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Mel Kiper Jr.
Multiple Authors
While over 300 prospects will gather in Indianapolis this week for the combine, only 32 of them will ultimately be chosen in the first round of the 2026 NFL draft on April 23. Let’s unveil those projected selections in my second mock draft for this season.
You might notice some continuities from my January forecasts; significant shifts on the draft board haven’t quite materialized yet. However, I anticipate some players making big jumps during combine workouts, and it’s important to remember that NFL team needs will evolve rapidly during free agency in March, creating major ripples in the first round. I’m not predicting any trades in this particular mock draft, although four picks have already changed hands: The Rams hold the Falcons’ selection, the Jets possess the Colts’ selection, the Cowboys have the Packers’ selection, and the Browns acquired the Jaguars’ selection.
Here is my current assessment of how Round 1 could unfold, based on insights from executives, scouts, and coaches across the league. For more detailed analysis, be sure to tune into “NFL Draft Daily” at 3 p.m. ET on ESPN2 throughout the week.
Further insights on the 2026 NFL draft:
Kiper’s Big Board | Latest mock drafts
Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana
I won’t linger on this pick: Mendoza heading to the Raiders seems quite apparent at this juncture. The trade for Geno Smith didn’t fully address Las Vegas’s post-Derek Carr quarterback situation, and new coach Klint Kubiak will undoubtedly seek a franchise signal-caller to anchor his offensive scheme. Mendoza is my top-rated prospect and stands head and shoulders above other QBs in this class, characterized by his fierce competitiveness and exceptional accuracy in ball placement.
Should the Raiders bolster their receiving corps with one or two additions during free agency and potentially fortify the offensive line, this offense could advance significantly with Mendoza, Kubiak, running back Ashton Jeanty, and tight end Brock Bowers leading the charge.
Caleb Downs, S, Ohio State
This would mark the highest a safety has been drafted since Eric Turner was picked second overall in 1991. Downs, however, is certainly deserving. He possesses an exceptional ability to diagnose opposing offenses, complemented by his agility, physicality, and ball-hawking skills to impact both run and pass plays. He can genuinely elevate a defense’s potential from the secondary, accumulating six interceptions, 18 tackles for loss, and 22 run stops over his three collegiate seasons. The Jets’ defense recorded not a single interception in 2025—yes, you read that correctly—and only the Cowboys conceded more points (29.6 per game). Furthermore, Andre Cisco is entering free agency.
David Bailey, OLB, Texas Tech
A difficult decision here between Bailey and Ohio State’s Arvell Reese. While I rank Reese slightly higher on my personal board, the Cardinals might lean towards the player with more established production. Bailey logged 14.5 sacks, 23 tackles for loss, 71 pressures, and three forced fumbles last season. Simply put, he’s a disruptive force against the quarterback. That’s precisely what the Cardinals need, having managed only 30 sacks last season, tied for the third-lowest total in the NFL.
And yes, the team might require a new quarterback this offseason if they part ways with Kyler Murray. However, it’s too early to gamble on the draft class’s second-best QB when Arizona has other significant roster deficiencies. I would anticipate the Cardinals addressing their quarterback situation through free agency and then prioritizing defense in Round 1—despite new coach Mike LaFleur’s background in offense.
Arvell Reese, LB, Ohio State
Reese’s keen instincts and explosive burst are evident throughout his game film. I’m currently evaluating him as a linebacker, a position where he could significantly aid Tennessee. However, new coach Robert Saleh might very well deploy him on the edge, where he spent the majority of his time in 2025. Although the Titans’ 42 sacks ranked 12th last season, 11 of those came from interior defensive tackle Jeffery Simmons. The edge pass rush remains a vulnerability. Reese could be a high-impact contributor to this unit regardless of where he lines up.
Spencer Fano, OT, Utah
In January, I had Ohio State receiver Carnell Tate slotted here. That’s still a very plausible scenario, as New York needs a WR2 to complement Malik Nabers. However, it matters little who Jaxson Dart throws to if he doesn’t have ample time to release the ball. Fano started 36 games across three seasons, conceding just four sacks in total (and only one over the past two years after transitioning from left to right tackle). His technique and raw power are exceptional. If free agent Jermaine Eluemunor doesn’t return, I envision Fano seamlessly stepping into the RT position, helping to protect Dart and clearing paths for running back Cam Skattebo.
