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The 2026 NFL Draft is nearly here, but there still isn't yet clarity about what might happen beyond the No. 1 overall pick.
The Las Vegas Raiders are expected to take Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza with the draft's top selection. Beyond that, it isn't exactly clear what each team will do, starting with the New York Jets at No. 2 overall.
The teams picking at the top of the 2026 NFL Draft will have plenty of options for each of their selections. With that in mind, USA TODAY Sports decided in its latest mock to outline three options for each squad – except the Raiders at No. 1 overall.
Here's a look at how that mock draft exercise turned out.
Barring a last-minute change of heart, the Raiders are going to make Mendoza the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. The reigning Heisman Trophy winner guided Indiana to an undefeated season and its first-ever national championship. The 23-year-old possesses the accuracy, poise and arm talent needed to quickly develop into a franchise quarterback.
JARRETT BELL: 'Gym rat' Fernando Mendoza is right pick for Raiders – if team is patient
The Jets figure to take their favorite pass rusher with the No. 2 overall pick. Will that be Reese, Bailey or a sleeper option like Bain?
Reese has the highest potential, but Bailey is the most pro-ready of the group. That may make the Texas Tech product – who led the FBS with 14.5 sacks and 19.5 TFL in 2025 and has the requisite speed and bend needed to wreak havoc at the NFL level – the preferred option for Aaron Glenn as he faces a pressure-packed second season in New York.
Arizona's biggest need is at right tackle, so the team could gravitate toward Mauigoa here or try to trade down and still land one of their favorite tackles in this year's class. However, if the Cardinals stick and pick, the opportunity to land a blue-chip pass rusher will be too much for Monti Ossenfort to pass up.
Reese is a hyper-athletic hybrid who can play both off-ball linebacker and on the edge. The Cardinals could benefit from his versatility and could install him as the top pass-rushing partner across from Josh Sweat. Either way, Reese will help the Cardinals front-seven greatly as Mike LaFleur looks to establish an identity during his first season in the desert.
The Titans enter the 2026 NFL Draft hoping to improve Cam Ward's supporting cast. Doing so with a player like Love or Tate would make a lot of sense, but Love – a dynamic, three-down playmaker who finished third in the Heisman Trophy voting – seemingly has an advantage at this point in the draft process.
And while offense seems most likely for Tennessee, the Titans targeting a player like Styles can't be ruled out. Robert Saleh had Fred Warner during his stints with the 49ers and could see similarities between the four-time All-Pro and the uber-athletic Styles.
2026 NFL DRAFT: Jeremiyah Love explains his simple message to NFL coaches
Any of the top-three Ohio State players on the board would be a great fit for the Giants. That said, John Harbaugh always had a quality defense with the Ravens, so targeting a playmaker for the middle of his unit makes sense.
Styles would fit the bill, as the 6-5, 244-pound linebacker was a sideline-to-sideline playmaker for the Buckeyes and showed off his elite athleticism at the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine. Downs will also draw consideration, but it's worth noting no safety has been a top-five selection since Eric Berry in 2010.
BUCKEYES MOCK DRAFT: Where Ohio State stars Reese, Styles, more could go
The Browns are widely expected to select a receiver and an offensive tackle with their two 2026 first-round picks. It's just a matter of which position they will target first. In this case, they will target a wide-out first, as Tate looks like the safest and most polished receiver in this year's class.
Cleveland would have its pick of offensive tackles if it passes on a receiver. Mauigoa looks like the consensus No. 1 tackle, but he profiles as a better fit on the right side at the NFL level. That could lead the Browns to take a gander at Proctor, who manned left tackle and Alabama and sports a massive, 6-7, 352-pound frame.
The Commanders need to add youth and talent at all three levels of their defense. They already signed a couple of edge rushers in free agency – Odafe Oweh and K'Lavon Chaisson – but adding more depth certainly wouldn't hurt. Bain's production (9.5 sacks in 2025) and relentless motor will quickly endear him to Dan Quinn despite his bottom-barrel arm length.
Washington could also take the top safety or cornerback on the board, which would be Downs and Delane respectively. But if the trio is closely rated, the Commanders will likely take the player with the most positional value, which is Bain.
The Saints lost Alontae Taylor in free agency and now need to find a running mate for Kool-Aid McKinstry. Delane and McCoy both could stake a claim toward being the top corner selected, but Delane – who allowed just a 31.2 passer rating in 2025 – may have a slight edge on McCoy, who missed all of last season while recovering from a torn ACL.
New Orleans also needs a No. 2 receiver to play across from Chris Olave. The Saints may consider Carnell Tate if he makes it to the eighth pick but could also add a quick separator like Lemon to man the slot.
