The Final Countdown

The time has finally arrived for the 2026 NFL Draft in Pittsburgh. After months of intensive scouting, pro days, and team evaluations, 257 prospects are set to be selected from Thursday through Saturday. This represents our ninth and final mock draft of the cycle, aiming to provide the most accurate forecast possible.


In this analysis, Nate Tice handles the odd-numbered selections, while Charles McDonald manages the even-numbered picks.


The Top 10 Picks

1. Las Vegas Raiders — Fernando Mendoza (QB, Indiana): Mendoza is reportedly already integrating into the Raiders' offensive scheme. His combination of size and football IQ makes him an ideal fit for Klint Kubiak's system.

2. New York Jets — David Bailey (Edge, Texas Tech): While the Jets have many options, Bailey’s immense pass-rushing upside makes him the choice here. His athleticism and tenacity are standout traits.

3. Kansas City Chiefs — Arvell Reese (Edge/LB, Ohio State): In a projected trade-up with Arizona, the Chiefs secure what many consider the best non-quarterback in the class to bolster their defensive front.

4. Tennessee Titans — Sonny Styles (LB, Ohio State): Despite his unconventional position for a high pick, Styles is a rare talent who brings elite size and leverage to the middle of the field.

5. New York Giants — Caleb Downs (S, Ohio State): Following a trade involving Dexter Lawrence, the Giants use this selection to anchor their secondary with a consistent, high-level performer.

6. Cleveland Browns — Carnell Tate (WR, Ohio State): Tate provides a much-needed boost to the Browns' receiving corps, offering a reliable target for their young offensive core.

7. Washington Commanders — Jeremiyah Love (RB, Notre Dame): The Commanders aim to add explosive speed to their offense with one of the draft's premier skill players.

8. New Orleans Saints — Rueben Bain Jr. (Edge, Miami): Seeking to improve their pressure rate, the Saints select the physically imposing and NFL-ready Bain Jr.

9. Arizona Cardinals — Francis Mauigoa (OT, Miami): After moving down, the Cardinals secure a technically sound offensive tackle to protect their quarterback for the long term.

10. New York Giants — Keldric Faulk (DL/Edge, Auburn): Faulk is an elite run defender who offers significant room for growth as a pass rusher.


Draft Highlights (Picks 11-32)

The draft continues with several key selections designed to address specific roster gaps:

  • Miami Dolphins (11) take CB Mansoor Delane to stabilize their secondary.
  • Dallas Cowboys (12) gamble on the high-ceiling cornerback Jermod McCoy.
  • Los Angeles Rams (13) add WR Denzel Boston to provide versatility to their passing game.
  • Baltimore Ravens (14) strengthen their interior line by drafting Spencer Fano.
  • Philadelphia Eagles (15) move up to secure offensive tackle Monroe Freeling.
  • New York Jets (16) provide their offense with a physical weapon in WR Jordyn Tyson.
  • Detroit Lions (17) select the athletic and versatile tackle Max Iheanachor.
  • Minnesota Vikings (18) land an underrated defensive force in DT Kayden McDonald.
  • Carolina Panthers (19) add safety Dillon Thieneman to help bolster their backfield.
  • Dallas Cowboys (20) double down on defense by drafting pass rusher Akheem Mesidor.

«The depth of this year's class allows teams to find impact players well into the later stages of the first round,» analysts note.

Other notable selections include Penn State guard Olaivavega Ioane to the Steelers (21), Clemson defensive lineman Peter Woods to the Chargers (22), and Oregon tight end Kenyon Sadiq to the Buccaneers (23). The draft rounds out with teams looking to add future building blocks, emphasizing line play and secondary speed.