Carnell Tate, WR, Ohio State
Similar to the Giants, the Browns are in need of offensive line and receiver reinforcements. Unlike the Giants, however, the Browns possess two first-round picks. So, while Miami lineman Francis Mauigoa presents an enticing option here, Cleveland would likely capitalize on securing their preferred receiver from this class and defer addressing the offensive line until later. Tate currently tops the receiver rankings, boasting excellent hands and sophisticated route running. Cleveland’s wideouts collectively accounted for just four touchdowns last season, so after an 875-yard, nine-TD campaign, Tate could immediately become a primary target for the Browns.
Sonny Styles, LB, Ohio State
This pick would make Styles the fourth Ohio State player chosen within the top seven selections—the most ever from a single school, according to ESPN Research. Styles is generating considerable buzz across the league right now, and his combine performance, should he participate in workouts, will be captivating. The former safety displays genuine speed on his impressive 6-foot-4, 243-pound frame.
With the Commanders’ defense yielding 6.0 yards per play last season (tied for third-worst) and potentially losing 35-year-old free agent Bobby Wagner in the middle, this pairing makes perfect sense. However, keep an eye on Miami edge rusher Rueben Bain Jr. and the overall receiver class if the board unfolds differently.
Makai Lemon, WR, USC
Quarterback Tyler Shough showed flashes of potential late in his rookie season, but now the Saints must facilitate his development in Year 2. In my initial mock draft, I projected Arizona State’s Jordyn Tyson to New Orleans, and while I’m sticking with the same position, I’m now leaning towards Lemon. He aggressively attacks the ball in the air and would be a highly productive target for Shough after accumulating 1,156 yards in 2025. Regardless of whether Chris Olave figures into the team’s long-term strategy, New Orleans could enhance its offense with a player like Lemon running routes from the slot.
Jeremiyah Love, RB, Notre Dame
Love is my No. 2 overall prospect, exhibiting elite vision and explosive burst. He possesses the ability to break for a touchdown whenever he touches the ball, and his receiving skills out of the backfield ensure he can remain on the field for third downs. Isiah Pacheco and Kareem Hunt are free agents, and their ground game wasn’t exactly stellar last season anyway. Love—who amassed 1,372 rushing yards and 18 rushing touchdowns in 2025—could introduce an entirely new dimension to the Kansas City offense.
Rueben Bain Jr., DE, Miami
If Bain remains available at pick No. 10, the Bengals should rush to submit his name. This defense has struggled significantly for several years, and the situation could worsen if Trey Hendrickson departs in free agency. Last year’s selection of Shemar Stewart hasn’t yet yielded immediate dividends, either. However, Bain possesses the capability to dismantle opposing game plans. He combines power, speed, and excellent bend, recording 9.5 sacks in 2025. Defensive coordinator Al Golden could strategically move him across the defensive line to exploit matchup advantages and unleash him as a pass-rushing threat.
Francis Mauigoa, OT/G, Miami
The Dolphins’ quarterback situation is still up in the air as they explore potential trade options for Tua Tagovailoa. Nevertheless, Alabama’s Ty Simpson would be a reach at this point. So, let’s instead direct our attention to the offensive line. Right tackle Austin Jackson—the team’s last first-round selection on the offensive line back in 2020—has battled injuries, and his fill-in, Larry Borom, is a free agent. Mauigoa brings 42 starts of experience and a relentless, mauling approach. Moreover, he could retain his parking pass at Hard Rock Stadium, transitioning from the Hurricanes.
If Jackson maintains his health and solidifies the RT position, Mauigoa could easily slide inside to guard. Some scouts believe he’s a better fit there, and his arm length measurements this week at the combine will attract considerable scrutiny.
Mansoor Delane, CB, LSU
No team surrendered more passing plays of 25 yards or longer last season than the Cowboys (46). Trevon Diggs was cut at season’s end, and DaRon Bland is recovering from his second left foot surgery in two years. As if these weren’t clear enough indicators for Dallas, the entire cornerback class remains available at pick No. 12. Delane can effectively neutralize opposing receivers while also consistently making plays on the ball. He accounted for 11 pass breakups and two interceptions last season.
