2026 is almost here. The Chiefs have been eliminated from playoff contention for the first time since I was 9 years old, the Jaguars have 11 wins with 2 games to play, and the Chicago Bears have clinched a playoff berth for the first time since the first ever cartoon-themed broadcast of a game. It's been a strange season, that's for sure. However, there's one thing we all get to look forward to, and it's the NFL Draft. 

The draft class for 2026 is shaping up to be incredibly weird. We don't know who's going to have the first pick yet, with teams like the Raiders, Giants, and Jets all in contention for the prize. I'm using a predictive order for this mock, so the order was based on what I think will happen during the rest of the season. Congrats to the Buffalo Bills, who I think finally get their first Super Bowl in franchise history this year. I digress, though. Let's get this done.

2026 NFL MOCK DRAFT - EDITION 3

Round 1

1. New York Jets [via NYG] - Fernando Mendoza | QB | Indiana

The New York Jets trade pick 3, pick 48 (via DAL), and a 2027 1st (via IND) to the Giants for pick 1

After a bidding war, the Jets trade up to select Heisman winner Fernando Mendoza out of Indiana. His stock rose tremendously after leading the Hoosiers to their first Big Ten Championship Game win and an appearance in the Rose Bowl. The Jets could use a more experienced QB prospect, and Mendoza is exactly that. He's started 33 games throughout his college career, and has shown improvement throughout. He's a confident leader, and that's something I think Aaron Glenn will be looking to take in a franchise guy.

In 2025, Mendoza has thrown for 2,980 yards, 33 touchdowns, and 6 interceptions. He has also rushed for 240 yards and 6 touchdowns. 

2. Las Vegas Raiders - Dante Moore | QB | Oregon

With the Jets trading above the Raiders to take Mendoza, Las Vegas goes for the next best option in Dante Moore from Oregon. Don't get me wrong, Moore is a great QB prospect all the same. He's got fast release, his processing speed is great, and he's very competitive. He's been one of the most accurate QBs in the country this season, and he led Oregon to a CFP berth. His arm is one of the best in the class. The main worry with him in Vegas is making sure he has the offensive line to succeed, but the team should have a lot of cap room and draft capital if they want to ensure his protection.

In 2025, Dante Moore has thrown for 3,046 yards, 28 touchdowns and 8 interceptions while rushing for 196 yards and 2 touchdowns.

3. New York Giants [via NYJ] - Kadyn Proctor | OT | Alabama

Both of the guys on New York's right side of the line are close to retirement age by NFL standards. Greg Van Roten is 35, and Jermaine Eluemunor is 31. Eluemenor also hasn't particularly played that great this season. Grabbing the best tackle in the draft in Alabama's Kadyn Proctor is a move that could ensure Jaxson Dart survives the next few seasons. Proctor was a highly touted prospect out of Des Moines, Iowa, and he's been a very successful lineman for the Crimson Tide. He'd be an immediate starter at right tackle, and he could be the solution there for the next decade. He's also a giant, being 6'7" and 370 pounds, while also being decently athletic for his size. There are some character concerns, but they aren't anything crazy enough that should drop him out of the top 10.

In 2025, Proctor earned 1st-team All-SEC and Consensus All-American honors, while also winning the SEC Jacobs Blocking Trophy. 

4. Tennessee Titans - Arvell Reese | LB/EDGE | Ohio State

Tennessee needs help almost everywhere, but adding a potentially elite outside linebacker would be a great move. Arvell Reese is an elite athlete, with speed and length out the wazoo. He's also incredibly strong, which allows him to be a threatening pass rusher. He's also an elite run defender, and has been pretty decent when put in coverage. He's a jack of all trades who has the potential to be the next Micah Parsons if all goes well. Reese's versatility gives him an edge over the other linebackers in this class, and is a reason I expect him to go very high.

In 2025, Reese recorded 62 tackles, 10 tackles for loss, and 6.5 sacks while receiving Consensus All-American and First-Team All-Big Ten honors. He was also named the conference's LB of the year.

5. Arizona Cardinals - Rueben Bain | EDGE | Miami (FL)

Arizona has been a trainwreck this year. I expect them to try and go after a QB, but I don't see how they'll be able to do so in the draft since there aren't any guys worth taking from where they're at. Instead, they focus on improving the defense with one of the more talented edge rushers in the class, Miami's Rueben Bain. His 3-sack performance against Texas A&M really impressed me, and I think it'll impress a lot of scouts as the draft process continues. The Cardinals don't have that true number one edge rusher, and pairing him with Josh Sweat could make for a pretty good duo. 

In 2025, Bain has recorded 42 tackles, 11.5 tackles for loss, 7.5 sacks, and an interception. He was also the ACC's Defensive Player of the Year and a Consensus All-American.

