Seven-round 2026 NFL mock draft: Jets pick QB Ty Simpson in Round 1; Lions trade up
NFL.com • • general
Key Points:
- The 2026 NFL Draft will take place April 23-25 in Pittsburgh, with 257 picks projected and four trades anticipated before the event begins.
- Key early selections include Indiana QB Mendoza going first overall to the Raiders, Ohio State LB/Edge at No. 2 to the Jets, and Texas Tech Edge Bailey at No. 3 to the Cardinals.
- Several teams focus on addressing critical needs: the Giants select Miami OT Mauigoa at No. 5 to bolster the offensive line, Browns pick Georgia OT Freeling at No. 6 for durability and pass protection, and Vikings take Tennessee CB Hood at No. 18 to fill a long-standing cornerback vacancy.
- Notable trades include Detroit moving up to No. 13 for Utah OL Fano and the Rams acquiring USC WR Lemon at No. 17, highlighting strategic maneuvering to secure top talent.
- Value picks address team weaknesses across positions, such as Carolina adding Oregon TE Sadiq at No. 19 to enhance their receiving corps and Seattle selecting Oklahoma Edge Thomas at No. 32 to replenish their pass rush.
