No. 16: New York Jets (via IND) – Makai Lemon, WR, USC
This mock has the Jets adding some high-end talent on the defensive side of the ball with their first pick of the draft, and it makes sense for them to balance out their first-round investments. Makai Lemon is such an easily-projectable receiver who would create a formidable WR duo alongside Garrett Wilson. New York is likely to kick the can down the road on the QB position, unless they target a Kyler Murray-type player through free agency or the trade market, and the former Trojans' wideout would make their supporting cast a much better situation for a QB to walk into.
No. 17: Detroit Lions – Kadyn Proctor, OL, Alabama
A big need for offensive tackle suddenly opened up after it was announced on Friday morning that starting left tackle Taylor Decker would be released. Kadyn Proctor has been criticized by many on draft media, but the fact remains that he's still a top OL prospect available with a bright future ahead of him. This seems like a favorable spot for him to land, especially given Detroit's track record in recent years with offensive line development.
No. 18: Minnesota Vikings – Emmanuel McNeil-Warren, S, Toledo
The uncertainty surrounding Harrison Smith's future makes the safety position a prime area for the Vikings' front office to analyze, and Emmanuel McNeil-Warren could become part of their plans. Simply put, he brings a heck of a lot of impressive traits to the table, and can start immediately for Minnesota. Many have predicted the Vikings to be active in the safety market during free agency, but they could turn to the draft and bring on the Toledo Rocket to usher in a new era.
No. 19: Carolina Panthers – Caleb Banks, DL, Florida
Carolina is another team that could benefit from added pass rush help, and Caleb Banks is one player who could wreak havoc up the middle. Star defensive tackle Derrick Brown is known to draw heavy double-team rates, and adding the Florida defender could create some very favorable matchups for their defensive front. His stamina issues against the run could be hidden by the Panthers' tendency to heavily rotate their defensive linemen, and there's a clear path toward Banks becoming a valuable defensive piece if he lands in Carolina.
No. 20: Dallas Cowboys (via GB) – Jermod McCoy, CB, Tennessee
Double-dipping at secondary in the first round may be rare, but taking one look at how the Dallas defense performed in 2025 should more than justify the decision. Taking Thieneman with the first pick took care of their lack of a true centerfielder, and now adding Jermod McCoy could make their outside cornerback situation much more reasonable. The Tennessee DB is easily a first-round talent, despite not playing in over a year, and he could swiftly rise up the ranks to become one of the leaders of the Cowboys' secondary.