2026 NFL Mock Draft: Expert Three-Round Projections (Post Free Agency)

March 26, 2026

Chris' 2026 NFL mock draft with expert three-round predictions, top prospects, and team selections for the upcoming draft, featuring Fernando Mendoza and more.

With the first two weeks of free agency in the books, the majority of roster moves that could impact the NFL Draft are complete. While there are some solid contributors and a few starters left on the wire who are still negotiating or awaiting an offer, such as Jauan Jennings, a few pending free agents should significantly impact Day 1 or Day 2 of the 2026 NFL Draft.

After this major milestone, and all major pre-draft events now complete, we now have a much better idea of each team’s needs and which prospects make sense. The only major items left on the calendar before the Draft are pro days, which shouldn’t significantly impact draft decisions. So, this may be the best time to do a mock, before teams focus all of their energy on lying to us.

Below you will find a full three-round projection for this year’s NFL Draft. Prepare yourself for a lack of trade activity, as few prospects in this class have the resume or positional value that demands a flashy trade. Instead, this will be what many call a “meat and potatoes draft,” where teams get quality starters but only a few superstars exist.

Round 1

1. Las Vegas Raiders – Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana

As we have noted before, Mendoza to Las Vegas is a foregone conclusion. The only thing that would change that is a team like the Jets offering all three of their 2027 first-round picks… and it’s not clear the Raiders would even accept that.

2. New York Jets- Arvell Reese, LB, Ohio State

With the expectation that Aaron Glenn is a lame duck, expect the front office to draft Reese, knowing he has the most long-term upside of any player available. David Bailey is another potential option, as is Sonny Styles, but those are “safer” draft picks. The Jets are in a true rebuild, suggesting they should chase the player with the most upside (Reese).

3. Arizona Cardinals – David Bailey, EDGE, Texas Tech

The Cardinals need a right tackle and a quarterback, but the value isn’t there for either with this pick. Instead, the team should draft a plug-and-play edge rusher who would fill a need on an improving defense. Bailey should remind this coaching staff of another speed rusher they had with the Rams (Byron Young).

4. Tennessee Titans- Jeremiyah Love, RB, Notre Dame

Love is a luxury pick, but he’s also the top-rated prospect in this class on my board and many others. Plus, Titans Head Coach Robert Saleh is coming from a 49ers offense that ran much of its offense, including the short passing game, through their running back (Christian McCaffrey). Tennessee could easily see Love as their version of CMC.

5. New York Giants- Carnell Tate, WR, Ohio State

The popular opinion is that New York will target Caleb Downs or Styles, both logical picks given they are two of the five best talents in this class. However, Tate plays a position of much greater value in the NFL and, more importantly, he offers the length and contested catch skills that would help Jaxson Dart remember to throw and not put his body at risk by running.

6. Cleveland Browns- Monroe Freeling, OT, Georgia

As you will see below, one of my bold predictions before the NFL Combine was that Freeling’s testing numbers would launch him into the discussion to become OT1 overall, and he has done just that. While Cleveland spent a lot on their offensive line in free agency, they still have a hole at left tackle, and Freeling is the longest and most athletic left tackle in this class.

The #Combine could lead to some NFL Draft surprises, like:

• Monroe Freeling in OT1 convo
• Brandon Cisse in CB2 convo
•#Bengals drafting Sonny Styles despite drafting 2 LBs last year
•#49ers drafting Cole Payton on Day 3 to replace a traded Mac Jones

— Chris (@The_PreSnapRead) February 26, 2026

7. Washington Commanders- Mansoor Delane, CB, LSU

Washington already invested in linebacker and edge rusher through free agency, making Styles and Rueben Bain Jr. less likely to go here. However, the Commanders’ secondary struggled in nearly every advanced metric last year. Delane would give them a true CB1 and let them move Mike Sainristil back to nickel, improving two spots with one pick.

8. New Orleans Saints- Caleb Downs, DB, Ohio State

Downs is one of the top prospects in this class, but he could fall due to positional value. However, the Saints should be the floor for Downs in this scenario, as they will value his ability to play deep safety or in the slot, where the team lost Alontae Taylor in free agency. Plus, the fact that Love and Tate are off the board further influences this pick.

9. Kansas City Chiefs- Francis Mauigoa, Miami (FL)

The Chiefs cut their starting right tackle for cap room this offseason, making that an area of need. The signing of Kenneth Walker III and Patrick Mahomes' health should further magnify Andy Reid’s need to draft Mauigoa’s steady hand to the right side of his line. If the top defenders in this class do not fall, expect the Chiefs to strongly consider Mauigoa here.

