2026 NFL Mock Draft: Reed Oberg’s predictions for first 32 picks
The 2026 NFL Draft kicks off tomorrow, and after weeks of evaluating prospects, team needs, and trends I’m releasing my final mock draft on April 22, 2026. This will be my final projection of how I believe the first round will go, based on how I view each team’s needs and the value of the players available. This mock draft focuses on the first round, featuring all 32 picks and the players I believe will be selected on Day 1. While trades and surprises are always part of the draft, these projections mock how I see the board playing out tomorrow given current information and team needs.
1. Las Vegas Raiders
Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana
Analysis:
The Raiders have been searching for a true franchise quarterback, and this is the year they finally find one. After spending the offseason strengthening the offensive line and adding weapons like wide receiver Jailen Nailor, Las Vegas has set the foundation for a young quarterback to succeed. Mendoza checks every box teams look for in a №1 overall pick. He has elite arm talent, strong decision-making ability and the poise to perform in high-pressure moments. His production speaks for itself, highlighted by a Heisman winning season that solidified him as the top quarterback in this class. This pick feels as close to a lock as it gets. The Raiders address their biggest need and land a player who has the potential to lead the franchise for years to come.
2. New York Jets
Arvell Reese, EDGE/LB, Ohio State
Analysis:
The Jets hit a full reset this season when they traded away defensive stars Sauce Gardner and Quinnen Williams. With major holes across the defense, this pick comes down to who they believe is the best overall defender in the class. Arvell Reese has the potential to be the game changer this defense needs. Whether he is rushing off the edge or dropping into coverage, he brings elite skill and versatility. For a team lacking identity, Reese gives head coach Aaron Glenn a centerpiece he can move and build his scheme around.
This pick ultimately came down to Reese vs. David Bailey out of Texas Tech. While Bailey is the more polished and technically refined pass rusher, Reese’s ceiling is significantly higher. The Jets should prioritize long-term upside and scheme versatility here, focusing on Reese developing into a dominant defender rather than taking the safer, lower-ceiling option.
3. Dallas Cowboys (via Arizona)
David Bailey, EDGE, Texas Tech
Analysis:
In this scenario, the Cardinals trade out of the №3 pick as they look to address the offensive line later in the first round. Dallas makes an aggressive move up the board, sending picks №12, №20 and №112 in exchange for №3 and №104 to grab a defensive playmaker. The Cowboys need a true difference maker off the edge, and Bailey is viewed as the best pure pass rusher in this class. While their current edge group provides solid run support, Dallas has lacked a consistent presence getting after the quarterback. Bailey brings exactly that. He led the nation in sacks at Texas Tech and consistently showed the ability to win with speed. After moving on from Micah Parsons last season, the Cowboys need a new centerpiece for their pass rush, and Bailey has the tools to step into that role immediately.
4. Tennessee Titans
Jeremiyah Love, HB, Notre Dame
Analysis:
This was a difficult decision between Love and linebacker Sonny Styles, especially with defensive-minded head coach Robert Saleh now leading the Titans. However, Tennessee ultimately prioritizes supporting its young quarterback and continues to build around the offense. If the Titans want Cam Ward to succeed, they need to surround him with playmakers, and Love gives them exactly that. He’s an explosive running back who can impact the game both on the ground and as a receiving threat. His versatility adds another dimension to the offense and takes pressure off Ward early in his development.
5. New York Giants
Caleb Downs, S, Ohio State
Analysis:
Downs is the second Ohio State defender off the board and, in my opinion, the best overall player in this class. The Giants have a clear need at safety, but Downs offers more than just filling a position, he’s a true defensive genius. He’s an immediate starter with the ability to command the defense like a veteran linebacker. His instincts, range and football IQ allow him to impact every level of the field. That type of versatility is exactly what new head coach Jim Harbaugh looks for, especially given his history of maximizing elite defensive backs. Downs would elevate this unit immediately. Pairing him with an already strong defensive line creates matchup problems for opposing offenses, giving the Giants a more complete and disruptive defense.
