Chris' 2026 NFL mock draft with expert three-round predictions, top prospects, and team selections for the upcoming draft, featuring Fernando Mendoza and more.
April is “lying season” in the NFL. This is a well-accepted fact and way of life by now, with over half of what you hear out of general managers’ mouths being outright deceit or a well-stretched embellishment. That is something we must always remind ourselves, particularly as we edge closer to the NFL Draft, because late-season lies can drastically throw off projections.
A fine example of this occurred in 2023, when late buzz said C.J. Stroud had jumped Bryce Young to be Carolina’s top pick. Another example occurred last year after everyone in the draft universe projected Ashton Jeanty to the Raiders for months … and then the week-of buzz had Las Vegas pivoting to offensive tackle Kelvin Banks Jr. instead.
Neither of those rumors turned out to be true, though both teams would have been better off if they had. This is important to remember because, often, the mock drafts you see in February are more accurate than those in April, when we all rush to implement rumors. So, we must take the buzz with a grain of salt while still considering that some of it could be real.
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Round 1
- Las Vegas Raiders- Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana
Kirk Cousins was drafted to allow Mendoza to sit and learn early. The signing of Cousins and his artificially inflated contract is just further proof that Mendoza is already a Raider, and that the team will handle him smartly. Remember, Tom Brady has publicly said he thinks rookie quarterbacks should be brought along slowly, and Cousins helps them do that.
- New York Jets- David Bailey, EDGE, Texas Tech
This pick should be Arvell Reese, but reports are increasing that the Jets will do Jets things and draft Bailey because he can help now … even though this team is clearly not built to win now. Bailey is more of a finished product than Reese, and rumors are the Jets want that polish over upside … for some reason.
- *TRADE: Dallas Cowboys- Arvell Reese, LB/EDGE, Ohio State
In this scenario, GM Jerry Jones has already sold one 2027 first-round pick, and he’s openly stated he's willing to deal another to chase a title before his time runs out. The Cowboys’ interest in moving up would only intensify if Reese falls past New York, as Reese has earned frequent comparisons to former Dallas superstar Micah Parsons, and Jones likes repeating his best picks.
Trade Compensation:
Dallas Receives- Pick No. 3
Arizona Receives- Pick No. 12 and the 2027 first-round pick Dallas isn’t sending to NYJ
- Tennessee Titans- Jeremiyah Love, RB, Notre Dame
This pick could go a variety of ways, as HC Robert Saleh surely would love Sonny Styles or Rueben Bain Jr. filling key spots in his defensive scheme. However, the Titans must focus on developing Cam Ward by targeting Love or Carnell Tate with this pick. Love gets the edge over Tate as the better prospect and a mirror of the back Saleh had in San Fran (Christian McCaffrey).
Unreal reflexes from Jeremiyah Love pic.twitter.com/4AuyxUoqPm
— Ted Nguyen (@FB_FilmAnalysis) March 26, 2026
- New York Giants- Francis Mauigoa, OT, Miami (FL)
John Harbaugh has indicated he would like to add to the offensive line in this draft, calling it a “work in progress.” While that could be another draft lie, New York does have a noteworthy hole at right guard, and it has needed a reliable swing tackle behind Andrew Thomas for years.
With all of that in mind, do not be surprised if Spencer Fano is the pick here, given his history at left tackle and his versatility. However, Mauigoa is the top blocker on most boards, and he projects very well as a guard who could earn Pro Bowls inside before moving out to cover for Thomas or eventually replace the older Jermaine Eluemunor.
- Cleveland Browns- Carnell Tate, WR, Ohio State
Tate could go as early as second overall to the Jets, but Cleveland must be his floor. The Browns have a clear need at wide receiver and offensive tackle, with Tate offering the best value of those two positions. He would offer whatever quarterback Cleveland drafts in 2027 a true No. 1 receiver.
- Washington Commanders- Sonny Styles, LB, Ohio State
If Jeremiyah Love is off the board, then the Commanders will switch their priority with this pick toward a trade or a defender. With no one looking to move up here, the choice is between Styles and Mansoor Delane, with Styles the better prospect and the bigger need.
- New Orleans Saints- Rueben Bain Jr., DE, Miami (FL)
Bain isn’t necessarily an ideal fit for the Saints’ base 3-4 scheme, but he brings a similar profile to longtime Saint Cameron Jordan, and GM Mickey Loomis has a history of chasing player profiles that hit for him before. In fact, one might argue that playing in space and moving around the front on passing downs could help mask Bain’s length issue.
