2026 NFL Draft: CBS Sports unveils new mock draft, wild predictions after Pro Days

Key Points:

• The 2026 NFL Draft will begin in two weeks in Pittsburgh, with analysts releasing updated mock drafts, including CBS Sports’ Garrett Podell’s Mock Draft 5.0 featuring notable predictions for first-round picks.
• Podell projects the Dallas Cowboys to select Miami pass rusher Rueben Bain Jr. at No. 12 and Texas Tech linebacker Jacob Rodriguez at No. 20, a pick acquired from Green Bay.
• The top five projected picks include Fernando Mendoza (QB, Indiana) to Las Vegas Raiders, Arvell Reese (EDGE, Ohio State) to New York Jets, Francis Mauigoa (OT, Miami) to Arizona Cardinals, David Bailey (EDGE, Texas Tech) to Tennessee Titans, and Carnell Tate (WR, Ohio State) to New York Giants.
• Other key first-round predictions include Jeremiyah Love (RB, Notre Dame) to Washington Commanders, Caleb Downs (S, Ohio State) to New Orleans Saints, Sonny Styles (LB, Ohio State) to Kansas City Chiefs, and Jermod McCoy (CB, Tennessee) to Cincinnati Bengals.
• Podell’s mock emphasizes team needs and player potential, highlighting players’ college achievements and physical traits as indicators of NFL success.