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Jordan Reid
Multiple Authors
Editor’s note: This mock draft was updated on March 4 following the Rams’ trade of their No. 29 pick to the Chiefs, and again on March 5 after the Bills exchanged their No. 60 pick with the Bears.
The NFL predraft calendar’s marquee occasion, the scouting combine, concluded last weekend in Indianapolis. Over 300 prospective players for the 2026 NFL draft gathered at Lucas Oil Stadium to participate in various drills, 40-yard dashes, team interviews, and medical examinations. This makes it an opportune moment not just for another mock draft, but to expand our projections to encompass two full rounds.
Significant activities remain before the first round commences on April 23 in Pittsburgh. College pro days will be held across the country throughout March and early April, and teams will host prospect visits. Furthermore, the upcoming free agency period will undoubtedly recalibrate every team’s roster requirements. Nevertheless, this outline reflects the current landscape after personally observing prospects in Indianapolis and through ongoing discussions with scouts, coaches, and executives across the league.
Five first-round selections have already been exchanged. The Rams hold pick No. 13 from the Falcons. The Jets acquired pick No. 16 from the Colts. The Cowboys possess pick No. 20 from the Packers. The Browns obtained pick No. 24 from the Jaguars. And as of Wednesday morning, the Chiefs now own the No. 29 choice from the Rams, following Los Angeles’ trade for cornerback Trent McDuffie.
I’ve actually decided to enhance the excitement by including a couple of my own speculative trades. Here are my predictions for all 64 first- and second-round selections in 2026, beginning with the Raiders.
See more:
Position rankings | Combine takeaways
Jump to a round:
Round 1 | Round 2
Jump to a proposed trade:
NYJ-DAL | HOU-ARI
Round 1
Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana
The Raiders haven’t selected a quarterback in the first round since 2007 (JaMarcus Russell), but this pick feels like a certainty. It would be astonishing if Las Vegas chose not to draft Mendoza. As the clear top QB in this year’s class, he offers a blend of precision, resilience, and sound decision-making—precisely what the Raiders need at the helm. Pairing Mendoza with third-year tight end Brock Bowers and second-year running back Ashton Jeanty would provide new head coach Klint Kubiak with a promising offensive core to develop.
0:32
Mendoza discusses the NFL combine: ‘Who hasn’t looked up to Tom Brady?’
Projected No. 1 pick Fernando Mendoza addresses the media at the NFL combine about the chance to collaborate with Tom Brady if drafted by the Raiders.
Arvell Reese, LB/Edge, Ohio State
With five first-round selections over the next two years, it’s crucial for the Jets to accumulate foundational talent. Reese’s explosive athleticism makes him a viable option as either an edge rusher or an off-ball linebacker. He’s a high-upside prospect whose burst is unmatched by few blockers, and his ability to shed blocks effectively allows him to disrupt plays at the line of scrimmage. With New York having traded edge rusher Jermaine Johnson last week, Reese would ignite the Jets’ defensive rebuild as a pivotal long-term player.
David Bailey, Edge, Texas Tech
Edge rusher Josh Sweat performed commendably in his debut season in Arizona (12 sacks), but he requires a complementary partner. The Cardinals could pair him with Bailey, who stands out as the most productive pass rusher in this year’s class. Bailey recorded an FBS-leading 14.5 sacks for Texas Tech last season, along with 19.5 tackles for loss. He demonstrates rapid acceleration off the snap, and his quick first step enables him to bypass blockers effortlessly. Bailey’s relentless motor generates negative plays, allowing him to accumulate sacks in volume.
Rueben Bain Jr., Edge, Miami
Bain was a standout in the defensive line group at the combine, despite a minor controversy over his official arm length of 30⅞ inches. While historically atypical, I don’t anticipate this will cause him to fall out of the top 10; in fact, I project him in the top five, as he’s an ideal fit for Titans coach Robert Saleh’s defensive scheme. Bain’s powerful hands and versatility could bolster a front already featuring All-Pro defensive tackle Jeffery Simmons and recently acquired edge rusher Jermaine Johnson. Adding Bain would immediately establish a clear identity for Saleh’s squad.