- Kansas City Chiefs- Mansoor Delane, CB, LSU
The Chiefs have a history of valuing young cornerbacks who they can develop quickly, dominate during their rookie contracts, and then trade away. With multiple losses in their secondary this offseason, drafting the top corner in the class makes a lot of sense. Delane has the speed, polish, and instincts to step in and replace Trent McDuffie right away.
- Cincinnati Bengals- Caleb Downs, DB, Ohio State
The secondary is hardly the glaring need for Cincinnati that many think, with DJ Turner II turning into a shutdown corner last year and the signing of Bryan Cook adding coverage skills to its deep safety spot. However, the Bengals cannot pass on Downs if he is available and Styles isn’t. Downs would give Cincy versatility, leadership, and more playmaking on its back end.
- Miami Dolphins- Spencer Fano, OL, Utah
HC Jeff Hafley has said he wants Miami’s offensive line to become more consistent and tougher. Fano would go a long way toward doing that, acting as an immediate and significant upgrade over Jonah Savaiinaea, who was PFF’s lowest-graded pass-blocking guard last year … by a significant margin.
- *TRADE BACK: Arizona Cardinals- Olaivavega Ioane, G, Penn State
Don’t be shocked if Arizona targets Kenyon Sadiq if it trades back here, as Mike LaFleur worked with Sean McVay on deploying three tight end personnel three times as often as any other team in the NFL last year. However, Ioane would immediately upgrade a weakness that Arizona has at right guard, and he’s arguably the best pure blocker in this class.
- *Los Angeles Rams (via Atlanta)- Makai Lemon, WR, USC
Monroe Freeling could make sense here, but advanced metrics suggest the Rams have two quality starters at offensive tackle … contrary to popular opinion. Plus, Los Angeles has reportedly been in the receiver market this offseason, looking for a long-term Davante Adams successor, so the healthy and tenacious Lemon continues to make sense.
- Baltimore Ravens- Kenyon Sadiq, TE, Oregon
The Ravens should strongly consider offensive line help with this pick, but with Ioane off the board, they pivot toward the athletic Sadiq. Remember that the Ravens front office has prioritized having two capable tight ends since their time under Ozzie Newsome. Sadiq would be a more explosive version of Isaiah Likely with better blocking.
- Tampa Bay Buccaneers- Jermod McCoy, CB, Tennessee
The Buccaneers are perpetually in a bad spot with this pick, as there never seems to be a realistic chance of them filling their biggest needs (linebacker and edge-rusher) with value. The top choices in their areas of need are almost certain to be gone, and the next best options are reaches.
With that in mind, McCoy’s recent pro-day workout answered a lot of concerns people had about his health and recovery. He remains a ballhawk who immediately adds elite ball skills to a Buccaneers secondary that lost its interceptions leader in free agency.
- *TRADE: Cleveland Browns- Kadyn Proctor, OT, Alabama
The Jets would love to add even more picks in a trade, while Cleveland should consider moving ahead of Detroit to ensure it gets its preferred left tackle. Proctor is reportedly the preferred left tackle, as the big and athletic Alabama product is rising up boards after an impressive pro day … even if his footwork and change of direction on film need a lot of improvement.
Trade Compensation:
Cleveland Receives- Pick No. 16
NYJ Receives- Picks No. 24 and No. 70
- Detroit Lions- Monroe Freeling, OT, Georgia
The Lions should count themselves lucky if Freeling falls in their laps, given that their release of Taylor Decker created a hole at one of the most important positions on the field. Freeling and Decker have eerily similar measurements, but Freeling is a better athlete with higher upside. If HC Dan Campbell is willing to wait and develop him, this Bulldog could be a steal.
- Minnesota Vikings- Dillon Thieneman, S, Oregon
Thieneman remains an ideal fit for the Vikings. Minnesota has several needs in its secondary, but none may be bigger than a long-term replacement for Harrison Smith. Thieneman has tremendous closing speed, good ball skills, and he can play in the box in a pinch.
- Carolina Panthers- Omar Cooper Jr., WR, Indiana
With Sadiq off the board, Carolina is stuck choosing between Cooper and Jordyn Tyson here. Cooper has been high on my board since November, but he’s risen even higher for some teams. His lack of injury concerns will likely push him ahead of Tyson on many boards, plus he’s one of the best receivers with the ball in his hands in this class.
- *Dallas Cowboys (via Green Bay)- CJ Allen, LB, Georgia
All signs point to Dallas going “all in” on this season, and its trade-up in this mock confirms it. With that in mind, the team is not opposed to reaching a bit to address its massive need at interior linebacker. Allen would be an immediate leader on a defense in need of one, while improving the run defense immeasurably.
