As the 2026 NFL Draft approaches, excitement is building around the potential new talent entering the league. The first round of the draft is scheduled to begin on April 23 in Pittsburgh, just over two weeks away. Recently, during the annual NFL league meetings in Phoenix, conversations with various sources provided insight into what teams might do with their first-round picks. While nothing is finalized, the following summarizes the initial projections and analysis of the top prospects expected to be selected in the first round, based on current intel and team needs.
One of the most discussed prospects is quarterback Fernando Mendoza from Indiana. Mendoza possesses clear franchise quarterback traits, and his development is expected to be aided by the presence of veteran Kirk Cousins, who is reportedly signing with the Las Vegas Raiders. Having Cousins on the roster will help Mendoza acclimate to the professional game. The bigger question now for the Raiders is how they will utilize their remaining nine draft picks to build a strong supporting roster around Mendoza, who is seen as the cornerstone for the franchise's future.
On the defensive side, edge rusher David Bailey from Texas Tech is projected to be a top pick. Bailey led the FBS in sacks in 2025 with 14.5 and is viewed as a polished, productive pass rusher who can make an immediate impact. The New York Jets, who ranked 31st in sacks last season with only 26, are likely to prioritize adding a disruptive presence like Bailey to their defense. Bailey may be the Jets' choice over Ohio State's Arvell Reese, another strong edge prospect.
Arvell Reese, a linebacker/edge rusher from Ohio State, is expected to be a good fit for the Arizona Cardinals. The Cardinals' defense struggled in 2025, allowing nearly 29 points per game and ranking 29th overall. Reese offers the potential to be an elite pass rusher and has received praise for his leadership and character from coaches. With the team undergoing a transition, Arizona appears focused on adding foundational players like Reese. An interesting wildcard for the Cardinals could be running back Jeremiyah Love from Notre Dame, who is also drawing attention around the league.
Running back Jeremiyah Love is considered a dynamic and versatile player. Last season, he rushed for 1,372 yards and scored 18 touchdowns. The Tennessee Titans, known for consistently developing waves of pass rushers under coach Robert Saleh, may consider edge rushers like Bailey or Reese if available. However, Love's all-around skill set makes it unlikely that the Titans will pass on him, as he can provide a critical offensive weapon.
Offensive line remains a priority for many teams. Francis Mauigoa from Miami, a talented offensive tackle with positional versatility, is expected to be the first offensive lineman selected. New Baltimore Ravens coach John Harbaugh has described his offensive line as a "work in progress," which is concerning given the dual-threat nature of the current franchise quarterback. Mauigoa's ability to pave the way both in pass protection and run blocking makes him a valuable prospect.
Similarly, Spencer Fano from Utah offers rare versatility along the offensive line, able to play tackle, guard, and even center. The Cleveland Browns, who have two first-round picks, are likely to address their offensive line needs, and Fano is a strong candidate for one of those selections. Although he may not be viewed as a pure left tackle, his adaptability makes him a valuable asset.
Linebacker Sonny Styles from Ohio State is projected to go to the Washington Commanders, who have a defense that ranked among the worst in yards allowed per play in 2025. Styles exhibits traits similar to Fred Warner of the San Francisco 49ers, combining sideline-to-sideline range with impressive athleticism. With the Commanders' general manager Adam Peters having ties to the 49ers, Styles fits the mold of a player who can anchor their defense.
Miami edge rusher Rueben Bain Jr. is another top prospect expected to be selected in the first round. The New Orleans Saints, who recently parted ways with key defensive veterans Cameron Jordan, Demario Davis, and Alontae Taylor, could use a disruptive pass rusher like Bain. Despite concerns about his shorter arms, Bain's power and production, including 9.5 sacks last season, make him a strong candidate to fill a defensive leadership role.
On the offensive side, wide receiver Jordyn Tyson from Arizona State could be a priority for the Kansas City Chiefs. The Chiefs hold a top-10 pick for the first time since selecting Patrick Mahomes in 2017. Although cornerback and edge rusher are options, adding offensive playmakers remains a focus, especially with Mahomes recovering from an ACL injury. Tyson stands out as one of the most dynamic receivers in the draft class but must maintain his health to reach his full potential.
Cornerback Mansoor Delane from LSU is regarded as the top cornerback prospect in the draft. He allowed a very low passer rating when targeted last season and could be a key addition for the Cincinnati Bengals, who need a true shutdown corner. While some may question adding another defensive back early, the Bengals' need for elite coverage makes Delane an attractive choice.
Wide receiver Carnell Tate from Ohio State could address Miami's need for offensive weapons following the departures of Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle. The Dolphins, with seven picks in the first three rounds, have invested heavily in quarterback Malik Willis and require playmakers around him. Tate, highly praised by coaches and known for his explosiveness, could bring much-needed energy and skill to the Dolphins' offense.
Safety Caleb Downs, also from Ohio State, is characterized by his football intelligence and leadership qualities. Dallas Cowboys defensive coordinator Matt Patricia believes Downs will be the smartest player on any team that drafts him. The Cowboys struggled with big plays allowed last season and could benefit from Downs' ability to anchor their secondary alongside veterans like Jalen Thompson and Malik Hooker.
Wide receiver Makai Lemon from USC, the 2025 Biletnikoff Award winner, fits the Los Angeles Rams' offensive scheme well. Taking Lemon would signal the Rams' commitment to contending in 2026, potentially the final season for quarterback Matthew Stafford. It would also prepare the team for the future as veteran receiver Davante Adams approaches the twilight of his career.
Tight end Kenyon Sadiq from Oregon is a standout athlete who could provide a major boost to the Baltimore Ravens' offense. Sadiq ran an astonishing 4.39-second 40-yard dash, the fastest for a tight end in recent history, and caught 51 passes last season-the most ever by an Oregon tight end. While the Ravens still have Mark Andrews, who is entering his 30s, Sadiq's addition would bring depth and versatility to the position.
