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Mel Kiper Jr.
A couple of Authors
I’ve yet one more set of projections for you forward of the 2026 NFL draft, which kicks off April 23 in Pittsburgh with 32 first-round choices ahead of proceeding with Rounds 2-3 on April 24 and Rounds 4-7 on April 25. However my ultimate mock draft for this cycle will likely be just a little other than the 3 editions I did previous this yr. This time, I am going two complete rounds.
To make those predictions, I am leaning on staff wishes, critiques and what I am listening to in conversations with professionals, coaches and scouts across the NFL. This is not what I might do; it is what I consider each and every staff will do as soon as at the clock. We all know the No. 1 pick out will likely be Indiana quarterback Fernando Mendoza, however issues get attention-grabbing in no time from there. You can realize some marvel past due risers in each rounds. And to shake the choices up much more, I projected two in-draft trades — together with one within the height 10.
For extra on those projections and this elegance basically, watch “NFL Draft Day-to-day” on ESPN2 (3 p.m. ET each weekday) and pay attention to the “First Draft” podcast. And make certain to take a look at the overall replace to my non-public Giant Board ratings when the top-150 listing drops subsequent week.
Let’s get going with my NFL mock draft 4.0. Listed here are my predictions for the primary 64 choices.
Extra at the 2026 NFL draft:
Kiper’s Giant Board | Newest mock drafts
Leap to:
Spherical 1 | Spherical 2
First industry | 2nd industry
Spherical 1
Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana
Las Vegas may just theoretically flip the draft card in now and get started celebrating the touchdown of its new franchise quarterback. Mendoza is correct with the soccer, can pick out up the sticks along with his legs when important and is in a position to execute any NFL-level throw. Bearing in mind the Raiders were a number of the backside 5 in QBR during the last 5 seasons (44.8), there is not any explanation why to overthink this. Let’s get to the Jets at No. 2, the place the draft truly begins.
David Bailey, OLB, Texas Tech
I am getting the sense the Jets will take manufacturing over attainable right here within the nice Bailey vs. Arvell Reese debate. New York was once thirty first in sacks final season with 26. It was once twenty seventh in power price at 28.8%. One thing has to switch, and bringing in a participant who led the FBS in power price (20.2%) and tied for the lead in sacks (14.5) final season may just do the trick. Bailey can be an instant-impact participant off the threshold for the Jets.
Arvell Reese, OLB, Ohio State
New trainer Mike LaFleur will need some foundational avid gamers on his protection, and Reese has a sky-high ceiling. He has prolonged enjoy at off-ball linebacker and stale the threshold, and Arizona may just use him at both spot. His long term is most likely speeding the passer, even though, and he had 6.5 sacks final season. The Cardinals — who have been within the backside 5 in power price (28.5%) final season — want somebody similar to Reese reverse Josh Sweat in a department that includes quarterbacks Matthew Stafford, Sam Darnold and Brock Purdy.
Jeremiyah Love, RB, Notre Dame
Will the Titans make the leap? We’ve not noticed a operating again move this early since Saquon Barkley went No. 2 8 years in the past, however Love has the products to come back off the board within the height 5. And whilst the case may just simply be made that Tennessee has different, extra essential holes to fill on its roster, it might be a mistake to take a look at Love only as a conventional operating again. He is a playmaker who can put a jolt within the Titans’ offense within the backfield with quarterback Cam Ward. Love will break away for house runs, he’s going to haul in challenging catches when flexed out of doors, and he’s going to persistent over defenders to increase drives.
With either one of the tip edge rushers off the board, lets see a brand new No. 1 operating again forward of Tony Pollard, Tyjae Spears and Michael Carter in Tennessee.
Caleb Downs, S, Ohio State
If issues fall this fashion, the Giants may have a hard name to make on 3 Ohio State possibilities. I may just see Carnell Tate because the staff’s No. 2 receiver reverse Malik Nabers. I may just indubitably see Sonny Kinds quarterbacking the protection from the center linebacker spot. However I stay coming again to what Downs may just do from the again finish of this secondary. Subsequent to Jevon Holland, his unbelievable instincts would pop on this protection. Downs will be the first protection taken within the height 5 since Eric Berry went to the Chiefs in 2010, and he’d be value it.