- Pittsburgh Steelers – Keldric Faulk, DE, Auburn
Keldric Faulk would fill an underrated need as an heir to the aging Cameron Heyward. Faulk has the bulk, length, and power to set the edge and occupy blockers from the 5-tech in Pittsburgh’s scheme. He could also move inside on passing downs and push the pocket when needed.
- *TRADE: San Francisco 49ers- Jordyn Tyson, WR, Arizona State
Pick No. 22 will be a key trade pivot point if Jordyn Tyson falls this far, as several teams will clamor to move ahead of the Eagles and secure the most physically talented receiver in this class. In this scenario, the 49ers are willing to give up two fourth-round picks to get a guy who fits their scheme and needs perfectly.
Jordyn Tyson is Jauan Jennings 2.0pic.twitter.com/beRsnKuCDZ
— Dov Kleiman (@NFL_DovKleiman) March 28, 2026
While Tyson’s injury history is a real red flag for the perpetually injured 49ers, it’s worth remembering that many of SF’s top players (Nick Bosa, George Kittle, Christian McCaffrey, Trent Williams, etc.) had injury concerns when they were added or extended. GM John Lynch does not always shy away from injuries if the talent/need is good enough.
Trade Compensation:
San Francisco Receives- Pick No. 22
Los Angeles Chargers Receive- Picks No. 27, No. 133, and No. 138
- Philadelphia Eagles- Blake Miller, OT, Clemson
GM Howie Roseman has a long history of drafting long-term replacements for his best players a year or two in advance. Cam Jurgens, Jalen Carter, Cooper DeJean, Dallas Goedert, and Quinyon Mitchell were all preemptive picks made to replace their aging stars, and Miller could be another.
The Eagles must account for the retirement talk that swirls around Lane Johnson every offseason.
- *TRADE BACK: New York Jets- KC Concepcion, WR, Texas A&M
Concepcion is lower on my board than most, in part because of his drops in traffic and partially because I don’t quite see the elite top-end speed or shiftiness others do. However, he does make plays with the ball in his hands, and he has the potential to become a game breaker if he can get the drops under control. The Aggie would be an effective WR2 for Arch Manning next year.
- Chicago Bears- T.J. Parker, DE, Clemson
The Bears need pass-rush help across from Montez Sweat, but they also need someone who can set the edge against the run after they allowed the seventh-most rushing yards in the NFL last year. Parker is a strong run defender with the length and athleticism to turn into a quality pass-rusher with time.
- Buffalo Bills- Kayden McDonald, DT, Ohio State
The Bills allowed the fifth-most rushing yards last year, and their current nose tackle (Deone Walker) was a liability in that area, though he was strong as a pass-rusher. Drafting McDonald, the top run-stuffing defensive tackle in college football last year, would allow Buffalo to deploy a strong rotation with McDonald playing base downs and Walker subbing in to rush the passer.
- *TRADE BACK: Los Angeles Chargers- Emmanuel McNeil-Warren, S, Toledo
The Chargers have a sneaky need at safety, with Derwin James Jr. aging and spending most of his time as a hybrid box/nickel corner. McNeil-Warren has the length, coverage skills, and tackling tape to start as a coverage safety and eventually transition into a replacement for James.
- Houston Texans- Peter Woods, DT, Clemson
Given Braden Smith’s injury history, Max Iheanachor should remain a possibility here. However, Peter Woods is an ideal fit as the 3-tech in DeMeco Ryans’ scheme, and he addresses a more immediate need. So, it should surprise no one if the Texans elect to fill a clear need over drafting a player who they consider to be depth on the offensive line.
- *Kansas City Chiefs (via LAR)- Akheem Mesidor, DE, Miami (FL)
While the Chiefs need to strongly consider a right tackle to protect Patrick Mahomes and his recovering ACL, they also need more pass-rush help around Chris Jones. Mesidor is an older prospect, but he flashes dominance as both a run defender and a pass-rusher. The Chiefs may not mind Mesidor’s age, as they are built to win now, and he can help with that.
- *Miami Dolphins (via DEN) – Denzel Boston, WR, Washington
Boston’s stock is falling, and he could easily slip into the second round, but he remains one of the 30 best players in this class, and he fits a major need for the Dolphins. The Husky’s length and contested-catch ability would make life much easier on Malik Willis, and Boston will not be available at Miami’s next pick, so it must grab him here.
