With the bulk of prospect evaluation and free agency in the books, I'm taking a third crack at projecting Round 1 of the 2026 NFL Draft. Trades will undoubtedly be part of the real thing next month, but for now, I'm keeping teams in their current first-round slots.
NOTE: NFL Network and NFL+ will have live coverage of the 2026 NFL Draft on April 23-25.
As long as Tom Brady does not decide to add STARTING QB to his list of daily tasks, a new era for the Raiders begins with Mendoza.
The Jets pick Reese, showing confidence in the uber-talented Ohio State product's ability to make a smooth transition to full-time pass rusher.
Last year, I opined in one of my early mocks that Jaxson Dart would go to the Giants with the third overall pick, but I didn't stick with the pairing as the process unfolded. Dart, of course, ultimately ended up with New York after Big Blue traded back into the first round and selected the quarterback at No. 25. This year, I think Simpson ends up with the Cardinals, even if this is not the spot where they pick him.
After kicking off their offseason roster renovation with a bunch of spending in free agency and a couple trades, the Titans are thrilled to add perhaps the best edge rusher in the draft.
What helps young quarterbacks? Explosive players making explosive plays. You're welcome, Jaxson Dart.
Playmakers have been at a premium for the Browns, who stay in state to find their new starting receiver.
The Commanders must get younger and quicker on defense. The dynamic Styles could replace Bobby Wagner or learn from the six-time first-team All-Pro if Washington re-signs him.
Last year, the Saints hit on QB Tyler Shough in the second round. This year, they give him more support on the perimeter.
Grit, resolve and physicality are baked into Bain’s DNA.
With Downs patrolling the secondary, Cincinnati won't give up nearly as many big plays though the air.
New QB Malik Willis gets what all passers want: a tight end who can make game-changing plays.
The Cowboys’ defensive makeover continues with the addition of the All-American corner from the Bayou.
The Rams are all in for another Lombardi Trophy run. Mauigoa offers immediate help on the offensive line.
Wherever Fano is asked to play, he will be a huge addition for the Ravens’ front.
The Bucs won’t turn down a chance to add a tough, productive pass rusher.
His March 31 pro day is among the most anticipated by scouts this spring. If he aces that test, Jets fans praise this pick.
I've been saying it throughout the process: Proctor just feels like a Lions offensive lineman to me.
The Vikings find the perfect replacement for Harrison Smith.
A slot-routes master with a ton of toughness, Lemon complements 2025 OROY Tetairoa McMillan and gives QB Bryce Young another dynamic option.
Allen helps improve the Cowboys’ defensive culture through his willingness to collide with opposing players carrying the ball.
The Steelers’ receiving corps got a boost from the acquisition of Michael Pittman Jr. from Indianapolis, but why stop there?
The Chargers have been remaking their interior offensive line. Ioane would be a nice, nasty additional piece.
With right tackle Lane Johnson heading toward his age-36 season, GM Howie Roseman lands a potential replacement for down the road. Freeling is a bit raw, but his potential is off the charts.
The Browns continue to rebuild their offensive line with Lomu, who will compete right away for the left tackle spot.
Woods fills a need for the Bears, providing more pressure from the interior.
After acquiring WR DJ Moore from the Bears, the Bills count on Faulk to provide consistent pass-rush pressure. I won’t be surprised if Buffalo decides to continue bolstering the receiver room here, though.
Miller set the school record for career snaps at Clemson, and he was excellent against Penn State in the Tigers’ bowl game last season.
One of the top defenses in the league gets to develop this young, rising prospect.
Hood fills a need, adding toughness and coverage ability. Defensive backs coach Dave Merritt is one of the best in the game.
This rangy ballhawk cushions the departure of five-time Pro Bowl safety Minkah Fitzpatrick.
Plenty of development lies ahead for Iheanachor, but the Patriots have to improve the pass protection in front of QB Drake Maye.
The 'Hawks will utilize Terrell outside and in the slot. His ability to make plays as a blitzer fits their scheme well.