Projected Browns-Cowboys industry
Let’s have some a laugh right here. Dallas and Cleveland each and every have two first-round choices getting into the draft, which supplies the ones entrance workplaces some talent to move. With an elite prospect nonetheless at the board, I’ve Cowboys proprietor Jerry Jones calling up Browns common supervisor Andrew Berry to take a look at to make one thing occur. On this state of affairs, Dallas would industry pick out Nos. 12 and 20 to Cleveland for Nos. 6 and 39. That suggests the Browns unexpectedly have 3 first-round choices. And it way the Cowboys can upload …
6. Dallas Cowboys (by means of projected industry with CLE)
Sonny Kinds, LB, Ohio State
Dallas wasn’t preventing any person final season. It allowed 6.1 yards in keeping with play, moment worst within the NFL. It allowed 30.1 issues in keeping with recreation, worst within the NFL. And it was once a ways and away the league’s least efficient protection by means of EPA. We have all puzzled whether or not the Cowboys would use either one of their first-round choices on protection this month, however this industry up the board may have a better impression, even though it way sacrificing a kind of Day 1 choices. Kinds is my No. 4 prospect, and he’s explosive (43½-inch vertical soar), rangy (4.46 within the 40-yard sprint) and productive (77 tackles final season).
Carnell Tate, WR, Ohio State
The Commanders want defensive lend a hand, and Miami edge rusher Rueben Bain Jr. must get a glance. However in addition they have their pick out of the receiver elegance. Tate is these days my No. 2 receiver at the back of Arizona State’s Jordyn Tyson, however he is atop a large number of receiver forums across the league and does not include the similar damage questions that Tyson does.
Paired with every other Ohio State product in Terry McLaurin, Tate would carry blank course operating, reliability and a few big-play talent. He averaged 17.2 yards in keeping with catch final season en path to 875 yards and 9 journeys to the top zone. Bearing in mind the Commanders can be depending on Luke McCaffrey, Treylon Burks and Dyami Brown at the back of McLaurin, this is sensible.
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Carnell Tate’s NFL draft profile
Take a look at one of the most height highlights from Ohio State’s Carnell Tate.
Rueben Bain Jr., DE, Miami (Fla.)
If the Commanders have been to make a choice Bain at No. 7, Tate might be the pick out right here. The forums in Washington and New Orleans may glance identical on this vary. However with Tate long gone, there must be forged receiver choices in Spherical 2 to fill the void reverse Chris Olave (spoiler!), so Bain suits. The Saints’ protection is getting just a little of a refresh this offseason, and without reference to whether or not defensive finish Cameron Jordan comes again, they want extra early life and juice at the edge. Bain may have brief fingers for the location, however he additionally has immense persistent, numerous explosion and the deep pass-rush toolbox to overcome offensive tackles with consistency.
Jordyn Tyson, WR, Arizona State
As Patrick Mahomes works again from his torn left ACL, the Chiefs’ offense is looking for playmakers. Tight finish Travis Kelce is again, however he is 36 years previous. Veteran receiver Hollywood Brown is long gone to the Eagles. 3rd-year wideout Xavier Worthy has flashed however scored just one landing final season. The place are the actual difference-making cross catchers past Rashee Rice? We will be able to’t forget about Tyson’s sturdiness issues, taking into consideration he neglected a 3rd of his imaginable school video games on account of accidents, however we additionally can not forget about his unbelievable ability set when he’s at the area. He makes challenging catches in site visitors and had 711 yards final season. I am already picturing Mahomes purchasing time within the pocket and firing 50-50 balls to Tyson in spite of everything zone.
Mansoor Delane, CB, LSU
This has change into a gorgeous widespread mock draft fit, and it is sensible. Cam Taylor-Britt signed in Indianapolis, and the No. 2 nook spot reverse DJ Turner II is up for grabs in Cincinnati. The Bengals must do one thing on protection to catch that unit as much as the offense just a little; it allowed 7.8 yards in keeping with cross try in 2025, fourth worst within the league. Delane is technically sound, and he could make performs to get the protection off the sphere and put the ball in quarterback Joe Burrow‘s arms. Over 4 school seasons — together with 3 at Virginia Tech — Delane had 27 cross breakups and 8 interceptions.
Francis Mauigoa, OT, Miami (Fla.)
The Dolphins entered this mock draft with 11 general choices, together with seven within the first 3 rounds. They want them as they proceed to make massive adjustments underneath new management. Probably the most key parts to a a success rebuild is shoring up the offensive take on spots. Patrick Paul looks after the left take on spot, however there are questions at proper take on after Austin Jackson neglected 11 video games in 2025. Miami figures to have a run-heavy offense subsequent season at the back of cell quarterback Malik Willis and gifted operating again De’Von Achane, and Mauigoa would plow open some speeding lanes. If the Dolphins most popular, they might kick him inside of, the place I believe he has a Professional Bowl ceiling.
