2026 NFL Draft: First Round Picks

The Super Bowl LX concluded just over 70 days ago, and now all eyes are on the 2026 NFL Draft, especially the first round. We’ve seen plenty of mock drafts and predictions, but now it's time to see who the teams really chose.  

Number One - Fernando Mendoza

As many predicted, the 22 year old Quarterback, Heisman Trophy winner, and CFP National Champion Fernando Mendoza was selected first overall by the Las Vegas Raiders. Mendoza spent his first three years of college playing for the California Golden Bears before transferring to the Indiana Hoosiers in 2025, where he won the Heisman Trophy and National Championship. He has so much potential going into his first season in the NFL.

Number Two - David Bailey

The New York Jets drafted 22 year old Edge Rusher out of Texas Tech. Bailey began at Stanford and played there for three years before transferring to Texas Tech in 2025, where he was awarded Unanimous All-American, Big 12 Defensive Lineman of the Year, and tied for the most sacks in the FBS (Football Bowl Subdivision) with 14.5. Time to see how he can do in the NFL. 

Number Three - Jeremiyah Love

The 20-year-old Running back from Notre Dame was drafted by the Arizona Cardinals. While at Notre Dame, Love broke multiple school records in rushing yards. In 2025, he was awarded Unanimous All-American, and the Doak Walker Award which he became the first in Notre Dame’s history to win. Let’s see how he compares in the big leagues. 

Number Four - Carnell Tate

First of the many Ohio State Picks. Tate is a 21-year-old Wide Receiver and 2024 CFP National Champion who was drafted by the Tennessee Titans. At Ohio State, not only was Tate a good athlete but also a good student, winning multiple academic awards while still playing high level Football. Could his brains help the team make good strategy?

Number Five - Arvell Reese

The New York Giants’ first pick of the draft went to the 20-year-old Linebacker and 2024 CFP National Champion from Ohio State. In 2025, Reese was the Big Ten Linebacker of the Year, and won the Consensus All-American award. During the 2026 Scouting Combine Reese ran a 4.46-second 40-yard dash. What will we see from him in the NFL?

Number Six - Mansoor Delane

From LSU, 22-year-old Cornerback was drafted by the Kansas City Chiefs. Delane started college at Virginia Tech for three years and won Third-team All-ACC in 2024, then transferred to LSU in 2025 and won First-team All-SEC and Unanimous All-American. Can Delane help bring the Chiefs back to the top?

Number Seven - Sonny Styles

Born in Ohio, went to college at Ohio State, but a new chapter awaits for the 21-year-old Linebacker. Styles began college as a safety but then converged to a Linebacker in 2024, following his father, Lorenzo Styles, footsteps. During the 2026 NFL Combine, Styles recorded a vertical of 43.5 inches, higher than any player of any position since 1999 who weighed more than 240 pounds. At the Combine, Styles ranked #1 in Production Score and Athleticism Score for a Linebacker. Drafted by the Washington Commanders, it will be exciting to see what he will achieve in the NFL.

Number Eight - Jordyn Tyson

From Arizona State, the New Orleans Saints drafted the 21-year-old Wide Receiver. Tyson’s first year of college was at Colorado but then transferred to Arizona State for his final three. Tyson is a two-time third-team AP All-American and a two-time first-team All-Big 12. He was Arizona's top receiver in 2024 and 2025. Also mentored and coached by former Pittsburg Steeler, Hines Ward. Let’s see what he can do in his first NFL season.

Number Nine - Spencer Fano

The Cleveland Browns drafted 21-year-old Offensive tackle from Utah. While playing at Utah, Fano was awarded Freshman All-American (2023), two-time First-team All-Big 12 (2024, 2025), First-team All-American (2024), Unanimous All-American (2025), Big 12 Offensive Line,an of the year (2025), Polynesian College Football Player of the Year (2025), and Outland Trophy (2025). Fano also ranked #1 in Production Score and Athleticism Score in the 2026 NFL Combine. His future in the NFL looks bright.

