2026 NFL Mock Draft 16-20: Rams, Saints land top QBs
No. 16: Chicago Bears– Keldric Faulk, ED, Auburn
With the No. 16 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, the Chicago Bears select Keldric Faulk out of Auburn. At 6-foot-6, 285 pounds, Faulk is a NFL ready defensive edge with a high motor in getting after the passer. Although he doesn’t have the explosive first step teams look for, that motor as well has his ability to shed blocks and make plays makes him a solid addition for the Bears as they will turn their attention to the defensive side of the ball.
No. 17: Los Angeles Rams via Atlanta – Ty Simpson, QB, Alabama
The Rams jump at the opportunity to select Ty Simpson with the No. 18 overall pick. As the fourth QB off the board, Simpson lands in the ideal spot in the NFL. As a potential Matthew Stafford replacement in 2026, Sean McVay will love the mechanics and accuracy Simpson has displayed in emerging as one of the top quarterbacks in the nation. With his size and athleticism as well as his natural pocket awareness, Simpson will find himself as a starter in 2026. The Rams will have the type of team where a young QB can be successful.
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No. 18: Minnesota Vikings – Francis Mauigoa, T, Miami (FL)
The Vikings have needs along the offensive line and in the defensive secondary. They address the O-Line with the selection of Francis Mauigoa who is the second offensive lineman off the board. At 6-foo-6, 315 pounds, Mauigoa is big, strong and an exceptional pass protector who also has great run blocking ability. If the Vikings are looking to strengthen the offensive line in front of J.J. McCarthy, Mauigoa is a great building block.
No. 19: New Orleans Saints via Buffalo – Garrett Nussmeier, QB, LSU
The trade with the Buffalo Bills allows the Saints to get a positional player in the top 5 and land the QB they have been connected to in past mock drafts later in the first round. With the selection of LSU’s Garrett Nussmeier, the Saints keep the QB prospect in the Bayou state and gives Rattler competition for the 2026 starting role. The edge should go to Nussmeier given his talent and will allow the Saints to work out another trade and gain more draft capital beyond the 2026 draft for Rattler.
No. 20: Denver Broncos – Carnell Tate, WR, Ohio State
The Broncos will have their eyes on moving up to select Kenyon Sadiq, but if they stay pat, Ohio State’s Carnell Tate is a wide receiver the team targets with the No. 20 overall pick. With great size and speed, Tate is a savvy route runner who thrives in the short passing game. Sounds like a great fit in Sean Payton’s offense as a player who Bo Nix can get the ball to in the quick passing game.