Many are projecting the Chiefs to target another playmaker. They could absolutely do that, especially with an outside threat and natural separator like Tyson on the board, but the team also needs to focus on upgrading its offensive line in front of Patrick Mahomes.
Mauigoa profiles as a plug-and-play right tackle at the NFL level and could form a long-term tackle tandem with the Chiefs' first-round pick from 2025, Josh Simmons. That could go a long way toward helping Mahomes as he returns from a torn ACL. Freeling (6-7, 315 pounds) is another big-bodied tackle option for Kansas City.
Could the Bengals take Downs here? Sure, but they may have a bigger need at cornerback after signing Bryan Cook to man the safety spot in free agency. McCoy was one of the best cover men in the country in 2024 before missing all of last season with a knee injury and is a sleeper to be a top-10 selection in 2026.
The Bengals could also look at adding another piece to their pass rush. Faulk arguably has the best traits of any pass rusher still on the board, but this would be a bit early for the raw 21-year-old.
2026 NFL DRAFT BIG BOARD: Ranking the top 150 best players available
The Dolphins have needs all over their roster, but their primary focus should be supporting Malik Willis as he looks to prove himself as a starter. The team desperately needs a top wide receiver, making Tyson a popular option here, but Fano's athleticism and versatility could appeal to Miami's front office as it looks to build a cohesive blocking unit in front of Willis.
New Dolphins coach Jeff Hafley has a background in the secondary, so grabbing a top cornerback would also make sense. This would be a bit early for Terrell, but he is still the top option.
If Downs slips to 12, one would have to imagine the Cowboys would take little to no time to submit their draft card. Dallas' safety play was a problem last season, and Downs is one of the steadiest and most consistent contributors in this year's draft class.
The Cowboys could also look for an edge rusher to help replace Micah Parsons, in earnest. That would put Faulk in play here if the top six defensive players are off the board. Dallas could also consider trading up to avoid missing out on one of the sextet of Bailey, Bain, Delane, Downs, Reese and Styles.
The Rams seem ready to go all-in to try to win another Super Bowl as 38-year-old Matthew Stafford nears the end of his career. Adding Lemon – a natural slot separator – to a receiving corps already featuring Puka Nacua and Davante Adams would help in the quest, as would adding an athletic, do-it-all tight end like Sadiq.
That said, if Los Angeles looks toward a future need with this selection, adding an offensive tackle to replace Warren McClendon in 2027 would be sensible. Still, going with an offensive weapon seems more likely for Les Snead and Co.
The Ravens could use an upgrade at their No. 2 receiver position across from Zay Flowers. A case can be made that Tyson is the best receiver in this year's class, and the 6-2, 203-pound wide-out has the size needed to complement the diminutive Flowers well.
Baltimore could also look to fill its massive need along the interior offensive line with a plug-and-play left guard in Ioane. If they want to take an upside swing on a pass-rushing partner for newcomer Trey Hendrickson, Parker could draw consideration.
Buccaneers general manager Jason Licht typically values production when evaluating prospects, especially pass rushers. Mesidor (12.5 sacks in 2025) and Howell (11.5 sacks) would both fit the bill, but Mesidor gets the nod because of his better performance against the run.
Both Mesidor (25) and Howell (24) will be on the older side as rookies, so if Licht wants a younger player, the 21-year-old Allen could draw consideration as a long-term replacement for Lavonte David.
Could the Jets pull the trigger on Ty Simpson? Sure, but they also have the 33rd and 44th picks in this year's draft. That could allow them to target Simpson, or another quarterback, with those selections while further bolstering their roster with their two, first-round picks.
Instead, the Jets may find themselves in range to land a quality receiver, like Cooper Jr. or Boston. Cooper gets the nod here after being a riser throughout the draft process. He has drawn comparisons to Deebo Samuel because of his compact build and elusiveness with the ball in his hands.
The Lions have a massive need at offensive tackle after releasing Taylor Decker and seeing Dan Skipper retire. Proctor (6-7, 352 pounds) has the size and movement skills needed to develop into a quality left tackle and an elite bookend for All-Pro Penei Sewell.
Freeling is another left tackle option the Lions could consider while Miller is a tough, experienced right tackle who started 54 games at Clemson. If Detroit wants to play Sewell at left tackle, it could target Miller as a plug-and-play option on the right side of the line.
The Vikings released Harrison Smith after 14 years, a move believed to be a precursor to the 37-year-old safety's retirement. Thieneman is an elite athlete and showed off a well-rounded skill set at Oregon, making him an ideal fit for this pick unless the team prefers the sure-tackling McNeil-Warren.