6. Cleveland Browns - Carnell Tate | WR | Ohio State

Cleveland had only one wide receiver crack the 500-yard mark this year, that being former Bronco Jerry Jeudy. They need to add a true #1 at the position. Despite not even being that in college, I think Carnell could manage that role for the Browns. I expect them to stick with Shedeur Sanders for next season, so adding a player of Tate's caliber would be a true help. Tate is one of the best route-runners in the game, and he's got really good hands that compliment that really well. The only concerns are his frame and speed, but those are counterbalanced by what he does right. He'll be an intermediate threat that can make a quarterback's life easier the way it has for Julian Sayin.

In 2025, Tate caught 48 passes for 838 yards and 9 touchdowns in 10 games. While he was overshadowed by Jeremiah Smith, this was still a pretty impressive statline.

7. Washington Commanders - Caleb Downs | S | Ohio State

 

The third Buckeye to appear in this top 7, Downs is somebody I'm hoping my Cincinnati Bengals can acquire. Alas, he goes here to the Commanders. Dan Quinn is a defensive coach, and I could absolutely see him salivating over what Downs has to offer in the defensive backfield. This dude is going to be an elite player at the NFL level from the get-go. He processes things at an insane speed, and his instincts are immaculate. He can anticipate the run from every angle, and he can be lockdown in coverage as well. He also hits harder than most players you'll see at the collegiate level. Adding him into Dan Quinn's defense could make it unbelievably dangerous.

In 2025, Downs put up 60 tackles, 5 tackles for loss, a sack, 2 pass deflections, and 2 interceptions. He was also voted 9th in the Heisman voting while winning the Lott Trophy and the Thorpe awards. He was also a Unanimous All-American the past two years.

8. New Orleans Saints - Jeremiyah Love | RB | Notre Dame

Alvin Kamara has been a great running back for the Saints, but it may be time for the team to move on after this season's struggles. Jeremiyah Love is the best back in college football, with the ability to get touchdowns from anywhere. He's got great balance and versatility that give him the opportunity to be a game-breaking player on any play. He's the main reason Notre Dame was in the playoff hunt throughout 2025, scoring multiple touchdowns in 6 games, and at least one in every game except the Miami one. He could also be great as a pass-catcher. Maybe not to the extent that Kamara was, but he'd give some great options in the passing game for Tyler Shough. 

In 2025, Jeremiyah Love put up 1,372 rushing yards and 18 rushing TDs, while receiving 27 passes for 280 yards and 3 touchdowns. He was a Heisman finalist, a unanimous All-American, and the Doak Walker Award winner. 

9. Miami Dolphins - Jermod McCoy | CB | Tennessee

Miami's defense has struggled in 2025, especially in the secondary. They need to get themselves a number one cornerback, and Jermod McCoy can absolutely be that guy. He hasn't played in 2025 due to an ACL tear, but what he did for the Volunteers in 2024 shows a very high-potential player. His ball skills are phenomenal, and he can read routes like nobody's business. He's fluid and technical, and his route recognition adds another layer to his game that makes him a well-rounded player. The main question about his game is tackling and his form, but that can be improved at the NFL level with coaching. He's a risk with his injury, but if he hits, he'll be one of the best corners in the league.

In 2024, McCoy put up 44 tackles, 0.5 TFLs, 4 interceptions, and 9 pass deflections. He was also named First-team All-SEC.

10. Cincinnati Bengals - Peter Woods | DT | Clemson

The Bengals have one of the worst defenses in the NFL, and they desperately need to improve the front seven. His explosiveness and athleticism are top-notch, and he plays with an motor so powerful it makes a Tesla look like a Hot Wheels car. He's a versatile player who can line up both inside and out, and his run defense is one of the best parts of his game. He's strong, fast, and dangerous. If the Bengals can develop him, they'll have a potentially elite dominator up the middle. The question with his game is the production, as it regressed from his 2024 levels. He's more raw than I think people give him credit for, but his upside is tremendous.

In 2025, Woods put up 30 tackles, 3.5 tackles for loss, and 2 sacks. He was a first-team All-ACC player.

11. Kansas City Chiefs - Mansoor Delane | CB | LSU

Kansas City's nightmare season ended with Patrick Mahomes tearing his ACL. They are going to miss the playoff for the first time in a decade, and will get a higher draft pick because of it. With this pick, I think they need to target defense. Getting a potentially great corner like Mansoor Delane would be a nice help in the secondary, which struggled throughout the year. While small for the position, Delane has been elite this season, with great instincts and route recognition allowing him to be a shutdown defender for the Tigers. Adding a guy with this level of play to Steve Spagnuolo's defense would be a crazy combination.

In 2025, Delane put up 45 tackles, 2 interceptions, and 11 pass deflections. He was a Unanimous All-American and was named First-Team All-SEC.

12. Los Angeles Rams [via ATL] - Spencer Fano | OT | Utah

The Rams aren't a team with very many needs, but they could use a right tackle of the future with Rob Havenstein getting older. Spencer Fano has been an excellent tackle for the Utes over the past few years, and he's played both the right and left sides of the line. He's a very powerful player, and has great movement to compliment that. He processes things very well, and he's a leader on the OL. With Havenstein's contract expiring, Fano can come in as the starter and be an immediate impact on that side of the line. I'd say this is a good investment for the Rams to make.

