NFL beat writer 2026 mock draft 3.0: Could another QB join Fernando Mendoza in Round 1?

Key Points:

• The 2026 NFL Draft begins Thursday at 8 p.m. ET, with Heisman Trophy-winning QB Fernando Mendoza expected to be the No. 1 overall pick by the Las Vegas Raiders.
• Several teams are focusing on key positional needs: the New York Jets select edge rusher Arvell Reese at No. 2, the Giants take running back Jeremiyah Love at No. 5, and the Washington Commanders pick linebacker Sonny Styles at No. 7.
• The Los Angeles Rams trade up to No. 6 to select wide receiver Carnell Tate, while the New York Jets also trade up to No. 8 for wide receiver Jordyn Tyson to address their receiving corps.
• Other notable first-round picks include Miami Dolphins selecting cornerback Mansoor Delane at No. 11, Dallas Cowboys taking edge rusher Keldric Faulk at No. 12, and the Philadelphia Eagles trading up to No. 20 to draft offensive tackle Monroe Freeling.
• The draft features strategic trades and a mix of offensive and defensive talent selections, with teams aiming to fill critical roster gaps and build for both immediate impact and long-term development.