As the 2025 NFL season moves into its second half, the 2026 draft picture is becoming clearer. It’s looking like the Tennessee Titans could land the No. 1 pick in back-to-back years, multiple teams will need to address the quarterback position, and the Los Angeles Rams were smart to acquire Atlanta’s first-round pick last offseason.
2026 NFL Draft top 10: Top pick a non-QB
1. Tennessee Titans – Rueben Bain Jr., DE, Miami
If the Titans end up with the top pick, quarterback won’t be the move after investing the 2024 No. 1 selection in Cam Ward. The real question becomes whether they trade down or stay put and grab a difference maker. Rueben Bain Jr. would give Tennessee the explosive edge presence their defense lacks.

2. New Orleans Saints – Ty Simpson, QB, Alabama
Ty Simpson is the first quarterback off the board because of his elite football IQ, quick processing, and command of Alabama’s offense. Even with limited starting experience, his poise and anticipation stand out. The Saints need a long-term answer under center, as Tyler Shough hasn’t shown enough to secure the job. If Kellen Moore can’t fix the quarterback position soon, his seat could heat up fast, making Simpson a necessary reset for the franchise.
3. New York Giants – Spencer Fano, OT, Utah
The Giants have two young offensive cornerstones in quarterback Jaxson Dart and running back Cam Skattebo. For both to reach their potential, the team must strengthen the offensive line, particularly at right tackle. Utah’s Spencer Fano fits that need perfectly. He’s one of the most technically sound linemen in the 2026 class, plays with consistent effort through the whistle, and has allowed just one sack over the past two seasons.
4. Cleveland Browns – Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana
Another team that spent draft capital on the quarterback position in the 2025 NFL Draft but will likely take another with their first-round pick is the Cleveland Browns. Dillon Gabriel has struggled with a 33.0 QBR, and the other quarterback they selected, Shedeur Sanders, has yet to take the field. Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza is having a breakout season and has proven he has the tools and upside to develop into a franchise quarterback.
OMAR COOPER UNREAL CATCH FOR THE TD 😱🤯
— FOX College Football (@CFBONFOX) November 8, 2025
WHAT A GAME. WHAT A CATCH. @IndianaFootball pic.twitter.com/PhHzKjuVB9
5. New York Jets – Dante Moore, QB, Oregon
The third quarterback off the board is Oregon’s Dante Moore, a player the Jets have already shown strong interest in. They recently sent three scouts and GM Darren Mougey to watch him up close against Rutgers, and he delivered with an efficient performance, completing 15 of 20 passes for 290 yards and four touchdowns.
2026 NFL Draft: Dolphins and Rams land generational talent
6. Las Vegas Raiders – Francis Mauigoa, OT, Miami
The Raiders have one of the league’s worst offensive lines, giving up 18 pressures and five sacks in their latest game against Denver. Miami’s Francis Mauigoa is having the best season of his career, earning an 84.2 PFF blocking grade. He also offers the versatility to play either tackle or guard, making him a perfect fit to stabilize Las Vegas’ offensive line.
7. Miami Dolphins – Arvell Reese, LB, Ohio State
Going into the season, NFL Mocks had Buckeyes linebacker Arvell Reese rated higher than most, naming him to our preseason All-Underrated team. His play has far exceeded expectations, rising from a Day Three prospect to a potential top-ten pick, with some projections even listing him as a possible No. 1 overall selection. With significant changes expected in Miami this offseason, adding a proven defensive leader like Reese would be a smart move.
Arvell Reese is QB nightmare fuel 😈@OhioStateFB pic.twitter.com/yFmlmkKBzV
— FOX College Football (@CFBONFOX) October 11, 2025
8. Washington Commanders – Jordyn Tyson, WR, Arizona State
The Washington Commanders have been one of the most disappointing teams in the NFL this year, sitting at 3-7 after reaching the NFC Championship last season. One major reason for the regression is their passing game, which has taken a step back. Arizona State’s Jordyn Tyson has carried the Sun Devils’ aerial attack and clearly stands out as the top wide receiver in the 2026 NFL Draft.
9. Cincinnati Bengals – T.J. Parker, DE, Clemson
The Bengals have one of the worst defenses in the NFL, giving up an NFL-high 33 points per game. With Trey Hendrickson likely on the way out, defensive end is set to be a major offseason need. Clemson’s T.J. Parker, despite a down season alongside the rest of the Tigers, remains the second-highest defensive end on my board and would provide immediate impact on Cincinnati’s pass rush.
10. Los Angeles Rams – Jeremiyah Love, RB, Notre Dame
One of the bigger surprises in the 2026 NFL Draft could be the Rams selecting Jeremiyah Love with the pick acquired from Atlanta. Running back may not be an urgent need, but Love’s dynamic skill set could add a new dimension to a Rams offense that already boasts one of the most explosive passing attacks in the NFL.
