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2026 NFL mock draft is packed with shocking first-round twists

NFL teams take major chances in the 1st round of latest mock draft
Ohio State Buckeyes linebacker Arvell Reese
Ohio State Buckeyes linebacker Arvell Reese | Adam Cairns/Columbus Dispatch / USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images
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No. 11: Miami Dolphins – Makai Lemon, WR, USC

Southern California Trojans wide receiver Makai Lemon
Southern California Trojans wide receiver Makai Lemon | Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images

I'm not sure if I've seen anyone have the Dolphins picking anything other than a receiver at 11, and there's a reason for that. Malik Willis currently has, by all accounts, the worst receiver corps in the NFL, and they are simply paying him too much money for that to stay the case come Week 1. Lemon checks off a lot of boxes for Miami and would at least give Willis a reliable target to build a quick connection with.

No. 12: Dallas Cowboys – Caleb Downs, S, Ohio State

Ohio State defensive back Caleb Downs
Ohio State defensive back Caleb Downs | Jacob Musselman-Imagn Images

I think if Downs is available at this pick, Jerry Jones might sprint the draft card to the podium himself. For everything that Dallas needs on defense, Downs provides it and more. He's probably the best prospect on the board here, and also the best fit for the Cowboys, giving them an absolute weapon who can impact the game on seemingly every play.

No. 13: Los Angeles Rams (via ATL) – Monroe Freeling, OT, Georgia

Georgia Bulldogs offensive lineman Monroe Freeling
Georgia Bulldogs offensive lineman Monroe Freeling | Brett Davis-Imagn Images

The Rams' tackle situation isn't a dire need, but it could definitely use some improvements either now or down the line. They did their heavy lifting on defense in free agency, and have a roster complete enough to take somewhat of a luxury pick in Freeling. He needs some development, but the Georgia product just screams All-Pro upside, and Los Angeles has the time to groom him into a starting role.

No. 14: Baltimore Ravens – Olaivavega Ioane, OG, Penn State

Penn State Nittany Lions offensive lineman Olaivavega Ioane
Penn State Nittany Lions offensive lineman Olaivavega Ioane | Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

Interior offensive line remains a point of emphasis for Baltimore, and is one that extends further than just finding a replacement for Tyler Linderbaum. Ioane is a steady guard who projects to be a valuable piece both in 2026 and multiple years down the line. The Ravens' OL would benefit greatly from his services, making this a seamless fit.

No. 15: Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Akheem Mesidor, EDGE, Miami

Miami Hurricanes defensive lineman Akheem Mesidor
Miami Hurricanes defensive lineman Akheem Mesidor | Jerome Miron-Imagn Images

It's kind of a mix-and-match situation for Tampa Bay right now on their defensive line, and they might approach the draft with the goal of finding stability there. Mesidor is up there in age, but he's not a player who needs much development to be a starter at the next level. He should give them solid pass rush production from the jump, making him a worthy investment at #15.

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