Minnesota could also consider Sadiq as a long-term partner or eventual successor for T.J. Hockenson.
It's hard to imagine the Panthers passing on Sadiq if he drops to the 19th pick. Dan Morgan has made it his mission to add weapons around Bryce Young, and pairing Sadiq long-term with Offensive Rookie of the Year Tetairoa McMillan would further improve Dave Canales' offense.
The Panthers could also consider adding talent in the trenches. Freeling would provide insurance at left tackle, where Ikem Ekwonu and Rasheed Walker will both be free agents after the season, while Parker would be a high-upside option for Carolina's collection of young pass rushers.
Faulk was listed as a potential option for the Cowboys with the 12th overall pick. They will gladly take the Auburn product at 20, as the 6-6, 276-pound defensive lineman has the raw potential needed to become a threatening and versatile pass rusher.
Dallas also has a big need at cornerback and could consider pairing Terrell or Hood with Downs to give their secondary a real shot in the arm.
The Steelers lost veteran left guard Isaac Seumalo to the Cardinals in free agency. Ioane is a sturdy, pro-ready replacement who would create a stellar pairing with center Zach Frazier.
Pittsburgh could also consider Simpson but is probably more likely to target an Aaron Rodgers successor with one of its numerous mid-round picks. Banks, meanwhile, could draw consideration as the Steelers keep one eye on eventually finding a successor for Cameron Heyward.
Khalil Mack signed a one-year deal to return to the Chargers, but he may not play much longer. That could lead Jim Harbaugh and Joe Hortiz to target a replacement, and Parker has the size (6-3, 263 pounds) and physicality needed to emerge as an edge-setter for Los Angeles.
Harbaugh is a big fan of building up his run defense, so targeting a high-upside defensive tackle like Woods or a space-eater like McDonald could also be in the cards.
Freeling could be a top-10 selection, so this may represent the bottom of his range. The Eagles need an eventual successor for Lane Johnson, and Howie Roseman is always willing to address the trenches with his early-round draft picks.
If the Eagles target a more present-day need, McNeil Warren would give the team a well-rounded replacement for Reed Blankenship. As for Boston, he could step into a No. 2 receiver role if the team does eventually plan to trade A.J. Brown after June 1, when the team could spread his dead-cap hit over two seasons.
The Browns took a receiver with their first selection in this mock. They could double-up at the position and take a dynamic, open-field weapon like Concepcion, but more likely, the team will target a potential starter at left tackle.
Miller largely played right tackle at Clemson, but Andrew Berry has indicated he is comfortable with tackles flipping sides at the pro level. That could give the nasty, powerful blocker and edge over the leaner, more athletic Lomu, despite the Utah product's left-side experience.
The Bears lost four of their top five safeties during the 2026 offseason. They added Coby Bryant to serve as a starter but still need a long-term partner for him. McNeil-Warren is a tough safety with great ball production who could develop into a quality playmaker in Chicago's defense.
The Bears could also consider adding a top complement to Montez Sweat, like Howell, or adding a player like Lomu to compete for the left tackle job with Ozzy Trapilo (torn patellar tendon) facing a long road to recovery.
The Bills traded for DJ Moore during the offseason but could still use a big-bodied, outside weapon with Keon Coleman not yet panning out. Boston (6-4, 212 pounds) would fit the bill as a contested-catch threat and downfield playmaker.
Buffalo could also look to improve its run defense in Round 1 after ranking third-worst in defensive EPA against the run last season, per the NFL's Next Gen Stats. McDonald and Young are two of the better run defenders at their respective positions along the defensive line.
The 49ers spent a 2025 first-round pick on Mykel Williams, but that won't prevent them from adding a player like Howell. San Francisco had the second-lowest pressure rate last season while Howell posted 11.5 sacks during his final season at Texas A&M.
Addressing the offensive line is another option for the 49ers. Iheanachor is a raw-but-talented tackle who could be an ideal replacement for Trent Williams. Meanwhile, Pregnon would be a plug-and-play left guard option for San Francisco.
The Texans don't have many needs, so they can afford to target the best players available. Lomu's athleticism would pair well long-term with the bigger-bodied Aireontae Ersery, and the Texans can afford to sit the Utah product until he adds more strength to his frame.
Allen could also get the nod as a hyper-productive linebacker while Price has upside as a three-down running back and would pair well with David Montgomery.
After taking an offensive tackle ninth overall, the Chiefs can target a cornerback or receiver here. Kansas City's bigger need is at cornerback, so landing a playmaker with NFL bloodlines in Terrell seems like a sensible move.