10. Cincinnati Bengals- Sonny Styles, LB, Ohio State

The Bengals drafted two linebackers in last year’s class, and they desperately need more pass-rush help, so Bain makes sense here. However, Bain’s lack of length is a serious red flag, while Styles has zero concerns aside from a lack of positional value. Styles has the coverage skills, instincts, tackling, and blitzing speed to change the face of a bad defense almost on his own.

11. Miami Dolphins- Rueben Bain Jr., DE, Miami (FL)

The Dolphins just created a major need at wide receiver, especially considering they just spent money on Malik Willis and have no one for him to throw to. However, new Head Coach Jeff Hafley needs pass rushers to implement his 4-3 scheme, and the team’s top two pass rushers from last year (Bradley Chubb and Jaelan Phillips) are both gone.

12. Dallas Cowboys- Jermod McCoy, CB, Tennessee

There is a world where McCoy is the first cornerback selected in this class, but that world involves McCoy actually working out at the Combine and not drawing red flags for not participating. Still, he is a ballhawk on film and would fill a need for a Cowboys team that cut their former lead corner mid-season.

13. *Los Angeles Rams (via Atlanta)- Makai Lemon, WR, USC

Lemon remains our choice for the Rams. Their reported pursuit of A.J. Brown only affirms our belief that this win-now roster is interested in giving MVP Matthew Stafford another weapon to terrorize opponents. Lemon is tough, dynamic, and consistent through the point of attack. He also does not come with injury concerns, which gives him a leg up on Jordyn Tyson.

14. Baltimore Ravens- Olaivavega Ioane, IOL, Penn State

The Ravens needed interior offensive line help before they lost their starting center to free agency, so Ioane makes sense here. The Nittany Lion has the bruising mentality you usually associate with Baltimore, and he fills a need. Plus, he is arguably the best pure run blocker in this class.

15. Tampa Bay Buccaneers- Spencer Fano, OL, Utah

Fano does not fill any of Tampa’s biggest needs, but he does fill two minor ones (a starting left guard and swing tackle). Plus, the Bucs should view Fano’s fall similarly to how they saw Emeka Egbuka last year: too good to pass up, regardless of priority or need.

16. *New York Jets (via Indianapolis)- Jordyn Tyson, WR, Arizona State

This is the worst-case scenario for Tyson and his fantasy football fans, but it would be ideal for the Jets. New York must continue building a roster around their future quarterback with players who will help their 2027 draft pick win. Tyson could help New York lose next year by easing back from any existing injury, then help them win in his sophomore campaign.

The throw by @S_leav10, the catch by @tyson_jordyn 🤌

Pure Cinema.

📺TNT pic.twitter.com/6sa79Z3fcN

— Sun Devil Football (@ASUFootball) September 14, 2025

17. Detroit Lions- Kadyn Proctor, OL, Alabama

The release of Taylor Decker made offensive tackle an immediate need for a Lions team that prides itself on running the football. While Proctor carries a second-round grade on my board, he does have the build that Dan Campbell would like, and he is a surprisingly good athlete for his size. Better yet, Proctor is a pure left tackle, and most in this class play on the right side.

18. Minnesota Vikings- Dillon Thieneman, S, Oregon

Depth and youth in the secondary are two of Minnesota’s biggest needs this offseason, now that Kyler Murray is on board. Thieneman is a souped-up version of what Harrison Smith was coming out of Notre Dame, so it makes sense that they would target the Duck to replace him.

19. Carolina Panthers- Kenyon Sadiq, TE, Oregon

The Panthers filled their biggest needs in free agency, which leaves them free to draft the best player available at any position of minor need. Sadiq would fit that bill, offering tremendous athleticism and underrated blocking that would be an immediate upgrade over Ja'Tavion Sanders. Sadiq would give Bryce Young another talented weapon to grow with.

20. *Dallas Cowboys (via Green Bay)- Akheem Mesidor, DE, Miami (FL)

Mesidor is longer, faster, and more productive than his more heralded teammate (Bain). Unfortunately, Mesidor is also an older prospect (26), and that fact is pushing him down some boards. Thankfully, Jerry Jones has acknowledged his age and lack of time to oversee a rebuild, so his Cowboys are the perfect fit for an older but ready-made pass rusher.

21. Pittsburgh Steelers- Keldric Faulk, DE, Auburn

Rumors are that the Steelers are out on Ty Simpson with this pick, and they've already filled their needs at receiver and cornerback. That frees them up to take a flyer on Faulk, whose size and athleticism make him a natural long-term replacement for Steelers stalwart Cameron Heyward. Heyward has been invaluable to Pittsburgh, but he’s also entering his age-37 season.

22. Los Angeles Chargers- Emmanuel Pregnon, G, Oregon

Pregnon is an early second-round talent, but one unlikely to last until the Chargers’ next pick. His demeanor, power, and size should all appeal to Jim Harbaugh, and the Chargers still have a glaring need at guard, even after their offseason additions on the offensive line. So, do not be shocked if L.A. reaches for their guy in a class where picks 20-40 carry similar grades.