Fano won the Outland trophy in 2025, as well as becoming a Unanimous All-American, Big 12 Offensive Lineman of the Year, First-Team All-Big 12, and the Polynesian College Football Player of the Year.

13. Minnesota Vikings - Sonny Styles | LB | Ohio State

Sonny Styles is the other half of that electrifying Buckeye linebacker duo, and he has the potential to go really high in the draft himself. With all of the top defensive backs off the board, Minnesota should look elsewhere on the defense. They could use another linebacker in the group, and Styles looks like he could be that guy. He's an athletic freak who plays with a lot of instincts and intelligence. He has experience at every level of the defense, which gives him so much potential as a coverage LB. Adding a guy like Styles to that Brian Flores defense... I'm excited thinking about it now.

In 2025, Styles put up 80 tackles, 5 tackles for loss, 0.5 sacks, an interception, 3 pass deflections, and a forced fumble. While the production wasn't as heavy as last year's, his impact has been felt. He was also named First-Team All-Big Ten.

14. New York Jets [via IND] - Jordyn Tyson | WR | Arizona State

The Jets could use a receiver to pair with Garrett Wilson. Jordyn Tyson could very well go higher than this, but his injury history is pretty scary, with a season-ending injury in 2024, missed time in 2025, and a knee injury in 2022. He's a very good receiver, creating good separation and taking his YAC opportunities when given. His hands are elite, and he's explosive. This is the kind of receiver that Fernando Mendoza could form a good connection with. The former Colorado transfer should go very high in the draft depending on how he tests.

In 2025, Tyson put up 61 catches for 711 yards and 8 touchdowns, as well as a rushing touchdown. He was named First-Team All-Big 12. 

15. Pittsburgh Steelers [via TB] - Ty Simpson | QB | Alabama

The Pittsburgh Steelers trade pick 17 and pick 81 to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers for pick 15.

Alabama's Ty Simpson is an intriguing prospect, and one I think could prove himself more throughout the College Football Playoff. He had a good game against Oklahoma, but we'll see how he fares against an elite Indiana defense. Pittsburgh needs a QB to succeed Aaron Rodgers, and Simpson could be that guy. He's good within the pocket, processes things well, and is careful with the ball. He's somewhat inconsistent on the deep ball, though, and needs to develop that with coaching. If he takes a year to develop behind Rodgers, he could be the starting QB for a long time afterward.

In 2025, Ty Simpson threw for 3,500 yards, 28 touchdowns, and 5 interceptions. He also ran for 76 yards and 2 touchdowns. He was named Second-Team All-SEC.

16. Dallas Cowboys - David Bailey | EDGE | Texas Tech

Dallas traded away Micah Parsons before the season, and need to find help on the defensive line to replace him. David Bailey is a great player who I think could be very successful at the NFL level. He's explosive off the line, strong with his hand, and very technical. He's also incredibly fast, reaching 22.16 miles per hour according to Bruce Feldman's Freaks List. The issues with Bailey are there, and they mostly have to do with his frame, but the upside is really great. I see him as an edge rusher who specializes in getting to the quarterback, and that's what Dallas is going to need from him. 

In 2025, Bailey recorded 43 tackles, 17.5 tackles for loss, and 13.5 sacks, as well as a pass deflection, 3 forced fumbles, and 1 fumble recovery. He was a Unanimous All-American, First-Team All-Big 12, and the Big 12 Defensive Lineman of the Year. 

 17. Tampa Bay Buccaneers [via PIT] - Kenyon Sadiq | TE | Oregon

Cade Otton has been a huge disappointment this season, and it's a contract year. The Bucs are going to need a starting tight end for 2026. Sadiq is a high-profile, high-upside tight end with a lot of great traits that could make him an early first-round pick. He's on the faster side for tight end, and uses his hands very well. He plays like a wide receiver, but is also a very good blocker. He's an intelligent player who is aware of what's going on around him, and goes after the ball with ease. A guy like this could make Baker Mayfield's life a lot easier. 

In 2026, Sadiq caught 42 passes for 509 yards and 8 touchdowns. He was named First-Team All-Big Ten and was the Big Ten Tight End of the Year.

18. Detroit Lions - Keldric Faulk | EDGE | Auburn

Detroit could use another guy on the defensive front opposite of Aidan Hutchinson. Keldric is a physical freak, with great height and arm length. He's also versatile, and can be used both on the interior and on the edge. He uses his hands well, and is a really tough defender. His motor is electric, and he shows a lot of good technique. He does need to work on his counters and his get-off, though. He's been the main reason for the success of Auburn's defense, and I think he can form one of the best pass rushing duos in the league with Hutch on the other side of him.

In 2025, Keldric Faulk put up 29 tackles, 5 tackles for loss, and 2 sacks. This was a drop in production from 2024, but a lot of that was due to the change in role from primarily edge to a hybrid role. He was still named Third-Team All-SEC.