Hood is another cornerback the Chiefs could consider while Concepcion – a shifty playmaker in space – would be fun to pair with Mahomes.
The Dolphins are in a similar boat to the Chiefs, left to choose between a cornerback and a receiver after taking an offensive lineman 11th overall. Miami's goal is to build around Willis, so grabbing Concepcion to be a middle-of-the-field threat would be a good move.
Miami could also look at Bernard – who was a steady playmaker at Alabama – or take a swing on Brazzell, whose 6-4, 197-pound frame and 4.37-second 40-yard dash give him enormous potential at the NFL level.
The Patriots probably need edge help more than anything else, but they also need an eventual successor for Morgan Moses at right tackle. Iheanachor has only played football for five years, but his performance at Arizona State and his athletic potential could help him develop into an NFL star.
Young would also fit the mold in New England as a tough, run-stopping edge setter. The Patriots could also take a swing on Banks' ceiling, though he played just three games due to injury in his final season at Florida.
The Seahawks need to replace Riq Woolen after losing him in free agency. Hood is the best cornerback remaining on the board, so the Seahawks could choose him here to serve as a future No. 2 starter across from Devon Witherspoon.
Seattle could also look to trade down from this spot, as the team is armed with a league-low four total draft picks. If they take that approach, targeting Johnson – who is a sleeper option with this pick – could be their endgame.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: 2026 NFL mock draft: Three options for (almost) every first-round pick
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The Las Vegas Raiders are expected to take Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza with the draft's top selection. Beyond that, it isn't exactly clear what each team will do, starting with the New York Jets at No. 2 overall.
The teams picking at the top of the 2026 NFL Draft will have plenty of options for each of their selections. With that in mind, USA TODAY Sports decided in its latest mock to outline three options for each squad – except the Raiders at No. 1 overall.
Here's a look at how that mock draft exercise turned out.
2026 NFL mock draft: Three options for every pick
1. Las Vegas Raiders
- Will pick: QB Fernando Mendoza, Indiana
Barring a last-minute change of heart, the Raiders are going to make Mendoza the No. 1 overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. The reigning Heisman Trophy winner guided Indiana to an undefeated season and its first-ever national championship. The 23-year-old possesses the accuracy, poise and arm talent needed to quickly develop into a franchise quarterback.
JARRETT BELL: 'Gym rat' Fernando Mendoza is right pick for Raiders – if team is patient
2. New York Jets
- Will pick: Edge David Bailey, Texas Tech
- Could pick: LB Arvell Reese, Ohio State
- Dark horse: Edge Rueben Bain Jr., Miami (FL)
The Jets figure to take their favorite pass rusher with the No. 2 overall pick. Will that be Reese, Bailey or a sleeper option like Bain?
Reese has the highest potential, but Bailey is the most pro-ready of the group. That may make the Texas Tech product – who led the FBS with 14.5 sacks and 19.5 TFL in 2025 and has the requisite speed and bend needed to wreak havoc at the NFL level – the preferred option for Aaron Glenn as he faces a pressure-packed second season in New York.
3. Arizona Cardinals
- Will pick: Edge Arvell Reese, Ohio State
- Could pick: OT Francis Mauigoa, Miami (FL)
- Dark horse: Trade down
Arizona's biggest need is at right tackle, so the team could gravitate toward Mauigoa here or try to trade down and still land one of their favorite tackles in this year's class. However, if the Cardinals stick and pick, the opportunity to land a blue-chip pass rusher will be too much for Monti Ossenfort to pass up.
Reese is a hyper-athletic hybrid who can play both off-ball linebacker and on the edge. The Cardinals could benefit from his versatility and could install him as the top pass-rushing partner across from Josh Sweat. Either way, Reese will help the Cardinals front-seven greatly as Mike LaFleur looks to establish an identity during his first season in the desert.
4. Tennessee Titans
- Will pick: RB Jeremiyah Love, Notre Dame
- Could pick: WR Carnell Tate, Ohio State
- Dark horse: LB Sonny Styles, Ohio State
The Titans enter the 2026 NFL Draft hoping to improve Cam Ward's supporting cast. Doing so with a player like Love or Tate would make a lot of sense, but Love – a dynamic, three-down playmaker who finished third in the Heisman Trophy voting – seemingly has an advantage at this point in the draft process.
And while offense seems most likely for Tennessee, the Titans targeting a player like Styles can't be ruled out. Robert Saleh had Fred Warner during his stints with the 49ers and could see similarities between the four-time All-Pro and the uber-athletic Styles.