Sonny Styles, LB, Ohio State
The last time an off-ball linebacker was selected in the top five was in 2019, when the Buccaneers picked Devin White. While rare, Styles’ skill set aligns remarkably well with the defense coach John Harbaugh is likely to implement with the Giants. Styles impressed significantly at the combine and could provide the vocal leadership often seen from Harbaugh’s Ravens teams at middle linebacker. This 6-foot-5, 243-pound defender, a converted safety, possesses the innate qualities and potential to assume the green dot responsibilities immediately as a rookie.
Monroe Freeling, OT, Georgia
Freeling’s draft stock has soared considerably since the conclusion of the college season. Standing at 6-7 and 315 pounds, he is one of the few genuine left tackles available in this draft class. He’s also an exceptional athlete, excelling particularly in open space and when moving. His combination of size, potential, and athletic attributes has led multiple teams to rank him as the top offensive tackle observed at the combine. With six offensive linemen entering free agency, the Browns face widespread needs, even after their Monday trade for Tytus Howard.
Caleb Downs, S, Ohio State
Downs is among the most intellectually gifted football players I’ve ever analyzed. His exceptional football IQ, versatility in the secondary, and reliable tackling ability make him a justifiable selection at this position, despite a safety not being drafted in the top 10 since 2017 (Jamal Adams). Washington surrendered numerous explosive passing plays last season, with opponents averaging 8.1 yards per attempt (third worst in the NFL). The Commanders also recorded a mere eight interceptions in 2025, ranking fourth worst in the league. Downs could significantly contribute to improving both areas.
Jeremiyah Love, RB, Notre Dame
The Saints successfully landed quarterback Tyler Shough last year, so the focus shifts to providing him with a backfield partner to develop alongside. I consider Love to be the premier player in this draft, capable of succeeding Alvin Kamara, who will be 31 next season and in the final year of his contract. The Saints had the lowest percentage of 10-plus-yard runs last season (7.8%). Conversely, Love notched 39 runs of 10 yards or more in 2025, ranking fourth in the FBS, and also had two touchdown runs exceeding 90 yards. His addition would not only provide coach Kellen Moore with an explosive runner but also a proficient pass-catcher.
Carnell Tate, WR, Ohio State
The Chiefs are in urgent need of a receiver who can consistently defeat man-to-man coverage to support Patrick Mahomes. Tate is a fluid, polished route runner who boasts ample range as a pass-catcher. He also arguably possesses the finest hands in this class, with just one drop on 67 targets last season. He presents a threat at all three levels, showcasing his refined technique across every branch of the route tree. While his collegiate production wasn’t elite, Tate’s build and method of winning routes remind me of DeVonta Smith, suggesting he could develop into a similar high-caliber No. 2 receiver in the NFL.
Mansoor Delane, CB, LSU
Delane is my top-ranked cornerback and would represent the best defensive talent available at this juncture. Given that the Bengals conceded the second-most yards per game and the third-most points per game last season, this pairing is highly logical. Delane is a tenacious cover corner, adept at playing man-to-man with ease, yet equally sharp in zone coverage. With his fluid movement, excellent hip mobility, and ball skills, he possesses the upside to become a genuine No. 1 corner in the NFL.
Francis Mauigoa, OT, Miami
Mauigoa’s tape is among the cleanest to evaluate for any prospect in this year’s class. He epitomizes consistency as a reliable blocker, possessing the forceful power to create movement and sufficient lower-body quickness. While there’s speculation about the 6-5, 329-pound Mauigoa potentially moving to guard at some point, drafting him here and pairing him with Patrick Paul would equip the Dolphins’ new leadership with a pair of bookend offensive tackles around which to initiate their rebuild.
Proposed trade: Jets move up four spots
Just months after collaborating on the Quinnen Williams trade, the Jets and Cowboys could strike another deal. New York dispatches the first-round pick acquired in the Sauce Gardner trade (No. 16), a fourth-rounder, and a seventh-round selection to Dallas in exchange for moving up to the No. 12 pick.