12. Cleveland Browns (by means of projected industry with DAL)
Kadyn Proctor, OT, Alabama
Cleveland is at the clock with the primary of 3 Day 1 choices after the projected industry down. The 2 positions frequently related to the Browns’ early choices are broad receiver and offensive take on. With the way in which the board fell, that most likely way Proctor, Utah lineman Spencer Fano, USC receiver Makai Lemon or Indiana receiver Omar Cooper Jr. can be within the combine. Fano’s long term may well be at guard, and the receiver elegance has extra price within the early 20s, the place the Browns pick out two extra instances. So I am going with Proctor.
He has been buzzy this month, and whilst his tape is just a little inconsistent, the characteristics are all there. Proctor may just lock down the left take on spot for an offensive line present process massive alterations.
Makai Lemon, WR, USC
Chances are you’ll see Puka Nacua and Davante Adams at the Rams’ intensity chart and query them the use of a top-15 pick out at receiver. However Adams turns 34 past due within the 2026 season and is within the final yr of his deal, and the receiver intensity falls off dramatically after the ones two standouts. But even so, the Rams are once more in win-now mode with quarterback Matthew Stafford on a year-to-year standing at this level. Basic supervisor Les Snead hasn’t ever shied clear of going for it, and including a tough-as-nails competitor with certain arms out of the slot may just put this offense excessive within the staff’s quest for every other Tremendous Bowl.
Spencer Fano, OL, Utah
Taking Fano right here would give Baltimore choices. He may just stick at his conventional place and change into a swing take on in 12 months 1 at the back of Ronnie Stanley and Roger Rosengarten ahead of sooner or later taking a starter function. He may just kick inside of to protect and exchange Andrew Vorhees. Or he may just also be the staff’s subsequent beginning heart after Tyler Linderbaum signed with the Raiders; Fano took snaps on the mix to turn groups he may just maintain the pivot. Regardless of the place he traces up, Fano has the scale (6-foot-6, 311 kilos), agility and strategy to stay quarterback Lamar Jackson‘s uniform blank. Fano did not permit any sacks final season.
Kenyon Sadiq, TE, Oregon
There is a probability we see extra two-tight-end units in Tampa Bay with coordinator Zac Robinson’s offense coming to the city and the lack of receiver Mike Evans in loose company. So, I am not sweating the Cade Otton re-signing as a big deterrent to the Bucs taking a look at Sadiq as an possibility in the course of Spherical 1. Sadiq is the transparent height tight finish within the draft elegance, and he was once probably the most greatest winners of the mix, operating a 4.39 within the 40-yard sprint at 241 kilos and jumping 43½ inches within the vertical. That explosion is plain at the tape, too. He had 560 receiving yards final season, and a large number of it got here after the catch.
Omar Cooper Jr., WR, Indiana
After going protection at No. 2 with David Bailey, the Jets must check out the receiver elegance at No. 16. Simply have a look at the intensity chart. There is Garrett Wilson (coming off a knee damage) after which … Adonai Mitchell? Isaiah Williams? No person in this staff hit 400 receiving yards final season, and the Jets nonetheless have not added every other receiver this spring. It would possibly not topic if it is Geno Smith, Ty Simpson or Joe Namath underneath heart if the Jets can not in finding extra pass-catching threats. Cooper had 937 yards and 13 touchdowns final season.
Monroe Freeling, OT, Georgia
Freeling has an enormous 6-foot-7, 315-pound body and lengthy 34¾-inch fingers, and he can erase cross rushers along with his quickness and handwork. His 18 begins of enjoy may concern some groups, however I might guess Detroit would feel free to land Freeling on this vary. He has a ton of attainable, and the Lions have been thirty first in cross block win price final season (55.5%). As a result of Freeling performed left take on at Georgia, Penei Sewell may just stick at the proper facet, too. Freeling would exchange Taylor Decker at LT, with new signee Larry Borom additionally getting numerous reps. It might be a key transfer in getting this staff again to the postseason.
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Monroe Freeling’s NFL draft profile
Take a look at one of the most height highlights from Georgia’s Monroe Freeling.