2026 NFL DRAFT: Jeremiyah Love explains his simple message to NFL coaches
5. New York Giants
- Will pick: LB Sonny Styles, Ohio State
- Could pick: WR Carnell Tate, Ohio State
- Dark horse: S Caleb Downs, Ohio State
Any of the top-three Ohio State players on the board would be a great fit for the Giants. That said, John Harbaugh always had a quality defense with the Ravens, so targeting a playmaker for the middle of his unit makes sense.
Styles would fit the bill, as the 6-5, 244-pound linebacker was a sideline-to-sideline playmaker for the Buckeyes and showed off his elite athleticism at the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine. Downs will also draw consideration, but it's worth noting no safety has been a top-five selection since Eric Berry in 2010.
BUCKEYES MOCK DRAFT: Where Ohio State stars Reese, Styles, more could go
6. Cleveland Browns
- Will pick: WR Carnell Tate, Ohio State
- Could pick: OT Francisco Mauigoa, Miami (FL)
- Dark horse: OT Kadyn Proctor, Alabama
The Browns are widely expected to select a receiver and an offensive tackle with their two 2026 first-round picks. It's just a matter of which position they will target first. In this case, they will target a wide-out first, as Tate looks like the safest and most polished receiver in this year's class.
Cleveland would have its pick of offensive tackles if it passes on a receiver. Mauigoa looks like the consensus No. 1 tackle, but he profiles as a better fit on the right side at the NFL level. That could lead the Browns to take a gander at Proctor, who manned left tackle and Alabama and sports a massive, 6-7, 352-pound frame.
7. Washington Commanders
- Will pick: Edge Rueben Bain Jr., Miami (FL)
- Could pick: S Caleb Downs, Ohio State
- Dark horse: CB Mansoor Delane, LSU
The Commanders need to add youth and talent at all three levels of their defense. They already signed a couple of edge rushers in free agency – Odafe Oweh and K'Lavon Chaisson – but adding more depth certainly wouldn't hurt. Bain's production (9.5 sacks in 2025) and relentless motor will quickly endear him to Dan Quinn despite his bottom-barrel arm length.
Washington could also take the top safety or cornerback on the board, which would be Downs and Delane respectively. But if the trio is closely rated, the Commanders will likely take the player with the most positional value, which is Bain.
8. New Orleans Saints
- Will pick: CB Mansoor Delane, LSU
- Could pick: CB Jermod McCoy, Tennessee
- Dark horse: WR Makai Lemon, USC
The Saints lost Alontae Taylor in free agency and now need to find a running mate for Kool-Aid McKinstry. Delane and McCoy both could stake a claim toward being the top corner selected, but Delane – who allowed just a 31.2 passer rating in 2025 – may have a slight edge on McCoy, who missed all of last season while recovering from a torn ACL.
New Orleans also needs a No. 2 receiver to play across from Chris Olave. The Saints may consider Carnell Tate if he makes it to the eighth pick but could also add a quick separator like Lemon to man the slot.
9. Kansas City Chiefs
- Will pick: OT Francisco Mauigoa, Miami (FL)
- Could pick: WR Jordyn Tyson, Arizona State
- Dark horse: OT Monroe Freeling, Georgia
Many are projecting the Chiefs to target another playmaker. They could absolutely do that, especially with an outside threat and natural separator like Tyson on the board, but the team also needs to focus on upgrading its offensive line in front of Patrick Mahomes.
Mauigoa profiles as a plug-and-play right tackle at the NFL level and could form a long-term tackle tandem with the Chiefs' first-round pick from 2025, Josh Simmons. That could go a long way toward helping Mahomes as he returns from a torn ACL. Freeling (6-7, 315 pounds) is another big-bodied tackle option for Kansas City.
10. Cincinnati Bengals
- Will pick: CB Jermod McCoy, Tennessee
- Could pick: S Caleb Downs, Ohio State
- Dark horse: Edge Keldric Faulk, Auburn
Could the Bengals take Downs here? Sure, but they may have a bigger need at cornerback after signing Bryan Cook to man the safety spot in free agency. McCoy was one of the best cover men in the country in 2024 before missing all of last season with a knee injury and is a sleeper to be a top-10 selection in 2026.
The Bengals could also look at adding another piece to their pass rush. Faulk arguably has the best traits of any pass rusher still on the board, but this would be a bit early for the raw 21-year-old.