Number Ten - Francis Mauigoa

From the Miami Hurricanes, the 20-year-old Guard was drafted by the New York Giants. In 2025, Mauigoa was awarded Consensus All-American and the Jacobs Blocking Trophy, he also played a big part in the Hurricanes playoff win, though coming runner up in the championship. Mauigoa also has an older brother in the NFL, Francisco Mauigoa, who’s a Linebacker for the New York Jets, which means they will train at the same stadium! Much to come for Mauigoa in the NFL.

Number Eleven - Caleb Downs

Born in Hoschton, Georgia, Downs grew up loving football, in college he played for both the Alabama Crimson Tide and the Ohio State Buckeyes, who he won the 2024 National Championship with. The 21-year-old safety was drafted by the Dallas Cowboys and we’re all excited to see how his first NFL season goes!

Number Twelve - Kaydn Proctor

The 20-year-old, Iowa born offensive tackle (OT), was selected by the Miami Dolphins after his impressive college career with the Alabama Crimson Tide. The Dolphins GM, Jon-Eric Sullivan, said “There wasn’t another one in the draft like him” showcasing just how special Proctor has already been, and will continue to be in his first season in the NFL.

Number Thirteen - Ty Simpson

Alabama Crimson Tide quarterback, Ty Simpson, was drafted by the Los Angeles Rams, the team’s current QB, Matthew Stafford was awarded the NFL MVP at the end of last season, however he turned 39 in February and the team will be looking to build a new foundation for his departure. Simpson was predicted to be a round 2 pick, but that didn’t set him back at all, he spoke to interviewers at the draft, saying “Absolutely I am confident. That’s why I decided to come.” His NFL career will be an interesting one to watch, that’s for sure.

Number Fourteen - Olaivavega Ioane

The American-Samoan offensive guard from the Penn-State Nittany Lions, often known as “Vega” was drafted by the Baltimore Ravens. This news has been a huge relief for Ravens’ fans as they have been hoping for weaknesses within the team to be managed in order for a chance at playoffs in the upcoming 2026-27 season. The addition of Ioane has pleased many fans, and everyone, regardless of if they’re a Ravens’ fan or not, will be watching this season closely to see how the changes affect the game.

Number Fifteen - Reuben Bain Junior

The 21-year-old defensive-end from Florida was selected by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. The team’s general manager, Jason Licht, said that Bain’s “passion for the game” was one of the main reasons they were drawn to him in the first place. Bain played for the Miami Hurricanes in college and after experiencing a tragic accident in March of 2024, this draft selection and his ability to play an NFL season will not be taken for granted.

Number Sixteen - Kenyon Sadiq

The former tight-end for the Oregon Ducks has just been drafted by the New York Jets. 21-year-old Kenyon Sadiq will be a crucial player in the upcoming season as the Jets have had 10 straight losing seasons and haven’t made it to the playoffs in 15 years in a row. The pressure will be on Sadiq and his fellow Jets drafts as they work hard in their first season to help their team in any way they can.

Number Seventeen - Blake Miller

Detroit Lions draft pick Blake Miller from Strongsville, Ohio has plenty to offer his new team. The offensive tackle is a refresh to the Lions’ offensive line as the team parted ways with former starting left tackle Taylor Decker. The Lions plan on using this draft to freshen the team and push for playoffs and of course, the SuperBowl next season. Miller’s skills will be displayed on a whole new stage as he starts his next chapter as an NFL player.

Number Eighteen - Caleb Banks

The 23-year-old defensive linesman from Florida was a bold move from the Minnesota Vikings. Banks broke his left foot twice during the 2025 season at Miami, and needed surgery after the NFL scouting combine in March. Coach Kevin O’Connell said “Our hope is that we’ll be able to prepare him for the regular season and have him for that.” Banks will spend his time celebrating (carefully, no doubt) and resting his foot ahead of the busy NFL season!

Number Nineteen - Monroe Freeling

The former Georgia Bulldogs offensive tackle, Monroe Freeling was drafted by the Carolina Panthers. The 21-year-old Charleston native was blown away by the opportunity, not only to play at the highest level of competition, but to do it all so close to home. He said in an interview, “It was surreal, and it’s still surreal. I’m staying home, I’m only a three-hour drive from home.” The support from his family and friends at all the games will surely push him to play his best football, it will be amazing to see how this season goes for him.