- New England Patriots- Cashius Howell, EDGE, Texas A&M
Howell’s lack of length is a concern, but he is a twitchy pass-rusher who flashes the ability to win off the edge with timing, head-fakes, spin moves, and a variety of other maneuvers. Plus, he is a perfect fit for New England’s 3-4 scheme, which lost a starting edge-rusher in free agency, and HC Mike Vrabel has a history of maximizing smaller edge-rushers.
- Seattle Seahawks- Brandon Cisse, CB, South Carolina
We keep projecting Cisse to Seattle because he is a perfect fit. The Gamecock’s length, athleticism, and low completion rate allowed are all hallmarks of a Seahawks cornerback. Plus, offseason losses have made this an area of need for a team that likes to have plenty of depth in its secondary.
Round 2
- New York Jets- Colton Hood, CB, Tennessee
The Jets need corners who can produce turnovers after they netted zero interceptions last year, despite their head coach being a former cornerback. Hood is not the biggest ballhawk in this class, but he is a tough, tenacious corner with adequate length and shows the ability to adjust mid-game. The poor testing numbers for Avieon Terrell could push Hood up here, too.
- Arizona Cardinals- Ty Simpson, QB, Alabama
The Cardinals have been a dark-horse contender for Simpson’s services all spring, but they have emerged as primary suitors in recent weeks. While he doesn’t offer the upside or potential of the quarterback prospects in the 2027 NFL Draft class, he does have polished mechanics and average or better tools in almost every category.
With that said, remember that the Panthers and Cardinals have both drafted a quarterback early (Jimmy Clausen and Josh Rosen) and moved on from them the very next year. While no team will admit it is drafting a quarterback as a potential contingency plan, history suggests it can happen and that it’s a logical, if not unfair, strategy.
With that in mind, you should fully expect Arizona (or whoever drafts Simpson) to put their own interests ahead of Simpson’s. While he deserves time to sit, learn, and grow, he won’t get it if Arch Manning, Dante Moore, or Brendan Sorsby are on the board when his team picks next year.
- Tennessee Titans- Zion Young, DE, Missouri
Robert Saleh let his GM make the pick with Love in the first round; now is the time to get the head coach his defensive playmakers. Young generated a lot of pressure with his consistent effort, leverage, and solid bend at Missouri. The former Tiger would be a good fit for Saleh’s scheme on the edge.
- Las Vegas Raiders- Max Iheanachor, OT, Arizona State
The Raiders could use an improvement over DJ Glaze at right tackle, and Iheanachor offers that. The former Sun Devil deserves to go in the first round, but his lack of experience and raw fundamentals could cause him to fall to this pick. The athleticism and raw ability he shows on film suggest he will be a premium right tackle if allowed to grow into the position.
- New York Giants- Jake Golday, LB, Cincinnati
The Giants opt for a meat-and-potatoes draft by taking an offensive lineman and Golday with their first two picks, which fits the John Harbaugh mold and addresses two key needs at the same time. Golday’s testing numbers are strong, he rarely misses tackles, and he has range in coverage. The former Bearcat would be an upgrade over Micah McFadden.
- *Houston Texans (via Washington)- Caleb Lomu, OT, Utah
Houston still believes in the left tackle it drafted last year (Aireontae Ersery), and it spent on Braden Smith in free agency, but Smith has a long injury history and is on a short two-year deal. Lomu can start at guard while offering swing tackle versatility, or he could just take Smith’s job at right tackle and force the veteran inside, since Smith played guard in college.
- Cleveland Browns- Avieon Terrell, CB, Clemson
The Browns have a strong defense, but nickel corner is a weakness. While Terrell’s poor testing numbers could force him down the board, his lack of elite speed and size might be negated by a move inside to the slot. There, his ball skills and polish could make him a strong starter on a good defense.
- Kansas City Chiefs- Eli Stowers, TE, Vanderbilt
Travis Kelce is not long for the NFL, meaning the Chiefs need to find a replacement sooner rather than later. Stowers is a poor blocker and needs to get stronger, but his near record-breaking numbers at the combine will push him up boards, and he has the same flaws that Andy Reid helped coach up in Kelce in the past.
- Cincinnati Bengals- Caleb Banks, DT, Florida
The Bengals don’t shy away from drafting risky players, so the ultra-talented but oft-injured Banks should appeal to them. The former Gator moves far better than anyone his size has a right to, and he would offer massive upside on the interior of a Bengals line that has lacked a true playmaker since Geno Atkins.
