2026 NFL draft buzz: Intel on top picks, potential trades

Key Points:

• The Las Vegas Raiders are certain to select Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza with the first overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, while the Jets are expected to take Ohio State linebacker Arvell Reese at No. 2, having reportedly settled on him over Texas Tech edge rusher David Bailey.
• The Arizona Cardinals, holding the No. 3 pick, prefer to trade down but may select Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love if no deal materializes; the Tennessee Titans at No. 4 may also trade down or pick an edge rusher or wide receiver, with Bailey being a strong candidate if available.
• The New York Giants, with picks No. 5 and No. 10, are likely to select Love or Ohio State safety Caleb Downs at No. 5 and possibly a wide receiver or offensive lineman at No. 10, while the Cleveland Browns at No. 6 aim to trade down and secure both an offensive tackle and wide receiver.
• The Los Angeles Rams, holding No. 13, are unpredictable with a strong roster and may trade down or select wide receiver or quarterback Ty Simpson, whom they have shown interest in despite it being early for a first-round quarterback pick.
• The Dallas Cowboys, with picks No. 12 and No. 20, plan to maintain disciplined drafting without trading both picks to move up, likely focusing on defensive needs and potentially trading down from No. 20 to gain additional draft capital.