No. 16: New York Jets via Indianapolis Colts – Olaivavega Ioane, OG, Penn State
The Jets surprise a bit here by not taking Ty Simpson at this spot. Instead, the Jets address the interior of their offensive line with the selection of the mammoth and powerful Olaivavga Ioane who helps replace Alijah Vera-Tucker and John Simpson who both departed in free agency. With two second round picks, the Jets could explore trading up for a QB or standing pat and selecting a player they like with either of the second-round picks.
No. 17: Detroit Lions – Akheem Mesidor, ED, Miami (FL)
The Lions jump at the opportunity to find a high-impact edge rusher who they can pair with Aidan Hutchinson. What better player than Akheem Mesidor who worked in tandem with Ruben Bain Jr at Miami to terrorize opposing quarterbacks throughout the 2025 CFB season.
No. 18: Minnesota Vikings – Dillon Thieneman, S, Oregon
The Vikings will have to decide between safety and the defensive line as their top need with the No. 18 overall pick. They go with Oregon’s Dillon Thieneman here as he gives them a player who can replace the 37-year-old Harrison Smith if he decides to hang up the cleats. Even if he decides to return for this 15th season, having Thieneman in place will secure the team’s future at the position.
No. 19: Carolina Panthers – Spencer Fano, T, Utah
The Panthers select Spencer Fano with the No. 19 overall pick in the draft. As a player who slides a bit to them here, Fano gives them a player who can lock down the left tackle position as a long-term solution to protect Bryce Young’s blind side. The Panthers did sign Rasheed Walker to a one-year deal, so this isn’t a desperate need, but with Fano still on the board, why not?
No. 20: Dallas Cowboys, via Green Bay – Keldric Faulk, ED, Auburn
The Cowboys use both of their first-round picks on defensive playmakers. After selecting McCoy at No. 12, the Cowboys address their need at edge with a player in Keldric Faulk who has the ideal size to be an impactful defensive end who can both get after the quarterback and defend against the run. A versatile defender, Faulk helps bolster the offensive line along with Quinnen Williams, Kenny Clark in the middle and Rashan Gary coming off the opposite edge.