Jake Haener? My guesses for each of those potential solutions point to “no.”
Drew Allar is a big-bodied quarterback with a strong arm who displayed much improved accuracy in 2024. With another strong season in 2025, he might not fall this far in real life.
36) Tennessee Titans
Ja’Kobi Lane, WR, USC
As the Titans look to build around Ward, the most important thing for them will be to invest in offensive infrastructure around him.
Ja’Kobi Lane is a projection here at this point, but he’s a 6’4″ receiver with tremendous ball skills and better athleticism than most his size. He has the potential to rise up draft boards with a larger workload in 2025.
37) New York Giants
Kenyon Sadiq, TE, Oregon
Theo Johnson impressed as a rookie in 2024 before a season-ending injury. If the Giants want to go elsewhere at tight end, though, they’ll have options in this 2026 NFL Mock Draft.
Though he’s been a backup at Oregon leading up to 2025, Kenyon Sadiq has the chance to be a breakout star this upcoming season. 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.
38) Carolina Panthers
LT Overton, EDGE, Alabama
I liked that the Panthers doubled down at edge rusher with Nic Scourton and Princely Umanmielen in the 2025 NFL Draft. NFL teams will tell you that there’s no such thing as too many pass rushers.
LT Overton is a powerful, high-motivated defensive lineman with versatility along the front lines. He should defend the run well early on and has the size-adjusted quickness to project well rushing the passer.
39) Indianapolis Colts
Isaiah World, OT, Oregon
After taking a quarterback in Round 1 of this mock draft, the Colts look to protect Mendoza with an uber-talented OT. Isaiah World excelled at Nevada and now brings his game to Oregon. At 6’8″, he’s a massive, mobile lineman, and his upside is undeniable.
40) Jacksonville Jaguars
Suntarine Perkins, LB, Ole Miss
Without a first-round pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, the pressure will be on the Jacksonville Jaguars to get it right with their pick in Round 2.
Though he’s undersized for an off-ball linebacker, Suntaine Perkins is an elite athlete on defense with a high motor and the ability to rush off the edge, cover in the slot, and defend in the box.
41) Las Vegas Raiders
Will Lee III, CB, Texas A&M
Eric Stokes and Darien Porter headlined the Raiders’ additions to their cornerback room this offseason, but the unit could still use improvement.
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.
42) Atlanta Falcons
Parker Brailsford, C, Alabama
After incumbent starter Drew Dalman left for Chicago in free agency, the Falcons find themselves with a hole at center. An athletic interior lineman with impressive body control and a high football IQ, Parker Brailsford has displayed impressive tape between his stints at Washington and Alabama.
43) Arizona Cardinals
Jalon Kilgore, S, South Carolina
Budda Baker has been a fixture of the Cardinals’ defense since he was drafted in 2017. Getting him a strong running mate and eventual successor could be a smart move.
Jalon Kilgore is a big 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.
44) Dallas Cowboys
Tacario Davis, CB, Washington
If the Cowboys prove unable to re-sign Daron Bland this offseason, they will likely be in the market for a cornerback in the 2026 NFL Draft.
Had he declared for this year’s draft, Tacario Davis likely would’ve been a Day 2 selection. His length and fluidity give him legitimate starting upside along the perimeter in the pros.
45) Miami Dolphins
Domani Jackson, CB, Alabama
Two cornerbacks with their first two picks might sound bold for the Dolphins. But in this 2026 NFL Mock Draft, the value is there.
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.
46) New England Patriots
Zachariah Branch, WR, Georgia
Lining up with their Round 1 pick in this 2026 NFL Mock Draft, the Patriots would be wise to spend heavy draft capital on offense next offseason.
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.
47) Seattle Seahawks
Blake Miller, OT, Clemson
Grey Zabel was a good addition to Seattle’s offensive line in this year’s draft, but the team still needs a piece or two up front. Though not an elite athlete, Blake Miller has above-average play strength, hand usage, and a high motor that should make him a solid starter at tackle or guard.
48) Chicago Bears
Makhi Hughes, RB, Oregon
The Bears didn’t invest heavily at running back this offseason. Given that D’Andre Swift underperformed in 2024 and has an opt-out clause in his contract for next year, expect that to change in 2026.
Makhi Hughes ran for a combined 2,779 yards and 22 touchdowns in his first two seasons at Tulane. Now moving to Oregon, he brings zone-gap versatility, impressive physicality, and good lateral quickness to the table. Hughes projects well as a starting RB in the pros.