Dillon Thieneman, S, Oregon
At the side of many evaluators, I have been projecting Thieneman to Minnesota since ahead of the mix. There is nonetheless uncertainty round Harrison Smith‘s standing, however it is form of beside the point since the Vikings have to start out making plans for the longer term at protection whether or not or now not Smith is again there in 2026. Defensive coordinator Brian Flores would have Thieneman coated up in all places to create havoc. He can create turnovers (8 occupation interceptions), too.
Emmanuel McNeil-Warren, S, Toledo
Carolina may make a decision to make use of this pick out to lend a hand quarterback Bryce Younger on offense. The 2023 No. 1 draft pick out took a step ahead final season, however the offense was once nonetheless twenty fifth in ESPN’s Soccer Energy Index. Even so, getting an impression protection to pair with Tre’von Moehrig at the back of the Panthers’ truly forged cornerback duo might be the staff’s subsequent savvy transfer on protection after signing edge rusher Jaelan Phillips and linebacker Devin Lloyd. And drafting McNeil-Warren would in fact lend a hand Younger — by means of getting him the ball extra frequently. McNeil-Warren had 5 interceptions and an implausible 10 pressured fumbles over 4 seasons in school.
Denzel Boston, WR, Washington
Whether or not it is two or 3 first-rounders for the Browns, they’ve to depart Day 1 with a brand new receiver. Their receivers stuck 4 touchdowns all season in 2025. However put Boston reverse Jerry Jeudy, and issues are taking a look up. In the end, Boston had 11 touchdowns himself final season. His unswerving arms and skill to field out defenders along with his energy make the quarterback’s activity so much more straightforward.
Olaivavega Ioane, G, Penn State
I am running off the idea that Aaron Rodgers will likely be in black and yellow another time subsequent season, however frankly, No. 21 is simply too early for Ty Simpson — or every other QB — without reference to what the intensity chart seems like on April 23. I believe it is much more likely Pittsburgh takes a signal-caller on Day 2. As a substitute, the Steelers can use this pick out to give a boost to the security in entrance in their to-be-determined passer. Ioane performs with natural persistent, wrenching defenders out of the way in which. However he is additionally beautiful swift on his toes at 6-foot-4 and 320 kilos. He can be a very easy change for Isaac Seumalo, who left in loose company.
Peter Woods, DT, Clemson
That sound you pay attention is the Chargers’ mind agree with jointly slamming the battle room desk when the Steelers snagged Ioane one pick out ahead of they got here at the clock. Los Angeles gave up 60 sacks final season, tied for the second one maximum. Numerous that needed to do with the accidents to tackles Joe Alt and Rashawn Slater, and the Chargers did make a couple of strikes at the internal in loose company, however that also has to catch the attention of the staff on the draft.
Let’s pivot, even though, to the internal at the different facet of the ball. The Chargers signed Dalvin Tomlinson, however he is 32 years previous. Woods is usually a long-term fixture at 3-technique. He is as robust as they arrive, and he’d lend a hand plug the center in opposition to the run and take a look at to faucet into his pass-rushing attainable as he will get acclimated within the execs.
Blake Miller, OT, Clemson
The Eagles do not usually let long term wishes change into present issues. Basic supervisor Howie Roseman is tactful in how he helps to keep the roster stocked with intensity and long term replacements. The query right here, even though, is whether or not Roseman will upload the following in line at the back of receiver A.J. Brown (industry candidate) or offensive take on Lane Johnson (turning 36). The price is healthier for the latter on this projection, and Miller is an ideal are compatible after enjoying over 3,500 snaps at proper take on in school.
Jermod McCoy, CB, Tennessee
This is usually a just right draft day for Cleveland. Proctor and Boston would tick the 2 greatest want containers, and discovering McCoy — probably the most height cornerback possibilities within the elegance — at No. 24 will be the cherry on height. After all, McCoy hasn’t performed a soccer recreation since 2024; he tore his ACL in January 2025 and sat out all of final season. However the tape is truly just right, and his ball abilities (six interceptions in two seasons at Oregon State and Tennessee) are super. Denzel Ward, Tyson Campbell and McCoy would shape a forged trio on the place.
Zion Younger, DE, Missouri
The Bears’ makes an attempt to provide Montez Sweat a operating mate off the threshold have fallen brief, however Younger may just in spite of everything be the solution. He piled up 6.5 sacks, 46 pressures and 18 tackles for loss final season, appearing a mixture of persistent and quickness. The Bears are unexpectedly reliable contenders within the NFC, however their 35 sacks final season tied for 7th fewest within the league. I discussed this in my final mock draft — through which I additionally had Younger to Chicago — however it is value repeating: The Bears have not used a top-50 pick out on an edge rusher since Leonard Floyd went 9th in 2016. It is time to get just a little extra competitive on the place all through the draft.
