NFL mock draft 2026: Final Round 1 picks and predictions
CBS Sports • • sports
Key Points:
- The mock draft's first overall pick is quarterback Fernando Mendoza from Indiana, projected to go to Las Vegas, praised for his impressive passing and rushing stats.
- Key defensive players selected early include edge rushers David Bailey (Texas Tech) to the N.Y. Jets at pick 2 and Arvell Reese (Ohio State) to Tennessee at pick 4, both noted for their NFL readiness and potential.
- Wide receiver Jordyn Tyson (Arizona State) is projected to go 5th to the N.Y. Giants, with the team also potentially trading up to select linebacker Sonny Styles (Ohio State) at pick 10, signaling a focus on offensive weapons and defense.
- Offensive tackles Spencer Fano (Utah) and Francis Mauigoa (Miami) are early first-round picks to Cleveland and Kansas City, respectively, addressing key offensive line needs.
- Other notable picks include cornerback Mansoor Delane (LSU) to Miami at 11, safety Caleb Downs (Ohio State) to Dallas at 12, and tight end Kenyon Sadiq (Oregon) to San Francisco at 27, highlighting teams' efforts to bolster secondary and tight end positions.