49) Houston Texans
Dontay Corleone, DT, Cincinnati
The Texans have a strong edge-rushing duo in Will Anderson Jr. and Danielle Hunter, but they need to improve their play on the interior. 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.
50) Minnesota Vikings
Kaytron Allen, RB, Penn State
Aaron Jones topped 1,100 rushing yards in his first year with the Vikings, exceeding expectations. At 30 years old, though, he probably isn’t a long-term option at running back.
Kaytron Allen is a tough, physical runner with good ball-carrier vision in between the tackles. He splits carries at Penn State but could be a full-time starter in the NFL.
51) Pittsburgh Steelers
Eric Singleton Jr., WR, Auburn
DK Metcalf is an upgrade as the Steelers’ WR1 over George Pickens. But after trading the latter to Dallas, Pittsburgh could still use another complementary receiver on offense.
In two seasons at Georgia Tech, Eric Singleton Jr. showcased inside-outside versatility and elite speed on tape. If he continues his upward trajectory at Auburn, Singleton could be a riser on draft boards next year.
52) Denver Broncos
Gabe Jacas, EDGE, Illinois
The Broncos have arguably the most underrated edge rusher duo in the NFL in Jonathon Cooper and Nik Bonitto. That said, drafting a valuable third rusher to keep those two fresh might not be a bad idea.
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.
53) Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Tyreak Sapp, EDGE, Florida
Haason Reddick figures to provide the Buccaneers with a pass-rushing boost in 2025. With his age and past attendance issues, though, he’s hardly one to rely on as a long-term contributor.
Enter Tyreak Sapp, who’s a versatile 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.
54) Los Angeles Chargers
Charles Jagusah, G, Notre Dame
Building in the trenches is the name of the game for Jim Harbaugh. And although he hasn’t been a full-time starter in college yet, Charles Jagusah was a five-star prospect in high school who excelled in the postseason for Notre Dame at right guard. Jagusah is massive at 6’7″ and 330 pounds, bringing a rare combination of size, strength, and quickness to the table.
55) Green Bay Packers
Kage Casey, OT, Boise State
Recent draft picks like Jordan Morgan and Anthony Belton should help shore up the Packers’ OL, but they could still use another piece to add to the puzzle.
Arguably the best performer on an offensive line that paved the way for Ashton Jeanty, Kage Casey is an intelligent pass protector and powerful run blocker who could grow into a decent starting tackle.
56) Los Angeles Rams
Emmanuel Pregnon, G, Oregon
The Rams haven’t necessarily had a subpar OL in recent years, but one can’t help but feel like some investment along the interior could be helpful. Luckily for them, they find good value in this 2026 NFL Mock Draft.
With proper weight distribution and good play strength, Emmanuel Pregnon holds his own at the point of attack. If he can improve the consistency of his strike placement, he could go even higher than this in 2026.
57) San Francisco 49ers
Mansoor Delane, CB, LSU
After losing Charvarius Ward this offseason, the 49ers find themselves with some questions at cornerback, particularly along the perimeter.
Though he likely would’ve been a Day 2 pick this past draft cycle, Mansoor Delane could be a first-round pick in 2026 with another strong year. He’s a lengthy CB who thrives in zone coverage with good fluidity and instincts underneath.
58) Cincinnati Bengals
D’Angelo Ponds, CB, Indiana
After addressing the defensive line in Round 1 of this 2026 NFL Mock Draft, the Bengals continue their focus on a defense that needs plenty of work.
In his last two seasons, D’Angelo Ponds has tallied five interceptions. 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.
59) Houston Texans (via Commanders)
Jaeden Roberts, G, Alabama
After taking a tackle earlier in this mock, the Texans wisely continue their heavy focus on their offensive line with a pick they received in the Tunsil trade. With above-average play strength and hand usage, Jaeden Roberts is a sturdy offensive lineman who has the power and demeanor to bully defenders along the interior.
60) Baltimore Ravens
Deontae Lawson, LB, Alabama
Roquan Smith might be the best off-ball linebacker in the NFL today. Maintaining a strong level of play alongside him will be key to keeping him at a high level.
I can see Deontae Lawson filling in as either a MIKE or SAM linebacker at a high level in the pros. He’s big, physical, and showcases good closing speed in space.