Jermod McCoy, CB, Tennessee
There’s no alteration for the Rams’ initial pick from my previous mock draft. McCoy saw no action in 2025 after tearing an ACL last January, making his medical evaluations this week in Indianapolis critically important. However, his on-the-ball production is undeniable, with four interceptions and nine pass breakups in 2024.
The Rams possess a roster capable of reaching the Super Bowl, and quarterback Matthew Stafford is slated to return for another season. Yet, cornerback stands out as a clear vulnerability; GM Les Snead must prioritize addressing this position this offseason.
Jordyn Tyson, WR, Arizona State
The Ravens should rebound strongly in 2026, but they will be seeking a legitimate outside receiver with reliable hands to absorb a high volume of Lamar Jackson’s targets. Choosing Tyson here would allow Zay Flowers to thrive in the slot—his optimal position—and elevate the entire offense. Tyson hauled in eight touchdown passes in 2025 and excels in contested catch situations, benefiting from his 6-foot-2 frame and overall strength.
This would mark the sixth time Baltimore has selected a pass catcher in the first round since 2015, but the team clearly requires more options in the aerial attack. Rashod Bateman has been inconsistent, and DeAndre Hopkins, Isaiah Likely, and Tylan Wallace are all set to become free agents.
CJ Allen, LB, Georgia
Lavonte David recorded 114 tackles last season, but he cannot play indefinitely. He is 36 years old and joins fellow linebacker Anthony Walker Jr. in free agency this offseason. Allen is a versatile three-down linebacker who blends speed with power to make plays in coverage, against the run, and as a blitzer. He might be the third-best linebacker in this class, but he’s a top-25 prospect overall. He would be an excellent fit under coach Todd Bowles as the Bucs aim to retool and reclaim the NFC South title.
Peter Woods, DT, Clemson
The Jets are back on the clock, and after providing them with a game-changing safety in Caleb Downs earlier, I’m now projecting a Quinnen Williams replacement. Three Jets defensive tackles are entering free agency, and the team has lacked a truly impactful presence in the middle of the defensive line since trading Williams at the deadline. Woods didn’t register elite production in 2025, but his film was still highly impressive. He possesses the raw power to be a dominant force at the 3-technique position for New York.
I had the Jets drafting Alabama quarterback Ty Simpson here in January. That scenario is still conceivable. However, the Jets hold three first-round picks in 2027, a year when the quarterback class is anticipated to be significantly stronger. It makes more strategic sense to secure a bridge quarterback in 2026 and concentrate on rebuilding the defense before targeting someone like Arch Manning or Dante Moore next spring.
Zion Young, DE, Missouri
We’ve been advocating for the Lions to acquire a long-term pass-rushing threat opposite Aidan Hutchinson for quite some time. Al-Quadin Muhammad had a surprising breakout season last year with 11 sacks, but he’s a free agent. Tyrus Wheat was the next best in sacks among pure edge rushers… with a mere 1.5. So, although the interior offensive line might warrant consideration (Penn State’s Olaivavega Ioane?), Detroit absolutely must address the lack of depth on the edge. Young showcases strong hands and excellent quickness, recording 6.5 sacks and 46 pressures last season.
Dillon Thieneman, S, Oregon
Harrison Smith is 37 years old; he might choose retirement this offseason, and even if he returns, Minnesota’s safety room still requires fresh talent. How about a clone of Smith? Thieneman might not possess Smith’s 6-foot-2 stature (he’s 6-foot), but he adeptly reads quarterbacks and displays a high football IQ. This is crucial in defensive coordinator Brian Flores’s scheme, which places significant demands on rookies. Moreover, Thieneman offers positional versatility, is a formidable presence against the run, and enjoyed a six-interception season at Purdue in 2023 before transferring to Oregon. He would be a seamless addition to the Vikings’ defense.
Keldric Faulk, DE, Auburn
The Panthers made strides last season, but their pass rush continues to lag. Their 30 sacks tied for the third-fewest in the NFL, and their 26.6% pressure rate ranked second-lowest. I was impressed with what I saw from second-round rookie Nic Scourton (five sacks), but Carolina needs more impact. Faulk is a true people-mover, and while he only recorded two sacks last season, he had seven in 2024. If defensive coordinator Ejiro Evero can unlock Faulk’s full potential, this pick could prove to be a tremendous value in a few years.