- New Orleans Saints- Chris Bell, WR, Louisville
Bell is falling down boards due to his injury and because he isn’t as polished or explosive as others in this class. However, there are rumors that Tyler Shough is lobbying for the Saints to draft his old college teammate. Plus, Bell would offer a good balance with Chris Olave, as Bell is the best receiver in this class at working in traffic and across the middle.
- Miami Dolphins – Chris Johnson, CB, San Diego State
Given its need for multiple starters in the secondary, Miami would be lucky if it prioritized offense in the first round and Johnson was still available here. The San Diego State alum tested better than expected in Indy, and he shows supreme instincts in coverage, with a sixth sense for when to turn and play the ball.
- *New York Jets (via Dallas) – D’Angelo Ponds, CB, Indiana
After netting zero interceptions last year, the Jets could stand to add multiple cornerbacks in this class. Ponds was a productive outside corner for the national champions, but his size suggests he will move inside as a pro. However, that’s an area of need for New York, and Gang Green could use Ponds’ combination of leadership, speed, and toughness.
- Baltimore Ravens- Emmanuel Pregnon, G, Oregon
Baltimore lucks out with Pregnon falling to this spot after it missed out on Ioane in the first round. The Ravens need a guard, and Pregnon has the nasty streak they usually target. He is particularly strong as a gap run blocker, which fits perfectly with Derrick Henry’s skill set.
- Tampa Bay Buccaneers- Malachi Lawrence, EDGE, UCF
There are real questions about whether Lawrence can stay on the field for base downs, given his struggles in run support. That is why the UCF product is unlikely to go in the first round, despite production, length, and measurables that could get him there. However, he is a strong fit for Tampa Bay’s scheme and need for pass-rush help.
Malachi Lawrence looking like the best edge rusher at the Shrine Bowl so far is no surprise
Top 50 talent on my board, looking forward to watching him tonight pic.twitter.com/3OYA0TjIQG
— NFL Draft Files (@NFL_DF) January 27, 2026
- 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.
- Atlanta Falcons- Jacob Rodriguez, LB, Texas Tech
Atlanta lost Kaden Elliss in free agency and has done nothing to replace him, leaving interior linebacker as a major need. Rodriguez is undersized, but he tested well, is a strong finisher against the run, and shows range in coverage. This would be a good mix of need and fit for the Falcons.
- 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.
- 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. While R Mason Thomas would also make sense here, Jacas has the frame and power that Dan Campbell would prefer.
- Carolina Panthers- Oscar Delp, TE, Georgia
The Panthers lost Cade Mays in free agency, an underrated hemorrhage that could drastically impact their run game, so replacing him should be a priority. However, it is hard to ignore the buzz Delp is getting after he posted special athletic testing numbers and flashed special playmaking ability in limited opportunities at Georgia.
Carolina reportedly loves Delp.
- Green Bay Packers- Devin Moore, CB, Florida
Moore may be a reach here, but his size, length, and tracking skills are all special. Injuries are the biggest issue for the former Gator, but he plays the run well and has all the physical tools to become an above-average starter in the NFL … if not more.
- Pittsburgh Steelers- Keylan Rutledge, G, Georgia Tech
The impact of Isaac Seumalo leaving Pittsburgh cannot be overstated, as he was Pittsburgh’s second-highest-graded pass-blocker and allowed just 20 pressures all year. Rutledge is a blue-collar blocker who would fit in with Pittsburgh’s run-heavy gap scheme.
- Philadelphia Eagles- R Mason Thomas, EDGE, Oklahoma
The Eagles reportedly tried to re-sign Jaelan Phillips and failed, then did nothing to replace him in free agency. Thomas would be the first step in replacing that lost production. While he is a bit undersized, the former Sooner is a terror in space, and he offers an elite pass-rush win rate.
- Los Angeles Chargers- Derrick Moore, EDGE, Michigan
The Chargers need depth at edge-rusher and a long-term contingency plan for Khalil Mack. Moore has the frame and speed to fit in this scheme, plus Jim Harbaugh recruited the kid to Michigan four years ago. This would be a strong marriage of fit, need, and familiarity.
- Jacksonville Jaguars- Anthony Hill Jr., LB, Texas
Devin Lloyd left 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. Hill is a polarizing prospect for many, but he’s a strong run defender with the athleticism to grow into a productive coverage and rush linebacker.
- Chicago Bears- Keionte Scott, DB, Miami (FL)
The Bears lost multiple secondary contributors to free agency this offseason and still have a hole at strong safety. Scott answered questions about his range during his pro-day testing, while his film shows a strong box defender whose biggest weaknesses can be coached or concealed.