19. Baltimore Ravens - Francis Mauigoa | OT/OG | Miami (FL)

Baltimore has seen Lamar Jackson get injured multiple times this season, so protecting him needs to be a priority. Mauigoa should be seen as a replacement for either of Andrew Vorhees or Daniel Faalele, who have struggled at the guard spots this season. Mauigoa is an athletic player who plays with great anchor strength and flexibility at the right tackle position. He's improved over his 3 seasons while starting in all 3. Due to his size, I think a transition to guard makes a lot of sense. He would instantly be an upgrade for the Ravens at either spot. If they grab him and find another guard in free agency, that would really help with the goal of protecting Lamar.

In 2025, Mauigoa received First-Team All-ACC and Consensus All-American honors. He also won the Jacobs Blocking Trophy as the best blocker in the country.

20. San Francisco 49ers [via CAR] - Makai Lemon | WR | USC

The San Francisco 49ers trade pick 26 and pick 90 to the Carolina Panthers for pick 20.

Makai Lemon's fall here is not due to a lack of talent, as I think he very well could find himself going in the top 10, but rather due to the positional needs of the teams above this. San Francisco decides to trade up and nab one of the most productive receivers in the country. With Jauan Jennings' contract expiring, I think it makes sense to find a young receiver with a lot of talent like Lemon. Makai is a great route runner who also plays with great quickness and awareness, but has great body control for someone of his size. Despite being small, he's got great hands and played well in contested catch situations for the Trojans. He should excel as a slot receiver at the NFL level. 

In 2025, Makai Lemon caught 79 passes for 1,156 yards and 11 touchdowns. He was named First-Team All-Big Ten and was a Unanimous All-American. He also won the Polynesian College Football Player of the Year award, as well as the Biletnikoff Award as the best receiver in the country.

21. Philadelphia Eagles - Chris Johnson | CB | San Diego State

The secondary in Philadelphia has struggled this year, and part of that is because they don't have a guy opposite of Quinyon Mitchell who can carry the load. Chris Johnson has played for the Aztecs the past four years, and has improved every season. He's a great player in zone coverage, and plays well in press as well. He's got ball skills, as evidenced by a long pick six against Cal in a 34-0 blowout. He plays with anticipation, and is a fluid player, which lets him cover receivers with regular success. He's a smaller player, which worries me, but we've seen guys at this size be successful. He should be a good CB2 for the Eagles moving forward.

In 2025, Johnson put up 49 tackles, 3 tackles for loss, a sack, 4 interceptions, 9 pass deflections, 1 forced fumble, and 2 defensive touchdowns. He was named First-Team All-Mountain West and was also the Mountain West Defensive Player of the Year.

22. Dallas Cowboys [via GB] - Anthony Hill Jr. | LB | Texas

Dallas needs to get as much help on the defense as they can. Anthony Hill Jr. is an excellent linebacker prospect who many think could be a late first round pick. He's an instincts-heavy player, utilizing his ability as a pass rusher and a run stopper in excellent ways. He's a thumper, and that's the kind of LB the Cowboys could utilize. His coverage abilities are also decent, but he needs to work on his man coverage. He's a versatile player that could fit very well into a Cowboys defense that needs a starter at the position. Hill could be that guy.

In 2025, Hill recorded 69 tackles, 7 tackles for loss, 4 sacks, 2 interceptions, a pass deflection, 3 forced fumbles, and 1 recovery. He was named Second-Team All-American and First-Team All-SEC.

23. Houston Texans - Olaivavega Ioane | OG | Penn State

While Ed Ingram has been a surprising upgrade at right guard this season, I still think the Texans need to upgrade from Jarrett Patterson on the right side of the line. Vega plays with great quickness and awareness, and he's a very clean player, rarely drawing any penalties. He can play either guard spot if needed, and he has a lot of power behind him. His run defense needs improvement, but he's an immediate impact pass protector that could give C.J. Stroud more time to throw the ball. With NFL coaching, I think he'll be a great guard, and that is what Houston should be looking for.

In 2025, Ioane started 11 games and was named First-Team All-Big Ten. 

24. Los Angeles Chargers - A'Mauri Washington | DT | Oregon

Jim Harbaugh loves to build from the trenches, and grabbing a good defensive tackle like Washington could definitely help that. They need somebody in the interior D-line, and A'Mauri Washington feels like the best fit for what the Chargers are looking for. He's an explosive athlete who plays with a lot of power and precision, and his violence at the front of the line is a valuable asset. He's good at run defending and has a lot of upside as a pass rusher, which I think fit exactly what the Chargers should be looking for. He's a giant yet his athleticism shines no matter what team he's playing against. If he can develop his pass rushing, that would make for an excellent player at the NFL level.

In 2025, Washington recorded 31 tackles, 4.5 tackles for loss, 1.5 sacks, and 7 pass deflections. He was named Third-Team All-Big Ten. 

