Welcome to the Final Week Before the 2026 NFL Draft
As we dive into the buzz ahead of the draft, let’s start with some of the standout rumors.
What’s Happening with Reuben Bain?
The 2026 NFL Draft is shaping up to reveal some surprises. Before free agency hit, Miami’s pass rusher Reuben Bain Jr. was a strong candidate for the Tennessee Titans’ No. 4 pick. But things have shifted recently, and Bain seems to be landing with the Washington Commanders at No. 7 instead. On the surface, this might seem linked to the Titans’ recent defensive signings, which led analysts to think they might go in another direction, possibly toward running back Jeremiah Love, giving quarterback Cam Ward yet another target.
But could there be more to this turnaround?
There are reports indicating an incident in 2024 where Bain was part of a serious car accident that left one person in critical condition, who later passed away. Bain allegedly faced charges for negligent driving after the crash, which involved him driving a 2021 Land Rover with teammates Wesley Viseinte and Nijalik Kelly, and Destiny Betts. Following the collision, Bain’s vehicle hit a concrete wall and came to a stop after hitting another wall.
Betts was hospitalized at Ryder Trauma Center in Miami but sadly passed away after a long stay in a coma.
Interestingly, Bain faced another careless driving charge in 2025, but that one was also dismissed.
In light of these events, there seems to be mixed feelings regarding Bain’s draft prospects. One league official noted, “It’s possible they will try again,” in reference to other players with similar pasts. Another official mentioned concerns about Bain’s history, saying they were “waiting for another shoe to drop.”
Attempts to get a comment from Bain were unsuccessful prior to publication. Meanwhile, Betts’ family released a statement describing the event as a “tragic accident” and wished Bain success in his future.
How this situation will impact Bain’s draft standing is still uncertain, but given his slip down the projections, it could signal a continuing trend.
Are the Browns Eyeing a Trade?
Recently, there’s been talk about the Dallas Cowboys potentially moving up in the draft, aiming for the No. 6 pick belonging to the Cleveland Browns. But is Cleveland contemplating moving up as well?
Insider Tom Pelissero mentioned that teams are valuing the 2027 draft class so highly that it may be tough to find a team willing to part with future picks. Thus, the team looking to trade up might be one that possesses multiple first-round picks for this draft, avoiding giving up future assets.
Among those teams are the Cowboys, sure, but also the Kansas City Chiefs, New York Jets, Miami Dolphins, and the Browns.
As for teams looking to trade down, there’s speculation around the Washington Commanders, currently at No. 7, who might prefer to gather more picks while still managing to nab a valuable player.
What’s on the Lions’ Mind?
In the early rounds of the draft, the Detroit Lions, holding the No. 17 pick, find themselves in an intriguing spot. General manager Brad Holmes may consider a few routes, including adding another pass rusher to complement Aidan Hutchinson or bolstering the offensive line for Jared Goff.
Mike Payton, from AtoZ Sports, discussed some of the latest rumors, naming Auburn’s Keldrick Faulk and Alabama’s Kadin Proctor as contenders. He highlighted how Faulk could fit well, especially given his run-stopping ability, although concerns linger over his pass-rushing skills.
On Proctor, a conversation between Mina Kimes and NFL insider Daniel Jeremiah brought up that the Alabama tackle has expressed enthusiasm for the Lions.
Prospects Coming to the Draft
As the draft nears, analysts start to hone in on the talent pool. This notion of players “rising” on draft boards is often a bit misleading, as it can simply reflect teams’ long-held opinions rather than a sudden surge in performance. Nonetheless, the excitement around shifting player positions in the last moments is palpable.
Recently, ESPN highlighted seven prospects considered “draft risers,” some of whom could be picked in the first round, while others may improve their standings heading into day two. Notable names include Georgia’s Monroe Freeling, Oregon’s Dillon Thieneman, and Georgia State’s Ted Hurst.
Hurst, in particular, stands out. Despite entering college without a star rating, he became a three-year starter at Valdosta State before transferring to Georgia State, where he accounted for a significant chunk of the passing offense last season. His impressive size and speed make him a player to watch.