Makai Lemon, WR, USC
The Jets hold four selections within the top 44, granting them the flexibility to trade up and enhance a wide receiver group that currently features Garrett Wilson, Adonai Mitchell, and little else. Lemon is a versatile player capable of succeeding both outside and in the slot. While his physical attributes might not be dazzling, he consistently wins against various coverages. His 96.3 receiving yards per game ranked third among all FBS players last season. Lemon is also highly competitive after the catch; his 21 forced missed tackles placed him 14th among FBS receivers in 2025.
Kenyon Sadiq, TE, Oregon
Having fallen just four points shy of reaching the Super Bowl, and with quarterback Matthew Stafford approaching the twilight of his career, the Rams must maximize their current championship window. They addressed a critical need at cornerback by trading for Trent McDuffie; now, let’s consider the offense. Coach Sean McVay heavily utilized 12 and 13 personnel last season, demonstrating significant creativity in deploying multiple tight ends. Sadiq functions as an additional receiver and would provide the Rams with a versatile game-breaker currently absent at the position. Although primarily recognized for his receiving prowess (51 receptions for eight touchdowns last season), Sadiq is also an assertive run blocker.
Olaivavega Ioane, G, Penn State
Right guard Daniel Faalele was undeniably the weakest link on Baltimore’s offensive line and is slated to become a free agent. Replacing him with Ioane could represent a significant upgrade. Ioane was a consistent interior blocker for the Nittany Lions, surrendering only two pressures and zero sacks last season. The Ravens’ offensive line allowed 45 sacks in 2025 (12th most in the NFL) and would greatly benefit from Ioane, a plug-and-play starter at either guard position, whose footwork, power, and stable base would enhance quarterback Lamar Jackson’s protection.
Keldric Faulk, Edge, Auburn
The Buccaneers are in desperate need of defensive line reinforcement with Haason Reddick and Logan Hall set to hit free agency, and Faulk could potentially provide that. He is exceptionally young (not turning 21 until September) and an NFL-ready run defender, demonstrating strong hands at the point of attack with significant upside as a pass rusher. His ability to disengage and disrupt allows Faulk room to grow as a pass rusher, though opinions within the league are divided on whether the 6-6, 276-pound defender should remain on the edge or bulk up to play on the interior.
Dillon Thieneman, S, Oregon
The Cowboys conceded the most points per game in the NFL last season (30.1) and the third-most yards per contest (377.0). They began rebuilding their secondary last season, and adding Thieneman, an active defender with positional and scheme versatility, would further that process. Dallas frequently employs two-high safety looks, and Thieneman is an excellent processor who can quickly close on plays. Dallas forced only 12 turnovers in 2025, and Thieneman possesses the ball-hawking ability while bringing physicality when defending against the run.
Akheem Mesidor, Edge, Miami
The Lions have a history of making unconventional early draft selections and have bypassed edge rushers in recent years at this point, but Mesidor aligns perfectly with their typical defensive preferences. He is a powerful rusher with relentless effort, consistently wearing down blockers. He concluded last season with 12.5 sacks and 17.5 tackles for loss for the Hurricanes and would form an ideal edge pairing with Aidan Hutchinson. Mesidor’s age (turning 25 in April) has been a discussion point, but it doesn’t appear to be a concern for the scouts I’ve engaged with.
Caleb Banks, DT, Florida
With defensive tackle Javon Hargrave expected to be released and Jonathan Allen potentially following suit, the Vikings face significant depth issues along their interior defensive line. Standing at 6-6, 327 pounds, Banks is a commanding presence who would provide Minnesota with a crucial interior player. The Vikings have historically favored explosive athletes like Banks, who demonstrated his athleticism with a 32-inch vertical jump and a 5.04-second 40-yard dash in Indianapolis. Banks has an injury history, but he also possesses considerable potential and is an excellent fit for coordinator Brian Flores’ defense.
Spencer Fano, OT, Utah
While pass rusher is a recognized need, the chatter at the combine suggested the Panthers might address that through free agency or trade. Thus, we’ll consider offensive tackle, especially given left tackle Ikem Ekwonu’s knee injury in the playoffs, which exacerbates Carolina’s need there. The Panthers could seek a short-term solution via free agency, but Fano could offer a long-term answer as Ekwonu recuperates. Fano could also eventually succeed right tackle Taylor Moton, who turns 32 in August. Fano’s ability to play all five offensive line positions would provide the Panthers with valuable flexibility as they reconstruct their line.