- San Francisco 49ers- Caleb Tiernan, OL, Northwestern
The 49ers would surely love an edge-rusher with this pick, given their history of prioritizing the position, but the value simply isn’t there in this mock.
Tiernan’s arm length may or may not prevent him from being an offensive tackle in the NFL long-term, but his football intelligence will appeal to Kyle Shanahan. Look for Tiernan to start at left guard for the 49ers while offering the potential to move outside to tackle if he can improve his pad level and technique.
- 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.
- 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 would go a long way toward improving Chicago’s interior run defense.
- Los Angeles Rams- Gennings Dunker, OL, Iowa
The Rams can afford to draft the best player available, but Dunker’s versatility and ability to play all over the line could make him an intriguing option for Los Angeles. The McVay/Snead duo typically values versatile blockers, and Dunker can compete for the starting right guard job while acting as the team’s swing tackle.
- Denver Broncos- Josiah Trotter, LB, Missouri
Interior linebacker is one of Denver’s biggest needs, as we predicted back in November when the release of Dre Greenlaw appeared inevitable. Trotter is a strong run defender and interior blitzer with the speed to improve in coverage with time. Denver’s scheme and talent would help maximize Trotter’s strengths and hide his weaknesses.
- New England Patriots- Chris Brazzell II, WR, Tennessee
The Patriots are favored to land A.J. Brown after the June 1 deadline, but Brazzell’s skill set complements, rather than conflicts, with Brown. The Vol could go much higher than this, but Josh Heupel-coached receivers carry a stigma into the NFL. Brazzell’s route tree is limited, so he could fall into the lap of a quarterback who throws the deep ball better than anyone.
- 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 it may not view Charbonnet as its long-term lead back.
This run and finish from #Arkansas RB Mike Washington Jr. are the types of plays that make you sit up in your seat. Power and speed in his profile. pic.twitter.com/YyV7SjOulX
— Devin Jackson (@RealD_Jackson) April 3, 2026
Round 3
- Arizona Cardinals – Dametrious Crownover, OT, Texas A&M
The Cardinals still need a potential starter at right tackle, and Crownover is the kind of traits-driven project that a team like Arizona could gamble on earlier than many expect. A converted tight end, Crownover still has a lot of refining to do, but he has a towering frame that moves well for how big it is. He could grow into a starter at right tackle in time.
- 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 improve on what Chimere Dike gave them last year, offering big-play ability in a long and projectible frame.
- Las Vegas Raiders- Elijah Sarratt, WR, Indiana
Sarratt would offer a quality boundary option for the Raiders, though he’s likely already reached his physical upside. He is a polished route runner, though, and he already has good chemistry with Las Vegas’ presumptive first overall pick (Fernando Mendoza).
- Philadelphia Eagles (via NYJ)- Germie Bernard, WR, Alabama
As we stated earlier, the Eagles anticipate losses with their draft picks.
In this scenario, A.J. Brown is earmarked for New England, and the Eagles are planning for life without him. Bernard is a polished short-area receiver who is developed enough to step into a quality offense and contribute immediately as a fourth option behind Saquon Barkley, DeVonta Smith, and Dallas Goedert.
- Houston Texans (via NYG)- Treydan Stukes, CB, Arizona
After filling their three biggest needs earlier in this mock, the Texans find themselves in a position to draft the best player available. Stukes does not play a position of need for Houston, but he has good ball skills, and his tape is that of a second-round pick. He would give the Texans impressive depth in their secondary and help them prepare for future losses there.
- *TRADE BACK: New York Jets- Joshua Josephs, EDGE, Tennessee
The Jets continue to add depth to their edge-rushing room with this pick that they secured from Cleveland in our earlier projected trade. Josephs is a perfect fit for the 3-4 front that New York is looking to implement.
- Washington Commanders- A.J. Haulcy, S, LSU
Washington needs a free safety, and Haulcy’s range makes him a good fit for that hole. You’d like to see the Commanders get more help for Jayden Daniels with this pick, but odds still favor them adding Brandon Aiyuk at some point this offseason, which makes a defensive-minded draft more logical.
- Cincinnati Bengals- Dani Dennis-Sutton, DE, Penn State
The Bengals have used multiple picks at defensive end over the past few years, but it remains a need given Trey Hendrickson’s exit and the lack of development they’ve gotten from Myles Murphy and Shemar Stewart so far. Dennis-Sutton is a stout run defender who produced more as a pass-rusher in college than his physical ability suggests he will in the pros, but he’s good depth.