Keldric Faulk, DE, Auburn
Would the Expenses imagine every other first-round cornerback after going with Maxwell Hairston in 2025? Would they proceed to hammer the receiver place? Would they even imagine a industry again if every other staff began seeing Ty Simpson fall?
All legitimate choices for a perennial contender. However I’ve Buffalo taking an opportunity on a prospect with a ton of spectacular bodily characteristics and upside. Faulk is scheme-versatile, and he could make an impression within the cross rush and in opposition to the run. His manufacturing did not take the predicted soar final season (he went from seven sacks in 2024 to just two in 2025), however getting him within the construction with Greg Rousseau and Bradley Chubb may just release his attainable.
Max Iheanachor, OT, Arizona State
The 49ers are nonetheless running towards a answer with Trent Williams on his contract scenario, however this pick out works without reference to the end result. The mythical left take on is popping 38 all through coaching camp this summer season, which means San Francisco has to take into consideration the longer term it doesn’t matter what. Iheanachor began 31 video games in school, has lengthy 33⅞-inch fingers and is short out of his set. However he is additionally quite new to soccer, having by no means performed ahead of 2022. He may just use just a little time to broaden ahead of sooner or later turning into the man.
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Max Iheanachor’s NFL draft profile
Take a look at one of the most height highlights from Arizona State’s Max Iheanachor.
Christen Miller, DT, Georgia
An already elite protection will get higher. Houston can put Miller subsequent to Sheldon Rankins at the internal to push the pocket and create extra pass-rush alternatives out of doors for Will Anderson Jr. and Danielle Hunter. The opposite possibility can be taking into consideration an offensive lineman, however it’d be a slight achieve to head get somebody at the internal. So, let’s stay this protection robust and replenished.
Colton Hood, CB, Tennessee
After choosing offense at No. 9, the Chiefs can use probably the most choices they were given again for Trent McDuffie to exchange him. And after additionally shedding Jaylen Watson in loose company, this cornerback room is truly hurting for ability. Hood is lengthy and bodily, and he had 17 cross breakups during the last two seasons. Kansas Town may just nonetheless upload to the location past Hood with one or two of its seven ultimate choices out of doors Spherical 1.
Projected Dolphins-Cardinals industry
It is getting past due in Spherical 1, and all the non-Mendoza quarterbacks are nonetheless at the board. The Jets have the thirty third pick out to kick off Spherical 2, so I would not be stunned if this kind of QB-needy groups tries to industry again into Spherical 1 to get forward of New York and in addition protected the fifth-year possibility on Ty Simpson. On this projected deal, the Cardinals ship Nos. 34 and 65 to the Dolphins for Nos. 30 and 94. The Dolphins would then have 5 general choices within the height 75 and nonetheless have the ability to get an impression participant early on Day 2.
Ty Simpson, QB, Alabama
The Kyler Murray technology is over, however I am not placing a large number of inventory in Jacoby Brissett and Gardner Minshew being anything else greater than bridge choices. The Cardinals may just completely wait till 2027 to seek out their subsequent franchise QB, and this small industry up on the finish of Spherical 1 would not stay them from doing so anyway. However there may be a possibility for Arizona to land a skilled passer at just right price.
You may have heard that Simpson has began most effective 15 video games, and that loss of enjoy is a priority. However he’s additionally correct, cell and sensible in the way in which he dissects opponent defenses. He threw 28 landing passes to just 5 interceptions final season. Why now not take a swing at an important place within the recreation?
Akheem Mesidor, DE, Miami (Fla.)
Mesidor is supremely gifted, with 12.5 sacks, 58 pressures and 11 run stops in 2025. However he is additionally 25 years previous and has some damage historical past over his lengthy six-year school occupation. If the Patriots are ok with the sturdiness possibility, they might completely use his manufacturing. Their 35 sacks tied for 7th fewest final season, and swapping in Dre’Mont Jones for Ok’Lavon Chaisson was once the staff’s primary exchange at the edge this offseason. Mesidor may just briefly change into a feared disruptor within the AFC East.
