The projection has the Las Vegas Raiders selecting Fernando Mendoza, a quarterback from Indiana, at No. 1. Mendoza is regarded as the best quarterback in the class and is viewed by some as a safer bet than the 2025 QB prospects, setting a new tone for a quarterback-needy league.
The top of the board also features Arvell Reese at No. 2 to the Jets, a versatile linebacker with high ceiling, while the Arizona Cardinals are pegged at No. 3 to either pick Francis Mauigoa at tackle or trade back for David Bailey. Tennessee’s No. 4 pick would likely be David Bailey if available; if not, Jeremiyah Love becomes the fallback option.
The middle portion of the first round features several position-driven selections: Sonny Styles at No. 5 to the Giants, Kadyn Proctor at No. 6 to the Browns, Jeremiyah Love at No. 7 to the Commanders, and Carnell Tate at No. 8 to the Saints. This cluster underscores how teams are valuing multidimensional players and foundational upgrades over traditional star power.
Beyond the top eight, the mock includes a mix of premium-position depth and versatile playmakers: Mansoor Delane at No. 9 to the Chiefs, Caleb Downs at No. 10 to the Giants, Rueben Bain Jr. at No. 11 to the Dolphins, and Jermond McCoy at No. 12 to the Cowboys. The pattern continues with a blend of wide receivers, defensive backs, and edge/line logic shaping the rest of the round.
As the draft progresses, notable names such as Jordyn Tyson, Olaivavega Ioane, Akheem Mesidor, Makai Lemon, and others illustrate a wide range of valued assets—from offensive tackles and guards to linebackers and receivers. The overarching theme is clear: teams will pursue versatility and high-floor contributors who can adapt to multiple roles, often through trades that move up or down to optimize value.
Overall, this projection emphasizes a balanced first round where teams prioritize adaptable linemen, playmaking defenders, and dynamic skill players, rather than chasing traditional high-profile positions. With strategic trades likely to reshape the order, the 2026 draft is expected to be one of the more fluid and consequential early drafts in recent memory.
