NFL Mock Draft 1.0
Is there a sport that has a bigger effect on the upcoming season than the NFL Draft? I don’t think so. We’ve seen it time and time again: a great draft can turn a team around instantly. The NFL Draft remains the league’s primary tool for roster construction and long-term planning. Every April, teams balance immediate needs against positional value, scheme fit, and player development timelines. Front offices face insane pressure to stick the landing on every draft pick or trade they make. They are projecting how players will function within existing systems, coaching philosophies, and contract structures, and if they’re wrong, they’re gone.
This is my first mock draft of the year. I hope to add trades for my neck Mock Draft, but for now, this is how I see the first round.
Fernando Mendoza
Raiders Pick 1 | QB | Indiana
The Raiders address their most pressing need by selecting Mendoza, who brings the command and processing speed required for immediate NFL impact.
Rueben Bain Jr.
Jets Pick 2| EDGE | Miami
New York addresses its most glaring defensive deficiency after managing just 26 sacks in 2025, the second-fewest in the league. Bain provides Aaron Glenn’s defense with the explosive edge presence needed to pressure mobile quarterbacks like Josh Allen and Drake Maye in the AFC East. His power-to-speed conversion and relentless motor make him effective against both the run and pass. While his shorter arms relative to typical edge rushers raise concerns about disengagement at the next level, Bain compensates through exceptional hand technique, leverage, and snap timing. His production as ACC Defensive Player of the Year validates his ability to impact games despite lacking prototypical measurements for the position.
Spencer Fano
Cardinals Pick 3 | OT | Utah
Arizona secures a foundational piece for its offensive line after allowing significant pressure throughout 2025. Fano brings pro-ready technique and advanced hand placement that should translate immediately at right tackle opposite Paris Johnson Jr. His experience in Utah’s physical Big 12 slate prepared him for the type of power rushers he will face in the NFC West. While lacking elite length and top-end athleticism compared to some tackle prospects, Fano compensates through consistent leverage, footwork precision, and reliable pass protection fundamentals. His ability to anchor against bull rushes and mirror edge speed makes him a high-floor prospect capable of stabilizing protection for Kyler Murray or whichever quarterback leads the offense under new head coach Mike LaFleur.
Carnell Tate
Titans Pick 4 | WR | Ohio State
Tennessee adds a polished perimeter threat to an offense that requires more reliable targets for its developing franchise QB. Tate brings pro-ready route concepts and an advanced understanding of leverage that should translate immediately in Robert Saleh’s system. His contested catch ability and strong hands provide a security blanket on third downs and in the red zone. While his lack of elite acceleration and top-end speed limits his explosive-play potential, his physical style and willingness to block add value to Tennessee’s (soon-to-be) run game, making him a complete receiver capable of contributing across multiple phases. With Brian Daboll as the new OC, the Titans will be more aggressive, and Tate allows them to do just that.
Francis Mauigoa
Giants Pick 5 | OT | Miami
The Giants address a critical need along the offensive line after finishing with one of the league’s worst-graded units in 2025. Mauigoa provides immediate impact as tackle, offering the physical presence and run-blocking prowess the Giants lacked. His dense frame and exceptional play strength create vertical displacement in the run game, while his improving pass protection technique shows the coachability that teams value. At just 20 years old on draft day with three years of Power Four starting experience, Mauigoa represents both near-term readiness and long-term upside. While questions exist about optimal positioning due to adequate but not elite lateral quickness, his anchor strength and gap scheme effectiveness make him a Day 1 starter opposite Andrew Thomas.
Arvell Reese
Browns Pick 6 | LB | Ohio State
Some have Resse going as high as pick two, but I seem him slipping to the Browns at pick 6. He’s an elite player, but I feel the hype will cool by draft day.
Cleveland gets a dynamic defensive piece with hometown appeal, addressing the need for versatile playmakers alongside Myles Garrett. Reese brings rare positional flexibility that allows defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz to deploy him as an off-ball linebacker, edge rusher, or hybrid defender in sub-packages. His elite athleticism, long arms, and instinctive play recognition create opportunities for disruption across multiple fronts. While coverage skills require refinement and his pass rush repertoire needs development beyond initial power moves, Reese’s strength at the point of attack and pursuit speed provide immediate value. At just 20 years old with significant upside, he represents the type of impact defender Cleveland needs to complement their established edge talent.
Caleb Downs
Commanders Pick 7 | S | Ohio State
The Commanders add secondary depth by selecting Caleb Downs, who provides the range and ball skills needed in defensive coordinator Daronte Jones’s scheme. His instincts in the deep third and ability to trigger downhill against the run offer versatility that complements the existing safety room. Downs processes coverage responsibilities quickly and positions himself to make plays on the ball, though he must improve tackling consistency at the NFL level. His experience in Ohio State’s pro-style defense should ease the transition to Washington’s system, where his football intelligence and communication skills add value beyond individual statistics.