23. Philadelphia Eagles- Zion Young, DE, Missouri

The Eagles reportedly tried to retain Phillips but were unsuccessful. That loss makes edge rusher a priority for Howie Roseman, who has a long history of building depth and talent on the defensive line. That could make Zion Young a good fit for Philly, as he is an ascending prospect who can hold up against the run and win as a power pass rusher against NFL talent.

24. *Cleveland Browns (via Jacksonville)- Denzel Boston, WR, Washington

The Browns continue to add pieces for the quarterback they will draft in 2027. Boston is strong at the point of attack, is an active blocker, and his short-area routes are underrated. While the buzz on Boston is dying out as of late, he should still be the fourth receiver off the board when all is said and done.

25. Chicago Bears- Emmanuel McNeil-Warren, S, Toledo

The Bears let several of the starters in their secondary walk this offseason, including both of their starting safeties. While Chicago filled their free safety void with Coby Bryant, it still does not have a box safety to replace Jaquan Brisker. McNeil-Warren has the size to fill that role, and his tape suggests he can do a lot more than Brisker did in his final years with the Bears.

26. Buffalo Bills – CJ Allen, LB, Georgia

Allen may not be the ideal value pick this early, given his limited testing numbers and lack of positional value, but the Bulldog is a heady defensive leader with tremendous recognition skills for his age (20). Buffalo has a significant need at interior linebacker, and Allen is the most impactful addition they could make at this juncture.

27. San Francisco 49ers- Cashius Howell, EDGE, Texas A&M

John Lynch and Kyle Shanahan have used their first draft pick on the defensive line in five of their nine seasons in SF. They have also used 40% of their Day 1 and Day 2 draft picks on wide receivers and defensive linemen during that time. In other words, history strongly suggests this pick will be a receiver (Omar Cooper Jr.) or edge rusher, despite a need at offensive tackle.

While Howell’s lack of length is a red flag, especially for a 4-3 defense like San Fran’s, new 49ers Defensive Coordinator Raheem Morris is a blitz-heavy play caller with a history of cultivating standup speed rushers like Howell. Plus, Howell has very similar measurables to Bryce Huff, who the 49ers did not anticipate losing to retirement this offseason.

28. Houston Texans- Peter Woods, DT, Clemson

The Texans should strongly consider a young offensive tackle that they can groom with this pick, considering Braden Smith’s injury history. However, the Smith signing makes it more likely that Houston will grab Woods instead. The free-falling Clemson alum was a first-round prospect coming into the season and is a perfect fit for 3-tech in DeMeco Ryans’ scheme.

29. *Kansas City Chiefs (via LAR)- Brandon Cisse, CB, South Carolina

The Chiefs lost three significant contributors from their secondary this offseason, making that a major area of need. Cisse has tremendous length, his testing numbers are top-notch, and he allowed a low 47% completion percentage when targeted last year. He would be a fine addition to a thin Kansas City secondary.

30. *Miami Dolphins (via DEN) – Omar Cooper Jr., WR, Indiana

Cooper is an ideal fit for a quarterback like Willis, because the Hoosier is special with the ball in his hands and gets good separation on short-area and in-breaking routes. Cooper would give Willis a safety valve to dump things off to, and he has the elusiveness to turn those throws into more.

31. New England Patriots- Blake Miller, OT, Clemson

Miller is an experienced tackle with 54 games under his belt. His testing numbers are also good, so there is a solid chance he is drafted 10 picks ahead of the Patriots. However, his hand placement and lack of polish, despite his experience, could cause him to fall into the late first round. That would make him the perfect heir to the aging Morgan Moses in New England.

32. Seattle Seahawks- Chris Johnson, CB, San Diego State

Seattle lost several members of its secondary in free agency, which makes it a prime need for a front office that historically prioritizes the backend of its defense. Johnson’s testing numbers are strong, plus he shows elite instincts and feel for the ball in both man and zone coverage, so he could be a good fit for the Seahawks even if his length is not quite what they usually target.

Round 2

33. New York Jets – Avieon Terrell, CB, Clemson

The Jets forced zero interceptions last year, an abysmal rate for a team whose head coach is a former NFL cornerback. While Terrell isn’t an elite ballhawk, he creates plenty of turnovers. The Tiger forced eight fumbles over the past two seasons while tipping 25 passes in three college campaigns.

34. Arizona Cardinals- Max Iheanachor, OT, Arizona State

The Cardinals have a clear need at right tackle, which is why many project them to draft that position at #3 overall. However, the potential of Iheanachor falling this far should make the Cardinals feel good about passing on the position earlier. Iheanachor is raw and only four years into playing football, but his movement skills and raw instincts make him an enticing pick.

