No. 16: New York Jets via Indianapolis Colts – Ty Simpson, QB, Alabama
With four picks in the first two rounds, the Jets can afford to take a gamble at quarterback. What else do they have to lose? Though Ty Simpson needs time to develop, his skillset, toughness and arm talent, along with his mobility will draw intrigue from multiple NFL teams. The Jets don’t let him get past them at No. 16.
Current Pro Comparison: Daniel Jones
No. 17: Detroit Lions – Spencer Fano, T, Utah
The Detroit Lions jump at the opportunity to select Spencer Fano with the No. 17 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. With the retirement of Dan Skipper and uncertainly surrounding Taylor Decker, the Lions add an athletic tackle to the mix who is elite in the run game, but also adds pass protection for Jared Goff.
Current Pro Comparison: Bernhard Raimann
No. 18: Minnesota Vikings– Avieon Terrell, CB, Clemson
The Vikings select Avieon Terrell with the No. 18 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. A versatile corner with a knack of forcing turnovers, Terrell gives the Vikings’ secondary the depth and playmaking ability they are looking for.
Current Pro Comparison: Nate Wiggins
No. 19: Carolina Panthers– Kayden McDonald, DT, Ohio State
The Panthers select Kayden McDonald with the No. 19 overall pick. In a move that adds an interior lineman to compliment Derrick Brown, the Panthers get an interior force who is stellar against the run and adds some pass rush up the middle.
Current Pro Comparison: Kenny Clark
No. 20: Dallas Cowboys via Green Bay – Dillon Thieneman, S, Oregon
The Cowboys add leadership and versatility at the safety position with the selection of Dillon Thieneman out of the University of Oregon. Although forecasted as more of a Day 2 pick, Thieneman will increase his draft value leading up to the draft given his ability to be more of a swiss-army knife defensively.
Current Pro Comparison: Harrison Smith