Akheem Mesidor, DE, Miami
This marks an all-defense first round for Dallas—first a cornerback (Mansoor Delane at No. 12), and now an edge rusher. Of course, Mesidor wouldn’t be a direct replacement for Micah Parsons, who was sorely missed in Dallas last season. However, with 12.5 sacks in the final season of a six-year college career, Mesidor would at least ignite the pass rush and begin to bolster that unit. Jadeveon Clowney was the sole Cowboys player to surpass six sacks in 2025 (8.5), and he’s a free agent. Jerry Jones must commit to utilizing premium picks on the edge, particularly given one of the league’s tighter cap situations.
Ty Simpson, QB, Alabama
The Steelers need to consider the quarterback position with a more extended perspective. They could bring back Aaron Rodgers or opt for another veteran stopgap to keep them competitive next season, but even pursuing that route, they should still address their long-term future at the position. Simpson has only 15 starts to his name, and his 2025 season was inconsistent, yet his game holds considerable promise. He adeptly navigates the pocket and threw 28 touchdown passes to just five interceptions last season. Pittsburgh could allow him to develop behind an experienced veteran for a period before entrusting him with the offense.
Olaivavega Ioane, G, Penn State
Many of the Chargers’ offensive line difficulties can be attributed to injuries sustained by tackles Joe Alt and Rashawn Slater. However, the interior line faced its own set of challenges. Zion Johnson (now a free agent) and Mekhi Becton both struggled at guard. GM Joe Hortiz must take decisive action to prevent quarterback Justin Herbert from enduring so many hits every Sunday, and Ioane offers an excellent combination of sheer power and agility. He hasn’t surrendered a sack since 2023. Additionally, Ioane could help create rushing lanes for Omarion Hampton in the running back’s second year.
Kenyon Sadiq, TE, Oregon
If Philadelphia opts not to retain free agent Dallas Goedert, it would be a wise move to draft a high-caliber replacement. Quarterback Jalen Hurts connected with Goedert for a team-leading 11 receiving touchdowns last season, and he was the third-most-targeted pass catcher on the roster. In short, Hurts enjoys throwing to his primary tight end. Sadiq recorded eight touchdown receptions last season, demonstrating explosiveness and significant yards after the catch ability. NFC defenses would find it challenging to match up with him due to his speed and imposing 6-foot-3, 245-pound frame.
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Dante Moore throws 21-yard touchdown pass to Kenyon Sadiq
Dante Moore throws a 21-yard touchdown pass to Kenyon Sadiq
Monroe Freeling, OT, Georgia
The Browns opted for Carnell Tate earlier, but their entire starting offensive line from last season is currently unsigned: Cam Robinson, Joel Bitonio, Ethan Pocic, Wyatt Teller, and Jack Conklin. Moreover, Dawand Jones, who would have been a starter, is recovering from a season-ending knee injury. Thus, the direction for this pick is clear.
Freeling has only 18 starts to his name, but he excels as a pass protector. He primarily needs refinement as a run blocker. His potential is immense, and I favor the concept of pairing the 6-foot-7 Freeling with the 6-foot-8 Jones as the bookends of the offensive line.
Kayden McDonald, DT, Ohio State
It’s likely a bit premature for Texas A&M’s Cashius Howell, Clemson’s T.J. Parker, or Oklahoma’s R Mason Thomas. The Bears undeniably require more support for their edge rush, but the draft board isn’t aligning in that favor. However, with Gervon Dexter Sr. signed for only one more season and Grady Jarrett turning 33 in April, reinforcing the defensive tackle group makes sense. McDonald is actually my top-ranked DT, and he possesses an uncanny ability to find the football, recording 17 run stops in 2025. Having him on the interior would be immensely beneficial for a Bears team that allowed 5.0 yards per carry last season (fourth-worst).
Denzel Boston, WR, Washington
Boston’s reliable hands, expansive catch radius, and acute vision would swiftly establish him as a primary target for quarterback Josh Allen. He concluded last season with 881 yards and 11 touchdowns, consistently overpowering opposing cornerbacks.