After acquiring the №10 pick in the trade involving Dexter Lawrence, New York has flexibility in how it approaches the first round. While adding another weapon for Jaxon Dart at №5 is tempting, Downs is the smarter selection here. The Giants can target offensive help later, but securing a franchise caliber defender like Downs is a move they can’t pass up.
6. Cleveland Browns
Carnell Tate, WR, Ohio State
Analysis:
The Browns’ preferred move here would likely be to trade down and target the best available offensive lineman or wide receiver. However, without a clear trade partner willing to move up, Cleveland stays put and addresses one of its biggest needs. Tate is my top receiver in this class and he gives the Browns a reliable, high-upside target. Regardless of who starts at quarterback, he provides stability to the passing game and helps round out a receiving corps that has lacked consistency. His ability to separate against both man and zone coverage makes him a dependable option from Day 1. While offensive tackle Francis Mauigoa is still on the board and presents strong value, Cleveland already made key investments along the offensive line in free agency. That allows them to prioritize a playmaker here and address the offensive line later.
7. Washington Commanders
Sonny Styles, LB, Ohio State
Analysis:
Washington finds itself in one of the toughest spots in this draft, with multiple roster needs and no clear direction. The decision comes down to either adding another weapon for Jayden Daniels or taking the best available defender. With their preferred offensive targets off the board, Washington pivots to defense and selects Styles. Styles put together an outstanding combine performance and backed it up with strong production at Ohio State while standing out on a defense full of NFL talent. Styles gives Washington a potential answer at linebacker, especially with Bobby Wagner’s future uncertain. His range at the Mike position allows him to impact both the run and pass game, making him a true three down defender. This pick may ultimately depend on what the Giants do at №5, but either way, Washington lands one of the top Ohio State defenders in the class and adds a foundational piece to build around on defense.
8. New Orleans Saints
Ruben Bain Jr, EDGE, Miami
Analysis:
The Saints have several needs, but edge rusher stands out as the most urgent. With a lack of consistent pressure off the edge, New Orleans prioritizes upgrading its pass rush and lands one of the top defensive playmakers in the class. In my opinion, Bain is the best true edge rusher in this draft. He’s a three down player who can impact both the run and pass game, and his combination of speed, power and explosiveness makes him a constant threat off the edge. Pairing him with Chase Young gives the Saints a strong foundation along the defensive line for years to come. Bain slides slightly in this scenario due to concerns about his arm length, but that’s not something that significantly impacts his evaluation. His production at Miami and his performance during the combine showcase a player with elite athletic traits and high end potential.
New Orleans gets excellent value at №8, landing a potential cornerstone defender and a long term replacement for Cam Jordan.
9. Kansas City Chiefs
Jordyn Tyson, WR, Arizona State
Analysis:
The Chiefs need to continue building around Patrick Mahomes, especially with Travis Kelce nearing the end of his career and Xavier Worthy not fully developing into a consistent №1 option. Adding another high end receiver becomes a priority, and Tyson gives them a player with true difference making ability. When healthy, Tyson is one of the most polished route runners in this class. His ability to create separation and win at all levels of the field makes him a perfect fit in Kansas City’s offense. Pairing him with Rashee Rice, Worthy and Kelce gives the Chiefs a dynamic and well-rounded receiving group. The main concern with Tyson is durability, which is why he slides to №9 in this scenario. If not for those injury questions he would likely be off the board much earlier.
The Chiefs could also look to address the secondary after losing key defensive backs this offseason. Kansas City does have a strong track record of finding defensive contributors on Day 2 and 3 of the draft. With an additional first-round pick at №29 (via the Rams), they have flexibility to address defense later, making Tyson the right move here.
10. New York Giants
Olaivavega Ioane, OG, Penn State
Analysis:
If Jordyn Tyson were still on the board, he would be the pick. However, with him gone the Giants shift their focus to the trenches. While a trade down to target a defensive tackle to replace Dexter Lawrence could make sense, there isn’t a clear partner looking to move up in this spot. Instead, New York strengthens its offensive line by selecting Ioane. In my opinion, Ioane’s the best offensive lineman in this class and one of the top guard prospects in recent years. His strength and physicality make him an instant starter for this unit. With no offensive weapons they love at this point in the draft and Sonny Styles already off the board, the Giants prioritize protecting their young quarterback. Ioane gives them a foundational piece up front and helps create a more stable environment for Jaxon Dart to develop.
