2026 NFL Mock Draft: Mendoza Leads; Giants Target Defense at No. 5
As the 2026 NFL Draft approaches, analysts are formulating their predictions based on player performances and team needs. Eric Froton’s second mock draft reveals key insights about potential top picks, highlighting standout college athletes ready to make their mark in the professional arena.
2026 NFL Mock Draft Insights
Top Prospects
- Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana — Projected first overall pick by the Las Vegas Raiders. Mendoza had a remarkable season, completing 72.3% of his passes for 3,349 yards, with a phenomenal 41-6 touchdown-to-interception ratio. His Total QBR stands at 89.5.
- Arvell Reese, LB, Ohio State — Expected second pick by the New York Jets. Reese recorded 31 total pressures, including 8 sacks. He has an impressive 6.0% missed tackle rate, indicating strong tackling skills.
- Francis Mauigoa, T, Miami — Likely third pick for the Arizona Cardinals. Morris allowed only one sack in 196 pass sets, showcasing proficiency as a pass protector with an impressive 1% pressure rate.
- Carnell Tate, WR, Ohio State — Projected fourth pick by the Tennessee Titans. Tate tallied 51 receptions for 875 yards and 9 touchdowns, demonstrating excellent route-running and catching ability.
- Caleb Downs, S, Ohio State — Anticipated fifth pick by the New York Giants. Downs displayed exceptional coverage skills, allowing only 9 completions on 20 targets during the 2025 season.
Additional Noteworthy Players
- Spencer Fano, T, Utah — Sixth pick to the Cleveland Browns with a strong pass-protection record.
- David Bailey, EDGE, Texas Tech — Seventh pick for the Washington Commanders. He finished the 2025 season with 81 total pressures and 14.5 sacks.
- Rueben Bain Jr., EDGE, Miami — Eighth pick for the New Orleans Saints, known for his disruptive play for the Miami defense.
- Jeremiyah Love, RB, Notre Dame — Ninth pick for the Kansas City Chiefs, noted for his impressive rushing ability and receiving skills out of the backfield.
- Mansoor Delane, CB, LSU — Tenth pick for the Cincinnati Bengals, lauded for his coverage efficiency and ball production.
Analysis of Team Needs
As teams like the New York Giants target defensive talent with their fifth selection, there’s a clear push towards bolstering defense across various franchises. The strong performances of candidates like Downs and Reese reflect this trend.
The 2026 NFL Draft is shaping up to be pivotal, not just due to the exceptional talent pool but also because of the strategic moves that teams must make to fill crucial gaps in their rosters. The spotlight will be on not only the athletes themselves but also the franchises poised to make impactful selections.