25. Chicago Bears - Kayden McDonald | DT | Ohio State

Chicago could use another defensive tackle to pair with Gervon Dexter on the interior. Kayden McDonald is one of the best players in the country, with his run stuffing ability being a highlight this year for the Buckeyes. He eats up space like nobody's business, and his strength overcomes even the best players across from him. He's a great tackler, which is definitely a big consideration. The limitations come with his pass rushing and arm length, and it's clear that he needs to develop pass rushing moves if he wants to succeed in that department at the NFL level. Having a run stuffer like this, though, will be a big help for a team trying to stop Jahmyr Gibbs, Josh Jacobs, and David Montgomery throughout the season.

In 2025, Kayden McDonald recorded 57 tackles, 8 tackles for loss, 3 sacks, 2 forced fumbles, and one fumble recovery. He was also a Unanimous All-American and was named the Big Ten Defensive Lineman of the Year, while also joining the All-Big Ten First-Team.

26. Carolina Panthers - Damon Wilson II | EDGE | Missouri

Carolina needs to add more help on the edge considering their leading pass rusher only got 5 sacks. Damon Wilson is one of my favorite players in this class, with his raw athleticism being one of the most intriguing parts of this draft class. His explosiveness off the line is impressive, and he has a lot of talent as a pass rusher. He was a top recruit a few years ago, and his technical skill has improved at both Georgia and Mizzou. Wilson does need to improve as a run defender, but I think a lot of the technique can be improved with coaching.

In 2025, Wilson recorded 20 tackles, 9.5 tackles for loss, 9 sacks, an interception, 2 pass deflections, and a fumble recovery. He was named Second-Team All-SEC.

27. Cleveland Browns [via JAX] - Blake Miller | OT | Clemson

Cleveland's offensive line has been one of the worst in the league this season, and they need a reliable player at either tackle spot. In my eyes, the best one available is Blake Miller, who's been a great starting lineman for Clemson over the past few years. Miller is actually from Strongsville, Ohio, a suburb of Cleveland, so he's also a local prospect. He's a reliable player with good hands, great awareness, and a versatile player. He's a tested player with a lot of flexibility and durability. He would instantly be a starting right tackle for the team, which would be a great upgrade. 

In 2025, Miller started 12 games and was named First-Team All-ACC.

28. Denver Broncos - Kevin Concepcion | WR | Texas A&M

Denver could use another weapon for Bo Nix, and Kevin Concepcion is the best receiver on the board. He's a great route runner with good hands, which makes him a dangerous threat in that offense, and his after-the-catch ability is insane. He's a smaller receiver, but he's tough and versatile. I project him as a slot guy in the league, but he can play outside when needed. He's an intermediate threat that Bo Nix could use next to Courtland Sutton, Pat Bryant, and Troy Franklin. I think he'll end up as the WR2 in this offense by the end of his rookie year if he goes here.

In 2025, Concepcion has caught 61 passes for 919 yards and 9 touchdowns, while also rushing for 75 yards and a touchdown in 10 carries. He was a Consensus All-American, First-Team All-SEC, and won the Paul Hornung Award as the most versatile performer in the country.

29. New England Patriots - Cashius Howell | EDGE | Texas A&M

Mike Vrabel has built a dangerous team in Foxborough, and their breakout season in 2025 has been crazy to watch. They could still use some more help on the defense, though, and Cashius Howell could be the next great pass rusher in New England. He is a great pass rushing technician, and his intelligence shows as he's able to counter what offensive linemen do to him. He has great length and bend, which will be highly valuable to teams. He's a quick player, and his move set is an important asset in his repertoire. He'd be a fun addition to New England, and would make that defense even better.

In 2025, Howell has posted 31 tackles, 14 tackles for loss, 11.5 sacks, 6 pass deflections, and a forced fumble. He was a Unanimous All-American, First-Team All-SEC, and was named the SEC Defensive Player of the Year. 

30. Seattle Seahawks - Brandon Cisse | CB | South Carolina

Head coach Mike Macdonald has built an incredible Seahawks roster, and their defense has been phenomenal. However, I think there's more room for improvement in the secondary. Brandon Cisse, a former NC State corner before transferring to South Carolina for this season, has seen his stock rise a massive amount. He has a lot of great traits, and a guy like Mike Macdonald could develop him into a great corner. He's got long arms, fantastic speed, and he plays with a lot of fluidity. If he proves himself, he could go even higher than this, but Seattle would be a great destination for a potential young star.

In 2025, Cisse recorded 27 tackles, 1.5 tackles for loss, an interception, a forced fumble, and 5 pass deflections

31. Los Angeles Rams - Avieon Terrell | CB | Clemson

The Rams are very young at the corner position, but they could still use some help there, as they need a #1 guy. Avieon Terrell, the brother of Atlanta Falcons All-Pro corner A.J. Terrell, has shown himself to be worth a first, in my opinion. He's a very fluid and athletic player, and also shows a lot of physicality when on the field. This is shown in his ability to force turnovers, having punched out 8 fumbles through the past two years. He's excellent in coverage and recognizes plays instantly. He's a bit undersized, but this is the kind of player Sean McVay will love. If he can get his technique down, he can be an electrifying player at the NFL level.