Jadarian Value, RB, Notre Dame
Seattle has to make each pick out depend, with 4 general choices (least within the league) and selecting on the finish of each and every around. I at the start regarded as projecting Arizona to industry up into this spot merely since the Seahawks would welcome any further draft capital, however I wasn’t satisfied we would in fact get an in-division industry like that involving a quarterback pick out. As a substitute, Seattle remains house and closes out Spherical 1 with our moment operating backpedal the board.
Kenneth Walker III signed in Kansas Town, and Zach Charbonnet is operating again from a torn ACL. Value may now not were the RB1 at Notre Dame, however he will also be one within the NFL. He is tough and speedy, averaging 6.0 yards in keeping with raise over his occupation and scoring 11 touchdowns final season.
Spherical 2
CJ Allen, LB, Georgia
Allen is a three-down ‘backer who all the time appears to be across the ball as a result of he anticipates so smartly. He racked up 97 tackles final season and flashed as a blitzer with 3.5 sacks. The Jets introduced in Demario Davis this offseason, however he is 37.
34. Miami Dolphins (by means of projected industry with ARI)
Germie Bernard, WR, Alabama
Down Tyreek Hill and Jaylen Waddle since this time final yr, the Dolphins will likely be sizing up this receiver elegance. Bernard has underrated pace (4.48) and excellent arms, and new offensive coordinator Bobby Slowik may just get ingenious in how he makes use of him. Bernard had 862 yards and 7 TDs as a cross catcher final season, however he additionally ran for 101 yards and two ratings.
Malachi Lawrence, OLB, UCF
There is indubitably an opportunity Lawrence is off the board ahead of Spherical 2 — he has risen the board briefly during the last month or so. He had seven sacks and 14 tackles for loss final season, showcasing actual last pace. Tennessee nonetheless has a necessity for edge speeding lend a hand, even after buying and selling for Jermaine Johnson.
Kayden McDonald, DT, Ohio State
The overall participant from my present top-25 Giant Board, McDonald can plug the center at 6-foot-2 and 326 kilos. He had 17 run stops final season. However he is greater than only a run stopper; McDonald added 3.5 sacks and has some untapped attainable in that house. He emerged in a large manner all through the 2025 season, and he may just do wonders for the Raiders’ protection.
Keylan Rutledge, G, Georgia Tech
The signing of Daniel Faalele mustn’t stay the Giants from including to their internal offensive line. Rutledge began 43 video games in school and gave up most effective two sacks. He may just slide right into a starter’s function as a rookie.
Chase Bisontis, G, Texas A&M
This is that internal lineman Houston badly wishes. Bisontis performed 1,300 snaps at left guard during the last two seasons, and he performs with an edge at 6-foot-5 and 315 kilos. Aireontae Ersery equipped first rate early returns as a second-round pick out final yr, and Bisontis may just do the similar for Houston at the inside of this yr.
39. Dallas Cowboys (by means of projected industry with CLE)
T.J. Parker, DE, Clemson
This is the overall pick out fascinated about my projected Cleveland-Dallas industry. I like Parker’s speed-to-power and the way he performs to the whistle. His sack depend dipped from 11 to 5 in 2025, however he is aware of learn how to reason issues for opponent QBs, with 114 pressures during the last 3 years. The Cowboys traded for Rashan Gary, and they are able to proceed cleansing up the cross rush with this promising prospect.
R Mason Thomas, OLB, Oklahoma
The Chiefs’ 35 sacks tied for 7th lowest within the NFL final season. Chris Jones (seven) and George Karlaftis (six) have been the one avid gamers to have 4 or extra sacks, and Felix Anudike-Uzomah — who’s penciled in because the starter reverse Karlaftis — sat out the season on account of a hamstring damage. Thomas can pitch in right here. He had 15.5 sacks and 25 tackles for loss during the last two seasons.
Cashius Howell, OLB, Texas A&M
Bengals fanatics will see “Texas A&M edge rusher” and feature flashbacks to final April, when the staff took Shemar Stewart regardless of his 4.5 sacks over 3 seasons with the Aggies. Stewart ended up with one sack as a rookie. Howell wears the similar uniform however is at the different finish of the spectrum. He had 11.5 sacks and 16.5 tackles for loss final season. That is big-time manufacturing for a Cincinnati staff that simply misplaced Trey Hendrickson.
KC Concepcion, WR, Texas A&M
The Saints are obviously looking to give second-year quarterback Tyler Shough the gear for good fortune. They signed operating again Travis Etienne Jr. and guard David Edwards. However they’re nonetheless missing at the WR entrance at the back of Chris Olave. Concepcion is elusive and may just fit in as the brand new No. 2 wideout after 919 yards and 9 touchdowns final season.
