Get ready for an exciting NFL Draft season! The 2026 NFL Draft is shaping up to be a game-changer, and we've got the inside scoop on the latest mock draft from PFF.
The Big Reveal: Eye-Opening Changes in the 2026 NFL Draft
After the NFL Scouting Combine, PFF has released a brand-new mock draft that will leave you on the edge of your seat. Two quarterbacks have made their way into the first round, and the defensive players are stealing the show.
But here's where it gets controversial...
Quarterback Showdown:
Ty Simpson and Fernando Mendoza, two talented signal-callers, are now projected to be first-round picks. Simpson's rise up the board is impressive, joining Mendoza in the elite group of quarterbacks.
Defensive Dominance:
The Combine showcased some incredible defensive performances, especially from the linebackers. Arvell Reese and Sonny Styles, both from Ohio State, clocked an impressive 4.46 in the 40-yard dash, solidifying their spots in the top picks.
And this is the part most people miss...
The 2026 NFL Draft will take place from April 23-25 in Pittsburgh, and the new league year officially begins on March 11, kicking off the free agency signing period.
Here's a sneak peek at the top picks:
Las Vegas Raiders: Fernando Mendoza, Indiana QB - The 2025 Heisman Trophy winner is an undisputed first overall pick, leading Indiana to an undefeated season and a national title.
New York Jets: Arvell Reese, Ohio State EDGE - Reese silenced any doubts with his Combine performance, showcasing his speed and skill.
Arizona Cardinals: Francis Mauigoa, Miami OT - The Cardinals might opt for defense, but Mauigoa's talent is hard to ignore, making him an instant impact player.
Tennessee Titans: Sonny Styles, Ohio State LB - Styles' 4.46 dash has him soaring up draft boards, and his stats don't lie: 182 tackles, 17 tackles for loss, and 7 sacks in two seasons.
New York Giants: Carnell Tate, Ohio State WR - Despite a 4.53 dash, Tate remains a top contender for the first receiver pick. PFF predicts he'll join Malik Nabers as targets for Jaxson Dart.
Cleveland Browns: Monroe Freeling, Georgia OT - Freeling impressed at the Combine with a 4.93 dash and strong on-field drills. The Browns could go for offensive line depth here.
Washington Commanders: Rueben Bain Jr., Miami EDGE - Bain is expected to make an immediate impact as a top pass rusher.
New Orleans Saints: Jeremiyah Love, Notre Dame RB - Love's 4.36 dash solidified his status as the top running back in the class.
Kansas City Chiefs: Caleb Banks, Florida DL - Banks, despite an injury-shortened 2025 season, is a top interior defensive line prospect.
Cincinnati Bengals: Caleb Downs, Ohio State S - Downs is considered by many to be the most talented player in the draft, but questions about a potential injury have emerged.
PFF 2026 NFL Mock Draft: Picks 11-32
- Miami Dolphins: David Bailey, Texas Tech EDGE
- Dallas Cowboys: Dillon Thieneman, Oregon S
- Los Angeles Rams (via ATL): Mansoor Delane, LSU CB
- Baltimore Ravens: Spencer Fano, Utah OL
- Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Akheem Mesidor, Miami EDGE
- New York Jets (via IND): Makai Lemon, USC WR
- Detroit Lions: Cashius Howell, Texas A&M EDGE
- Minnesota Vikings: Jermod McCoy, Tennessee CB
- Carolina Panthers: CJ Allen, Georgia LB
- Dallas Cowboys (via GB): Avieon Terrell, Clemson CB
- Pittsburgh Steelers: Ty Simpson, Alabama QB
- Los Angeles Chargers: Vega Ioane, Penn State OG
- Philadelphia Eagles: Kadyn Proctor, Alabama OT
- Cleveland Browns (via JAX): Jordyn Tyson, Arizona State WR
- Chicago Bears: Kayden McDonald, Ohio State DL
- Buffalo Bills: Jacob Rodriguez, Texas Tech LB
- San Francisco 49ers: Kenyon Sadiq, Oregon TE
- Houston Texans: Blake Miller, Clemson OT
- Los Angeles Rams: Omar Cooper Jr., Indiana WR
- Denver Broncos: Eli Stowers, Vanderbilt TE
- New England Patriots: Zion Young, Missouri EDGE
- Seattle Seahawks: Denzel Boston, Washington WR
A Blockbuster Trade:
Since PFF's mock draft, a major trade has shaken things up. The Chiefs sent Trent McDuffie to the Rams in exchange for the No. 29 overall pick and additional draft picks.
So, what do you think of these picks? Are there any surprises or controversial choices? Let's discuss in the comments! The 2026 NFL Draft is sure to be a thrilling ride.