Number Twenty - Makai Lemon

The 2025 Fred Biletnikoff Award winner, Makai Lemon was drafted by the Philadelphia Eagles, after his successful season with the USC Trojans in college. As wide-receiver, Lemon will be an integral part of the upcoming season with the Eagles’ current wide-receiver, AJ Brown, centre of many trading rumours. Lemon’s role will be significant in assisting QB Jalen Hurts in his plays and pushing the team for another successful SuperBowl following their win in 2025.

Number Twenty-One - Max Iheanachor

The 22-year-old Nigerian-American offensive tackle was selected by the Pittsburgh Steelers, following his college football career at both East Los Angeles College and The Arizona State Sun Devils. General Manager for the Steelers, Omar Khan said, “He’s just getting started. And he’s only going to get better,” highlighting the trust that the team and staff have in Iheanachor and how they believe that he will be an important piece in the 2026-27 season. It will be incredible to see how the season goes for the Steelers and Iheanachor!

Number Twenty-Two- Akheen Mesidor 

Akheen Mesidor came in as a strong defensive pick for the Los Angeles Chargers after an impressive run at the college level with West Virginia and then Miami. He is known for his ability to put pressure on quarterbacks and react quickly in defensive situations. There is already a belief that Mesidor could grow into being an important part of defence, it will be exciting to see how he develops over the next season. 

Number Twenty-Three- Malachi Lawrence 

UCF's 22-year-old Malachi Lawrence was drafted by the Dallas Cowboys. He joins as a fast, aggressive defensive player. Lawrence has made it clear that he wants to “set the standard” for his defence, proving his confidence heading into the 2026-27 season. His ability to pressure opponents with his speed has been praised by previous coaches. He equally brings a big physical presence to the defensive with his energy and aggression. Malachi has clear potential to grow into a main part of the team in the future.

Number Twenty- Four - KC Concepcion

Concepcion was drafted by the Cleveland Browns as a strong  wide receiver with a good offense. He is known for his speed and talent to make big plays. He has a big talent in getting past defenders which could make him an important target for the quarterback. He has a lot of potential to grow into a top player in the future.

Number Twenty-Five - Dillon Thieneman

Dillon Thieneman was selected by the Chicago Bears after a strong college career with Purdue. He stood out as a strong and smart defensive player. He can be aware of what is going on in a game very well and react fast. Dillon has potential to become a dependable part of the defence.

Number Twenty-Six- Keyland Rutledge 

Keyland Rutledge Chosen by the Houston Texans After an impressive college football performance at Georgia where he became a Key offensive lineman his strength made him an important part of the team. Rutledge now has the opportunity to strengthen Houston’s offensive line.

Number Twenty-Seven - Chris Johnson 

Drafted by the Miami Dolphins Chris Johnson as a Cornerback after he proved his strong  defensive ability. Johnson brings confidence to the defense, making him have the ability to become a potential strong defensive option in the future.

Number Twenty-Eight - Caleb Lomu

Selected by the New England Patriots Caleb Lomu comes into the NFL as a strong offensive tackle. Caleb is known for his impact in protecting the quarterback and successful offensive plays. 

Number Twenty-Nine- Peter Woods 

Peter Wood was chosen by the Kansas Chiefs after a strong career at Clemson as a defensive tackle. His physical strength and playing style makes him difficult for the offensive line to deal with. 

Number Thirty - Omar Cooper 

Omar Cooper was drafted by the New York Jets after his college football career at Indiana as a wide receiver. He can receive several hundred receiving yards and score touchdowns. Cooper’s college stats say he could be an important offensive option in the future. 

Number Thirty-One - Keldric Faulk 

The Tennessee Titans drafted Keldric Faulk as edge rusher following a college career at Auburn where he proved himself a strong defensive player. Faulks is showing him self as a potential key player for the titans 

Number Thirty-Two - Jadarian Price 

Chosen by Seattle Seahawks Jadarian Price after his college career at Notre Dame as a running back. He has shown strong ability to gain yards and help the team’s offense; his speed helps him find gaps making good runs. Jadarian Price has potential to become a big part of the Seahawks offensive.

Article written by Haley Hall, Milla Sinfield and Laila D