2026 NFL Draft: Lance Zierlein releases new mock for NFL.com with major risers, a plummet, two big trades

Key Points:

• The 2026 NFL Draft will begin on April 23 in Pittsburgh, with mock drafts predicting key trades and top picks, including trades involving the Carolina Panthers and Arizona Cardinals.
• NFL.com’s Lance Zierlein projects the Las Vegas Raiders will select Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza first overall, filling a major need after trading Geno Smith.
• The New York Jets are expected to pick versatile defender Arvell Reese from Ohio State at No. 2, while the Arizona Cardinals may select pass rusher David Bailey from Texas Tech at No. 3.
• Other notable projected picks include Tennessee Titans selecting running back Jeremiyah Love, New York Giants taking wide receiver Carnell Tate, and Cleveland Browns choosing offensive tackle Monroe Freeling.
• The draft's first round also features top defensive and offensive talents such as cornerback Mansoor Delane to the Washington Commanders, wide receiver Makai Lemon to the New Orleans Saints, and offensive lineman Spencer Fano to the Kansas City Chiefs.