35. Tennessee Titans- T.J Parker, DE, Clemson

The Titans should strongly consider replacing their left tackle (Dan Moore Jr.) with Caleb Lomu here, but Saleh let his offense use the first pick on Love, so it’s his turn to make a pick for his defense. Parker has the length, power, and physical profile that Saleh usually loves.

36. Las Vegas Raiders- Kayden McDonald, DT, Ohio State

The Raiders could look at a receiver with this pick, since KC Concepcion is popular in some circles and would add a dynamic element to their receiver room. However, McDonald is a first-round talent and the top run-defending defensive lineman in the entire draft class. He would go a long way towards helping Las Vegas improve its run support.

37. New York Giants- Anthony Hill Jr., LB, Texas

The community appears divided on Hill, but he remains an elite athlete capable of impacting the game in a variety of ways. There are shades of Edgerrin Cooper to Hill’s game, making him a dangerous addition to a Giants front that is already loaded with pass rush talent. Hill is a strong run defender but can be an effective blitzer in certain packages.

38. *Houston Texans (via Washington)- Caleb Lomu, OT, Utah

Braden Smith has a concerning injury history, making swing tackle an important position for Houston. While the team likes last year’s pick (Aireontae Ersery), Lomu surrendered zero sacks last year and could quickly be the top blocker for the Texans. Whether he starts at guard or not, injuries or other factors could push Lomu back to tackle sooner than Houston thinks.

39. Cleveland Browns- KC Concepcion, WR, Texas A&M

The Browns could use more help on the offensive line, but they spent enough on veterans that they may feel secure there. That could open them up to take Concepcion, who would bring quick separation and big play skills to balance out the possession receiver they drafted in the first round of this mock (Boston). These receivers will help whatever QB the Browns draft in 2027.

Only 82 yards but KC Concepcion carved up Notre Dame's secondary. Production will explode if he starts getting catchable deep targets pic.twitter.com/TiDxKz2hUT

— James Foster (@NoFlagsFilm) September 17, 2025

40. Kansas City Chiefs- Chris Brazzell II, WR, Tennessee

Receiver may not be the biggest need on Kansas City’s roster, but question marks surround their top two wideouts, with Rashee Rice marred in more off-field drama and Xavier Worthy coming off a down year with injury and production questions. Brazzell II is a project, but he’s got ideal length, great deep speed, and he can do everything they drafted Worthy to do, but with size.

41. Cincinnati Bengals- Caleb Banks, DT, Florida

The Bengals should be thrilled if they make a luxury pick like Styles early and still land Banks to fill a major need on their defensive interior. Persistent injuries and inconsistent tape should force Banks into this range, too. The Florida alum has scary movement skills for his towering frame, and Cincinnati has a history of ignoring red flags for talent before.

42. New Orleans Saints- R Mason Thomas, EDGE, Oklahoma

The Saints need to get younger and faster on the edge, and Mason Thomas would be a great fit. He is a fluid speed rusher off the edge who is ideally suited for the kind of 3-4 hybrid front that New Orleans will run.

43. Miami Dolphins – Colton Hood, CB, Tennessee

Miami’s secondary lacks any above-average starters at the moment, so Hood makes sense. The Tennessee product is particularly aggressive and strong in man coverage, but he also shows the closing burst and athletic numbers to make up ground in zone. He is a fine fit for the Dolphins’ need for outside corner help.

44. *New York Jets (via Dallas) – D’Angelo Ponds, CB, Indiana

The Jets put some band-aids on their secondary in free agency, and they already added Terrell in this mock, but their need on the backend requires multiple draft picks. Ponds may have to play nickel in the NFL due to his size, another need for New York, but he’s got the experience and zone/man skills to play outside as well. Plus, he is the locker room leader the Jets need.

45. Baltimore Ravens- Jake Golday, LB, Cincinnati

Another meat-and-potatoes pick, the Ravens must get better at the interior linebacker spot next to Roquan Smith. Golday’s athleticism was on display at the Combine and on film. He is strong in coverage and run support, though he has not yet contributed much as a pass rusher. He would fit the traditional Ravens aesthetic and fill a need, just like the Ioane pick before him.

46. Tampa Bay Buccaneers- Malachi Lawrence, EDGE, UCF

The Buccaneers need help at interior linebacker and edge rusher, but Lawrence is the better value, so they go edge here. The UCF end has great length and good speed, plus he has experience rushing from both a standup and downed position. Lawrence would be a fine fit for Tampa’s hybrid front.

47. Indianapolis Colts- Christen Miller, DT, Georgia

The Colts are getting older at defensive tackle, and injuries have become a regular occurrence there. Miller has the power and anchor to immediately contribute as a rotational piece on base downs, along with the upside to become an every-down contributor in time.

