2026 NFL Mock Draft: Bengals Lead with Major Trade Amid Three Deals

Bassyonni

Published: March 22, 2026 5:17 AM ET

The NFL offseason has already witnessed significant changes, and as the 2026 NFL Draft approaches, teams are preparing for potential surprises. Major trades, including the Miami Dolphins sending Jaylen Waddle to the Denver Broncos, have set the stage for an unpredictable draft night. Additionally, standout prospects are positioning themselves to be selected early, especially after the initial wave of free agency.

2026 NFL Mock Draft: Bengals Lead with Major Trade

The upcoming draft is expected to start with a certainty: Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza is projected to be the No. 1 overall pick. Players and teams are gearing up for a night filled with anticipation and bold decisions.

Top Picks in the Draft

No. 1: Las Vegas Raiders – Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana
No. 2: New York Jets – Arvell Reese, LB, Ohio State
No. 3: Cincinnati Bengals – Caleb Downs, S, Ohio State
No. 4: Tennessee Titans – Rueben Bain Jr., ED, Miami (FL)
No. 5: New York Giants – Sonny Styles, LB, Ohio State

Detailed Breakdown of Key Picks

Las Vegas Raiders

The Raiders are expected to select Fernando Mendoza, a dual-threat quarterback from Indiana. Mendoza, who won the Heisman Trophy in 2025, is praised for his passing accuracy and mobility. He is anticipated to bring a fresh dynamic to the Raiders’ offense.

New York Jets

At the No. 2 pick, the Jets are likely to choose linebacker Arvell Reese from Ohio State. Known for his all-round capabilities, Reese has the potential to be a cornerstone of the Jets’ defense, potentially rivaling stars like Micah Parsons.

Cincinnati Bengals

The Bengals executed a significant trade to secure the No. 3 overall pick. They moved the No. 10 pick, a third-round selection, and a future first-rounder to secure safety Caleb Downs from Ohio State. This strategic move aims to bring in one of the draft’s most talented defenders.

Tennessee Titans

The Titans are set to select Rueben Bain Jr., a defensive end from Miami (FL). New head coach Robert Saleh emphasizes building a formidable defense, and Bain’s ability to disrupt plays on the edge should complement their current lineup well.

New York Giants

Sonny Styles, another standout from Ohio State, is expected to be picked by the Giants. Despite already signing Tremaine Edmunds, adding Styles will bolster their linebacking corps that could prove to be highly effective in their defensive scheme.

The 2026 NFL Draft promises to be filled with excitement, featuring significant trades and standout players ready to make an impact. As teams finalize their strategies, fans can anticipate a night full of surprises and strategic maneuvers. Keep an eye on how the Bengals’ bold move pans out for their future.