11. Miami Dolphins
Mansoor Delane, CB, LSU
Analysis:
I’m surprised Delane is still on the board here, as I view him as a top five defensive player in this class. Teams like Washington or New York could easily have taken him earlier, but in this mock Miami benefits from his slide. The Dolphins have a clear need in the secondary, and Delane addresses it perfectly. He has the tools to step in as a Day 1 starter and quickly become the team’s top defensive back. His combination of athleticism, instincts and coverage ability gives Miami a needed boost on the back end of its defense.
While offensive tackle Francis Mauigoa is still available and could help strengthen the trenches, Miami instead prioritizes defense here. With an eye toward potentially targeting a quarterback in next year’s draft. The Dolphins focus on building a stronger defensive foundation now.
12. Arizona Cardinals (via Dallas)
Francis Mauigoa, OT, Miami
Analysis:
Arizona executes a trade down strategy, moving back from №3 while still landing the player they wanted. There was some risk involved, as teams like Cleveland or Miami could have selected Mauigoa earlier, but the Cardinals stayed patient and were rewarded. Mauigoa is my top offensive tackle in this class and fills a major need for Arizona at left tackle. He brings the size, strength and athleticism to be a long term anchor on the offensive line from Day 1. This move allows the Cardinals to stockpile additional draft capital while still securing a franchise cornerstone. Protecting their future quarterback becomes the priority, and Mauigoa gives them a reliable foundation to build around.
13. Los Angeles Rams
Makai Lemon, WR, USC
Analysis:
The Rams traded away last year’s first round pick but still land at №13, putting them in a position to add an immediate impact player. While offensive tackle is a consideration here, Los Angeles opts for the best player available and continues to lean into its win now window with Matthew Stafford. Lemon is the top receiver left on the board and gives the Rams another dynamic weapon in the passing game. He projects as a natural fit in the slot, where his route running, quickness and ability to create separation can thrive in Sean McVay’s offense. Adding Lemon strengthens an already talented receiving corps and provides a potential long term replacement for Davante Adams. With Stafford in the later stages of his career, the priority is maximizing the offense and staying competitive. The Rams can still address the offensive line later in the draft, but passing on a playmaker like Lemon here would be difficult.
14. Baltimore Ravens
Spencer Fano, OT, Utah
Analysis:
Sadiq could be a strong option here especially given Baltimore’s history of utilizing multiple tight end sets. However, with a new head coach likely bringing adjustments to the offensive scheme, the bigger priority becomes addressing the offensive line. After losing All Pro center Tyler Linderbaum in free agency and dealing with inconsistent guard play last season, the Ravens need to rebuild the interior of their offensive line. Fano gives them exactly that. He’s one of the most versatile linemen in this class with the ability to play both tackle and guard at a high level. While many project him to the interior at the next level, he has the tools to hold up on the outside as well. Wherever Baltimore chooses to line him up he provides immediate value and long term stability. Protecting Lamar Jackson remains the top priority, and Fano gives the Ravens a reliable, flexible piece they can use up front.
15. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
Ahkeem Mesidor, EDGE, Miami
Analysis:
If Olaivavega Ioane were still on the board he would be the pick. But with him gone, Tampa Bay shifts its focus to another key need along the defensive front. Mesidor may be slightly older for a rookie, but his production and versatility are undeniable. He has the ability to line up across the defensive line and consistently make an impact, whether rushing off the edge or playing inside. That kind of flexibility makes him a valuable addition to any defensive scheme. With recent moves like extending Cade Otton and adding linebacker Alex Anzalone, the Buccaneers have already addressed other areas of the roster. That allows them to prioritize adding a difference maker on the defensive line. Tampa Bay has shown in past drafts that it isn’t afraid to take the best player available, and Mesidor fits that approach here. He’s a strong three down defender who can contribute immediately and help elevate the front seven.