48. Atlanta Falcons- Ty Simpson, QB, Alabama

Atlanta reportedly brought in Tua Tagovailoa not just to cover for Michael Penix Jr.’s injury but to “compete” for the full-time job. If they are really that concerned about Penix’s performance/health, then this new Falcons regime (with zero ties to Penix) will be looking to draft their own long-term quarterback at some point.

So, why not now if a good value falls to them?

Remember that Carolina drafted Jimmy Clausen 48th overall in 2010 and moved on from him the very next year. The Falcons could do something similar, taking a cheap gamble on Simpson, knowing he provides cheap upside that they can move on from if they don’t like what they see from any of their quarterbacks in 2026 or 2027.

49. Minnesota Vikings- Lee Hunter, DT, Texas Tech

The Vikings lost multiple defensive linemen due to cap cuts this offseason, making it a priority for them to add at least one space-eating defensive lineman. Hunter has the size and anchor to play nose tackle in Minnesota’s system, filling an immediate need with a strong anchor against the run and the power to capsize the pocket on passing downs.

50. Detroit Lions- Gabe Jacas, DE, Illinois

The Lions need a pass rush option opposite Aidan Hutchinson after Al-Quadin Muhammad left in free agency. Jacas is a strong edge setter with good character and leadership reports, along with plus length and the ability to push tackles into the passer. He has all the trimmings of a Dan Campbell defender.

51. Carolina Panthers- Sam Hecht, C, Kansas State

The Panthers lost their starting center in free agency, a player who made a significant impact on the run game. Hecht is a polished hand-fighter who neutralized some good prospects at the Senior Bowl and put together very good tape at Kansas State.

52. Green Bay Packers- Keionte Scott, DB, Miami (FL)

The Packers have several needs on defense after free agency losses and trades, but defensive back is near the top of that list. With no edge rushers worthy of this pick, a versatile DB with good run support skills makes sense.

Scott is a rising prospect who may not fall this far after he posted some of the best testing numbers of this draft cycle at his pro day.

53. Pittsburgh Steelers- Chase Bisontis, G, Texas A&M

The impact of Isaac Seumalo leaving Pittsburgh cannot be overstated, as he was the second-highest graded starter on the team last year with just 20 quarterback pressures allowed. Bistonis is a strong pass protector who surrendered just two sacks in his past 23 games and should be able to slot into Seumalo’s vacated position right away.

54. Philadelphia Eagles- Eli Stowers, TE, Vanderbilt

The Eagles tend to draft a year ahead of their needs. They drafted Jihaad Campbell a year before Nakobe Dean left, they took Cooper DeJean and Quinyon Mitchell prior to losing Darius Slay and James Bradberry, and Jalen Carter was the heir to Javon Hargrave.

Here they draft Dallas Goedert’s early replacement with the ultra-athletic Stowers… just like Goedert was drafted to be Zach Ertz’s future replacement.

55. Los Angeles Chargers- Gracen Halton, DT, Oklahoma

The testing numbers for Halton were tremendous, given his size. Reports out of Norman are also good, with his coaching staff raving about his potential to do more in the pros than he did at Oklahoma. The big man has the size and athleticism to play either the 5-tech, the 3-tech, or even nose tackle in Los Angeles’ front.

56. Jacksonville Jaguars- Jacob Rodriguez, LB, Texas Tech

The Jaguars lost starting linebacker Devin Lloyd in free agency, which is a major loss considering Lloyd was the third-highest graded coverage linebacker in the NFL and collected five interceptions last year. While Rodriguez is a bit undersized, he plays with his hair on fire and can cover tight ends or running backs with his 4.57 speed.

57. Chicago Bears- Joshua Josephs, EDGE, Tennessee

The Bears rated 24th in the NFL in pressure rate and pass rush win rate last year, with Montez Sweat the only real sack threat on their front. Josephs is a project, but his elite length and ability to extend and keep tackles out of his numbers are impossible to teach. He needs to get stronger, but can stress the edge and shows the ability to spin inside after baiting tackles wide.

58. San Francisco 49ers- Chris Bell, WR, Louisville

There were rumors out of the Combine that the 49ers like Bell enough to consider him in the first round, so they should love him in the second. The big question about Bell is his injury. Otherwise, he has the size, speed, and tackle-breaking ability to become an impact player. The Louisville product is especially effective on crossers and working in traffic.

Chris Bell is worth the wait. He should come off the board in round 2. The injury just provides some team a discount. #NFLDraft pic.twitter.com/G6Q4Z4esA5

— Ray G (@RayGQue) February 22, 2026

59. Houston Texans- Jadarian Price, RB, Notre Dame

The Texans' trade for David Montgomery gave them a power back, making Mike Washington Jr. a redundant prospect for them. However, Price has the burst and big play potential that would pair well with Montgomery. Those hoping Woody Marks and his subpar efficiency will keep his job must prepare themselves for the reality that he could be replaced soon.