Avieon Terrell, CB, Clemson
After selecting Dillon Thieneman earlier, the Cowboys double down on their secondary with Terrell, a prospect scouts consistently suggest will be drafted higher than anticipated. His aggressive mindset and competitive spirit are immediately evident, and he delivered one of the combine’s most impressive on-field workouts among cornerbacks. The Cowboys have gaps to fill in their secondary around star corner DaRon Bland, and Terrell would integrate seamlessly into the back end of new coordinator Christian Parker’s scheme.
Jordyn Tyson, WR, Arizona State
Tyson is arguably the most gifted receiver in this class, but I project him to fall to the Steelers due to concerns regarding his durability. He has battled persistent injuries and never completed a full collegiate season. When healthy, Tyson is a strong, productive (61 receptions for 711 yards and eight touchdowns last season) outside receiver who demonstrates versatility across his route tree. The Steelers require a No. 2 receiver for the “Z” role opposite DK Metcalf, and Tyson could fill that position effectively.
2:43
Stephen A.’s urgent message to Steelers GM Omar Khan: ‘Execute your role!’
Stephen A. Smith argues that Steelers GM Omar Khan must prioritize finding a quarterback instead of waiting for Aaron Rodgers.
Kadyn Proctor, OT, Alabama
The Chargers’ interior offensive line struggled last season and could see significant changes, with guard Zion Johnson entering free agency and Mekhi Becton a potential cap casualty following an injury-plagued season. Scouts at the combine were genuinely split 50-50 on the 6-7, 352-pound Proctor, with some viewing him as a first-rounder and others as a Day 2 prospect. There’s also debate regarding his optimal position, as Proctor played tackle in college but could transition to guard. Even if he ultimately plays guard in the pros, he would offer the Chargers crucial depth at tackle after losing Joe Alt and Rashawn Slater to season-ending injuries in 2025.
Caleb Lomu, OT, Utah
Future Hall of Fame right tackle Lane Johnson missed eight games in 2025 and will be 36 next season. The Eagles are renowned for proactive planning, often drafting future replacements for long-tenured veterans before they become critical. Lomu possesses significant potential and can play either tackle spot, but he must enhance his functional strength. Ideally, he would have time to develop that strength while learning behind Johnson, though Johnson’s age and injury concerns could necessitate Lomu playing sooner than anticipated.
Omar Cooper Jr., WR, Indiana
Scouts have been highly impressed with Cooper since midseason, leading to a rapid ascent in his draft stock. He is a strong and well-paced route runner who maintains physicality through his route breaks. The Browns face a significant scarcity of proven pass-catchers beyond veteran receiver Jerry Jeudy and last year’s third-round breakout tight end Harold Fannin Jr. Cooper would immediately assume a prominent role in the Browns’ offense due to his ability to win in contested situations and generate yards after the catch.
Peter Woods, DT, Clemson
The Bears are in dire need of a disruptive defensive tackle, so let’s provide them with my top-ranked player at the position. Despite not having the dominant 2025 season many foresaw (30 tackles and two sacks), Woods still displayed ample first-round potential. He’s an agile athlete at 6-3, 298 pounds, best suited as a 3-technique. His capacity to create quick wins from the interior as an explosive penetrator is a quality severely lacking in Chicago’s defense.
CJ Allen, LB, Georgia
With the transition to a 3-4 scheme under new defensive coordinator Jim Leonhard, the Bills require an active presence in the middle of their defense. Because of this, I initially considered a nose tackle (another significant need) at this spot, but instead, I’m allocating an instinctive second-level defender to Buffalo. Allen has the potential to transform the Bills’ defense with his physical, tone-setting play; he is a seek-and-destroy linebacker possessing excellent range.
