The 2026 NFL Draft is shaping up to be one of the most exciting in recent memory, and it all starts with a college football season that delivered legends in the making. From Heisman Trophy winners to national champions, this year's crop of players is poised to redefine the NFL landscape. But here's where it gets controversial: with so much talent on the table, which teams will make the right picks, and who will be left questioning their decisions? Let’s dive into Bucky Brooks’ Mock Draft 1.0 for NFL.com, where he predicts how the first round might unfold—and trust me, there are some bold moves you won’t want to miss.
1. Las Vegas Raiders – QB Fernando Mendoza, Indiana
The 2025 Heisman Trophy winner and national championship quarterback, Fernando Mendoza, is the undisputed favorite for the No. 1 pick. His single season at Indiana was nothing short of spectacular, throwing for 3,535 yards and 41 touchdowns with just six interceptions. Add in his 276 rushing yards and seven scores, and you’ve got a player who can transform a franchise. But is he the surefire pick everyone thinks he is? Some argue the pressure of being No. 1 could be his downfall. What do you think?
2. New York Jets – LB Arvell Reese, Ohio State
Arvell Reese dominated college football in 2025, racking up 69 tackles, 10.0 tackles for loss, and 6.5 sacks. His ability to disrupt both the run and pass game makes him a top defensive prospect. But here’s the question: Is the Jets’ defense ready to build around a player like Reese, or should they focus on offense?
3. Arizona Cardinals – OT Spencer Fano, Utah
The Cardinals’ offensive line needs a major upgrade, and Spencer Fano fits the bill perfectly. An Outland Trophy finalist and Lombardi Award semifinalist, Fano’s versatility at both tackle positions makes him a no-brainer pick. But with so many needs, is this the right move for Arizona?
4. Tennessee Titans – WR Carnell Tate, Ohio State
Carnell Tate is the latest in a long line of elite Ohio State receivers, finishing 2025 with 51 catches for 875 yards and nine touchdowns. Pairing him with Cam Ward could be a game-changer, but is a wide receiver really Tennessee’s biggest need?
5. New York Giants – OT Francis Mauigoa, Miami
At 6’6” and 335 pounds, Francis Mauigoa is the prototypical offensive tackle. His stellar play helped Miami reach the national title game, but will he be able to handle the NFL’s elite pass rushers? And this is the part most people miss: the Giants’ offensive line has been a weak spot for years—is Mauigoa the solution?
6. Cleveland Browns – OT Caleb Lomu, Utah
Caleb Lomu, a first-team All-Big 12 selection, continues the run on offensive linemen. His 22 career starts at Utah showcase his reliability, but is Cleveland addressing the right position here? Or should they focus on defense?
7. Washington Commanders – WR Jordyn Tyson, Arizona State
Jordyn Tyson was a one-man show at Arizona State, finishing with 61 catches for 711 yards and eight touchdowns. His ability to demand double coverage could be a game-changer, but is Washington’s offense ready to maximize his potential?
8. New Orleans Saints – EDGE David Bailey, Texas Tech
With Cameron Jordan aging, the Saints need a young pass rusher, and David Bailey fits the bill. His 13.5 sacks and 18.0 tackles for loss in 2025 speak for themselves, but is he the long-term answer New Orleans needs?
9. Kansas City Chiefs – RB Jeremiyah Love, Notre Dame
Jeremiyah Love rushed for 1,372 yards and 18 touchdowns in 2025, proving he’s a big-game performer. But with the Chiefs’ recent struggles at running back, is this pick a gamble or a necessity?
10. Cincinnati Bengals – S Caleb Downs, Ohio State
Caleb Downs, a national champion with Ohio State, is arguably the best defensive back in the draft. His 68 tackles and two interceptions in 2025 make him a steal at No. 10, but is Cincinnati’s secondary their biggest concern?
The Rest of the Mock Draft
From the Miami Dolphins snagging TE Kenyon Sadiq to the Dallas Cowboys doubling down on defense, Brooks’ mock draft is full of surprises. But here’s the real question: Which of these picks will pay off, and which will leave fans scratching their heads? Let us know in the comments—who do you think is the biggest steal, and who’s being overhyped?