2026 NFL DRAFT BIG BOARD: Ranking the top 150 best players available
11. Miami Dolphins
- Will pick: OT Spencer Fano, Utah
- Could pick: WR Jordyn Tyson, Arizona State
- Dark horse: CB Avieon Terrell, Clemson
The Dolphins have needs all over their roster, but their primary focus should be supporting Malik Willis as he looks to prove himself as a starter. The team desperately needs a top wide receiver, making Tyson a popular option here, but Fano's athleticism and versatility could appeal to Miami's front office as it looks to build a cohesive blocking unit in front of Willis.
New Dolphins coach Jeff Hafley has a background in the secondary, so grabbing a top cornerback would also make sense. This would be a bit early for Terrell, but he is still the top option.
12. Dallas Cowboys
- Will pick: S Caleb Downs, Ohio State
- Could pick: Edge Keldric Faulk, Auburn
- Dark horse: Trade up
If Downs slips to 12, one would have to imagine the Cowboys would take little to no time to submit their draft card. Dallas' safety play was a problem last season, and Downs is one of the steadiest and most consistent contributors in this year's draft class.
The Cowboys could also look for an edge rusher to help replace Micah Parsons, in earnest. That would put Faulk in play here if the top six defensive players are off the board. Dallas could also consider trading up to avoid missing out on one of the sextet of Bailey, Bain, Delane, Downs, Reese and Styles.
13. Los Angeles Rams (from Atlanta)
- Will pick: WR Makai Lemon, USC
- Could pick: TE Kenyon Sadiq, Oregon
- Dark horse: OT Monroe Freeling, Georgia
The Rams seem ready to go all-in to try to win another Super Bowl as 38-year-old Matthew Stafford nears the end of his career. Adding Lemon – a natural slot separator – to a receiving corps already featuring Puka Nacua and Davante Adams would help in the quest, as would adding an athletic, do-it-all tight end like Sadiq.
That said, if Los Angeles looks toward a future need with this selection, adding an offensive tackle to replace Warren McClendon in 2027 would be sensible. Still, going with an offensive weapon seems more likely for Les Snead and Co.
14. Baltimore Ravens
- Will pick: WR Jordyn Tyson, Arizona State
- Could pick: G/C Olaivavega Ioane, Penn State
- Dark horse: Edge T.J. Parker, Clemson
The Ravens could use an upgrade at their No. 2 receiver position across from Zay Flowers. A case can be made that Tyson is the best receiver in this year's class, and the 6-2, 203-pound wide-out has the size needed to complement the diminutive Flowers well.
Baltimore could also look to fill its massive need along the interior offensive line with a plug-and-play left guard in Ioane. If they want to take an upside swing on a pass-rushing partner for newcomer Trey Hendrickson, Parker could draw consideration.
15. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
- Will pick: Edge Akheem Mesidor, Miami (FL)
- Could pick: Edge Cashius Howell, Texas A&M
- Dark horse: LB CJ Allen, Georgia
Buccaneers general manager Jason Licht typically values production when evaluating prospects, especially pass rushers. Mesidor (12.5 sacks in 2025) and Howell (11.5 sacks) would both fit the bill, but Mesidor gets the nod because of his better performance against the run.
Both Mesidor (25) and Howell (24) will be on the older side as rookies, so if Licht wants a younger player, the 21-year-old Allen could draw consideration as a long-term replacement for Lavonte David.
16. New York Jets (from Indianapolis)
- Will pick: WR Omar Cooper Jr., Indiana
- Could pick: WR Denzel Boston, Washington
- Dark horse: QB Ty Simpson, Alabama
Could the Jets pull the trigger on Ty Simpson? Sure, but they also have the 33rd and 44th picks in this year's draft. That could allow them to target Simpson, or another quarterback, with those selections while further bolstering their roster with their two, first-round picks.
Instead, the Jets may find themselves in range to land a quality receiver, like Cooper Jr. or Boston. Cooper gets the nod here after being a riser throughout the draft process. He has drawn comparisons to Deebo Samuel because of his compact build and elusiveness with the ball in his hands.
17. Detroit Lions
- Will pick: OT Kadyn Proctor, Alabama
- Could pick: OT Monroe Freeling, Georgia
- Dark horse: OT Blake Miller, Clemson
The Lions have a massive need at offensive tackle after releasing Taylor Decker and seeing Dan Skipper retire. Proctor (6-7, 352 pounds) has the size and movement skills needed to develop into a quality left tackle and an elite bookend for All-Pro Penei Sewell.
Freeling is another left tackle option the Lions could consider while Miller is a tough, experienced right tackle who started 54 games at Clemson. If Detroit wants to play Sewell at left tackle, it could target Miller as a plug-and-play option on the right side of the line.
