We’re another week into the season, and the line between contenders and pretenders is becoming clearer. For struggling franchises like the New Orleans Saints and Tennessee Titans, the focus is already shifting toward the 2026 NFL Draft.
In this week’s top five 2026 NFL Mock Draft, we look at how the bottom five teams in ESPN’s latest power poll might attempt to rebuild their futures.
Top 5 predictions: 2026 NFL Draft
1. New Orleans Saints: Garrett Nussmeier, QB, LSU
There is no doubt the Saints have the worst quarterback situation in the league. Neither Spencer Rattler nor Tyler Shough looks like a long-term solution. LSU’s Garrett Nussmeier is the top quarterback prospect in this class, and with his father serving as the Saints’ offensive coordinator, it’s hard to see New Orleans passing on him.
2. Tennessee Titans: T.J. Parker, DE, Clemson
There is no doubt the Titans need pass-rush help. Through this season, they’ve managed only two sacks, a glaring weakness for a team trying to stay competitive. Clemson’s T.J. Parker has started slowly, but he’s coming off a breakout year with 19.5 tackles for loss and 11 sacks. His athleticism and strength make him a natural fit for Tennessee’s defensive front.
3. New York Giants: Spencer Fano, OT, Utah
There is no doubt the Giants need to fix their offensive line if new quarterback Jaxson Dart is going to have any chance of success. The unit has been shaky, and without improvement, the offense won’t move forward. Utah’s Spencer Fano is the top right tackle in this class, showing an impressive blend of strength and mobility that makes him an immediate upgrade at right tackle.
4. Miami Dolphins: Caleb Downs, S, Ohio State
There is no doubt the Dolphins’ defense has been a major liability, ranking dead last in both yards (41.9) and points (3.6) allowed per drive. A big part of the problem is a secondary plagued by poor play and injuries. Ohio State’s Caleb Downs is the best defensive back in the 2026 draft class and would immediately step in as a core leader for Miami’s defense.
5. New York Jets: Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana
While the Saints have the worst quarterback room in the NFL, the New York Jets are not far behind. Justin Fields has been a major disappointment as a free-agent signing, and Tyrod Taylor is far from the answer. Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza is coming off a standout performance that earned him NFL Mock’s top performer of the week, and he has the look of a potential franchise quarterback.