KC Concepcion, WR, Texas A&M
The 49ers stand at a critical juncture regarding their wide receiver corps. Their leading pass-catcher (Jauan Jennings) is slated for free agency, veteran Brandon Aiyuk appears to be moving on, and 2024 first-round pick Ricky Pearsall is still seeking to establish himself within the offense. Concepcion is an explosive playmaker who possesses many attributes that translate effectively to success in coach Kyle Shanahan’s scheme. Concepcion accelerates impressively on route stems and consistently generates big plays as both a pass-catcher and a return specialist.
Proposed trade: Cardinals move back into Round 1
For the second consecutive draft, the Texans would trade out of the latter part of the first round, receiving the Cardinals’ second- (No. 34) and fourth-round picks while sending Arizona their first-round pick (No. 28). Could the Cardinals leverage this position to secure their next franchise quarterback?
Ty Simpson, QB, Alabama
With the announcement that Kyler Murray will officially be either cut or traded before the new league year, the Cardinals face numerous questions at quarterback. Therefore, I have them trading back into the end of the first round to acquire their future signal-caller. Simpson is an ideal fit for new coach Mike LaFleur’s offense. Simpson operates effectively off play-action but delivers his best throws in the short and intermediate ranges. His limited starting experience (15 starts) makes him a slight risk here, but Arizona still has veteran Jacoby Brissett for another year to serve as a bridge until Simpson is prepared to be the QB1.
0:57
Louis Riddick’s high praise for Ty Simpson
Louis Riddick elaborates on why he believes Ty Simpson has earned consideration as a top-15 pick in the 2026 NFL draft.
Jermod McCoy, CB, Tennessee
With Trent McDuffie now traded to the Rams and Jaylen Watson entering free agency, the Chiefs face a clear void at cornerback. Purely based on talent, McCoy is a top-10 prospect in this class. However, he hasn’t played since 2024, missing all of last season after sustaining an ACL tear in January 2025. His recovery status remains uncertain, as he did not participate in testing or drills at the combine. Nevertheless, McCoy is a fluid mover with immaculate technique. All eyes will be on Tennessee’s pro day on March 31, where McCoy is expected to perform a full workout.
Emmanuel McNeil-Warren, S, Toledo
While acquiring more offensive playmakers for quarterback Bo Nix is an option here, the Broncos could utilize this pick to further bolster their already formidable defense. Toledo has emerged as a Group of 5 defensive talent factory (e.g., Quinyon Mitchell, 2024), and McNeil-Warren is the latest prospect from that pipeline. He would bring a versatile skill set to the Broncos’ secondary, highlighted by his 20% defensive completion percentage allowed last season, which was the best among all FBS defensive backs.
Cashius Howell, Edge, Texas A&M
Linebacker K’Lavon Chaisson is set to become a free agent, but the Patriots still require edge assistance regardless of his return. Leading sacker Harold Landry III (8.5 sacks) missed two games due to injury last season and will be 30 before the upcoming campaign. Howell is a formidable pass-rusher who consistently creates disruption. He boasts a sophisticated repertoire of pass-rushing moves, and his 11.5 sacks last season ranked seventh among all FBS defensive linemen.
Colton Hood, CB, Tennessee
The reigning champions have a clear need at cornerback, as Josh Jobe and Riq Woolen are both scheduled for free agency. Hood is a scheme-versatile player who can excel in press man coverage while also possessing the fluidity to thrive in zone. A former all-state center fielder in high school, Hood’s ball skills are frequently evident on tape (10 pass breakups and an interception last season). With his composed technique and effective wrap-up tackling, he would fit seamlessly on the outside of Mike Macdonald’s secondary.
Round 2
Brandon Cisse, CB, South Carolina
The Jets would persist in overhauling their defense with Cisse, a remarkably athletic corner who is only beginning to tap into his full potential. He would form an exciting tandem with Azareye’h Thomas, New York’s third-round selection from the 2025 draft.
Blake Miller, OT, Clemson
With Howard moving to Cleveland and Juice Scruggs heading to Detroit, the Texans could address their offensive line here. Losing Howard leaves Blake Fisher as their projected starter at right tackle. Miller started 54 collegiate games at Clemson, making him battle-tested and a potential immediate starter thanks to his robust run-blocking power and strong hands in pass protection.
