David Bailey Follows Mendoza, Jeremiyah Love Secures Fourth in 2026 NFL Mock Draft

Bassyonni

Published: March 5, 2026 6:43 PM ET

David Bailey Follows Mendoza, Jeremiyah Love Secures Fourth in 2026 NFL Mock Draft

The NFL Combine has brought attention to numerous standout prospects and potential trades that could shape team strategies for the upcoming season. Following the event, a significant trade occurred as the Chiefs dealt cornerback Trent McDuffie to the Rams. This trade, along with insights from the Combine, has informed the latest mock draft predictions for April.

2026 NFL Mock Draft Overview

The following represents the first round predictions based on team needs and player performances:

Top Picks in the 2026 NFL Draft

1. Las Vegas Raiders: Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana. The Raiders require a quarterback, making Mendoza a clear choice.
2. New York Jets: David Bailey, Edge Rusher, Texas Tech. After trading defensive players, Bailey offers a much-needed boost.
3. Arizona Cardinals: Arvell Reese, LB, Ohio State. A versatile player capable of influencing the game from multiple positions.
4. Tennessee Titans: Jeremiyah Love, RB, Notre Dame. Love’s dynamic play style fits perfectly with quarterback Cam Ward.
5. New York Giants: Francis Mauigoa, OT, Miami. The top offensive lineman strengthens their line significantly.
6. Cleveland Browns: Spencer Fano, OT, Utah. Fano, as the Outland Trophy winner, fills a crucial need for the Browns.
7. Washington Commanders: Sonny Styles, OLB, Ohio State. Stylish’s all-around capabilities enhance the Commanders’ defense.
8. New Orleans Saints: Carnell Tate, WR, Ohio State. A talented receiver who aids second-year quarterback Tyler Shough.
9. Kansas City Chiefs: Rueben Bain Jr., Edge Rusher, Miami. His explosive play style aligns with the Chiefs’ needs.
10. Cincinnati Bengals: Caleb Downs, S, Ohio State. Downs offers exceptional skills to strengthen the Bengals’ defense.

Remaining First Round Picks

11. Miami Dolphins: Makai Lemon, WR, USC. A vital addition to the receiving corps.
12. Dallas Cowboys: Mansoor Delane, CB, LSU. Dallas addresses secondary needs with the top cornerback.
13. Los Angeles Rams: Avieon Terrell, CB, Clemson. Terrell’s agile performance solidifies the Rams’ defense.
14. Baltimore Ravens: Olaivavega Ioane, IOL, Penn State. An important upgrade for the offensive line.
15. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Kenyon Sadiq, TE, Oregon. Sadiq balances athleticism and blocking skills.
16. New York Jets: Jordyn Tyson, WR, Arizona State. Tyson addresses the Jets’ receiver needs.
17. Detroit Lions: Kadyn Proctor, OL, Alabama. Proctor revitalizes the offensive line.
18. Minnesota Vikings: Dillon Thieneman, S, Oregon. A solid choice to replace Harrison Smith.
19. Carolina Panthers: Peter Woods, DL, Clemson. Strengthens an already formidable defensive front.
20. Dallas Cowboys: Keldric Faulk, Edge Rusher, Mississippi State. Adds depth to their pass rush.

Closing Selections

21. Pittsburgh Steelers: Omar Cooper Jr., WR, Indiana. A powerful addition to complement DK Metcalf.
22. Los Angeles Chargers: Caleb Banks, DT, Florida. A significant improvement for the defensive line.
23. Philadelphia Eagles: Max Iheanachor, OT, Arizona State. A future replacement for Lane Johnson.
24. Arizona Cardinals: Ty Simpson, QB, Alabama. A likely pick to succeed after Kyler Murray’s departure.
25. Chicago Bears: Akheem Mesidor, Edge Rusher, Miami. Enhances the Bears’ pass rush capabilities.
26. Buffalo Bills: Denzel Boston, WR, Washington. A critical addition for quarterback Josh Allen.
27. San Francisco 49ers: Monroe Freeling, OT, Georgia. A developing talent for the offensive line.
28. Houston Texans: Caleb Lomu, OT, Utah. A high-potential move for their offensive line.
29. Kansas City Chiefs: KC Concepcion, WR, Texas A&M. A needed speedster for their offense.
30. Denver Broncos: Emmanuel McNeil-Warren, Safety, Toledo. An athletic addition to their defense.
31. New England Patriots: T.J. Parker, Edge, Clemson. Best available edge rusher fills a vital role.
32. Seattle Seahawks: Brandon Cisse, DB, South Carolina. Potential cornerback acquisition depending on free agency.

This mock draft highlights the teams’ needs and the prospects equipped to meet those needs in the upcoming NFL season. The draft promises excitement and potential shifts in team dynamics across the league.