60. Chicago Bears-Domonique Orange, DT, Iowa State

The Bears need to improve their run defense and the interior of their defensive line. Orange is a massive body that can clog the lanes. The Cyclone is a solid fit for Chicago’s needs, even if he is a bit of a reach in this spot.

61. Los Angeles Rams- Gennings Dunker, OL, Iowa

The Rams can draft the best player available, but Dunker’s versatility and ability to play all over the line could make him an intriguing option for a Los Angeles offense that could use depth and long-term upside. Dunker can compete for the starting right guard job while acting as the team’s swing tackle as well.

62. Denver Broncos- Max Klare, TE, Ohio State

There are no prospects worthy of this pick who would fill Denver’s need at interior linebacker. However, tight end also remains a long-term area of need, and Klare fills it perfectly. Sean Payton has tried a slew of different fits for the tight end position, which he has historically valued, but they have all disappointed. Klare has a rounded profile and upside as a receiver.

63. New England Patriots- Romello Height, EDGE, Texas Tech

Height is undersized, but Mike Vrabel has experience with maximizing undersized edges in his scheme. The Texas Tech product plays with very good speed and was supremely efficient in 2025, making him a strong fit for a Patriots team that lost K’Lavon Chaisson in free agency.

64. Seattle Seahawks- Mike Washington Jr., RB, Arkansas

Washington may be redundant with Zach Charbonnet, as both are bigger backs who fill many of the same roles. However, Charbonnet is recovering from a serious injury, and free agency is just a year away for him. Plus, Seattle reportedly wanted to bring back Kenneth Walker III, signaling that they may not view Charbonnet as their long-term lead back.

Round 3

65. Arizona Cardinals – A.J. Haulcy, S, LSU

The Cardinals have yet to replace free safety Jalen Thompson after his exit in free agency. Haulcy shows good instincts and reaction skills in coverage. He’s also a quality tackler, making him a good fit next to Budda Baker.

66. Tennessee Titans- Ted Hurst, WR, Georgia State

The Titans could go with Germie Bernard here, but he would be a bit redundant given Wan'Dale Robinson's role as the team's possession receiver. Hurst would add a new element the Titans do not have: long arms and long strides that make him a quality deep threat. The Georgia State product’s tape is far more dominant than either Chimere Dike or Elic Ayomanor, too.

67. Las Vegas Raiders- Derrick Moore, DE, Michigan

A divorce between Maxx Crosby and the Raiders feels inevitable, but Moore would offer quality depth even if that does not happen. The Wolverine was a productive sack artist at Michigan, totaling 19 sacks the past three seasons, and he translates speed to power very well. While he is best suited for a 4-3 end in pass-rushing downs, he can adapt to any front.

68. Philadelphia Eagles (via NYJ)- Germie Bernard, WR, Alabama

As we stated earlier, the Eagles like to plan for future losses through their draft picks. In this scenario, A.J. Brown is still an Eagle, but Bernard has the frame and tackle-breaking ability to provide depth or step in as a starter if Brown is eventually traded.

69. Houston Texans (via NYG)- Connor Lew, C, Auburn

Perhaps Houston plans to go with Jake Andrews as its starting center after trading Juice Scruggs, but the smart play would be to bring in competition or an upgrade. Lew was one of the best interior blockers in college football in 2024 before he dealt with injuries this past year, but he remains a strong candidate to start at center for Houston right away.

70. Cleveland Browns- Caleb Tiernan, OL, Northwestern

The Browns would be best served using all of their picks on offense this year, as their defense is one of the best in the league and their offense is … well, the opposite. Tiernan is a polished hand-fighter and a high-character tackle who will be a guard for Cleveland. He would provide competition and upside on the interior right away, with swing tackle versatility.

71. Washington Commanders- Elijah Sarratt, WR, Indiana

Washington needs a possession receiver opposite Terry McLaurin. While the expectation is that it could be Brandon Aiyuk, the 49ers have yet to jettison Aiyuk, and the Commanders would be infinitely lucky if Sarratt fell to them here. Sarratt is a polished route runner with good length and is very good on back shoulder fades, making him a great pick even if Aiyuk is in town.

72. Cincinnati Bengals- Keylan Rutledge, G, Georgia State

The Bengals are returning their entire offensive line from last season, but they could use depth and someone capable of competing for a starting job on the interior. Rutledge has surrendered just two sacks in 37 college games, making him a strong fit for a Bengals team always looking to keep Joe Burrow upright.