32. Buffalo Bills - C.J. Allen | LB | Georgia

I predict that the Buffalo Bills are going to finally get it done this year, winning a Super Bowl over the Los Angeles Rams. I still think they're going to need to find a replacement for Matt Milano sooner rather than later, though. C.J. Allen is the last of the "Big 4" linebackers, and he's the one with the most questions, but I think he has the potential to be a great player in this defense. He's a great tackler, and he's good in run defense, but the question is in his coverage. His athleticism make up for his smaller size, and he's got great tackling technique and football IQ. Buffalo could use a guy like this in their defense.

In 2025, Allen recorded 85 tackles, 8 tackles for loss, 3.5 sacks, 4 pass deflections, 2 forced fumbles, and a fumble recovery. He was a Consensus All-American and was named First-Team All-SEC. 

Round 2

33. Las Vegas Raiders - Caleb Tiernan | OT | Northwestern

The Raiders need to get Dante Moore offensive line help if they want him to succeed. Tiernan is a quick, strong offensive lineman who plays with great body control. He's started for the Wildcats since 2022, and has been a smart and productive player in all of those seasons. He would be an immediate starter at either tackle spot for the Raiders, and should hopefully help Moore stay upright.

34. Philadelphia Eagles [via NYJ] - Isaiah World | OT | Oregon

The Philadelphia Eagles trade pick 53, pick 98 [comp], and a 2027 4th to the Jets for pick 34.

Isaiah World was a highly sought-after transfer, eventually choosing to land at Oregon to protect Dante Moore. He's a tower of a man at 6'8", and he plays with the impact and balance of a former basketball player. He's improved over every season, developing his pass protection over time. He'd be a perfect fit to learn from Jeff Stoutland and replace Lane Johnson in the future. 

35. Tennessee Titans - Denzel Boston | WR | Washington

Tennessee needs to help Cam Ward by getting him some weapons. Denzel Boston is an excellent separator, and his hands are some of the best in the country. This dude strives in contested catch situations, making him a great red-zone threat. Pairing him across from Chimere Dike should be an interesting complimentary pair. He's not the fastest receiver, but he's a good intermediate threat, which is what Ward needs.

36. Arizona Cardinals - Caleb Lomu | OT | Utah

With Jonah Williams' contract expiring, Arizona needs a guy who can be that starter on the right side of the lone. Lomu has played left tackle for the Utes, but he could very well make the switch over. He's a great pass protector, and he has shown some flashes in run blocking. He's slightly undersized, but he could bulk up with NFL coaching, but there's development that needs to happen. He's a high-upside, low-floor prospect.

37. New York Giants - Emmanuel McNeil-Warren | S | Toledo

Teammate of last year's 3rd round pick Darius Alexander, I think McNeil-Warren would be an excellent addition to the Giants' secondary. He's good at creating turnovers, plays physically, and has good instincts. He's got a good frame, and that should help him in playing contested situations. He'd give the Giants a good starting safety to pair with Jevon Holland.

38. Houston Texans [via WAS] - Domonique Orange | DT | Iowa State

Houston needs a run stopping defensive tackle up the middle. Domonique "Big Citrus" Orange is a powerful player who's quick off the snap, and his size gives him a huge advantage. He needs to work on his gap discipline, however. With development, Orange can be a great nose tackle in the league. Working with a defensive coach like DeMeco Ryans could be crucial for his development.

39. Cleveland Browns - Kade Pieper | C | Iowa

It'd be smart for Cleveland to add another offensive lineman in the first two rounds, and a center would be the best move. Pieper is a current guard for the Hawkeyes, but his build and skills make him a clear center at the NFL level. He's fast and explosive, and he plays with a lot of strength. Grabbing 2 potentially starting-quality linemen in Pieper and Blake Miller should give Shedeur Sanders a better chance in 2026 if they roll with him.

40. Miami Dolphins - Akheem Mesidor | EDGE | Miami (FL)

The Dolphins traded away former first rounder Jaelan Phillips, and they'll need to find someone else who can get after the QB. Hurricanes edge rusher Akheem Mesidor has played really well this year, putting up 8.5 sacks as part of a loaded Miami defense. He's an older player, but he's been consistently good when on the field, and could be a really good defender for the Dolphins.

41. Cincinnati Bengals - A.J. Haulcy | S | LSU 

I still stand by my claim that letting Jessie Bates walk is one of the worst decisions in the history of the franchise, as their defense hasn't recovered. Adding a safety to replace Geno Stone would be a great move. A.J. Haulcy plays well in zone coverage, diagnoses plays well, and has gathered turnovers over his career. He's played in three different conferences, and has succeeded in all three. That experience makes me feel that he could be a good player at the NFL level.

42. New Orleans Saints - Matayo Uiagalelei | EDGE | Oregon

Adding another edge rusher would be helpful for the Saints' defense. The brother of former Clemson, Oregon State, and Florida State quarterback D.J., Matayo Uiagalelei has been a stud for the Ducks. He's explosive, versatile, and instinctual, and he's been impressive throughout. There is an element of development that needs to happen, like developing his pass-rush technique, but if unlocked, he could be great.