18. Minnesota Vikings
- Will pick: S Dillon Thieneman, Oregon
- Could pick: S Emmanuel McNeil-Warren, Toledo
- Dark horse: TE Kenyon Sadiq, Oregon
The Vikings released Harrison Smith after 14 years, a move believed to be a precursor to the 37-year-old safety's retirement. Thieneman is an elite athlete and showed off a well-rounded skill set at Oregon, making him an ideal fit for this pick unless the team prefers the sure-tackling McNeil-Warren.
Minnesota could also consider Sadiq as a long-term partner or eventual successor for T.J. Hockenson.
19. Carolina Panthers
- Will pick: TE Kenyon Sadiq, Oregon
- Could pick: OT Monroe Freeling, Georgia
- Dark horse: Edge T.J. Parker, Clemson
It's hard to imagine the Panthers passing on Sadiq if he drops to the 19th pick. Dan Morgan has made it his mission to add weapons around Bryce Young, and pairing Sadiq long-term with Offensive Rookie of the Year Tetairoa McMillan would further improve Dave Canales' offense.
The Panthers could also consider adding talent in the trenches. Freeling would provide insurance at left tackle, where Ikem Ekwonu and Rasheed Walker will both be free agents after the season, while Parker would be a high-upside option for Carolina's collection of young pass rushers.
20. Dallas Cowboys (from Green Bay)
- Will pick: Edge Keldric Faulk, Auburn
- Could pick: CB Avieon Terrell, Clemson
- Dark horse: CB Colton Hood, Tennessee
Faulk was listed as a potential option for the Cowboys with the 12th overall pick. They will gladly take the Auburn product at 20, as the 6-6, 276-pound defensive lineman has the raw potential needed to become a threatening and versatile pass rusher.
Dallas also has a big need at cornerback and could consider pairing Terrell or Hood with Downs to give their secondary a real shot in the arm.
21. Pittsburgh Steelers
- Will pick: G/C Olaivavega Ioane, Penn State
- Could pick: QB Ty Simpson, Alabama
- Dark horse: DT Caleb Banks, Florida
The Steelers lost veteran left guard Isaac Seumalo to the Cardinals in free agency. Ioane is a sturdy, pro-ready replacement who would create a stellar pairing with center Zach Frazier.
Pittsburgh could also consider Simpson but is probably more likely to target an Aaron Rodgers successor with one of its numerous mid-round picks. Banks, meanwhile, could draw consideration as the Steelers keep one eye on eventually finding a successor for Cameron Heyward.
22. Los Angeles Chargers
- Will pick: Edge T.J. Parker, Clemson
- Could pick: DT Peter Woods, Clemson
- Dark horse: DT Kayden McDonald, Ohio State
Khalil Mack signed a one-year deal to return to the Chargers, but he may not play much longer. That could lead Jim Harbaugh and Joe Hortiz to target a replacement, and Parker has the size (6-3, 263 pounds) and physicality needed to emerge as an edge-setter for Los Angeles.
Harbaugh is a big fan of building up his run defense, so targeting a high-upside defensive tackle like Woods or a space-eater like McDonald could also be in the cards.
23. Philadelphia Eagles
- Will pick: OT Monroe Freeling, Georgia
- Could pick: S Emmanuel McNeil-Warren, Toledo
- Dark horse: WR Denzel Boston, Washington
Freeling could be a top-10 selection, so this may represent the bottom of his range. The Eagles need an eventual successor for Lane Johnson, and Howie Roseman is always willing to address the trenches with his early-round draft picks.
If the Eagles target a more present-day need, McNeil Warren would give the team a well-rounded replacement for Reed Blankenship. As for Boston, he could step into a No. 2 receiver role if the team does eventually plan to trade A.J. Brown after June 1, when the team could spread his dead-cap hit over two seasons.
24. Cleveland Browns (from Jacksonville)
- Will pick: OT Blake Miller, Clemson
- Could pick: OT Caleb Lomu, Utah
- Dark horse: WR KC Concepcion, Texas A&M
The Browns took a receiver with their first selection in this mock. They could double-up at the position and take a dynamic, open-field weapon like Concepcion, but more likely, the team will target a potential starter at left tackle.
Miller largely played right tackle at Clemson, but Andrew Berry has indicated he is comfortable with tackles flipping sides at the pro level. That could give the nasty, powerful blocker and edge over the leaner, more athletic Lomu, despite the Utah product's left-side experience.
25. Chicago Bears
- Will pick: S Emmanuel McNeil-Warren, Toledo
- Could pick: Edge Cashius Howell, Texas A&M
- Dark horse: OT Caleb Lomu, Utah
The Bears lost four of their top five safeties during the 2026 offseason. They added Coby Bryant to serve as a starter but still need a long-term partner for him. McNeil-Warren is a tough safety with great ball production who could develop into a quality playmaker in Chicago's defense.
