The 2026 NFL Draft is just around the corner, and draft week has kicked off. Here’s the latest mock draft predicting the first round.
I’ve actually started my draft week with a conversation with Fernando Mendoza, who’s projected as the No. 1 pick. More on that later, but we talked about his standout plays from last season, and some were surprisingly different from what you might expect.
In the meantime, here are some of the latest rumors circulating as we approach the draft.
Latest Insights from Adam Schefter
NFL Insider Adam Schefter has put together a comprehensive article outlining his insights as the draft week begins. It’s a great way to kick things off for us.
Jeremiah Love’s Potential
Several analysts are suggesting that Jeremiah Love, a running back from Notre Dame, could be the top player in this draft class. Read on for what makes him stand out.
When will he come off the board?
Schefter previously indicated that Love’s lowest point might be picked by the No. 7 Washington team, but he believes there’s a real chance he could go as high as No. 3 with Arizona. He mentioned that some believe the Cardinals might take Love sooner than expected.
The Cardinals are exploring trade options to gain more picks but there’s a chance they could end up taking Love if they stay in that spot. Sources indicate that trade discussions with the Kansas City Chiefs have occurred, although it appears Kansas City is looking for a pass rusher. Interestingly, they have been linked to Love throughout the pre-draft process.
Ty Simpson’s Draft Fate
According to Schefter, the recent trade between the Chiefs and the Rams may negatively impact Ty Simpson’s chances of going in the first round.
In fact, it looks like Simpson might land with the Rams at No. 29—a trend noted in several early mock drafts. However, the Rams missed on an opportunity to grab Simpson after a trade for cornerback Trent McDuffie shifted their pick.
The Rams won’t pick again until after the second round, and sources speculate Simpson might not be available until the No. 61 pick.
Aside from the Rams, the Jets and Cardinals are reportedly interested in Simpson. While the Jets may not select him at either of their top picks, he could fall to them in the early second round. Arizona, with their No. 34 pick, might also trade back into the first round to secure that vital fifth-year option.
This possibility was discussed in our latest mock draft.
Miami’s Strategy at #30
As noted in the mock draft, the Cardinals could make a trade with the Miami Dolphins to draft Simpson at No. 30.
However, if Miami retains that position, a wide receiver may be a strong choice for them.
After trading Jaylen Waddle and releasing Tyreek Hill, the Dolphins’ leading wide receivers are Malik Washington, Tutu Atwell, and Jalen Tolbert. Miami has two first-round picks, at No. 11 and No. 30.
Cornerback Mansour Delaine is predicted to go at No. 11, with top defensive prospects like Reuben Bayne Jr. or Caleb Downs also possible if they fall to Miami.
For their No. 30 pick, sources suggest they’ll likely target a wide receiver, with KC Concepcion and Denzel Boston as potential selections.
Francis Mauigoa’s Injury Issues
Another focus of Schefter’s is Miami offensive lineman Francis Mauigoa, who has raised some concerns due to recent medical evaluations.
Mauigoa is expected to be a key starter, but reports indicate he has a herniated disc. Although it’s considered “not serious and symptom-free,” there’s a possibility he might require surgery if symptoms worsen, which could sideline him for up to three months.
Some believe surgery might be unavoidable. An executive mentioned that if the injury affects him during training camp, it could jeopardize his rookie season.
Still, Schefter noted that teams aren’t overly worried about long-term effects, but it’s something to watch as draft night approaches.
Pittsburgh’s Offensive Line Situation
Switching gears to the Pittsburgh Steelers, they’re still awaiting a decision from Aaron Rodgers.
At No. 21, they face several other important issues as well.
Left tackle Broderick Jones suffered a neck injury last year that led to fusion surgery. Recent updates suggest he has encountered a setback and will need further tests to determine if he’ll be ready for training camp.
Over the weekend, players like Omar Cooper Jr., KC Concepcion, and Denzel Boston surfaced as potential options for the Steelers with their No. 21 pick, although the recent news on Jones may steer them toward offensive linemen, given the depth of that position in this draft class.
The Current State of Aaron Rodgers’ Decision
The Steelers are still in the dark regarding Aaron Rodgers. There seems to be interest from new head coach Mike McCarthy in bringing him on board.
The clock, as they say, is ticking.
As pointed out, the Steelers have stated they’ve yet to hear from Rodgers, and a decision might not come before the draft.
Offseason practice began under McCarthy, but with Rodgers absent, it looks like second-year QB Will Howard will take the lead.
What’s Next for the Giants?
In a recent blockbuster trade, the New York Giants sent defensive lineman Dexter Lawrence to the Cincinnati Bengals, giving them two picks in the top 10.
So, what’s on the agenda for the Giants?
According to NFL Insider Connor Hughes, they’re exploring a variety of options. Some prospects on their board include linebacker Sonny Stiles, running back Jeremiah Love, and safety Caleb Downs. Hughes suggests that while they like Arizona State wide receiver Jordyn Tyson, injury concerns might render him a risk at No. 5.
However, with that No. 10 pick, Hughes thinks they might consider trading up to the No. 5 position. If the Jets go for Abel Reese, as some speculate, it could mean the Giants might have an opportunity to grab David Bailey, who’s often regarded as the top pass rusher in this class.
Hughes emphasized that the Giants are open to trades, and they might end up looking at offensive linemen and wide receivers more seriously, naming several potential targets.