16. New York Jets
Jermod McCoy, CB, Tennessee
Analysis:
After trading away Sauce Gardner, this pick feels like a natural move for the Jets as they continue rebuilding their defense. Adding a cornerback here allows them to start reestablishing a secondary that lost its top talent. McCoy slides to this spot due to concerns about his injury history and missing all of last season, but his talent is undeniable. When healthy he showed the ability to be a high level cover corner, and his strong pro day performance reinforced that upside. For a team in a full rebuild this is a worthwhile risk on a player with significant potential. The Jets continue to prioritize defense here adding another foundational piece alongside Arvell Reese. This pick could also be a spot where they pivot to offense, targeting a weapon like Omar Cooper Jr. to support their future quarterback.
Ultimately, New York sticks with the best available defender and takes a chance on McCoy’s upside, hoping he develops into their next №1 corner.
17. Detroit Lions
Monroe Freeling, OT, Georgia
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Analysis:
The Lions look to secure their future at tackle by pairing another high-upside player alongside All-Pro Penei Sewell. Freeling fits exactly what Detroit values–tough, physical players with long term potential. Freeling’s still relatively raw, having started only 18 games at the position which is why he slides to this spot. However his upside makes him an ideal developmental prospect. In the right system, he has the tools to grow into a high level starter. Detroit can bring him along while maintaining a strong offensive line, with the goal of eventually forming one of the best tackle duos in the league. Protecting Jared Goff remains a priority, and this pick helps ensure long-term stability up front.
18. Minnesota Vikings
Dillon Thieneman, S, Oregon
Analysis:
With the future of longtime safety Harrison Smith uncertain, the Vikings need to begin planning for a replacement, whether Smith returns for another season or not. Thieneman fits that role perfectly as a natural successor in the secondary. He brings strong instincts, physicality and the ability to impact both the run and pass game. As a play recognizer and downhill hitter, Thieneman mirrors many of the traits that have made Smith so effective over the years. His versatility also makes him an ideal fit in Brian Flores’ aggressive, positionless defensive scheme.
With an interim general manager, Minnesota could lean toward selecting the best player available, especially with head coach Kevin O’Connell and Flores influencing the decision. That leaves the door open for other prospects like Kenyon Sadiq if the board falls differently. Still, Thieneman addresses both a current need and a future transition at safety, giving the Vikings a valuable piece to build around in the secondary.
19. Carolina Panthers
Kenyon Sadiq, TE, Oregon
Analysis:
Carolina continues to build around its young core, and on offense the biggest remaining need is a long term answer at tight end. With a strong and developing receiving group already in place, adding a versatile tight end gives Bryce Young another reliable weapon. After addressing key needs on defense in free agency, the Panthers have the flexibility to focus on offense here. If Sadiq were off the board this could be a spot I see safety or defensive line taken. With Sadiq available, he’s the best fit for Carolina. This pick helps round out the offense and gives Carolina a more complete unit moving forward.
20. Arizona Cardinals (via Dallas)
Ty Simpson, QB, Alabama
Analysis:
After acquiring this pick from Dallas, Arizona could look to trade back into the late first round to gain additional value. With no clear trade partner willing to move up, the Cardinals stay put and make a move for their quarterback of the future. Simpson brings the traits teams look for in a long-term starter. He shows strong pocket presence, good decision-making and consistent accuracy, all of which make him a natural fit in Arizona’s offense — especially after addressing the offensive line earlier in the draft. While some teams may hesitate due to his limited starting experience, Simpson’s upside and development potential are hard to ignore. In this class, he stands out as the clear №2 quarterback behind Fernando Mendoza.
If Arizona decides this is too early to take a quarterback, edge rusher could be the alternative here. But with the board falling this way, the Cardinals secure a potential franchise star and continue building for the future.
21. Pittsburgh Steelers
Omar Cooper Jr, WR, Indiana
Analysis:
With Aaron Rodgers’ decision still uncertain, the Steelers look to improve their offense everywhere outside of quarterback. Whether it’s the offensive line or adding another weapon, Pittsburgh needs to give its offense more firepower. Cooper is a name that has surged up draft boards following Indiana’s playoff run and national championship performance. He proved he can produce in big moments and has the traits to translate to the next level. Cooper fits perfectly alongside DK Metcalf as a complementary №2 receiver. Cooper’s ability to create separation and make plays after the catch gives Pittsburgh another reliable target and helps open up the offense. While the offensive line could also be a consideration here, adding a dynamic weapon feels like the priority. Cooper gives the Steelers a much needed boost and helps elevate the passing game regardless of who ends up under center.