73. New Orleans Saints- Skyler Bell, WR, Connecticut

The Saints’ decision to wait on a receiver in this mock pays off when Bell falls to them in the third round. The UConn product has good testing numbers, average size, and elite production. He’s also got good foot quickness that helps him create separation, which is why he finished top three in the FBS in nearly every important category.

74. Kansas City Chiefs- Dani Dennis-Sutton, DE, Penn State

Kansas City needs depth along its defensive line, and Dennis-Sutton is a strong run defender. The Nittany Lion also nabbed 22 sacks over his college career, showing that he can be a productive pass-rusher despite no elite measurables and limited movement skills.

75. Miami Dolphins- Zachariah Branch, WR, Georgia

The Dolphins need multiple pass-catchers, but this is a good draft to have such a need, thanks to the depth at the position. Branch would give the team an exciting deep option to spread out boxes and keep defenses honest. He’s also very good with the ball in his hands, giving Malik Willis two quality receivers with Omar Cooper Jr. already on board in this mock.

76. Pittsburgh Steelers (via DAL)- Carson Beck, QB, Miami (FL)

This is high for Beck according to my board, but rumors are circulating that the Steelers really like the Georgia transfer, and he could be a reason Pitt passes on Ty Simpson. Beck has a lot of experience, good size, adequate arm strength, and his resume gives him a gold star on the Bill Parcells quarterback checklist.

CARSON BECK GIVES MIAMI THE LEAD!!! pic.twitter.com/onsu3sCDFx

— Grant Reacts (@GrantReacts1) January 9, 2026

77. Tampa Bay Buccaneers- Kyle Louis, LB, Pittsburgh

Louis is wildly undersized right now, but he could end up adding enough muscle to stay at interior linebacker. If he can do that, Louis would compete quickly for a starting job in Tampa with Lavonte David's retirement. Louis is a former safety and a hybrid prospect with tremendous coverage skills and closing speed on film.

78. Indianapolis Colts- Josiah Trotter, LB, Missouri

Trotter is a violent player who changes direction well and has potential as an interior pass-rusher. He is a liability in coverage, but that can be covered up in the right system. The Colts have a need at linebacker after trading Zaire Franklin to the Packers, so Trotter would fill a significant hole.

79. Atlanta Falcons- Bryce Lance, WR, North Dakota State

The Falcons need interior linebacker help, but the position has been picked over in this mock. While Antonio Williams and Malachi Fields may be better/safer receiver options here, Fields would be redundant with Drake London, and Kyle Pitts often fills the slot for Atlanta. That makes Lance and his deep speed a nice replacement for Darnell Mooney, who signed with the Giants.

80. Baltimore Ravens- Malachi Fields, WR, Notre Dame

The Ravens have Zay Flowers for their big-play threat at wideout, but they could use a big possession receiver to play the boundary opposite Flowers. Fields has the size and contested-catch skills to give Baltimore what it needs, boxing out defenders and making key plays in the red zone and in short-area scenarios.

81. Jacksonville Jaguars- Kaleb Proctor, DT, Southeastern Louisiana

The Jaguars could use more penetration from their defensive tackles, which is what Proctor provides. The SE Louisiana alum notched nine sacks and 26 quarterback hurries in his final year of college.

82. Minnesota Vikings- Jonah Coleman, RB, Washington

The Vikings need long-term talent at running back, and a heavy-headed runner to pair with the aging Aaron Jones Sr. Coleman’s tape suggests he has more speed, better contact balance, and is a better receiver than Jordan Mason was last year.

83. Carolina Panthers- Darrell Jackson Jr., DT, Florida State

The Panthers could use more size and power next to Derrick Brown on their defensive line. Jackson is a big body who can anchor against the run and occupy blockers as the nose in Carolina’s 3-4 front.

84. Green Bay Packers- LT Overton, DE, Alabama

After trading Rashan Gary, the Packers could use more depth at edge-rusher. Overton can win with power and leverage, filling the role and profile that Gary offered across from the speedy Micah Parsons.

85. Pittsburgh Steelers- Dametrious Crownover, OT, Texas A&M

The Steelers already have an athletic but raw tackle in Broderick Jones, yet rumors are that Jones’ health and development are both concerns. Crownover is another premium athlete, much like Jones, as a converted tight end with mass that moves. He would be a project that gives Pittsburgh tackle depth and a lot of long-term upside.

86. Los Angeles Chargers- Kamari Ramsey, S, USC

The Chargers need depth at safety, especially given Derwin James Jr.’s propensity to injure himself. Ramsey has solid size and good closing speed, along with the ability to play multiple positions in the secondary.

87. Miami Dolphins (via PHI)- Justin Joly, TE, North Carolina State

Joly was an impressive receiver in 2024, but he regressed in 2025. Still, he has the size and speed to be an impact receiver from the tight end position. He also has the frame to grow into a blocker worthy of staying on the field all game. Joly would compete for a starting job in Miami right away.

