The 2026 NFL Draft is already generating significant buzz, even though it’s still over a year away. With the 2025 season underway, teams are beginning to assess their needs and evaluate potential prospects. This 2026 NFL mock draft focuses on projecting where some of the top college players might land, considering team needs and early performance indicators.
This mock draft highlights several key storylines. The quarterback class is in flux, with some preseason favorites fading and new contenders emerging. The strength of the draft appears to be in the trenches, with a deep class of offensive and defensive linemen. The Steelers and Cowboys are among the teams looking to make significant moves to secure their future.
Here’s a sneak peek at some of the highlights:
- Quarterback Carousel: Several teams are projected to draft quarterbacks early, including the Steelers and Saints.
- Trench Warfare: Elite offensive and defensive linemen are expected to dominate the first round.
- Cowboys Reload: Dallas aims to add more firepower to support Dak Prescott.
QB Risers and Fallers
The quarterback landscape for the 2026 NFL Draft is experiencing a significant shakeup. Preseason favorites like Arch Manning and Garrett Nussmeier have seen their stock decline due to inconsistent performances. Meanwhile, players such as Ty Simpson and Fernando Mendoza are surging up draft boards with impressive play.
Ty Simpson of Alabama has caught the attention of many scouts after only eight starts into his career, Simpson’s stellar play vaulted him up draft boards. Fernando Mendoza has been highly effective, completing more than 72% of his passes and leading Indiana to an 8-0 start. “A calm operator from the pocket, Mendoza’s timing, decision-making and elite-level ball placement make him an ideal fit for an organization where consistent quarterback play has long been elusive.” stated one scout.
These shifts highlight the dynamic nature of college football and the importance of in-season performance. Teams in need of a quarterback will have several intriguing options to consider, each with their own strengths and weaknesses.
Trench Warfare: The Dominance of Offensive and Defensive Linemen
One of the defining characteristics of the 2026 NFL Draft class is the exceptional depth and talent along both the offensive and defensive lines. Several prospects are projected to be selected in the first round, offering teams the opportunity to bolster their protection and pass-rushing capabilities.
Spencer Fano, an interior offensive lineman from Utah, brings one of the most complete and battle-tested résumés of any prospect in the class. Keldric Faulk from Auburn offers a unique blend of length, versatility, and athleticism, making him a dynamic presence on the defensive front. “Faulk’s combination of length, versatility and athleticism makes him one of the most unique defensive linemen in this class. With needs both on the edge and inside, the Auburn standout gives Baltimore a dynamic, scheme-flexible presence who fits the Ravens’ physical identity up front.” Said an NFL Analyst
This emphasis on trench players reflects the ongoing importance of controlling the line of scrimmage in the NFL. Teams that can effectively protect their quarterback and generate pressure on opposing passers will have a significant advantage.
Steelers Plan for Post-Rodgers Era
The Pittsburgh Steelers are facing the prospect of a future without their current quarterback, Aaron Rodgers. With Rodgers’s career potentially winding down, the Steelers are likely to be in the market for a young signal-caller to groom as his successor. That is why they are projected to draft LaNorris Sellers.
The Steelers are projected to select LaNorris Sellers, a quarterback from South Carolina, with the 19th overall pick. Sellers is described as an athletic enigma at the quarterback position, with boom-or-bust potential. While his size, athleticism, and arm strength are apparent, his consistency in the passing game needs development.
This selection reflects the Steelers’ need to plan for the future and potentially find a quarterback who can bring a new dimension to their offense. However, it also carries some risk, as Sellers will require careful coaching and development to reach his full potential.
Cowboys Chase More Firepower for Dak Prescott
The Dallas Cowboys are consistently in contention, and they have shown commitment to building a dynamic offense around quarterback Dak Prescott. The 2026 NFL Draft could provide them with the opportunity to add even more firepower to their arsenal.
The Cowboys are projected to make two selections in the first round: Jeremiyah Love, a running back from Notre Dame, and Quincy Rhodes Jr, an edge from Arkansas. Love is described as one of the most explosive playmakers in college football, offering pure playmaking instincts and home-run ability. Rhodes, at 6-foot-6 and over 275 pounds, possesses the length, athleticism, and pass-rush ability that the Cowboys covet.
These selections would address multiple needs for the Cowboys, providing Prescott with a dynamic running back and bolstering their pass rush. By adding more talent on both sides of the ball, the Cowboys aim to solidify their status as Super Bowl contenders.
Other Notable Picks in the 2026 NFL Mock Draft
In addition to the quarterbacks and linemen, several other notable prospects are projected to be selected in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft:
- Dante Moore (QB, Oregon): Projected to the New York Jets, Moore possesses excellent passing traits and the potential to be a long-term franchise quarterback.
- Carnell Tate (WR, Ohio State): Projected to the Tennessee Titans, Tate is a clean prospect with size, athleticism, and efficiency as a route-runner and receiver.
- Caleb Downs (S, Ohio State): Projected to the Miami Dolphins, Downs is a versatile player with elite football instincts and maturity.
These players represent a diverse range of positions and skill sets, highlighting the depth of talent in the 2026 NFL Draft class.
Conclusion: Key Takeaways from the 2026 NFL Mock Draft
The 2026 NFL Draft is shaping up to be an intriguing event, with several key storylines emerging:
- Quarterback Uncertainty: The quarterback class is in flux, with risers and fallers creating uncertainty at the top of the draft.
- Trench Dominance: Offensive and defensive linemen are expected to be highly sought after, reflecting the importance of line play in the NFL.
- Strategic Team Building: Teams like the Steelers and Cowboys are making strategic moves to address their needs and build for the future.
As the 2025 college football season progresses, these projections will undoubtedly evolve. However, this early look provides a glimpse into the potential landscape of the 2026 NFL Draft and the players who could shape the future of the league.
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