43. Kansas City Chiefs - Caleb Banks | DT | Florida

Kansas City could use another force on the interior next to Chris Jones. Banks is a physical freak, with a giant frame and athletic ability. He plays with power, and uses his hands tremendously. His explosiveness is off the charts, and he has a great motor. Learning from an experienced player like Jones should help the development of a player with such raw ability. The injury concerns are there, but the upside is great.

44. Minnesota Vikings - D'angelo Ponds | CB | Indiana

Brian Flores continues to add to the defense here with Indiana corner D'angelo Ponds, one of the main reasons for that unit's success throughout their Big Ten Championship season. He started out at James Madison, and transferred to Indiana to join head coach Curt Cignetti. He has great athleticism, and his instincts compliment that well. He's able to force turnovers, and he covers players very well. There are some size concerns, but he's also incredibly aggressive, which helps disguise that.

45. Atlanta Falcons - Germie Bernard | WR | Alabama

Atlanta needs another threat to work alongside Drake London and help Michael Penix Jr. succeed. Bernard is a great route runner with reliable hands, and he works well in contested catch situations. He's also really good on the deep ball, and plays with incredible intelligence. He can play any position as a receiver. He's a technician who performs well in the clutch and works well in the intermediate game.

46. Tampa Bay Buccaneers - Jacob Rodriguez | LB | Texas Tech

If you watched Texas Tech this season, you noticed #10 in the back of the front seven doing his thing. Rodriguez is an amazing player who has every bit of his game down. He's not the most athletic, but his intelligence is off the charts, and his production is immense. He's a great blitzer, and he recognizes things instantly due to his former experience as a QB at Virginia. With Lavonte David presumably close to retirement, adding a guy like Rodriguez could really help the defense.

47. Carolina Panthers [via IND] - Colton Hood | CB | Tennessee

The Carolina Panthers trade pick 51 and pick 119 to the Indianapolis Colts for pick 47.

Carolina could use another corner opposite of Jaycee Horn. He's a technical master with good discipline, and there's a good argument he goes a lot higher than this. He anticipates routes really well, and his tackling is decent for the position despite inconsistent technique. He has the tools, but he needs to improve on a bit of his game. He's a project corner that could be a great starter with good coaching.

48. New York Giants [via NYJ] - Elijah Sarratt | WR | Indiana

With Malik Nabers' injury this past season, the Giants struggled to move the ball down the field. Getting Dart a second receiver could be really helpful. Sarratt has great hands, and he plays well on intermediate routes. His body control is exceptional, and you'll see him twist around in crazy ways to make catches, such as his touchdown against Ohio State. He's a competitive player who shows a lot of talent, and he should be a fairly high-priority get for teams.

49. Pittsburgh Steelers - Chris Brazzell | WR | Tennessee

Brazzell has been one of the best receivers in the country this season, so getting Ty Simpson a weapon of his caliber this late in the draft should be a no-brainer. He's a great separator with very intriguing movement skills, and his frame is tall and slightly bulky. He boxes out very well, so seeing what he could do when paired with a QB like Simpson and a fellow receiver like Metcalf would be cool.

50. Detroit Lions - Emmanuel Pregnon | OG | Oregon

Detroit needs more help on the interior offensive line. Tate Ratledge seems like a good piece for the future, but Christian Mahogany has been a dreadful pass blocker. Oregon's Emmanuel Pregnon seems like a balanced player, with good arm length and presence in the run and pass blocking games. He's not the most athletic, which makes a position like guard fine for a player like him. He could be a key contributor in helping Detroit bounce back from a rough season in 2026.

51. Indianapolis Colts [via CAR] - Christen Miller | DT | Georgia

With both DeForest Buckner and Grover Stewart getting older, adding another DT into that group should be a priority for the Colts. Christen Miller is a strong, explosive player who plays with a lot of versatility. He's a good run defender with violence in his hands. The Colts should be looking to add more young talent on defense, and a player like Miller would be an excellent addition.

52. Baltimore Ravens - T.J. Parker | EDGE | Clemson

The Ravens got rid of former first-round pick Odafe Oweh at the trade deadline this year, and it would make a lot of sense for them to target a replacement edge rusher in the draft. Parker is a project. I don't think he'll make an immediate impact, but he can be molded to excel with good defensive coaching. The question is whether John Harbaugh can get the most out of Parker. If Parker can develop his hands and his power, he's going to be a great lineman in this league.

53. New York Jets [via PHI] - Will Lee III | CB | Texas A&M

After getting multiple first-round picks in the Sauce Gardner trade, I absolutely think the Jets will draft a corner at some point with their first three picks. Texas A&M's Will Lee III is a long, flexible corner who plays well in press coverage. He's a good tackler and a strong run defender. This is the kind of guy that makes quarterbacks worry, and his speed is a tremendous asset. The main question is in zone coverage, but he has a lot of room to develop as a player. 

54. Green Bay Packers - Davison Igbinosun | CB | Ohio State

Green Bay needs more help in the secondary, so grabbing an experienced corner like Davison Igbinosun could be a good move. He's a fast, lengthy corner who plays physical and tackles well, but the main drawback is his tendency to hold. If Jeff Hafley can manage to get him to be less grabby, there's a good chance he can also get him to be a top corner in the NFC North. 

