On draft day in 2025, all 32 NFL teams kicked off the first round with their original picks. This year tells a different story.
Five teams are set to have two first-round picks in the 2026 NFL draft, while five others won’t have any due to recent trades. The most notable trade involved the Raiders, who got both the Ravens’ 2026 and 2027 first-round picks in exchange for Maxx Crosby.
The teams with multiple picks are the Raiders, Jets, Browns, Chiefs, and Cowboys. The Raiders hold the top overall pick (No. 1) along with the Ravens’ pick at No. 14. The Jets have the second pick from their own team and the Colts’ 16th pick from the Sauce Gardner trade. The Browns sit at No. 6 and have the Jaguars’ pick at No. 24, a result of last year’s trade that let the Jaguars snag Travis Hunter. The Chiefs possess No. 9 and the Rams’ No. 29 pick from their deal involving Trent McDuffie. The Cowboys hold No. 12 and the Packers’ No. 20 from the Micah Parsons trade.
Meanwhile, the Falcons, Ravens, Colts, Packers, and Jaguars are among the teams that won’t pick in the first round.
Teams with multiple picks often missed the playoffs last season. This situation gives them a chance for a fresh start, making those additional picks valuable for rebuilding. As they strategize, experts suggest that these double picks can serve as crucial assets, helping to shape each franchise’s future.
According to a recent study, teams with multiple first-round picks historically have a higher chance of turning around their fortunes in subsequent seasons. This draft is not just about selecting young talent; it’s about laying the groundwork for long-term success.
As fans and analysts eagerly await the draft, social media buzzes with excitement and theories about which players may be chosen. Trends show a growing enthusiasm for rookie players, underscoring the draft’s importance as not just a one-time event, but a pivotal moment for franchises and their devoted fans.
For teams looking to move up from the basement, these first-round picks can be gold mines. They can set the stage for a hopeful future in the ever-competitive NFL landscape.
For more details on recent trades and player drafts, check out sources like ESPN and NFL Network.