David Bailey
Saints Pick 8 | EDGE | Texas Tech
Yes, I’m aware Jeremiyah Love is still on the board, but I like the Saints’ going pass rush here to boost a unit that struggled to generate consistent pressure in 2025.
New Orleans bolsters their pass rush unit under new defensive coordinator Brandon Staley’s 3-4 scheme by selecting Bailey, who projects as an outside linebacker. His 81 quarterback pressures led all FBS edge defenders, demonstrating the relentless motor and production Staley values in his system. Bailey’s ability to rush from a two-point stance while maintaining gap integrity against the run fits the hybrid linebacker role crucial to Staley’s defensive philosophy. While technique refinement remains necessary for consistent wins against NFL tackles, his explosiveness off the snap and developing counter moves provide a foundation. His versatility allows him to be deployed on multiple fronts across Staley’s schemes.
Jeremiyah Love
Chiefs Pick 9 | RB | Notre Dame
The Chiefs have been burned by first-round RBs in the past. They took Clyde Edwards-Helaire (CEH), with the 32nd overall pick in the 2020 NFL Draft, out of LSU. So maybe they avoid the same mistake; however, Love is too perfect for the offense.
Adding another dynamic weapon to complement their passing attack by selecting Love, whose explosive play style fits coordinator Eric Bieniemy’s system. His ability to hit home runs through patient vision and sudden acceleration provides the big-play element the Chiefs lacked in the ground game. Love’s pass protection awareness and willingness as a blocker allow him to remain on the field in obvious passing situations, increasing his versatility. While durability questions exist given his running style, his production in South Bend’s offense demonstrates NFL-ready skills in both zone and gap schemes.
Mansoor Delane
Bengals Pick 10 | CB | LSU
The Bengals are the least aggressive team at the NFL draft; they rarely trade up or down, and instead take the best player available. Ideally, I would love for them to move back and beef up the OL, but pick 10 is an odd spot to be in based on their needs.
I have the Bengals addressing cornerback depth opposite Cam Taylor-Britt, who improves with the addition of Blane. His length and press technique suit DC Al Golden’s coverage schemes well. Delane’s physicality at the line of scrimmage disrupts timing routes, while his recovery speed allows him to stay in phase downfield.
Jordyn Tyson
Dolphins Pick 11 | WR | Arizona State
Assuming soon-to-be 32-year-old Tyreek Hill is gone, I have Miami adding a dynamic playmaker to complement the Dolphins’ offense. Tyson’s speed and route-running precision create consistent separation. His production in Arizona State’s system demonstrates the ability to win at all three levels of the field, though his slender frame raises durability concerns. Tyson’s quickness out of breaks and understanding of leverage should translate well to whatever Jeff Hafley’s new offense looks like. Tyson’s ability to threaten defenses vertically opens underneath options for the passing game.
Keldric Faulk
Cowboys Pick 12 | EDGE | Auburn
Dallas needs to beef up the defense. I have them targeting an edge rusher whose length and athleticism will help new DC Christian Parker with his scheme in year one. Faulk’s production in the SEC demonstrates consistent pass rush ability, though technique refinement remains necessary. Faulk’s length allows him to win with reach and extension at the point of attack, while his developing counter moves show growth potential. His effort against the run and willingness to set edges make him more than a pure pass rusher, adding value to Dallas’s defensive rotation.
Jermod McCoy
Rams Pick 13 | CB | Tennessee
This pick could go any which way, and ideally, I would have the Rams trade back here and stock up on picks, but given the passing attacks in the NFC West, a corner makes the most sense.
The Rams reinforce the secondary by adding McCoy, whose physicality and competitiveness align with coordinator Chris Shula’s coverage principles. McCoy’s experience in Tennessee’s defense prepared him for the pattern-matching concepts employed in LA. McCoy’s willingness in run support and ability to press receivers at the line create disruption opportunities, though his recovery speed requires improvement. His football intelligence and communication skills add value beyond his individual coverage, making him a suitable addition to the Rams’ defensive backfield.
Peter Woods
Ravens Pick 14 | DL | Clemson
Baltimore adds depth to the interior defensive line by selecting Woods, whose disruptive presence fits the team’s physical identity. His ability to penetrate gaps and push the pocket from the interior creates opportunities for edge rushers to finish. Woods’s motor and effort never wane, making him a perfect pick for Ravens DC Anthony Weaver to prioritize in his rotation. While refinement of pass-rush technique remains necessary, his foundation in Clemson’s defensive system provides transferable skills for Baltimore’s scheme.