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KC Concepcion’s NFL draft profile
Take a look at one of the most height highlights from Texas A&M’s KC Concepcion.
Chris Johnson, CB, San Diego State
Johnson has 4.4 pace and posted 4 interceptions and 9 cross breakups final season. He’s most likely going to be my CB3 within the elegance when my ultimate ratings drop subsequent week, so this may finally end up being a thieve for the Dolphins. They would like to discover a starter in the course of Spherical 2; they’re in specifically tough form at nook.
Brandon Cisse, CB, South Carolina
The Jets are not a lot better in that CB division. In the end, they intercepted 0 passes final season. I really like Cisse’s consciousness in protection, and he is speedy to the soccer. He had most effective two interceptions in school, however he did have 12 cross breakups.
Eli Stowers, TE, Vanderbilt
Isaiah Most likely is now with the Giants, and even though Mark Andrews is again on a new deal, he’s turning 31 in early September. Stowers stuck 146 passes during the last 3 years, together with 11 touchdowns. And he piled up 769 yards final season.
Jacob Rodriguez, LB, Texas Tech
Lavonte David retired this offseason, ushering in a brand new technology at linebacker for the Buccaneers. Tampa Bay signed Alex Anzalone, and now it might probably upload a real tackling system. Rodriguez ranked moment in tackles within the FBS during the last two seasons (252).
Anthony Hill Jr., LB, Texas
Without a first-round pick out this yr, the Colts must be gazing the linebacker board very sparsely. They signed Akeem Davis-Gaither, however they do not truly have every other viable starter on the place. Hill was once getting top-10 buzz final summer season, however he is firmly within the Day 2 combine now after an asymmetric season. He can duvet a large number of flooring at the second one point and ran a 4.51 on the mix at 238 kilos. However he additionally has upside as a cross rusher, and there is a probability he performs at the edge within the execs. He’d be a just right are compatible in Lou Anarumo’s protection.
Lee Hunter, DT, Texas Tech
There are 5 groups with fewer than seven choices, and certainly one of them additionally lacks its first-rounder — the Falcons. It isn’t the most efficient scenario. Atlanta may use the primary of its 5 choices at receiver, possibly with Georgia’s Zachariah Department. It might additionally usher in Avieon Terrell not to most effective shore up the cornerback room but additionally staff him up along with his older brother, A.J. Terrell Jr.
However Atlanta gave up 4.6 yards in keeping with rush final season, twenty fifth within the league, so the internal defensive position is a matter value analyzing. Hunter had a daft 52 run stops and 33.5 tackles for loss during the last 3 seasons and might be a solution.
Mike Washington Jr., RB, Arkansas
Aaron Jones Sr. and Jordan Mason are on expiring offers, and Washington’s 4.33 pace would upload every other component to the offense (which additionally now options Kyler Murray’s mobility underneath heart). Washington ran for 1,070 yards and 8 touchdowns final season, and he added 28 catches out of the backfield.
Derrick Moore, OLB, Michigan
Detroit remains to be taking swings on edge rushers reverse Aidan Hutchinson. After going offensive line within the first around, that is just right spot to take every other minimize. Moore had 10 sacks final season. And prefer Hutchinson, he comes from down the street in Ann Arbor.
Caleb Lomu, OT, Utah
The Panthers do not have a evident want at offensive take on with Ikem Ekwonu, Taylor Moton and Rasheed Walker. However Lomu represents just right price and an opportunity so as to add intensity to a room that misplaced Ekwonu within the playoffs to a ruptured patellar tendon. Lomu — who performed left take on at Utah — is forged in cross coverage, however he truly pops as a run blocker. His talent to get to the second one point is far and wide the tape.
Avieon Terrell, CB, Clemson
Terrell is coping with a hamstring damage these days, however he’s a constant man-to-man nook with numerous pace. He makes performs at the ball, and he had 8 pressured fumbles during the last two seasons, together with 5 in 2025. He may just probably get started for the Packers in 12 months 1.
Zachariah Department, WR, Georgia
The Steelers have pace and energy at the out of doors in DK Metcalf. They have got a middle-of-the-field chain mover in Michael Pittman Jr. However the place is the quick-game specialist? That’d be crucial a part of the offense if Aaron Rodgers returns; he were given the ball out sooner than every other QB final season (2.59 seconds on moderate). Input Department, who may well be undersized at 5-foot-9 and 177 kilos however performs the sport like Zay Plants and is explosive sufficient to take a snappy slant for a large achieve.