61) Detroit Lions
Anto Saka, EDGE, Northwestern
The Lions yearned for another reliable edge rusher opposite Aidan Hutchinson last year. It remains a need for them going into 2025.
This is a projection placing Anto Saka this high, since he was a backup his first two years at Northwestern. However, the tools are in place for him to become a massive breakout star in 2025. 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.
62) Buffalo Bills
Zane Durant, DT, Penn State
As previously mentioned, loading up on dynamic defenders will be key for the Bills to maintain long-term success in a loaded AFC and potentially get over the hump.
With tremendous first-step quickness and a low center of gravity, Zane Durant is a disruptive DT with the potential to wreak havoc on passing downs in the NFL.
63) Kansas City Chiefs
David Bailey, EDGE, Texas Tech
The Chiefs have a decision to make regarding whether to sign George Karlaftis to a contract extension. Even if they do, adding another talented edge rusher to the mix wouldn’t be a bad idea.
David Bailey recorded seven sacks in 2024 for Stanford, showcasing outstanding athleticism and quick hands off the edge. Now at Texas Tech, he’ll look to continue his upward trajectory as a pass-rushing specialist.
64) Philadelphia Eagles
Elijah Sarratt, WR, Indiana
The Philadelphia Eagles might have the best wide receiver tandem in the NFL in A.J. Brown and DeVonta Smith. But, for as good as their offense has been in recent years, they haven’t been able to find a reliable WR3.
Elijah Sarratt is a 6’2″, 209-pound receiver who excelled in the jump from James Madison to Indiana last year. He’s a physical weapon with a large catch radius who can serve as a reliable possession receiver.
Round 3 | 65) Cleveland Browns
Cashius Howell, EDGE, Texas A&M
Keep an eye on Cashius Howell as a breakout star in 2025. He shined as a rotational defender last year, displaying tremendous acceleration and flexibility off the edge.
66) Philadelphia Eagles (via Jets)
Davison Igbinosun, CB, Ohio State
Though still improving his coverage instincts, Davison Igbinosun has the length and quickness that teams drool over at cornerback.
67) New Orleans Saints
Sonny Styles, LB, Ohio State
An explosive, versatile defender in a similar mold to Isaiah Simmons coming out, Sonny Styles will require proper deployment of his skill set, but offers tremendous upside.
68) Tennessee Titans
Keon Sabb, S, Alabama
Keon Sabb is an intelligent, hard-hitting safety who can defend the run and make plays in coverage at a high level. He’s a high-floor prospect who should end up starting in the league.
69) Houston Texans (via Giants)
CJ Baxter, RB, Texas
Though he missed the 2024 season due to injury, CJ Baxter looked tremendous as a freshman in 2023. He’s a big runner who’s tough in between the tackles and sees the whole field exceptionally well.
70) Carolina Panthers
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 should be able to thrive under a brighter spotlight at Ohio State.
71) Indianapolis Colts
Earnest Greene III, G, Georgia
Though primarily a tackle in college, I view Earnest Greene III best as a guard at the next level. His physicality and athleticism give him starting upside in the NFL wherever he ends up playing.
72) Jacksonville Jaguars
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.
73) Las Vegas Raiders
John Mateer, QB, Oklahoma
Geno Smith is a great short-term option at quarterback for the Raiders, but they’ll need a successor eventually. John Mateer is a true gamer who’s accurate and tough, even if his physical ceiling is average.
74) Atlanta Falcons
Oscar Delp, TE, Georgia
With his reliable hands, downfield athleticism, and fluidity as a route runner, Oscar Delp would be a sound replacement for Kyle Pitts down the road.
75) Arizona Cardinals
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 and could rise to the next level with another strong season in 2025.
76) Pittsburgh Steelers
Christian Gray, CB, Notre Dame
Christian Gray is coming off a strong campaign for Notre Dame in 2024, displaying ball-hawking ability with three interceptions and nine pass deflections. He has a nose for the ball and isn’t afraid to compete at the catch point.
77) Miami Dolphins
DeMonte Capehart, DT, Clemson
Surprising some by going back to Clemson for another year, DeMonte Capehart is a pro-ready run defender with ideal grip strength, a stout anchor, and good instincts deconstructing blocks up the middle.
78) New England Patriots
Mikail Kamara, EDGE, Indiana
There are longer and faster edge rushers than Mikail Kamara in the 2026 draft. That said, few have as deep a pass-rushing arsenal and are as intelligent against the run as he is.
