Two-Round Mock Draft Predictions Post-College Football Season

As the 2025 college football season culminates, focus is shifting to the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft. Many players have declared themselves eligible, eyeing the event slated for April. Notably, this draft class presents a concerning shortage of elite talent, particularly at the quarterback position. There is only one quarterback projected to go in the first round, a stark contrast to expectations prior to the season.

Two-Round Mock Draft Predictions for 2026

With the college football season now concluded, here is an updated two-round mock draft, highlighting key predictions.

Round 1 Predictions

• 1. Las Vegas Raiders – Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana: Mendoza is the clear choice for the Raiders at the first pick.
• 2. New York Jets – Arvell Reese, LB, Ohio State: Reese is expected to make an immediate impact for the Jets.
• 3. Arizona Cardinals – Rueben Bain Jr., EDGE, Miami (FL): Despite size concerns, Bain is a strong football player.
• 4. Tennessee Titans – Caleb Downs, S, Ohio State: Downs is among the top non-QB prospects available.
• 5. New York Giants – Jordyn Tyson, WR, Arizona State: Tyson could form a formidable duo with Malik Nabers.
• 6. Cleveland Browns – Carnell Tate, WR, Ohio State: The Browns select another receiver, tapping into Ohio State talent.
• 7. Washington Commanders – David Bailey, EDGE, Texas Tech: Bailey adds youth and explosiveness to the Commanders’ defensive line.
• 8. New Orleans Saints – Keldric Faulk, EDGE, Auburn: The Saints focus on defense while introducing potential offensive assets.
• 9. Kansas City Chiefs – Jeremiyah Love, RB, Notre Dame: Love is seen as a valuable playmaker for Patrick Mahomes.
• 10. Cincinnati Bengals – Peter Woods: A strategic choice for strengthening their roster.

Round 2 Predictions

• 11. Miami Dolphins – Spencer Fano, OT, Utah: Fano is one of the premier offensive line prospects in this class.
• 12. Dallas Cowboys – Francis Mauigoa, OT, Miami (FL): The Cowboys aim to bolster their offensive line.
• 13. Los Angeles Rams – Jermod McCoy, CB, Tennessee: Improving the secondary is crucial for the Rams.
• 14. Baltimore Ravens – Mansoor Delane, CB, LSU: Delane can significantly enhance the Ravens’ secondary.
• 15. Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Sonny Styles, LB, Ohio State: Styles is a strong fit for the Buccaneers’ defensive strategy.
• 16. New York Jets – Makai Lemon, WR, USC: With two top-16 picks, the Jets have a chance to dramatically improve their roster.

As the NFL draft approaches, teams are evaluating these prospects closely. The preparation and decisions made in the coming weeks will shape the future of many franchises. Keep an eye on these predictions as the draft day nears.