The Bears could also consider adding a top complement to Montez Sweat, like Howell, or adding a player like Lomu to compete for the left tackle job with Ozzy Trapilo (torn patellar tendon) facing a long road to recovery.
26. Buffalo Bills
- Will pick: WR Denzel Boston, Washington
- Could pick: DT Kayden McDonald, Ohio State
- Dark horse: Edge Zion Young, Missouri
The Bills traded for DJ Moore during the offseason but could still use a big-bodied, outside weapon with Keon Coleman not yet panning out. Boston (6-4, 212 pounds) would fit the bill as a contested-catch threat and downfield playmaker.
Buffalo could also look to improve its run defense in Round 1 after ranking third-worst in defensive EPA against the run last season, per the NFL's Next Gen Stats. McDonald and Young are two of the better run defenders at their respective positions along the defensive line.
27. San Francisco 49ers
- Will pick: Edge Cashius Howell, Texas A&M
- Could pick: OT Max Iheanachor, Arizona State
- Dark horse: G Emmanuel Pregnon, Oregon
The 49ers spent a 2025 first-round pick on Mykel Williams, but that won't prevent them from adding a player like Howell. San Francisco had the second-lowest pressure rate last season while Howell posted 11.5 sacks during his final season at Texas A&M.
Addressing the offensive line is another option for the 49ers. Iheanachor is a raw-but-talented tackle who could be an ideal replacement for Trent Williams. Meanwhile, Pregnon would be a plug-and-play left guard option for San Francisco.
28. Houston Texans
- Will pick: OT Caleb Lomu, Utah
- Could pick: LB CJ Allen, Georgia
- Dark horse: RB Jadarian Price, Notre Dame
The Texans don't have many needs, so they can afford to target the best players available. Lomu's athleticism would pair well long-term with the bigger-bodied Aireontae Ersery, and the Texans can afford to sit the Utah product until he adds more strength to his frame.
Allen could also get the nod as a hyper-productive linebacker while Price has upside as a three-down running back and would pair well with David Montgomery.
29. Kansas City Chiefs (from Los Angeles)
- Will pick: CB Avieon Terrell, Clemson
- Could pick: CB Colton Hood, Tennessee
- Dark horse: WR KC Concepcion, Texas A&M
After taking an offensive tackle ninth overall, the Chiefs can target a cornerback or receiver here. Kansas City's bigger need is at cornerback, so landing a playmaker with NFL bloodlines in Terrell seems like a sensible move.
Hood is another cornerback the Chiefs could consider while Concepcion – a shifty playmaker in space – would be fun to pair with Mahomes.
30. Miami Dolphins (from Denver)
- Will pick: WR KC Concepcion, Texas A&M
- Could pick: WR Germie Bernard, Alabama
- Dark horse: WR Chris Brazzell II, Tennessee
The Dolphins are in a similar boat to the Chiefs, left to choose between a cornerback and a receiver after taking an offensive lineman 11th overall. Miami's goal is to build around Willis, so grabbing Concepcion to be a middle-of-the-field threat would be a good move.
Miami could also look at Bernard – who was a steady playmaker at Alabama – or take a swing on Brazzell, whose 6-4, 197-pound frame and 4.37-second 40-yard dash give him enormous potential at the NFL level.
31. New England Patriots
- Will pick: OT Max Iheanachor, Arizona State
- Could pick: Edge Zion Young
- Dark horse: DT Caleb Banks, Florida
The Patriots probably need edge help more than anything else, but they also need an eventual successor for Morgan Moses at right tackle. Iheanachor has only played football for five years, but his performance at Arizona State and his athletic potential could help him develop into an NFL star.
Young would also fit the mold in New England as a tough, run-stopping edge setter. The Patriots could also take a swing on Banks' ceiling, though he played just three games due to injury in his final season at Florida.
32. Seattle Seahawks
- Will pick: CB Colton Hood, Tennessee
- Could pick: Trade down
- Dark horse: CB Chris Johnson, San Diego State
The Seahawks need to replace Riq Woolen after losing him in free agency. Hood is the best cornerback remaining on the board, so the Seahawks could choose him here to serve as a future No. 2 starter across from Devon Witherspoon.
Seattle could also look to trade down from this spot, as the team is armed with a league-low four total draft picks. If they take that approach, targeting Johnson – who is a sleeper option with this pick – could be their endgame.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: 2026 NFL mock draft: Three options for (almost) every first-round pick
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