88. Jacksonville Jaguars- Keith Abney II, CB, Arizona State

The Jaguars can afford to take the best player available, which is Abney. The Sun Devil played outside in college, but should move inside as a pro, where he will be a tenacious fighter and shadow for opposing slot receivers. He would also add depth to Jacksonville’s secondary, which could be a need if Travis Hunter focuses on offense or is hurt again.

89. Chicago Bears- Jake Slaughter, C, Florida

The Bears traded for Garrett Bradbury to fill their hole at center, but Bradbury’s performance has been up and down throughout his career. Slaughter would compete immediately with Bradbury for the starting center job, likely winning it by season’s end.

90. Miami Dolphins (via HOU)- Davison Igbinosun, CB, Ohio State

The Dolphins need multiple starters at cornerback, and Igbinosun began ascending on draft boards after a strong showing at the Senior Bowl. The Buckeye has the ideal size and length for an outside corner, plus he is aggressive in press coverage on film.

91. Buffalo Bills- Mikail Kamara, DE, Indiana

Kamara looked like he could be a potential first-round pick after a strong 2024 season in which he logged double-digit sacks. His numbers declined this year, but he has enough size to stay at the end in a 4-3 scheme, and his pass-rush win metrics are good enough to contribute to Buffalo’s pass rush early on.

92. Dallas Cowboys (via SF)- Bryce Boettcher, LB, Oregon

The Cowboys could use one of their first-round picks on an interior linebacker because the need is that great, but the value won’t be there unless Sonny Styles falls unexpectedly. Boettcher could be the third-round compromise, as he would come in and immediately contribute on special teams while competing for a starting role.

93. Los Angeles Rams- Drew Allar, QB, Penn State

I have always believed that the Rams will prefer Allar over Ty Simpson, especially at cost. Sean McVay already traded one accurate system quarterback (Jared Goff) for a gunslinger (Matthew Stafford) before. So, why would they now pass over a big-armed project like Allar for a more limited prospect who costs more (Simpson)?

94. TRADE: San Francisco 49ers- Bud Clark, S, TCU

The Dolphins trade back here to accumulate more picks because they must fill out one of the worst rosters in football. Meanwhile, the 49ers move up to secure Clark while they can. The TCU product has the length, size, and testing speed to play corner, but he has the thumping mentality of a safety. Clark would be an immediate upgrade over Ji’Ayir Brown at free safety.

Trade Compensation:

San Francisco Receives- Pick No. 94 overall

Miami Receives- Picks No. 127 and No. 133 overall

95. New England Patriots- Antonio Williams, WR, Clemson

The Patriots look set to lose their starting slot receiver from last season (Stefon Diggs) without an obvious replacement on staff. Even if they trade for A.J. Brown, the Patriots should consider the polished Williams as a quality starter in the slot.

96. Seattle Seahawks- Malik Muhammad, CB, Texas

The Seahawks already drafted a corner in this mock, but John Schneider can never have too many long and athletic corners. Muhammad has the length and testing numbers that Seattle usually looks for, though he does need to add more muscle. He would help fill another one of the offseason losses currently plaguing the Super Bowl champions.

97. Minnesota Vikings- Chandler Rivers, CB, Duke

Rivers is an experienced cover man with 45 games under his belt and experience playing both nickel and outside corner. Given that Byron Murphy Jr. was a disappointment a year after signing his big contract, Rivers could come in and push Murphy to put up or shut up.

98. TRADE: Indianapolis Colts- Garrett Nussmeier, QB, LSU

Let’s get creative!

In this scenario, the Colts and Eagles swap assets so that both can get a backup quarterback that fits their schemes/needs. While Indy has given up on Anthony Richardson Sr., the ultra-athletic passer would be the perfect backup/reclamation project behind Jalen Hurts. Meanwhile, Nussmeier would be a better fit for what Indy currently needs behind the injured Daniel Jones.

Trade Compensation:

Indianapolis Receives- Pick No. 98 overall

Philadelphia Receives- Anthony Richardson Sr.

99. Pittsburgh Steelers- Tacario Davis, CB, Washington

The Steelers have their starting corners lined up with the Jamel Dean signing in free agency, but Dean will be 30 this season, and the Steelers need depth behind him. Pittsburgh’s secondary is set up for big and physical corners, which Davis absolutely is. He needs to work on his polish and ball skills, but he is a worthwhile project who fits what Pittsburgh likes in its corners.

100. Jacksonville Jaguars- Jalen Farmer, G, Kentucky

The Jaguars’ current starter at right guard earned poor grades and metrics both as a run blocker and a pass blocker last season. Farmer plays with good pad level and moves people in the run game, though his pass blocking needs work. He would be an immediate depth piece and potential starter for Jacksonville.

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