22. Los Angeles Chargers
Kedrick Faulk, EDGE, Auburn
Analysis:
With the departure of Odafe Oweh and the future of Khalil Mack still unknown, the Chargers have a need at edge rusher. Adding a young player to stabilize the position becomes a priority here. Faulk may not be the most polished pass rusher in this class, but he’s arguably the best run defending edge prospect available. I view a clear drop off after the top tier of edge rushers in this class, and Faulk sits at the top of that next group. He brings a high floor as a run defender with the upside to develop as a pass rusher over time. His profile is similar to Shemar Stewart — an impact run defender with long term pass rush potential. That combination makes him a strong fit for the Chargers, giving them a reliable presence now and a player they can continue to develop into a more complete edge threat.
23. Philadelphia Eagles
Blake Miller, OT, Clemson
Analysis:
Howie Roseman and the Eagles love to prioritize the trenches, especially when it comes to planning for the future. With Lane Johnson nearing the end of his career Philadelphia should look to secure his eventual replacement. Miller has been one of the most consistent right tackles in college football during his time at Clemson and projects well to the next level. He has the size, technique and experience to develop into a long term starter on the outside. In the short term, Miller provides immediate value as a swing tackle and could even see time on the interior if needed. That flexibility makes him a perfect fit for the Eagles, who value depth and versatility along the offensive line. This pick allows Philadelphia to develop Miller behind a veteran like Johnson while preparing for a eays transition in the future.
24. Cleveland Browns
Kayden Proctor, OT, Alabama
Analysis:
After adding a weapon in Carnell Tate at №6, the Browns turn their attention to the offensive line. Addressing tackle here feels like the natural next step as they continue building around their offense. Cleveland has been heavily linked to Proctor, and he brings the size, strength and work ethic teams look for in a franchise tackle. He has the physical tools to develop into a long term anchor and help stabilize the line. This pick helps round out a retooled offensive line and provides much needed protection for whoever lines up at quarterback. Proctor offers positional flexibility as well, with the ability to stay at tackle or slide inside if needed. Cleveland adds another foundational piece here, continuing to build a more complete offense.
25. Chicago Bears
Kayden Mcdonald, DT, Ohio State
Analysis:
The Bears have finally found their franchise quarterback, but the defensive line has lacked a true identity since the departure of Khalil Mack. After missing out on a major addition like Dexter Lawrence, Chicago needs to hit on this pick. McDonald is a classic interior presence who brings size, strength and physicality to the defensive line. He excels against the run, consistently occupying blockers and allowing teammates to make plays around him. While he may not be the flashiest prospect his impact is essential to building a strong and disciplined defense. He’s the type of player who can step in early and contribute while developing into a long-term piece.
The Bears have shown a willingness to take the best player available, but in this case need and value align. McDonald gives Chicago a foundational piece to help reestablish its defensive identity.
26. Buffalo Bills
Zion Young, EDGE, Missouri
Analysis:
The Bills need to continue rebuilding their defensive front, whether that means adding help at nose tackle or edge rusher. In this case they land a high upside pass rusher in Zion Young. Young was highly productive at Missouri and boosted his stock with an impressive performance during the pre draft process. With Joey Bosa entering the later stages of his career, Buffalo needs to start planning for the future at the position. Young provides a strong option that can contribute early.This pick allows the Bills to get younger and more dynamic on defense while continuing to build a unit capable of competing at a high level.
27. San Francisco 49ers
Denzel Boston, WR, Washington
Analysis:
With the Brandon Aiyuk situation still uncertain, the 49ers have a potential need at wide receiver moving forward. While they remain strong offensively, adding another reliable target helps maintain depth. Boston fits this offense well. He has some of the best hands in the class and brings a dependable presence to this receiving unit. Pairing him with Ricky Pearsall and veteran addition Mike Evans gives San Francisco a well rounded group of pass catchers. Boston offers immediate value while also giving the 49ers flexibility if Aiyuk is no longer part of their long-term plans. That said, the offensive line is still very much in play here. With Trent Williams nearing the end of his career, San Francisco could look to draft his eventual replacement. But in this scenario, they prioritize adding another weapon to keep the offense operating at a high level.
