In the 2026 NFL Nation mock draft, the Las Vegas Raiders kickstart a new era by selecting quarterback Fernando Mendoza, a Heisman Trophy winner, to solidify their future at the position. The New York Jets address their need for a dynamic presence in the front seven by choosing edge rusher David Bailey, who had 14.5 sacks last season. The Arizona Cardinals, recognizing the uncertainty surrounding their quarterback position, opt for edge rusher Arvell Reese, who can seamlessly transition to the NFL. The Tennessee Titans bolster their defense by selecting linebacker Sonny Styles, often compared to Fred Warner, to man the middle of the field. The New York Giants, seeking a versatile playmaker, draft running back Jeremiyah Love, who can create mismatches with opposing defenses.
The Cleveland Browns, with two first-round picks, add offensive tackle Francis Mauigoa, who plays right tackle but has the potential to play left tackle. The Washington Commanders, aiming to strengthen their corner play, select cornerback Mansoor Delane, whose versatility allows new coordinator Daronte Jones to better disguise coverages. The New Orleans Saints, prioritizing wide receiver after missing out on a top pass catcher in free agency, draft Carnell Tate, who gives quarterback Tyler Shough an immediate upgrade to an offense that lacked receiver depth. The Kansas City Chiefs, seeking a new starter on the opposite side of George Karlaftis, choose edge rusher Rueben Bain Jr., who has the talent to quickly develop in such a role.
The New York Giants, via a trade with the Cincinnati Bengals, select safety Caleb Downs, who can be the Kyle Hamilton or Ed Reed for the team. The Miami Dolphins, addressing the trenches, draft offensive lineman Spencer Fano, who can play right tackle or guard. The Dallas Cowboys, looking to solve their defensive issues, opt for wide receiver Jordyn Tyson, who makes the offense more explosive for quarterback Dak Prescott. The Los Angeles Rams, focused on making the most of quarterback Matthew Stafford's time with the team, draft wide receiver Makai Lemon, adding a third receiver behind Puka Nacua and Davante Adams.
The Baltimore Ravens, aiming to improve the pass protection for Lamar Jackson, select interior lineman Olaivavega Ioane, who didn't give up a sack in his past two seasons. The Tampa Bay Buccaneers, addressing their need for an edge rusher, draft Akheem Mesidor, who gives them the production they've needed. The New York Jets, via a trade with the Indianapolis Colts, select wide receiver Omar Cooper Jr., who has run-after-catch ability to help an offense that lacked explosive plays. The Detroit Lions, looking to improve their offensive line, draft offensive tackle Monroe Freeling, who has a prototypical frame for an offensive tackle.
The Minnesota Vikings, addressing the potential departure of Harrison Smith, select safety Dillon Thieneman, who is too good and versatile of a prospect to pass over. The Carolina Panthers, seeking an elite tight end, draft Kenyon Sadiq, who gives quarterback Bryce Young another option to take his game to the next level. The Dallas Cowboys, via a trade with the Green Bay Packers, select cornerback Colton Hood, who has some growing to do but has the upside to be a solid player. The Pittsburgh Steelers, after reinforcing the trenches in three consecutive drafts, add a skill position player in wide receiver KC Concepcion, who adds versatility and speed as a returner.
The Los Angeles Chargers, seeking a cornerback, draft Jermod McCoy, who recorded four interceptions, seven passes defensed, and 44 total tackles for the Volunteers last season. The Philadelphia Eagles, with trade winds swirling around A.J. Brown, draft wide receiver Denzel Boston, who can complement DeVonta Smith. The Cleveland Browns, via a trade with the Jacksonville Jaguars, select safety Emmanuel McNeil-Warren, a playmaking safety who can slot into an interchangeable and versatile role. The Chicago Bears, addressing the uncertainty at left tackle, draft offensive tackle Kadyn Proctor, who can start day one and provide a rotation option at guard.
The Buffalo Bills, seeking a pass rusher for the future under new coordinator Jim Leonhard, draft edge rusher Cashius Howell, who brings speed and the potential to be a key player. The San Francisco 49ers, with the run on receivers and safeties, draft offensive tackle Caleb Lomu, who has experience on the left side and could be the logical heir to Trent Williams. The Houston Texans, aiming to develop a defense that plays more light boxes, draft defensive tackle Kayden McDonald, who can contribute in a rotational role. The Kansas City Chiefs, seeking depth behind Chris Jones and Omarr Norman-Lott, select defensive tackle Peter Woods, who is an intriguing prospect.
The Miami Dolphins, via a trade with the Denver Broncos, draft edge rusher Keldric Faulk, who has the strength and size to defend the run right away. The New England Patriots, addressing the need for a swing tackle, draft offensive tackle Blake Miller, who started 54 games at Clemson and is viewed as durable and having a pro mindset. The Seattle Seahawks, looking to replace Riq Woolen, draft cornerback Chris Johnson, who is a disciplined decision for the team.
