2026 NFL Mock Draft: Updated After Trade Deadline
The 2026 NFL Mock Draft has undergone significant updates following the recent trade deadline. Key player performances have reshaped team strategies and overall predictions.
Top Picks in the 2026 NFL Mock Draft
1. New Orleans Saints – QB Ty Simpson (Alabama)
Ty Simpson stands out as a leading candidate for the first overall pick. His exceptional performance as a full-time starter includes a 92.3 PFF passing grade. Simpson completed 14 big-time throws with only seven turnover-worthy plays.
2. Tennessee Titans – Edge Reuben Bain Jr. (Miami)
Despite a slight decline after a strong start, Reuben Bain Jr. remains a top-edge prospect. The 6-foot-3, 270-pound rusher maintains impressive PFF grades over 90.0 for both run defense and pass rush.
3. New York Jets – QB Dante Moore (Oregon)
Dante Moore is emerging as a potential top-five quarterback. With a remarkable PFF passing grade of 96.0 on deep throws, he possesses a 7.5% big-time throw rate versus a mere 1.7% for turnover-worthy plays.
4. Miami Dolphins – QB Fernando Mendoza (Indiana)
Fernando Mendoza is instrumental in Indiana’s ambitions for a Big Ten title and playoff berth. While his big-time throw rate is lower than desired, he showcases strong arm talent that catches NFL scouts’ attention.
5. New York Giants – WR Jordyn Tyson (Arizona State)
Jordyn Tyson is proving himself as a reliable wide receiver with an 83.0 PFF receiving grade. His versatility in route-running and ability to make spectacular catches position him as a WR1 prospect.
6. Cleveland Browns – T Spencer Fano (Utah)
The offensive line group may be saturated with prospects, but Spencer Fano stands out. The Utah tackle boasts PFF grades above 80.0 for both run and pass blocking, demonstrating consistent performance.
7. Las Vegas Raiders – Edge Arvell Reese (Ohio State)
Arvell Reese is rising fast on draft boards. The hybrid linebacker/edge rusher showcases explosive strength and has garnered a notable 77.2 PFF pass-rush grade.
8. Cincinnati Bengals – DI Peter Woods (Clemson)
Peter Woods remains a viable top-10 candidate despite Clemson’s struggles. His versatility features in both nose tackle and 3-technique positions, with solid PFF ratings as a run defender and pass rusher.
9. Washington Commanders – S Caleb Downs (Ohio State)
Caleb Downs is often underrated, yet his coverage skills are top-notch. He consistently earns over 80.0 PFF grades in run defense and coverage.
10. Baltimore Ravens – Edge David Bailey (Texas Tech)
David Bailey is recognized for his exceptional pass-rush capabilities. With a staggering 94.6 PFF passing grade, he is a significant threat off the edge.
Summary of Picks 11-32
- Los Angeles Rams: CB Mansoor Delane, LSU
- Arizona Cardinals: G Vega Ioane, Penn State
- Houston Texans: T Francis Mauigoa, Miami
- Dallas Cowboys: CB Jermod McCoy, Tennessee
- Minnesota Vikings: RB Jeremiyah Love, Notre Dame
- Carolina Panthers: WR Carnell Tate, Ohio State
- Kansas City Chiefs: Edge T.J. Parker, Clemson
- Chicago Bears: LB Cashius Howell, Texas A&M
- Cleveland Browns (via Jaguars): WR David Boston, Washington
- Pittsburgh Steelers: WR Makai Lemon, USC
- Detroit Lions: Edge Keldric Faulk, Auburn
- Los Angeles Chargers: DI Kayden McDonald, Ohio State
- San Francisco 49ers: Edge Joshua Josephs, Tennessee
- Dallas Cowboys: Edge R Mason Thomas, Oklahoma
- Buffalo Bills: CB Colton Hood, Tennessee
- Seattle Seahawks: G Gennings Dunker, Iowa
- Los Angeles Rams: T Caleb Lomu, Utah
- Denver Broncos: TE Kenyon Sadiq, Oregon
- Tampa Bay Buccaneers: LB Sonny Styles, Ohio State
- New England Patriots: T Austin Siereveld, Ohio State
- Philadelphia Eagles: OL Kadyn Proctor, Alabama
- New York Jets (via Colts): DI Christen Miller, Georgia
With the landscape of the league shifting, these selections offer insight into the future of the NFL. Teams are looking to build successful foundations through impactful draft choices.