55. Houston Texans - Jadarian Price | RB | Notre Dame

Woody Marks and Nick Chubb have split time as the RB1 for the Texans this season, but they need a guy who can potentially be the "main guy". Funnily enough, Jadarian Price was not that at Notre Dame, but could be in the NFL. Price is a physical, patient back who can also be incredibly fast when he gets in space. His vision is exceptional, and his style of play just works. Houston could use a guy like this to compliment Stroud in that offense. 

56. Los Angeles Chargers - Chase Bisontis | OG | Texas A&M

The interior offensive line for the Chargers has been very lackluster so far this year. With Rashawn Slater and Joe Alt coming back from injury next season, it'll be necessary to get some help from Justin Herbert on that interior. Bisontis is a great run blocker who plays with a lot of physicality and athleticism, and he's able to play both tackle and guard if need be.

57. Chicago Bears - L.T. Overton | EDGE | Alabama

Chicago defensive coordinator Dennis Allen likes his defensive ends on the bigger side, and L.T. Overton fits that to a tee. At 6'5" and 278 pounds, Overton is a dominating physical player who specializes as a great run stopper while also showing a lot of potential as a pass rusher. He's very fast for his size, and he'd be a great compliment to Montez Sweat on that defensive line. His strength is astounding, and Allen should be looking to utilize that well.

58. San Francisco 49ers - Monroe Freeling | OT | Georgia

Georgia left tackle Monroe Freeling is a great athlete who became a starter last season due to injuries on the Bulldog offensive line. He's been the left tackle this season, and he's performed great. He's a good athlete, and he's a former basketball player, leading to a good amount of body control. He's got great change of direction and an explosive launch off the line. Developing him under Trent Williams for a season would be a good way to ensure Brock Purdy is protected for the foreseeable future.

59. Jacksonville Jaguars - Keith Abney II | CB | Arizona State

Jacksonville's trade for Travis Hunter was a bold move, but his injury tells me they might temper back his usage on both sides. If they choose to use him primarily as a receiver, grabbing another corner could be a good move. Keith Abney II has been elite for the Sun Devils, with great footwork and route anticipation that leads to a lot of pass breakups and interceptions. He's great in zone coverage and is a good run defender as a corner. He'd be a good fit in Duvall.

60. Buffalo Bills [via DEN] - Chris Bell | WR | Louisville

The Buffalo Bills trade pick 64 and pick 132 to the Denver Broncos for pick 60.

Buffalo seems to have given up on Keon Coleman, who was a healthy scratch in week 16. If so, they need to add another body in the receiver room. Chris Bell is a big but fast receiver who plays well on the deep ball despite great physicality. An ACL tear makes me wonder how high he goes, but I think he's earned a spot in the first two rounds. When he gets healthy, he'll be a good weapon for Josh Allen in the deep game.

61. Seattle Seahawks - Cayden Green | OG | Missouri

Grey Zabel has been pretty good for the Seahawks this year, but they need to fill the other guard position opposite of him. Green is an excellent finisher in the run game who plays with good anchor strength and processing skills. He's a big, 6'5", 324 pound lineman who shows a lot of technical ability. He's going to be an immediate starter at either guard position, and should help Kenneth Walker and Zach Charbonnet reach maximum potential.

62. New England Patriots - Max Iheanachor | OT | Arizona State

Will Campbell has been a smashing success for the Patriots at left tackle, but they're still going to need a right tackle in the future with Morgan Moses being older. Max Iheanachor is a redshirt senior who's had a lot of time to develop, and his status as a former basketball player is clear upon watch. He's an aware player who blocks with a lot of strength in bend, and his athleticism shows on his recovery. He's great in the run game (which will be great for TreVeyon Henderson) but he's still learning a lot due to his late start in football. If anyone can unlock his nasty side, though, it'll be Mike Vrabel.

63. Los Angeles Rams - Zachariah Branch | WR | Georgia

The Rams could use a receiver in the slot to work with Puka and Davante. Zachariah Branch is a blazing-speed player who, despite small size, succeeds with his acceleration. He's a raw player who has done well in college, but hasn't reached his potential. He's not going to be a boundary player due to a shorter 5'10", 180 pound frame, but he can be used in a lot of ways in the slot, and that should give the Rams a new dimension to their offense. Imagine an offense of him, Nacua, and Adams. That'd be insane.

64. Denver Broncos [via BUF] - Kyle Louis | LB | Pittsburgh

Denver's defense is one of the best in the league, but adding another interior linebacker could make it even better. Kyle Louis is one of the best coverage linebackers in the country, and his ball production makes him an intriguing threat up the middle of that defense. He's fast, he's a great tackler, and he can even blitz. The main issue is his small frame, but his skills are there, and he'd be an intriguing member of that Broncos defense. 

What do you think? Who would you have picked for your team? Let me know in the comments! This is Lando, from the Landoman Experiment, signing off.