Denzel Boston, WR, Washington
Providing second-year quarterback Cam Ward with additional offensive playmakers should be a top priority for the Titans. Boston is a reliable perimeter target with strong hands who can offer Ward another vertical option on the outside.
Lee Hunter, DT, Texas Tech
The Raiders are transitioning to a 3-4 defense next season and require a cornerstone for their defensive front. Hunter is an imposing presence in the middle (6-4, 318 pounds) and a player around whom a defensive culture can be established.
Max Iheanachor, OT, Arizona State
If the Giants are unable to re-sign right tackle Jermaine Eluemunor, they could pivot to a younger alternative. Iheanachor makes considerable sense here as a right tackle to safeguard Jaxson Dart. Iheanachor is a high-upside player who is still developing into the position after not playing football in high school.
Emmanuel Pregnon, G, Oregon
GM Nick Caserio’s continued restructuring of the offensive front would proceed here, as the Texans reinforce their line with a second selection. Pregnon is a powerful, 6-4, 314-pound player who would address Houston’s conspicuous void at right guard.
Chase Bisontis, G, Texas A&M
The Browns would persist in renovating their offensive line with this pick, as Bisontis could provide Cleveland with a consistently solid option at either guard position. He is a skilled athlete who has permitted only one sack over the past two seasons.
T.J. Parker, Edge, Clemson
The Chiefs have historically favored strong, well-built defensive ends who possess an understanding of how to establish an edge against the run. Parker offers these qualities, alongside pass-rush potential, and aligns with the profile Kansas City has typically sought in the past.
Christen Miller, DT, Georgia
An explosive 3-technique is high on the Bengals’ priority list, and Miller is an interior defender with significant potential who wasn’t fully able to showcase his true ability as an up-the-field penetrator within Georgia’s scheme. He possesses the capacity to become a starter very early in his career.
Germie Bernard, WR, Alabama
Bernard is a versatile playmaker capable of lining up in various formations, including the backfield. His composed pacing as a route runner is a great fit for coach Kellen Moore’s offense, as Bernard’s skill set can effectively complement Tyler Shough.
Chris Johnson, CB, San Diego State
After drafting an offensive tackle in Round 1, the Dolphins could opt for Johnson here. He is a rock-solid corner prospect whose stock is steadily rising on draft boards. He would provide Miami with a high-caliber starter and aligns with coach Jeff Hafley’s ideal prototype for an outside corner.
A.J. Haulcy, S, LSU
The Jets haven’t drafted a safety within the first two days of the draft since 2020 (Ashtyn Davis). New York failed to record an interception last season and could benefit from a ball-hawking presence like Haulcy, who accumulated 10 interceptions during his collegiate career.
Zion Young, Edge, Missouri
The Ravens finished tied for 28th in the NFL in sacks last season (30) and are in need of assistance on the edge. Young is a long-limbed, agile pass rusher who can generate pressure as a stand-up outside linebacker or rush with his hand in the dirt.
Anthony Hill Jr., LB, Texas
Bucs linebacker Lavonte David is currently assessing his options regarding a potential return for a 15th NFL season. A succession plan is imperative, and Hill is an energetic second-level defender who brings a high degree of physicality.
Gabe Jacas, Edge, Illinois
Edge rusher and linebacker are the primary needs for the Colts’ defense. Jacas would provide them with a reliable player off the edge, as he tallied 11 sacks last season and displays significant force as an edge setter against the run.
Kayden McDonald, DT, Ohio State
Nose tackle is a clear necessity for the Falcons. McDonald is a robust interior presence who led the nation in run stop win rate last season (7.8%) while also possessing effective pass-rushing capabilities.
Jacob Rodriguez, LB, Texas Tech
The Vikings have recently struggled to identify starting talent outside of Round 1. They require assistance at linebacker, as Eric Wilson is a free agent who will turn 32 next season. Rodriguez would offer Minnesota a plug-and-play option at the second level of Brian Flores’ defense.
Jadarian Price, RB, Notre Dame
After trading David Montgomery to Houston, the Lions need a larger back to complement Jahmyr Gibbs. Price is a powerful runner who excelled alongside Jeremiyah Love at Notre Dame and can do the same with Gibbs.
