2026 NFL mock draft: Revised prediction following trade deadline

The NFL trade deadline turned heads across the sports landscape on Tuesday.

Now, teams are collecting themselves and looking ahead.

The New York Jets made a bold move, trading away two of their top defensive players, signaling a pivot from the immediate future to a longer-term strategy. The question now is, how does this reshaping affect the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft? Let’s unpack that with a look at our mock draft.

This draft order reflects the current standings in the NFL. Keep in mind, though, the final draft positions could shift significantly by spring.

Below are our selections, along with some overarching thoughts and quick insights about our chosen matchups and players.

When it comes to drafts, the quarterback selection often draws the most attention. With several teams eyeing this position in the upcoming draft, we’re projecting five QBs to go in the first round despite some questions about their future prospects.

Leading the charge is Ty Simpson from Alabama, who has certainly made a name for himself. While he may not have extensive experience, he showcases agility in the pocket and the competitive spirit to succeed. The New Orleans Saints, despite having young quarterbacks, might very well consider Simpson if they secure the top pick.

Then there’s Fernando Mendoza, who has put Indiana on the college football map. He embodies the archetypal pocket passer, with precision and sharp decision-making abilities. The Jets, now in a rebuilding phase, may see Mendoza as a potential fit.

The Dolphins sit at fourth and face an interesting dilemma. Tua Tagovailoa’s contract ties him through 2026, yet Dante Moore could be an excellent choice, given his youth and talent as a modern quarterback. By selecting him now, the Dolphins may sidestep future quarterback woes.

Lanoris Sellers has potential to be a solid pick, albeit with areas to improve like ball placement and decision-making. The Arizona Cardinals might want to eye him with their current QB handling situation.

Garrett Nussmeier is another name to consider. The Rams need to plan for the future, even with Matthew Stafford performing well. Nussmeier could fit into their long-term plans.

Meanwhile, Tuesday saw the Jets embark on a significant rebuilding phase. They traded players like Sauce Gardner and Quinnen Williams, transforming their future outlook. Now, they possess a wealth of draft resources: two first-round picks and two second-round picks for 2026, along with three first-round picks and one second-round pick for 2027.

It’s a considerable amount of draft capital.

However, there are risks involved. Gardner, only 25, and Williams, turning 28, were key players, and there are concerns about replacing them effectively in upcoming drafts.

Yet, the added draft capital is undeniable.

Addressing the quarterback position seems critical for the Jets, which is reflected in this mock draft with Mendoza as a potential choice. Their second first-round pick is used on cornerback Colton Hood, who brings aggressiveness and skill in coverage, establishing a stronger secondary.

On the other hand, the Dallas Cowboys clearly need defensive enhancements. After acquiring Logan Wilson and Quinnen Williams, they still require improvements. In this mock, they add pass rusher Keldric Faulk and cornerback Jermod McCoy. Faulk’s impressive size combined with his agility makes him a promising prospect, while McCoy is an All-American, despite injuries sidelining him this season.

In terms of other significant positions, Caleb Downs stands out among safeties; he’s seen as a transformative player for the Bengals. And while the Browns need a left tackle, they secure Spencer Fano, who offers flexibility across the line and presents great value.

The off-ball linebacker position is also represented, with two Ohio State players being picked in the first round: Abel Reese for the Vikings and Sonny Styles for the Broncos. Both showcase athleticism, making them valuable additions for their respective teams.