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Zachariah Department’s NFL draft profile
Take a look at one of the most height highlights from Georgia’s Zachariah Department.
Oscar Delp, TE, Georgia
Dallas Goedert is again for yet one more yr, however the Eagles want extra choices at tight finish, to not point out a succession plan for the 31-year-old if he does not go back in 2027. Delp’s stats are not going to wow you (20 catches for 261 yards and one TD in 2025), however he is efficient with the ball in his arms and has some attainable to his recreation. And the Eagles love the Georgia pipeline.
Emmanuel Pregnon, G, Oregon
The Chargers may have neglected out on Ioane in Spherical 1, however they get their internal lineman right here on Day 2 — certainly one of most effective 5 general choices for common supervisor Joe Hortiz. Pregnon can transfer defenders off the ball along with his persistent and sustains his blocks truly smartly. He can lock out defensive tackles.
Jaishawn Barham, OLB, Michigan
The Jaguars do not have a first-round pick out, however they do have 11 general choices. So, they’ve the risk to assault some wishes. Certainly one of them is edge rusher, as they ranked twenty seventh in sacks final season (32). Barham is an intriguing participant to look at on Day 2, and he is usually a just right are compatible in Jacksonville. He had 4 sacks and 23 pressures final season.
Treydan Stukes, S, Arizona
This offseason has introduced a complete line exchange at protection in Chicago: Coby Bryant and Cam Lewis in, Jaquan Fresher and Kevin Byard III out. However it is nonetheless a necessity, and Stukes may just step in for Lewis. The Bears have an opportunistic protection, main the NFL in takeaways (33) and interceptions (23) final season. Stukes suits proper in; he had 4 interceptions final yr.
Gabe Jacas, DE, Illinois
The Niners have been down Nick Bosa and Mykel Williams final season, and their respective returns will do wonders to the threshold rush. However there is not any getting across the staff’s 20 sacks final season, by means of a ways the bottom general within the league. Jacas had 11 sacks final season; he would on the very least supply intensity in case starters move down once more.
D’Angelo Ponds, CB, Indiana
The Texans like Jalen Pitre within the slot, and for just right explanation why. However this can be a price play on a prospect with forged ball abilities (seven INTs over 3 seasons) and an explosive ability set. Just right good fortune to any staff looking to throw the soccer in opposition to Houston subsequent season.
Logan Jones, C, Iowa
The Bears briefly discovered a brand new heart in Garrett Bradbury after Drew Dalman retired, however Bradbury is a loose agent after this season. Jones has began 51 video games, all at heart.
Josiah Trotter, LB, Missouri
Offensive line might be value attention. Perhaps Florida heart Jake Slaughter? Possibly Iowa lineman Gennings Dunker? The price may well be higher in Spherical 3. As a substitute, let’s get defensive coordinator Chris Shula every other linebacker at the back of Nate Landman. Trotter had 183 tackles during the last two seasons.
Caleb Banks, DT, Florida
Welcome to the draft, Denver! With a gorgeous deep roster, the Broncos can have enough money to take just a little little bit of a possibility. Banks’ ability is extra in step with Spherical 1, however he’s coping with but every other foot damage, which might stay him at the board till the center a part of Day 2. Banks is a disruptive presence at the internal, and he can stuff the run at 6-foot-6 and 327 kilos. With John Franklin-Myers leaving in loose company, coordinator Vance Joseph may just use somebody like Banks at the inside of.
The opposite place to look at this is tight finish; Evan Engram is coming into the overall yr of his deal.
Chris Brazzell II, WR, Tennessee
It is nonetheless imaginable that the Patriots industry for A.J. Brown, which might clearly take the broad receiver room to every other point. Even so, Brazzell ran a 4.37 at 6-foot-4 and 198 kilos, and he completed final season with 1,017 yards and 9 touchdowns, averaging 16.4 yards in keeping with catch. New England must be keen so as to add cross catchers with bodily characteristics and manufacturing like that, as third-year quarterback Drake Maye wishes extra playmakers.
Malik Muhammad, CB, Texas
The Seahawks introduced again Josh Jobe, however they let Riq Woolen stroll in loose company. Muhammed has 4.42 pace and broke up 10 passes in 2024. He is usually a rotational participant for defensive coordinator Aden Durde.