Sonny Styles
Bucs Pick 15 | LB | Ohio State
The Bucs are a bit of a mystery for me. I feel just about any pick here could work; they have some pressing needs but could go in a few directions. Currently, I like them taking linebacker Sonny Styles from Ohio State, whose versatility allows deployment in multiple roles within Todd Bowles’s defensive scheme. His experience dropping into coverage and rushing the passer from various alignments provides schematic flexibility. Styles processes information quickly and positions himself effectively in zone coverage, though tackling consistency requires improvement. His leadership qualities and football intelligence add intangible value to a defense requiring dependable playmakers at the second level.
Jets Makai Lemon
Jets Pick 16 | WR | USC
Assuming the Jets find themselves a Quarterback in free agency, I have New York adding receiving depth by selecting Makai Lemon from USC. With route precision and sure hands, Lemon provides reliability for their developing mystery QB.
Lemon’s ability to win against press coverage and create separation at the top of routes will help the offense grow and give Garrett Wilson breathing room.
Avieon Terrell
Lions Pick 17 | CB | Clemson
Detroit reinforces cornerback depth by adding Terrell, whose length and technique fit defensive coordinator Kelvin Sheppard‘s scheme. His ability to handle the press and competitive nature align with the physicality Detroit’s defense requires. Terrell’s experience in Clemson’s system prepared him for the pattern-matching concepts employed in Detroit. His ball skills and zone coverage awareness provide versatility, though consistency must improve. His developmental trajectory suggests potential as a boundary starter in Glenn’s defense.
Kayden McDonald
Pick 18 DL | Ohio State
Vikings add defensive line depth by selecting McDonald, whose interior disruption complements their existing front. His ability to penetrate gaps and affect the quarterback from inside provides the interior rush production the Vikings lacked. McDonald’s motor runs hot throughout games, qualities coordinator Brian Flores values. While further refinement of technique remains necessary, his physical tools and production at Ohio State demonstrate NFL-ready traits for rotational work with expansion potential.
Kenyon Sadiq
Panthers Pick 19 | TE | Oregon
I love Sadiq, but I don’t know if teams are willing to move up to get him. I figure he’s the best player available for the Panthers to add receiving versatility. Sadiq, whose athleticism and route-running ability expand offensive coordinator Brad Idzik’s play-calling options. His ability to create mismatches against linebackers and safeties in coverage provides quarterback Bryce Young with a reliable target over the middle. Sadiq’s blocking development requires attention, but his receiving skills translate immediately. His production in Oregon’s system demonstrates an understanding of route concepts that should ease his NFL transition.
CJ Allen
Cowboys Pick 20 | LB | Georgia
Dallas addresses linebacker depth by adding Allen, whose coverage ability and instincts fit coordinator Mike Zimmer’s defensive scheme. Allen’s experience in Georgia’s system prepared him for the pattern-matching and zone concepts employed in Dallas. Allen processes offensive formations quickly and positions himself effectively, though his tackle radius limits explosive playmaking. His reliability and football intelligence add value to a defense that requires dependable second-level play. His versatility allows him to be deployed across multiple packages, increasing his utility in Zimmer’s rotation.
Ty Simpson
Steelers Pick 21 QB | Alabama
Ugh, I hate this pick, but they gotta do it. The Steelers have a new coach in Mike McCarthy, and that usually comes with a new QB they can call their guy.
Simpson’s production at Alabama demonstrates the ability to manage games and make critical throws, though consistency requires improvement. His mobility and willingness to extend plays provide value beyond the pocket, characteristics needed in today’s offense. While raw in some respects, Simpson’s processing speed and decision-making foundation suggest developmental potential beyond that of an established veteran, allowing Pittsburgh to groom their future franchise signal-caller.
The best-case scenario would be to re-sign Aaron Rodgers and let Simpson learn on the job. The fans won’t like it, but it’s the right move long term.
Vega Ioane
Chargers Pick 22 | OL | Penn State
The Chargers reinforce offensive line depth by adding Ioane, whose power and technique suit the run-first philosophy. His experience in Penn State’s physical system prepared him for the gap scheme concepts while anchor strength and ability to create movement at the point of attack provide immediate value. His pass-protection consistency needs refinement, but his foundation suggests early contributions in the running game.
Kadyn Proctor
Eagles Pick 23 | OT | Alabama
Lane Johnson isn’t going to play much longer; he’s been injured often, and the team struggles when he’s out. It’s time to invest in the future.
