Mock drafts are buzzing as we approach the 2026 NFL Draft in Pittsburgh. Mike Band from NFL.com is taking a unique approach this year by using AI to assess team needs and forecast realistic outcomes. With insights from AI, Band crafted his first-round picks, factoring in draft capital and potential trades.
Let’s dive into some exciting predictions starting with the Las Vegas Raiders, who hold the first overall pick.
Quarterback Mendoza is a hot candidate, following a standout season at Indiana. Despite the Raiders signing Kirk Cousins, Mendoza is seen as a franchise player. As NFL.com puts it, “It would be shocking if the Raiders chose anyone else.”
Next up, the New York Jets could draft linebacker Arvell Reese. His versatile skill set makes him a perfect match for their tough, physical style, as noted by NFL.com: “Reese fits the identity this New York regime wants to establish.”
Over in Arizona, the team is searching for a quarterback after parting ways with Kyler Murray. With no top QB available at No. 3, they might opt for offensive lineman Mauigoa. This move solidifies their protection, crucial in a pressure-heavy division.
The Tennessee Titans may look at edge rusher Bailey from Texas Tech. Head coach Robert Saleh’s focus on a dynamic edge player aligns with Bailey’s impressive skills.
The New York Giants are set to draft Sonny Styles, a linebacker from Ohio State. His transition from safety to linebacker showcases his adaptability, making him a significant long-term asset.
Cleveland might select left tackle Freeling, another Georgia standout. His skills make him a valuable pick for a team that needs stability on the offensive line.
One interesting storyline is Jeremy Love, who some believe is one of the best talents in the draft. He might land at No. 7 with the Washington Commanders, thanks to their aggressive strategy in free agency.
As history shows, receiver picks can create ripples in the draft. The New Orleans Saints could kick things off with wide receiver Carnell Tate. His presence would greatly enhance their offense.
The Kansas City Chiefs are likely to prioritize defense, eyeing edge rusher Rueben Bain Jr. after a tough season, trying to improve their sack numbers.
Finally, the Cincinnati Bengals may snag safety Caleb Downs from Ohio State. His experience makes him a perfect fit for a team looking for fresh talent on the defense.
Looking ahead, here’s how the next picks might shape up:
- Miami Dolphins: Mansoor Delane, CB, LSU
- Dallas Cowboys: Jermod McCoy, CB, Tennessee
- Los Angeles Rams (via ATL): Kenyon Sadiq, TE, Oregon
- Baltimore Ravens: Spencer Fano, OL, Utah
- Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Akheem Mesidor, Edge, Miami
- New York Jets (via IND): Makai Lemon, WR, USC
- Detroit Lions: Blake Miller, OT, Clemson
- Minnesota Vikings: Dillon Thieneman, S, Oregon
- Carolina Panthers: Peter Woods, DT, Clemson
- Dallas Cowboys (via GB): Keldric Faulk, Edge, Auburn
- Pittsburgh Steelers: Jordyn Tyson, WR, Arizona State
- Los Angeles Chargers: Olaivavega Ioane, OG, Penn State
- Philadelphia Eagles: Kadyn Proctor, OT, Alabama
- Cleveland Browns (via JAC): Omar Cooper Jr., WR, Indiana
- Chicago Bears: Emmanuel McNeil-Warren, S, Toledo
- Arizona Cardinals (via BUF): Ty Simpson, QB, Alabama
- San Francisco 49ers: Caleb Lomu, OT, Utah
- Houston Texans: Kayden McDonald, DT, Ohio State
- Kansas City Chiefs (via LAR): Avieon Terrell, CB, Clemson
- Miami Dolphins (via DEN): Cashius Howell, Edge, Texas A&M
- New England Patriots: T.J. Parker, Edge, Clemson
- Seattle Seahawks: Colton Hood, CB, Tennessee
As we approach the draft, the excitement builds. With so much talent on the board, fans can only wait to see how it all unfolds. For more detailed analysis, check out the NFL.com Draft coverage.
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Akheem Mesidor (20 – Clearwater Academy International),Arvell Reese (23 – Glenville),Avieon Terrell (23 – Westlake),Blake Miller (22 – Strongsville),Caleb Downs (23 – Mill Creek),Caleb Lomu (23 – Highland),Carnell Tate (23 – IMG Academy),Cashius Howell (21 – Rockhurst),Colton Hood (23 – Eagles Landing Christian Academy),David Bailey (22 – Mater Dei),Dillon Thieneman (23 – Westfield),Emmanuel McNeil-Warren (22 – Lakewood),Fernando Mendoza (22 – Columbus),Francis Mauigoa (23 – IMG Academy),Jeremiyah Love (23 – Christian Brothers College),Jermod McCoy (23 – Whitehouse),Jordyn Tyson (22 – Independence),Kadyn Proctor (23 – Southeast Polk),Kayden McDonald (23 – North Gwinnett),Keldric Faulk (23 – Highland Home),Kenyon Sadiq (23 – Skyline Senior),Makai Lemon (23 – Los Alamitos),Mansoor Delane (22 – Archbishop Spalding),Monroe Freeling (23 – Oceanside Collegiate Academy),Omar Cooper (22 – Lawrence North),Peter Woods (23 – Thompson),Rueben Bain (23 – Miami Central),Sonny Styles (22 – Pickerington Central),Spencer Fano (23 – Timpview),T.J. Parker (23 – Central),Ty Simpson (22 – Westview),Vega Ioane (22 – Graham-Kapowsin)