- New Orleans Saints- Keith Abney II, CB, Arizona State
The loss of Alontae Taylor in free agency created a need at slot corner for New Orleans, which Abney should fill immediately. The former Sun Devil was an effective outside corner in college, who allowed a low 44% completion rate last year, but his size and physicality make him a better fit for the inside as a pro.
- Kansas City Chiefs- Bryce Lance, WR, North Dakota State
Xavier Worthy disappointed last year, but some of his struggles could be due to the shoulder injury he suffered in Week 1. Lance has the speed and boundary play the Chiefs wanted from Worthy, but with more size and durability. If Kansas City wants to add competition for Worthy and the volatile Rashee Rice, Lance would offer that at a fair price.
- Miami Dolphins- Davison Igbinosun, CB, Ohio State
The Dolphins have one of the worst rosters in the NFL, so they could throw a dart and hit a need. Igbinosun would add good size and strong press skills to a Miami secondary in dire need of physical talent of any kind.
- Pittsburgh Steelers (via DAL)- Taylen Green, QB, Arkansas
The Steelers need a long-term plan at quarterback, with Aaron Rodgers expected to be a very short-term answer in 2026. Green is an incredibly raw prospect with inconsistent footwork and a long delivery that doesn’t always deliver. However, his elite size and athleticism could convince a team like Pittsburgh to carry and develop him as a Jalen Hurts-type project for a few years.
- Tampa Bay Buccaneers- Kyle Louis, LB, Pittsburgh
With Lavonte David officially retired, the Bucs have a clear need at interior linebacker. Unfortunately, this is the first point of the mock where the need meets value. Louis is undersized, but he has special coverage range, and he would fit well in Tampa Bay’s scheme.
- Indianapolis Colts- Bud Clark, S, TCU
The Colts need a strong safety after Nick Cross left in free agency. Clark is a versatile back-end defender with solid ball skills and the ability to drop into the box. He showed better than expected range at the Senior Bowl as well, making him an intriguing fit for Indianapolis.
TCU Safety Bud Clark (21) with a really nice play as he buzzes into the box
He triggers on the slide route underneath, but sees/feels/knows there’s a route behind him, so he slow plays it and doesn’t fully trigger.
Then he plucks the ball from the air
— Anthony Cover 1 (@Pro__Ant) March 20, 2026
- Atlanta Falcons- Skyler Bell, WR, Connecticut
The Falcons don’t have anything at wide receiver outside of Drake London. Bell is undersized, but he was one of the most productive receivers in college football last year, and his testing numbers were better than expected. Atlanta would do well to utilize Bell as its fourth option in the passing game.
- Baltimore Ravens- Jake Slaughter, C, Florida
The Ravens lost one of the best centers in football when they let Tyler Linderbaum walk in free agency, and they don’t have a comparable replacement on the roster. While Slaughter is not the quality of prospect Linderbaum was, he is the top center in the class and a fine value in the third round.
- Jacksonville Jaguars- Gracen Halton, DT, Oklahoma
Halton is a strong interior run defender with plus testing numbers and rave reviews from the Oklahoma staff. The Jaguars could use more depth and upside on the inside, especially with Arik Armstead aging past his prime.
- 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.
- Carolina Panthers- Sam Hecht, C, Kansas State
As we’ve already stated, the Panthers lost their starting center in free agency, and it was a significant loss. They must address the position with a polished talent like Hecht, whose handwork and fluidity make him a strong candidate to start immediately.
- Green Bay Packers- Chase Bisontis, G, Texas A&M
Bisontis is a polarizing prospect who some consider a second-round pick, but he plays with inconsistent leverage and footwork that saw his pass protection take a step backward last year. So, a team like Green Bay could luck out and see him fall and fill a need.
- Pittsburgh Steelers- Romello Height, EDGE, Texas Tech
The Steelers are reportedly open to trading Alex Highsmith and giving Nick Herbig a bigger role. However, that kind of move would create a need for depth behind Herbig and T.J. Watt. Romello Height lacks ideal size, but he is a productive speed rusher who works in Pittsburgh’s 3-4 front.
- Los Angeles Chargers- Beau Stephens, G, Iowa
Stephens is a polished zone blocker who fits perfectly in Mike McDaniel's scheme. The Chargers could use a more agile, fundamentally sound left guard than Trevor Penning. Drafting Stephens would allow L.A. to use Penning as a backup and swing tackle instead of a starter, which is where he belongs.
