The NFL’s first wave of free agency has kicked off, and teams are spending significant amounts to meet their needs. This has naturally turned attention toward the upcoming draft.
After the initial week of free agency, here’s a look at this early mock draft.
1. Raiders
Fernando Mendoza, Indiana QB
So far this offseason, the Raiders seem committed to Mendoza, hoping he can emerge as their franchise quarterback. They’re focused on creating a supportive environment to help him thrive in his role. He’s essentially the ideal fit for what the Raiders and Tom Brady envision.
2. Jets
Abel Reese, Ohio State LB
Typically, you wouldn’t select an off-ball linebacker this high, but this draft isn’t the norm; many top prospects play positions considered less premium. The Jets need to maximize this talented playmaker’s potential.
3. Cardinals
David Bailey, Texas Tech Edge
While a tackle is a pressing need, the options are slim at this point in the draft. They really could use a quarterback who excels at long-range throws, and Ty Simpson could be worth considering. However, they might trade down later to grab him. For now, Bailey stands out as the premier pass rusher available.
4. Titans
Jeremiah Love, Notre Dame RB
The Titans have various needs, but they’ve made strides in addressing their defense through free agency. An offensive player could be beneficial, providing young quarterback Cam Ward with additional firepower. Ohio State’s Carnell Tate could be an option, but Love might be the standout player in this draft—definitely a game-changer.
5. Giants
Sonny Stiles, Ohio State LB
The Giants might focus on acquiring three Ohio State stars: Stiles, safety Caleb Downs, and wide receiver Carnell Tate. Each has standout qualities, but Stiles’ performance speaks volumes about his unmatched athleticism. New Giants manager John Harbaugh can unleash him as a versatile defensive asset.
6. Browns
Monroe Freeling, Georgia, OT
The Browns are still navigating uncertainties at quarterback, and they may have to wait for a stronger 2027 draft for a long-term solution. They’ll want to bolster their offensive line, with Freeling being the top left tackle despite his limited experience. This rookie season could be crucial for his development.
7. Commanders
Colonel Tate, Ohio State WR
Younger quarterback Jaden Daniels needs some support. While Deebo Samuel didn’t pan out as hoped, Love might still be an option if he’s available. However, Tate’s presence could help foster a chemistry with Daniels, allowing both players to grow together.
8. Saints
Makai Lemon, USC WR
A strong edge rusher is needed, making Miami’s Reuben Bain Jr. a possibility, though his shorter arm length raises concerns. The Saints had hoped for Tate but can still enhance their receiving options for young quarterback Tyler Schau with Lemon, who fits well into Kellen Moore’s system.
9. Chiefs
Francis Mauigoa, Miami, OT
The Chiefs added running back Kenneth Walker, signaling a desire for a more balanced offensive approach supporting Patrick Mahomes. While Oregon tight end Kenyon Saddiq could fill a big role, there’s a pressing need for Mauigoa, a tackle who can help protect Mahomes and open running lanes.
10. Bengals
Reuben Bain Jr., Miami Edge
With Trey Hendrickson leaving via free agency, the Bengals need to strengthen their pass rush. Bain’s arm length isn’t ideal for the position, yet his relentless motor and impressive skills make him a valuable addition.
11. Dolphins
Caleb Downs, South Carolina, Ohio
The Dolphins are in a tough spot with a weakened roster that needs improvement across various positions. Downs, once thought to be an early pick, is still a highly talented player and a steal at this point in the draft.
12. Cowboys
Mansour Delane, LSU CB
The Cowboys, after struggling defensively last season, are focusing on building that side of the ball. They’re fortunate to have the top cornerback fall to them to fill a significant gap.
13. Rams
Ty Simpson, Alabama QB
The Rams previously traded for cornerback Trent McDuffie with a first-round pick to address roster gaps. Adding Simpson could facilitate a smooth transition from Matthew Stafford as he develops under Sean McVay’s guidance.
14. Ravens
Spencer Fano, Utah State, OL
Fano has shown promise but may need to adjust his position due to shorter arms. Some speculate he could become a Pro Bowler, and with the Ravens losing Pro Bowl center Tyler Linderbaum, he could fit in seamlessly.
15. Buccaneers
Jordyn Tyson, Arizona State WR
With Mike Evans now on the 49ers, the Buccaneers have an essential void to fill. Tyson, with his playmaking skills, could emerge as a key offensive weapon.
16. Jets
Vega Ioane, Penn State OG
The Jets caught a break with Ioane being available, as he’s the top interior offensive lineman in this draft. Given the team’s aspirations for the coming year, acquiring the best players helps secure their foundation.
17. Lions
Keldrick Faulk, Auburn Edge
The Lions have sought a strong partner for Aidan Hutchinson, and Faulk might be the right addition. His raw talent could flourish under Hutchinson’s guidance, potentially creating a robust pass-rushing duo.
18. Vikings
Dillon Thieneman, Oregon S
While it’s risky to compare Thieneman to Harrison Smith, he certainly displays athletic prowess that could lead him to success in coach Brian Flores’ complex defense.
19. Panthers
Kenyon Saddiq, Oregon State TE
The Panthers might look for help on the offensive line here, but adding Saddiq presents another offensive threat for quarterback Bryce Young, enhancing their weaponry.
20. Cowboys
Achim Messidor, Miami Edge
The Cowboys are having a productive first round, adding a top cornerback and now addressing their pass-rush needs with Messidor.
21. Steelers
TJ Parker, Clemson Edge
Parker’s previous season didn’t measure up to expectations, which may affect his draft position, yet there’s still significant value in selecting him at this point.
22. Chargers
Denzel Boston, Washington WR
The Chargers were hoping for Ioane but will now aim to boost their receiving corps with Boston, who adds size and toughness alongside quarterback Justin Herbert.
23. Eagles
Caleb Banks, Florida State DT
With the Eagles possibly shopping Jalen Carter, Banks could be a suitable replacement, whether long-term or short-term.
24. Browns
Omar Cooper Jr., Indiana WR
After securing a left tackle earlier, the Browns can bolster their offense with Cooper, addressing their future quarterback’s needs—whether it’s Shedule Sanders or another top prospect from next year’s draft.
25. Bears
Zion Young, Missouri Edge
Missing out on Maxx Crosby, the Bears are lucky to nab Young, who should contribute immediately given his strong pass-rush skills.
26. Bills
KC Concepcion, Texas A&M WR
The Bills are in search of playmaking talent, and Concepcion offers versatility to keep defenses on their toes.
27. 49ers
Max Iheanakor, Arizona State OT
As the 49ers look to bolster their offensive line, Iheanakor could eventually transition into a starting position, whether now or in the future.
28. Texans
Kaydin Proctor, Alabama
The Texans need to prioritize their offensive line, which struggled last year. Proctor, a strong player, could help establish a more formidable front.
29. Chiefs
Avion Terrell, Clemson CB
With Kansas City losing two starting corners, adding Terrell to their roster continues their strategy of drafting solid corner talent.
30. Broncos
Jadarian Price, Notre Dame RB
While there might be concerns, Price is poised to emerge as a dynamic player in Denver, having supported Love well at Notre Dame.
31. Patriots
Blake Miller, Clemson OT
New England needs to enhance their offensive line for young quarterback Drake Maye. As tackles start coming off the board, they’ll grab the next top prospect.
32. Seahawks
Jermod McCoy, Tennessee CB
Despite injury concerns limiting McCoy’s playing time last season, Seattle sees value in him as they replace a departed cornerback.