Buffalo’s receiver room faces numerous uncertainties and lacks a definitive WR1, with all due respect to Khalil Shakir. Following criticism from ownership last month, Keon Coleman’s future with the team is ambiguous. Brandin Cooks and Gabe Davis are free agents. Joshua Palmer was injured and limited to just 22 catches on the season. And Tyrell Shavers suffered an ACL tear in the playoffs. Therefore, this selection appears quite logical.
Kadyn Proctor, OT/G, Alabama
Proctor’s game film is a mixed bag. His peak performances are genuinely exceptional, while his lows raise significant questions. Yet, in the right environment, he possesses the potential to develop into an outstanding NFL tackle. And there might not be a more ideal situation than learning behind one of the greatest to ever play the position in San Francisco. Trent Williams will be 38 by Week 1 and is entering the final year of his contract. So, Proctor could develop in Year 1, potentially kicking inside to guard and/or serving as a swing tackle, before possibly succeeding Williams in 2027. He has 40 career starts—all at left tackle—and is reliable in pass protection. This would be a high-upside pick for GM John Lynch.
Jadarian Price, RB, Notre Dame
According to ESPN Research, this would mark the fourth instance of two running backs from the same school being drafted in Round 1—and the first time since 2008, when Arkansas’s Darren McFadden and Felix Jones were Day 1 selections. But just because Price was second on the Fighting Irish’s depth chart behind Jeremiyah Love doesn’t mean he can’t be an RB1 in the NFL. He is a powerful runner who employs a one-cut-and-go style of play. There are concerns regarding ball security (four lost fumbles over three years), and we haven’t seen extensive work from him as a pass catcher, but Price is dynamic. He rushed for 11 touchdowns, caught two touchdown passes, and scored two more times on kickoff returns last season.
The Texans’ run game lacked explosiveness. Woody Marks is likely more of a change-of-pace option, Nick Chubb is a free agent, and Joe Mixon’s future is uncertain. It’s time for an upgrade.
Blake Miller, OT, Clemson
Rob Havenstein has retired, and Warren McClendon Jr. is entering the final year of his contract. This indicates a potential significant void at right tackle. Miller boasts 54 career starts, and my admiration for his game continues to grow. In pass protection, he maintains a solid base and effectively handles most pass-rush maneuvers. As a run blocker, he excels at reaching the second level to create substantial gains. The blocking is paramount to the Rams’ outstanding run game, and having a skilled right tackle is crucial.
The Rams’ first selection in this mock draft addressed the defense (Jermod McCoy), but I strongly advocate for L.A. to bolster its offensive line with its second pick.
Emmanuel McNeil-Warren, S, Toledo
The Broncos already possess two competent safeties in Talanoa Hufanga and Brandon Jones, so this pick might not yield immediate impact. However, neither did the Jahdae Barron pick last April. Denver is strategically planning for the future of its secondary, aiming to build a formidable unit, as coach Sean Payton prioritizes maintaining a strong defense.
McNeil-Warren is somewhat of a dark horse currently, but I believe he could have been a top-15 selection had he played for a Power 4 team. His performance against Kentucky at the beginning of the season truly captured my attention, where he recorded 11 tackles and a fumble recovery. His film reveals genuine speed to the football, and he has tallied five interceptions and an impressive 12 forced fumbles over his four-year collegiate career.
R Mason Thomas, OLB, Oklahoma
As they strive to return to the Super Bowl with a talented roster, the Patriots could benefit from adding one or two more impactful edge rushers. Thomas has the ability to make offensive tackles overcommit, then defeat them with either speed or power. He utilizes his hands effectively and demonstrates good bend coming off the edge, accumulating 15.5 sacks over the past two years. K’Lavon Chaisson is entering free agency, so New England would greatly appreciate having someone like Thomas applying pressure on opposing quarterbacks.
Avieon Terrell, CB, Clemson
Let’s conclude Round 1 with a gifted cornerback to fill the void left by free agents Riq Woolen and Josh Jobe, providing this Super Bowl champion defense with yet another playmaking talent. The brother of A.J. Terrell Jr., Avieon Terrell exhibits exceptional speed in coverage, and he recorded 27 pass breakups over three seasons. He could seamlessly integrate into the lineup opposite Devon Witherspoon, with Nick Emmanwori manning the slot.