2026 NFL Mock Draft: 5 QBs go top 10; game-changing defenders land in the NFC East

Where will the top prospects land in this Week 9 NFL Mock Draft?
Ohio State safety Caleb Downs
Ohio State safety Caleb Downs | Tom Hauck/GettyImages
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2026 NFL Mock Draft 21-25: Rams take a gamble at QB, Josh Allen gets a new weapon

Denzel Boston selected by the Buffalo Bills in the 2026 NFL Draft
Washington wide receiver Denzel Boston | Steph Chambers/GettyImages

No. 21: Los Angeles Chargers – Keldrick Faulk, ED, Auburn

The Chargers land Keldrick Faulk with the No. 21 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.  At 6-foot-6, 285 pounds, the linebacker/edge rusher has high potential as a pass rusher at the NFL level if he develops more moves in his pursuit to the quarterback.  He could flourish under Jim Harbaugh.

No. 22: Kansas City Chiefs– David Bailey, ED, Texas Tech

The Chiefs say thank you Chargers, because with the next pick they select Texas Tech’s David Bailey who has been one of the hottest edge rushers in college football in 2025.  Another young edge looking to make his mark in the AFC West, Bailey gives the Chiefs a tone setter who still has room to grow.

No. 23: Los Angeles Rams – Sam Leavitt, QB, Arizona State

The Rams will likely take a quarterback here and if he declares for the NFL Draft, the Rams could take a shot at Sam Leavitt.  The redshirt sophomore will miss the remainder of the season due to surgery to repair a foot injury so his draft availability could be in doubt.  If he does declare, Sean McVay could take a chance on a quarterback who has played like one of the top QB prospects in the nation.  His arm strength and pocket presence are key strengths, and the Rams could see him as an eventual replacement for Matthew Stafford.

No. 24: Detroit Lions – Kadyn Proctor, T, Alabama

The Lions get help along the offensive line with the selection of Kadyn Proctor.  The idea here is Tate Ratledge takes over at center and the Lions could use the massive flame of Procter at either tackle position.  Proctor has also shown versatility in his ability to be used in short yardage situations either carrying the ball or taking screens.  The big man will serve multiple purposes in the NFL.

No. 25:  Buffalo Bills – Denzel Boston, WR, Washington

The Bills get Josh Allen another offensive weapon in Denzel Boston.  The big wide receiver has been getting it done at Washington this season with 63 receptions for 834 yards and 9 touchdowns.  Allen will love Boston, who is a player who plays with physicality and will go up and get the ball using his size and strong hands to win battles.

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