79) Seattle Seahawks
Patrick Payton, EDGE, LSU
A top recruit in the transfer portal for LSU, Patrick Payton displayed NFL-level quickness and effort rushing off the edge for Florida State last season.
80) Chicago Bears
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.
81) Miami Dolphins (via Texans)
Kevin Concepcion, WR, Texas A&M
Kevin Concepcion is a dynamic receiver with tremendous YAC ability. The hope is that a transfer from NC State to Texas A&M will allow him to utilize his agility and vision in space correctly.
82) Minnesota Vikings
Jalen Catalon, S, Missouri
The medicals will have to come back clean for Jalen Catalon, who’s dealt with nagging injuries and subsequent transfers throughout his career. That said, everywhere he’s gone, Catalon’s been a smart safety with impressive ball skills and a red-hot motor.
83) Pittsburgh Steelers (via Cowboys)
Keanu Tanuvasa, DT, BYU
A strong and smart defensive tackle who can stop the run very well, Keanu Tanuvasa gives the Steelers more DL depth in this 2026 NFL Mock Draft.
84) Denver Broncos
Evan Stewart, WR, Oregon
Evan Stewart falls a bit due to a knee injury he suffered this offseason, but when healthy, he’s a twitchy slot receiver who can get open and make defenders miss after the catch.
85) Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Jack Velling, TE, Michigan State
An athletic TE with good size and receiving production, Jack Velling would be good insurance in case the Buccaneers don’t keep Cade Otton around long term.
86) Los Angeles Chargers
Darrell Jackson Jr., DT, Florida State
Darrell Jackson Jr. gives the Chargers a pro-ready run defender with extraordinary power at the point of attack in this 2026 NFL Mock Draft.
87) Green Bay Packers
Trey Moore, EDGE, Texas
It wasn’t the 14-sack season he had at UTSA in 2023, but Trey Moore put together a solid outing for Texas last year. An increase in sack production could shoot up even higher in these rankings.
88) Los Angeles Rams
Nico Iamaleava, QB, UCLA
The Rams currently don’t have a long-term QB option after Matthew Stafford retires. It would make sense to take a shot on a big-armed, athletic yet raw quarterback in Nico Iamaleava on Day 2 of the 2026 NFL Draft.
89) San Francisco 49ers
Quintrevion Wisner, RB, Texas
Reaching 1,060 rushing yards in 2024, Quintrevion Wisner is a speedy running back with big-play potential who would feast in the 49ers’ zone-heavy run scheme.
90) Cincinnati Bengals
Jake Slaughter, C, Florida
After only allowing one sack in 402 pass-blocking reps last year, Jake Slaughter enters the CFB season as one of the best interior linemen. He’s a smart and mobile center prospect with eventual starting upside.
91) Washington Commanders
Jaishawn Barham, LB, Michigan
A big, physical off-ball linebacker who can take on blocks very well, Jaishawn Barham might be the best blitzing LB entering the 2026 NFL Draft.
92) Baltimore Ravens
Justice Haynes, RB, Michigan
He hasn’t had much of a chance to show it, but Justice Haynes was a five-star recruit in high school for a reason. Transferring from Alabama to Michigan, he’s a patient runner who’s quick and has proper contact balance.
93) Jacksonville Jaguars (via Lions)
Jaydn Ott, RB, Oklahoma
Jaydn Ott was very productive at California before transferring to Oklahoma late in the offseason. He’s a powerful RB with good size and solid ball-carrier vision.
94) Buffalo Bills
Fa’alili Fa’amoe, OT, Wake Forest
A former defensive lineman who converted to offense after two years in college, Fa’alili Fa’amoe is a raw blocker but one who plays with impressive foot speed and violence on tape.
95) Kansas City Chiefs
Eli Stowers, TE, Vanderbilt
He’s a little bit light in the pants, but Eli Stowers is a fluid, explosive tight end who can stretch the field vertically and offers eventual starting upside at the NFL level.
96) Philadelphia Eagles
Lander Barton, LB, Utah
Lander Barton is an athletic off-ball linebacker whose fluidity and range make him valuable in coverage and against the run. If he cleans up his missed tackles, he’ll go higher than this in real life.
97) Jacksonville Jaguars (via Lions)
Sam Leavitt, QB, Arizona State
With better consistency in 2025, Sam Leavitt could be the breakout quarterback of this upcoming draft class. He’s a mobile QB who’s got some serious zip on the ball.