- Miami Dolphins (via PHI)- Zachariah Branch, WR, Georgia
The Dolphins need to use multiple picks on receivers in this class if they really want Malik Willis to have a chance to thrive. Branch has special speed and playmaking ability, plus he’s a quality return man. He would be a nice complement to Denzel Boston’s size, which Miami added in the first round of this mock.
- Jacksonville Jaguars- Kamari Ramsey, S, USC
The Jaguars could use more playmakers on the back end of their defense. Ramsey shows solid patrol skills at deep safety and has experience moving down into the slot when needed.
- Chicago Bears- Connor Lew, C, Auburn
The Bears traded for Garrett Bradbury to fill their hole at center, but Bradbury’s performance has been up and down throughout his career. Lew had a down year in 2025, but his film from 2024 was some of the best in this interior line class. He would offer immediate depth and competition for Bradbury.
- Miami Dolphins (via HOU)- Max Klare, TE, Ohio State
The Dolphins continue adding weapons at good value. Klare’s production at Ohio State was muted, but that was due in part to the weapons he played with and the scheme that demanded he act more as a blocker and decoy. Klare is a balanced tight end who can stay on the field all game long.
- Buffalo Bills- Chandler Rivers, CB, Duke
The Bills do not have a glaring need at cornerback, but Rivers is the best player available here, and he has a ton of experience that could translate into early playing time. The former Blue Devil would compete for the starting nickel job against Dee Alford as a rookie while giving Buffalo depth on the outside.
- Dallas Cowboys (via SF)- Malik Muhammad, CB, Texas
The Cowboys stay local here, drafting a smart corner who reads passers and opposing receivers well. He also tested well at the combine, offering hope he can stay outside long-term if he adds some weight to his slender frame.
- Los Angeles Rams- Drew Allar, QB, Penn State
Allar to the Rams is one of my staple picks of this class. Sean McVay prioritized a big-armed pocket passer when he traded Jared Goff for Matthew Stafford. Allar fits that Stafford mold far better than Ty Simpson or Garrett Nussmeier.
The Penn State product struggled with health and consistent ball placement last year, but he has the tools that McVay can develop into a starter.
- Miami Dolphins- Antonio Williams, WR, Clemson
While Malik Washington is a capable slot, making Williams a luxury pick here, the Clemson receiver is the best player available, and he is a better slot prospect than Washington. The former Tiger gets tremendous separation skills, making him a worthwhile pick even if the need isn’t immediate.
- New England Patriots- Daylen Everette, CB, Georgia
The Patriots don’t have an immediate need in their secondary, but Carlton Davis III is getting older and has missed at least one game in seven of his eight seasons in the NFL. Everette is a balanced outside corner with good size and tackling skills, making him a fine depth piece behind Davis.
- Seattle Seahawks- Keyron Crawford, EDGE, Auburn
The Seahawks thrive on a deep rotation of edge-rushers, but Boye Mafe’s exit in free agency created a need for more depth. Crawford has the size and instincts to play outside in Seattle’s scheme.
- Minnesota Vikings- Justin Joly, TE, North Carolina State
The Vikings reworked T.J. Hockenson’s contract, but he turns 29 this year, and another disappointing season could push him out of Minnesota. Joly was a tremendous producer in 2024, and he still has the wingspan and strong hands to grow into an NFL starter with time.
- Philadelphia Eagles- Malachi Fields, WR, Notre Dame
If the Eagles really plan on trading A.J. Brown, they could double up on receivers in this deep class. Fields has the size and boundary skills to see the field early for an Eagles team missing Brown’s red-zone playmaking.
- Pittsburgh Steelers- Carson Beck, QB, Miami (FL)
Could the Steelers mimic an old Washington move and draft multiple quarterbacks in one draft? It’s definitely possible.
Rumors are that Pittsburgh has a real interest in both Beck and Taylen Green. In this scenario, it could hedge its bets by taking both. Green would be the high-upside project it carries as a third quarterback, while Beck would step in immediately as Aaron Rodgers’ backup. This would also free the team up to trade Will Howard for a late-round pick.
- Jacksonville Jaguars- Kaleb Proctor, DT, Southeastern Louisiana
The Jaguars could use more of a pass-rush threat on the inside of their defense, with Arik Armstead past his prime and DaVon Hamilton a liability in that area. Proctor was a productive pass-rusher at a lower level, but he showed enough interior quickness to turn Jacksonville’s defensive line into a strength with Gracen Halton’s help, who was picked earlier in this mock.
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