It's almost time for the 2026 NFL Draft to get underway, and, as always, draft media is being hit with a flurry of reports from every corner of the league. How it will unfold is a question that's never fully answered before the picks are announced, and this year is no different.
This NFL mock draft sees the board fall uniquely as some players rise and others fall, while teams take advantage of a seller's market.
2026 NFL Mock Draft: QBs find their way into the first round with surprising selections
No. 1: Las Vegas Raiders – Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana
Is there really that much more that needs to be said? Mendoza was the best quarterback in the country in 2025, and it would be foolish to predict any other selection here. After a failed short Geno Smith experience, Las Vegas turns to the draft for a stable QB solution.
No. 2: New York Jets – David Bailey, EDGE, Texas Tech
The Texas Tech edge rusher has undeniable pass-rushing talent, an area that New York will need to upgrade as they continue their rebuild. Uncertainty about where Arvell Reese will play best leads them to make this selection for me. Bailey has the potential to be a consistent 10+ sack defender, an outcome every member of the Jets' front office would be more than happy with from their top pick.
No. 3: Arizona Cardinals – Francis Mauigoa, OT, Miami
Arizona could snag one of the other top Ohio State defenders, but I have them opting to hammer down the other side of their offensive line. After cutting ties with Kyler Murray, 2027 looks to be when they attack the QB position. If that ends up being the case, attempting to lock in a second franchise offensive tackle would be a logical precursor.
No. 4: Tennessee Titans – Jeremiyah Love, RB, Notre Dame
Love to Tennessee has been maybe the 2nd-most mocked pairing behind Mendoza and Las Vegas, and there shouldn't be any more questions why. College football's most dynamic playmaker gives the Titans such a dominant 1-2 backfield punch with Cam Ward, and he can elevate the entirety of their offense moving forward.
No. 5: New York Giants – Sonny Styles, LB, Ohio State
The Giants having their pick of Styles and Reese at #5 would be a dream scenario, and I think they would lean toward the former. They decided to move on from captain Bobby Okereke and need that commanding linebacker to lead their defense. Styles is the type of defender who can alter a franchise's direction and would be another foundational asset to a New York team that is building up for a playoff push soon.
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