28. Houston Texans
Peter Woods, DT, Clemson
Analysis:
Houston already has one of the strongest defenses in the league, and this pick is about keeping that identity. Adding another impact player to the defensive line allows them to stay dominant up front and continue building a unit that can control games. Woods brings a powerful combination of size, strength and explosiveness to the interior. At Clemson, he consistently showed the ability to disrupt plays in both the run and pass game. Pairing Woods with an already talented defensive front gives Houston a formidable presence in the trenches. He fits perfectly on the inside and helps create a deeper, more versatile rotation, making an already dangerous defense even more difficult to attack.
29. Kansas City Chiefs
Aveion Terrell, CB, Clemson
Analysis:
After trading away Trent McDuffie, the Chiefs have a need in the secondary and look to replace a key piece of their defense. This pick allows Kansas City to get younger and cheaper while maintaining flexibility on the back end. Terrell is a gifted corner who can line up both in the slot and on the outside. He brings strong instincts, fluid movement and the ability to stay tight in coverage, making him effective against a wide range of receivers. His awareness in zone coverage and physicality in man coverage make him a well rounded defensive back with a high ceiling. This pick fills an immediate hole created by the McDuffie trade while also giving the Chiefs a long term solution at corner. Terrell fits their defensive identity and helps keep the secondary young, fast and adaptable.
30. Miami Dolphins
KC Conception, WR, Texas A&M
Analysis:
After addressing the defense earlier in the draft, Miami turns its attention back to the offense and adds a weapon for Malik Willis. Concepcion brings versatility to the offense, with the ability to line up both in the slot and out wide. He’s a quick explosive receiver who can create separation and make plays after the catch. In addition to his impact as a receiver, Concepcion also provides value as a return specialist. His ability to contribute on special teams makes him an immediate asset and increases his overall value to the roster. This pick gives Miami a flexible offensive weapon who can contribute in multiple ways while helping support the development of its new quarterback.
31. New England Patriots
TJ Parker, EDGE, Clemson
Analysis:
The Patriots have a big need in improving their pass rush, and adding an edge defender here becomes a no brainer. Parker brings a strong combination of size, power and athleticism to the position. He plays with a high motor, sets the edge well and has the tools to continue developing as a pass rusher at the next level.
If a wide receiver were to fall to this spot, that could certainly be an option for New England. However, with the board falling this way, there isn’t a receiver available who provides enough value at this pick. This makes Parker the smart selection giving the Patriots a much needed boost on the defensive line and a young edge rusher they can develop into a long term contributor.
32. Seattle Seahawks
Colton Hood, CB, Tennessee
Analysis:
Seattle looks to add depth to its secondary and continue building a complete defense. Even with a strong unit already in place, adding another cornerback helps provide stability and keeps the defense competitive at a high level. Hood brings size, physicality and strong coverage ability to the position. He has the tools to develop into a reliable outside corner and adds valuable depth to a group that can always use more talent in today’s pass heavy league. Adding another capable defensive back gives Seattle more flexibility in coverage and strengthens an already dangerous unit.
There’s also a scenario where the Seahawks trade down to gain additional value, especially this late in the first round. Running back Jadarian Price could be another option if they choose to go offense, but with the board falling this way adding defensive depth is the smarter move.
My mock draft is based on a combination of expert analysis, team needs, and independent scouting sources including ESPN analysts, NFL data platforms like PFF, and modern film study creators. While these sources help inform my decisions, each pick is ultimately my own evaluation and reflects my personal judgment of player value and team fit.
Sources
- ESPN NFL Draft coverage (Mel Kiper Jr., Todd McShay, Matt Miller)
- NFL.com Draft Profiles
- Pro Football Focus (PFF) player grades and rankings
- The Athletic NFL Draft analysis
- Sports Illustrated (MMQB) front office insights
- CBS Sports and Bleacher Report scouting reports
- Independent film analysis (YouTube creators such as Matthew Geist, Brett Kollmann)