Cornerback Jermod McCoy from Tennessee had a stellar 2024 but missed the entire 2025 season due to injury. When healthy, he is considered a legitimate No. 1 cornerback with impressive length and coverage skills. Tampa Bay Buccaneers, which lost veteran Jamel Dean and have a young secondary, would benefit from McCoy's experience and talent.
Wide receiver Omar Cooper from Indiana is widely respected by general managers for his toughness and production, having recorded 937 yards and 13 touchdowns last season. Comparisons to Deebo Samuel highlight Cooper's ability to make plays after the catch and impact games in multiple ways. The New York Jets, focused on building a strong team culture, would likely view Cooper as a great complement to their existing offensive weapons.
Guard Olaivavega Ioane from Penn State is a physical, aggressive player who did not allow a sack last season and earned All-American honors. His toughness and size make him a good fit for the Detroit Lions' interior offensive line, which is undergoing a transition under coach Dan Campbell.
Safety Emmanuel McNeil-Warren from Toledo offers height, range, and energy in the defensive backfield. With veteran Harrison Smith potentially nearing the end of his career, the Minnesota Vikings could look to McNeil-Warren as a long-term successor. His ball-hawking ability, demonstrated by five interceptions over three seasons, adds to his appeal.
Offensive tackle Monroe Freeling from Georgia possesses ideal size and athleticism, standing 6-foot-7 and weighing 315 pounds, with long arms and quick feet. He has experience playing both left and right tackle and could be a foundational piece for the Carolina Panthers in protecting quarterback Bryce Young and supporting the running game.
Edge rusher Akheem Mesidor from Miami is an older prospect at 25 but is considered ready to contribute immediately. With 12.5 sacks and 17.5 tackles for loss last season, Mesidor could become a key pass rusher for the Dallas Cowboys.
Edge rusher T.J. Parker from Clemson has been a consistent playmaker throughout his college career, accumulating 21.5 sacks over three seasons. The Pittsburgh Steelers, who have been adding young defensive talent, could look to Parker as a way to bolster their pass rush.
Offensive tackle Blake Miller from Clemson is known for his durability, starting every game in his four-year career. The Los Angeles Chargers, dealing with injuries along their offensive line, might select Miller to provide depth and versatility behind starters Joe Alt and Rashawn Slater.
Wide receiver Denzel Boston from Washington is an explosive playmaker. His connection to Eagles general manager Howie Roseman, a long-time college buddy of Washington's coach Jedd Fisch, could influence his selection. If the Philadelphia Eagles draft Boston, it may impact the future of current receiver A.J. Brown.
Wide receiver KC Concepcion from Texas A&M offers versatility and playmaking ability, averaging 15.1 yards per catch in 2025. Comparisons to Zay Flowers suggest he could be a valuable addition to the Cleveland Browns, who also need to address offensive line issues.
Offensive tackle Kadyn Proctor from Alabama is a massive and athletic player, weighing 358 pounds at his pro day but capable of movement. If he can maintain his weight, Proctor has the potential to be one of the top tackles in the draft. The Chicago Bears could be interested in Proctor to improve their offensive line.
Defensive tackle Kayden McDonald from Ohio State is garnering first-round buzz as a powerful run defender. The Buffalo Bills, who ranked 30th against the run last season, may see McDonald as a key piece to shore up their interior defense.
Offensive tackle Caleb Lomu from Utah is a promising left tackle prospect who did not allow a sack in 2025. The San Francisco 49ers might consider Lomu as they plan for the future, especially if contract issues with veteran Trent Williams are not resolved.
Offensive tackle Max Iheanachor from Arizona State is one of the draft's biggest upside players. Relatively new to football after arriving from Nigeria at age 13, Iheanachor's athleticism and potential could make him a home run pick for a patient team like the Houston Texans, who are rebuilding their offensive line.
Cornerback Colton Hood from Tennessee had a productive 2025 with 10 pass breakups. The Kansas City Chiefs, having lost several key defensive backs in free agency, could use Hood's pro-style mentality and ball skills to bolster their secondary.
Safety Dillon Thieneman from Oregon is among the fastest players in the draft, running a 4.35-second 40-yard dash. Beyond speed, his film shows a versatile player capable of covering, tackling, and leading a defense. Miami's new coaching staff, including Jeff Hafley, is known for developing defensive backs, making Thieneman a potential fit.
Guard/center Keylan Rutledge from Georgia Tech may be a surprise first-round pick. He allowed only two sacks over 43 career starts and is seen as a Day 1 or Day 2 prospect. The New England Patriots, aiming to protect quarterback Drake Maye, might take a chance on Rutledge even if it is viewed as a reach.
Finally, running back Jadarian Price from Notre Dame could be a rare first-round running back selection, joining teammate Jeremiyah Love in making Notre Dame the first school with two running backs taken in the first round of the same draft. Price showed impressive efficiency with 674 yards and 11 touchdowns on just 113 carries last season and could add power to the Seattle Seahawks after the departure of Kenneth Walker III.
In summary, the 2026 NFL Draft promises to be an exciting event featuring a range of talented prospects who could significantly impact their new teams. From franchise quarterbacks like Fernando Mendoza to dynamic edge rushers, versatile offensive linemen, and explosive skill position players, teams appear poised to address key needs and build for the future. As the draft approaches, further developments and team decisions will continue to shape the landscape, but these initial projections offer a glimpse into the potential direction of the incoming NFL class. For ongoing analysis and updates, fans can follow "NFL Draft Daily" on ESPN2 throughout the week leading up to the draft.