The Birds add offensive tackle depth by selecting Kadyn Proctor, whose size and athleticism provide developmental upside. His experience at Alabama prepared him for the technical requirements of protecting the quarterback, though consistency remains a concern. Proctor’s length and footwork foundation suggest potential at either tackle position, providing roster flexibility. His willingness in the run game aligns with the team’s physical offensive philosophy, making him a suitable developmental piece.
Denzel Boston
Browns Pick 24 | WR | Washington
I have the Browns adding receiving talent with Denzel Boston, whose contested catch ability and size provide red zone value. His production against man coverage demonstrates the ability to win at the catch point, though route separation must improve. Boston’s physicality and willingness to block add value beyond receiving statistics. His reliable hands and body control make him a viable target for their developing quarterback, providing a physical complement to existing weapons.
Caleb Banks
Bears Pick 25 | DL | Florida
I feel like the Bears trade up in this year’s draft and build on their amazing 2025 season, but assuming Chicago stays put, I have them adding defensive line depth by adding Banks, whose versatility allows deployment at multiple positions along the front. His ability to play both interior and edge positions provides Dennis Allen with scheme flexibility. Banks’s motor and effort level remain consistent, qualities valuable in rotation work. While further refinement of technique remains necessary, his physical tools and SEC experience demonstrate his readiness for NFL rotation duties.
KC Concepcion
Picks 26 | WR | Texas A&M
Keon Coleman was thrown under the bus, and unfortunately, I could see the team trading him in the offseason.
KC Concepcion has the speed to threaten defenses vertically and create space underneath. His production in Texas A&M’s system demonstrates the ability to win downfield, though consistency catching the ball requires improvement. Concepcion’s quickness after the catch and willingness in the blocking game add value. His speed complements Buffalo’s existing receivers.
Anthony Hill Jr.
49ers Pick 27 | LB | Texas
49ers fans may disagree with this pick, but I don’t think San Francisco is drafting out of need here. They will take the best available player and Anthony Hill’s athleticism and coverage ability fit the new DC Raheem Morris’ multiple-defensive-scheme look perfectly.
Hill has speed in pursuit and instincts that create opportunities for disruption. His experience in Texas’s system prepared him for pattern-matching concepts, and his versatility allows him to be deployed across multiple packages, providing roster value beyond a singular role.
Caleb Lomu
Texans Pick 28 | OT | Utah
The Texans have outperformed expectations. In the last six years, they went from 11 wins in their first three years to 32 wins in their last three. Rookies have carried a heavy workload, and I expect some changes through free agency this March. That said, the biggest area for talent investment is the offensive line.
I have Houston adding offensive tackle Caleb Lomu out of Utah. His length and technical foundation provide developmental potential. His experience in Utah’s physical system demonstrates understanding of protection principles, though consistency requires improvement. Lomu’s size and footwork suggest capability at either tackle position, providing roster flexibility.
T.J. Parker
Rams Pick 29 | EDGE | Clemson
The Rams have two first-round picks, and I have them going defense with both. T.J Parker has a motor that creates problems for offensive tackles. His production at Clemson demonstrates consistent ability to affect the quarterback, though strength development remains necessary. Parker’s speed-to-power conversion and developing counter moves show growth potential. His effort against the run adds value beyond pure pass-rushing, making him a good fit.
Monroe Freeling
Broncos Pick 30 | OT | Georgia
I have the Broncos addressing offensive tackle depth with Freeling, whose size and power suit coordinator Sean Payton’s physical running schemes. His experience in Georgia’s system prepared him for gap and zone blocking concepts, though refinement of his pass protection remains necessary. Freeling’s anchor strength and run-blocking ability provide immediate value. His development timeline aligns with Denver’s rebuild around Bo Nix, offering potential at either tackle position as he continues refining his technique at the NFL level.
Colton Hood
Patriots Pick 31 | OT | Georgia
New England reinforces cornerback depth by selecting Hood, whose length and technique fit a press-heavy scheme. His experience in Tennessee’s system prepared him for man coverage concepts, though ball production must improve. Hood’s physicality and competitiveness align with the Patriots’ defensive principles. His willingness to help in run support adds value beyond coverage ability.
Cashius Howell
Seahawks Pick 32 EDGE | Texas A&M
Seattle adds pass-rush depth by selecting Howell, whose length and athleticism fit the traits coordinator Aden Durde values. His production in the SEC demonstrates consistent ability to generate pressure, though technique refinement remains necessary. Howell’s motor and effort levels create opportunities for disruption, qualities valuable in rotation work. His developmental trajectory suggests he has the potential for an expanded role as he refines his pass-rush plan under Seattle’s coaching staff.