R Mason Thomas, Edge, Oklahoma
General manager Dan Morgan secured two edge rushers on Day 2 of the 2025 draft (Nic Scourton and Princely Umanmielen) and could revisit that well here. Thomas is an energetic pass rusher capable of playing as a stand-up outside linebacker in coordinator Ejiro Evero’s 3-4 scheme.
Davison Igbinosun, CB, Ohio State
Igbinosun fits the Packers’ cornerback prototype perfectly: a big, physical, and explosive athlete at 6-2, 189 pounds. Igbinosun’s development will require some time, as he can be handsy in coverage, but that patience could yield significant long-term dividends.
Keionte Scott, CB, Miami
Scott is an intense, physical nickel defender who isn’t afraid to express himself, making him an ideal fit for Pittsburgh’s defensive backfield. He possesses the talent to immediately alter the outlook of a secondary.
Eli Stowers, TE, Vanderbilt
Stowers was one of the most compelling stories at the combine, achieving an impressive 45½-inch vertical leap. He could emerge as Dallas Goedert’s successor as a pass-catching tight end, capable of playing inline or flexing out wide to create mismatches.
0:16
Eli Stowers’ 45.5″ vertical jump establishes a new TE record
Eli Stowers shattered the tight end vertical jump record with an astounding 45.5″ leap.
Derrick Moore, Edge, Michigan
With Odafe Oweh and Khalil Mack slated for free agency, adding Moore would supply the Chargers with another pass rusher. He recorded 10 sacks last season and played for Chargers coach Jim Harbaugh at Michigan from 2022-23.
Julian Neal, CB, Arkansas
Montaric Brown’s potential price tag could force him out of Jacksonville’s plans, suggesting the Jaguars will likely need another outside corner. Neal is a long, scheme-versatile corner who exhibits pro-ready composure in his perimeter technique.
Zakee Wheatley, S, Penn State
Safety is arguably the Bears’ most pressing need, as all four of their top safeties from last season are not under contract. Wheatley is an undervalued free safety capable of playing deep in the defense but also willing to come downhill in run support.
Caleb Tiernan, OT, Northwestern
All-Pro tackle Trent Williams will be 38 years old before next season and is currently renegotiating his contract. Finding a successor would be a prudent move. At 6-8, 328 pounds, Tiernan is a reliable and high-floor blocker who could eventually assume a role at either tackle position.
Gracen Halton, DT, Oklahoma
Halton’s trajectory is upward, making him an excellent fit for a Texans defense that needs interior help. After a strong Senior Bowl showing, Halton’s rise continued at the combine, where he led all defensive tackles with a 36½-inch vertical jump and a 4.82-second 40-yard dash.
Jake Golday, LB, Cincinnati
The Bears have already granted Tremaine Edmunds permission to explore trade options. Golday is an emerging prospect who can play multiple positions but projects best on the weak side. He also offers value as an edge rusher in sub-packages.
D’Angelo Ponds, CB, Indiana
Even after acquiring Trent McDuffie, I can still envision the Rams using an early pick on a corner. Ponds is undersized (5-9, 182 pounds) but performs significantly above his weight class. He could take over for pending free agent Cobie Durant on the outside or play nickel, allowing McDuffie to shift outside.
Chris Brazzell II, WR, Tennessee
The Broncos can secure some offensive assistance for quarterback Bo Nix here. Brazzell is an “X” receiver capable of being a deep vertical threat, and he can also effectively sink his weight and run a complete route tree.
Skyler Bell, WR, UConn
Bell has consistently met expectations throughout this process and sneaks in at the close of Round 2. He dispelled doubts about his speed at the combine by clocking a 4.4 in the 40-yard dash. Bell is versatile enough to play both inside and on the perimeter, presenting a three-level threat who could further elevate quarterback Drake Maye’s performance.
Mike Washington Jr., RB, Arkansas
Super Bowl MVP Kenneth Walker III is poised for a substantial pay increase. If Seattle is unwilling to match his market value, Washington is cut from a similar cloth. A physical runner with excellent contact balance, he demonstrates superb vision and speed, while also being a comfortable pass-catcher out of the backfield.