The 2026 NFL Draft is just weeks. With the stage set in Pittsburgh and Fernando Mendoza set to be the first name called come drat night, there is growing buzz around teams potentially moving up or back via trades that could land top prospects in intriguing places.
As the NFL draft rumor mill buzzing, this NFL Mock Draft sets a few trade scenarios in place that could shift the entire draft board, shock fans and perhaps change the landscape of the entire NFL.
With the Las Vegas Raiders on the clock and expected to land their QB, let the chaos begin.
2026 NFL Mock Draft: Eye-popping trade turns board upside down
No. 1: Las Vegas Raiders – Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana
In taking Fernando Mendoza with the No. 1 overall pick, the Raiders will have high expectations for the 2025 Heisman Trophy winner. Klint Kubiak and company will also have some patience. In signing Kirk Cousins this week, the new Raiders head coach has a veteran in place to start the season to give Mendoza time to find his way in the NFL. The signing also gives Mendoza a veteran presence to learn from and motivation to excel at the next level.
No. 2: Dallas Cowboys via New York Jets – Arvell Reese, LB, Ohio State
The Dallas Cowboys have been rumored to be eyeing the No. 3 overall pick, but the shock here is that Jerry Jones and crew really push the ball and land the No. 2 overall pick in an eye-opening block buster trade with the New York Jets. The draft day trade shocks the board and gives the Jets three first round picks in the top 20 in this draft. With the No. 2 overall pick, the Cowboys get their next Michah Parsons type talent in Arvell Reese to fits two of the Cowboys’ needs. He can get after the passer and he has elite talent at the linebacker position.
No. 3: Arizona Cardinals – Francis Mauigoa, T, Miami (FL)
The Cardinals will listen to trade offers for this pick but ultimately stay pat and take an opportunity to rebuild their offensive line with the selection of Francis Mauigoa. The best tackle in the draft, Mauigoa offers elite pass protection for a team that will take a young quarterback at some point in this draft. In all reality, the Cardinals may have their eye on the 2027 NFL Draft class. In the meantime, it’s all about rebuilding from the inside out. They need to get that offensive line on point and Mauigoa is a great starting point.
No. 4: Tennessee Titans – Jeremiyah Love, HB, Notre Dame
The Titans grab the top running back and perhaps the best offensive playmaker in this draft with the selection of Jeremiyah Love with the No. 4 overall pick in the draft. The Titans will be intrigued by the top defensive players on the board, but they find a greater need to build around Cam Ward. They give him a dynamic weapon in the backfield to potentially lead them into the future.
No. 5: New York Giants – Caleb Downs, S, Ohio State
The Giants at No. 5 can go in a few directions. They don’t have as huge of a need at linebacker as they had prior to free agency, so they grab another generational talent with the selection of the best safety in the draft. Caleb Downs not only comes with high-impact playmaking skills, but he had the versatility to play corner if needed. With John Harbaugh’s love for the safety position, the Giants create quite a safety room with Downs, Jevon Holland and Tyler Nubin.