2026 NFL Draft: Surprising Trades and Predictions
The 2026 NFL Draft is just around the corner in Pittsburgh, and the excitement kicked off with an unexpected trade. The New York Giants have dealt defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence to the Cincinnati Bengals, acquiring the 10th overall pick in the process. This gives New York two picks within the top 10, a unique position shared only with teams like the Jets, Cowboys, Browns, Chiefs, and Dolphins.
With the draft week unfolding, here’s where we stand on how the first round could pan out. This mock draft incorporates the latest buzz and speculation, aimed at predicting the selection of the first 32 players. It’s worth noting that, occasionally, the “what would I do?” factor influences these choices.
Now, onto the selections we anticipate, including a closer inspection of how the top 10 might stack up.
| Pick | Team | Player | Position | School |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Las Vegas Raiders | Fernando Mendoza | QB | Indiana |
| 2 | New York Jets | David Bailey | Edge | Texas Tech University |
| 3 | Dallas Cowboys (via ARI) | Abel Reese | Edge/LB | Ohio |
| 4 | Tennessee Titans | Jeremiah Love | RB | Notre Dame |
| 5 | New York Giants | Francis Mauigoa | OT | Miami |
| 6 | Cleveland Browns | Colonel Tate | WR | Ohio |
| 7 | Washington Commanders | Sonny Stiles | LB | Ohio |
| 8 | New Orleans Saints | Ruben Bain Jr. | Edge | Miami |
| 9 | Kansas City Chiefs | Jordyn Tyson | WR | Arizona |
| 10 | New York Giants (via CIN) | Caleb Downs | S | Ohio |
Now, let’s dig deeper into these top 10 selections.
1. Las Vegas Raiders: Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana
This seems to be one of the few picks I’m really sure about within the top five—maybe even top ten.
2. New York Jets: David Bailey, EDGE, Texas Tech
The opinions on Texas Tech’s pass rusher have been quite varied. Initially, there were discussions about Ohio State’s Arbel Reese being the pick here. However, recent chatter suggests Bailey has gained traction, with some reports mentioning the Jets see him as ready to contribute right away, while they feel Reese might need a little more time for a full Edge transition.
3. Dallas Cowboys: Abel Reese, EDGE, Ohio State University
There’s a bit of a hush-hush around the Cowboys wanting to move up the draft board for some strong defensive talent. Earlier, they were rumored to be eyeing the No. 6 spot via a deal with Cleveland. Now, however, the talk has shifted to even moving higher up.
They managed to snag the No. 3 pick with a deal from Arizona, but there are whispers of the Cardinals reconsidering as the draft date draws closer. All of this could mean Dallas will need to part with their 2027 second-round selection.
4. Tennessee Titans: Jeremiah Love, RB, Notre Dame
With their immediate defensive needs addressed, the Titans may look to bolster their offense and give Cam Ward some more support. Love could be a key player to make explosive plays in both offensive and defensive roles.
5. New York Giants: Francis Mauigoa, OT, Miami
For a while now, defensive players have often been picked here, but the landscape has shifted.
Now that the Giants have two top-10 picks, they have some room to maneuver. Coach John Harbaugh has been vocal about improving the offensive line since taking the reins. Given their position, they could secure a strong defensive player while simultaneously enhancing their offensive line.
6. Cleveland Browns: Colonel Tate, WR, Ohio State
All signs point to the Browns needing upgrades at wide receiver and along the offensive front, aiming to move beyond just the first round.
Adding Colonel Tate fulfills one of those needs, marking another strong addition from Ohio State’s impressive receiving lineup.
7. Washington Commanders: Sonny Stiles, LB, Ohio State University
Washington might also be open to trading back, considering the significant gap between their current No. 7 pick and the 71st pick at the end of Day 2.
However, faced with a crucial need for defense and a talented linebacker from Ohio State available at No. 7, they may seize the chance to acquire Stiles to enhance their defensive setup.
8. New Orleans Saints: Ruben Bain Jr., Edge, Miami
The Saints have a few options here, possibly looking at wide receivers as well. Yet, having Bain slip to them makes this a logical choice.
There have been some concerns regarding Bain’s arm length and a past incident, but many GMs seem to factor this into his prospect value. It’s possible he could slide further, but I think this is where it ends for him.
9. Kansas City Chiefs: Jordyn Tyson, WR, Arizona State
If both Mel Kiper Jr. and Peter Schrager share their insights, it’s likely something to pay attention to.
The Giants, picking just after the Chiefs, makes this selection for Tyson feel even more pertinent.
10. New York Giants: Caleb Downs, S, Ohio
Bringing in both Mauigoa and now Downs seems to line up with what Harbaugh wants for the team.
It’s a reminder of when he was head coach in Baltimore, choosing safety Kyle Hamilton with the 14th pick. Harbaugh seeks a defensive leader, and though Downs has a different skill set than Hamilton, his versatility and run-stopping ability make him an ideal candidate for New York.
