B/R NFL Scouting Dept's Initial 2026 NFL Mock Draft
The intrigue for the 2026 NFL draft is already peaking, with Texas quarterback Arch Manning at the forefront of the discussion.
The 21-year-old is considered the favorite for the No. 1 overall pick next April despite making only two starts in his first two collegiate seasons. At the same time, he is obviously talented and deserving of attention. He simply needs to prove it on the field, and he may have ample time to do so.
"Arch isn't going to do that [declare for the 2026 class]," his grandfather, Archie, told S.C. Gwynne of Texas Monthly. "He'll be at Texas [next fall]."
Despite that proclamation, Manning will be eligible to join the class and should be treated as such until the official deadline for underclassmen to declare passes, either with or without him as part of the next wave of talent.
For the purposes of transparency, the Bleacher Report Scouting Department did not include Manning in its initial draft board, because those rankings are based on preseason scouting and he has minimal game time. However, a mock draft is different. It's a projection of what could happen, in this case, eight months from now.
With that in mind, B/R's scouts—Brandon Thorn, Dame Parson, Daniel Harms and Matt Holder—pieced together the site's first mock draft of the 2026 cycle, with six quarterbacks finding their way into the opening frame.
Note: Order is based on Draft Kings' reverse Super Bowl odds, while adjusting to fit projected playoff formatting.
1. New Orleans Saints: QB Arch Manning, Texas
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New Orleans' favorite son from a historic family returns home as the possible savior of a sinking franchise.
Fifty-five years after the Saints drafted his grandfather, Archie, with the second overall pick, the organization again places its faith in the Manning family.
As stated, the legacy prospect must prove himself this fall, then seriously consider entering the class and foregoing his remaining eligibility. Obviously, everything remains up in the air. But the quarterback can't be ruled out until he's no longer officially part of the upcoming class. His upside is far too tantalizing.
"Arch Manning has the pedigree and NFL bloodlines that excite the draft community," Parson said. "What separates him at the moment is the underclassman being a different level of athlete compared to his uncles, Peyton and Eli. He is a threat to make big and explosive plays on the ground as a runner and from the pocket.
"If the Saints are picking first overall, this means the Spencer Rattler and Tyler Shough experiment failed, opening the door for them to draft a quarterback for the third year in a row. "
2. Cleveland Browns: S Caleb Downs, Ohio State
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Eric Turner became the highest drafted safety in NFL history when the Cleveland Browns selected the UCLA standout near the top of the 1991 class. Will history repeat itself?
Obviously, quarterback remains at the forefront of everything the Browns do. Maybe they have something in Shedeur Sanders or Dillon Gabriel. We'll have to wait and see.
Also, the organization owns a pair of first-rounders to play with, thanks to this year's draft-day trade with the Jacksonville Jaguars.
What isn't in question, though, is Caleb Downs' talent.
"There isn't much precedent for a safety to go inside the top two of the NFL draft," Harms said, "but Downs is the No. 1 overall prospect on B/R's board. He will immediately make whatever defense he's added to better.
"The 6'0", 205-pound safety has the range and versatility that defensive coordinators crave, and he packs a punch when working downhill. With 10 pass-breakups and four interceptions during his two collegiate seasons, he tracks the football well, plays with good eye discipline and can impact pass-catchers wherever they are.
"The Browns need impact players, and Downs can play whatever role defensive coordinator Jim Schwartz prefers."
3. New York Jets: QB Fernando Mendoza, Indiana
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A top-three pick is the worst-case scenario for the New York Jets based on their current plans. Though it could be the best possible path forward for the organization, because it can reset at quarterback.
Fernando Mendoza has plenty to prove after transferring to Indiana from Cal. His projection as as a top quarterback prospect is based on his traits and a higher level of production working in the Hoosiers' high-flying offense.
"Justin Fields signed a two-year deal this offseason," Parson said, "but the Jets can get out of the contract after the upcoming campaign if everything goes poorly.
"Mendoza, meanwhile, checks a lot of NFL boxes. He possesses prototypical size (6'5", 225 lbs) for the quarterback position. His tape displays a variety of NFL throws and plenty of arm strength. He is hard to rattle and handles pressure/free running defenders like a pro. The 21-year-old has the physical ability and passing skill set to thrive in the NFL."
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4. Tennessee Titans: WR Jordyn Tyson, Arizona State
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Had Arizona State wide receiver Jordyn Tyson not suffered an injury that required surgery in December, he might be in the NFL right now.
The 21-year-old instead gets an opportunity to build on last season's success and move himself into elite status, which should be greatly beneficial for the Tennessee Titans offense.
"Cam Ward is the new face of the Titans franchise," Parson said, "but the roster lacks talent at the wide receiver position. Calvin Ridley is still routing defenders up, but he isn't getting any younger. The Titans can't afford to bank on Day 3 and/or undrafted rookie receivers to become the future of their passing attack.
"Tyson is one of the better route-runners in college football and is dangerous after the catch. He can play all three wide receiver positions and can step into Ridley's shoes as the franchise's No. 1 receiver when his contract expires.
"Ward is proving through training camp and his first preseason action that he was the right pick. Weapons will be at a premium next offseason."
5. Carolina Panthers: DL Peter Woods, Clemson
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Much will be decided for the Carolina Panthers during the upcoming campaign, mainly regarding the fate of quarterback Bryce Young.
As of now, he is the starter and the organization still believes in the upside of the 2023 first overall draft pick.
With quarterback off the board for now, the Panthers can take the best available prospect and build an identity on defense by placing Clemson defensive tackle Peter Woods alongside Derrick Brown.
"Woods enters the season as the overwhelming favorite to be the top defensive tackle in this year's draft class due to his combination of size (6'3", 315 lbs), strength and athleticism," Holder said. "By placing him alongside Derrick Brown and Bobby Brown III, Carolina would feature a nasty trio of interior defenders, who are all under 30 years old."
Woods is the B/R Scouting Department's preseason No. 2-ranked prospect regardless of position. He can play up and down the line of scrimmage to give the Panthers an advantage in the trenches.
6. New York Giants: CB Jermod McCoy, Tennessee
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Tennessee cornerback Jermod McCoy is an elite talent, as long as he bounces back from an ACL injury he suffered in January. He's been cleared already and back to practice, albeit in a limited fashion.
His season will likely depend on how he performs late in the year more so than the early games, as he transitions beyond his recuperation to on-field performance.
Until proved otherwise, he will remain among Bleacher Report's top prospects for the 2026 class, hence his slotting this early in the process.
"The New York Giants crafted one of the most dangerous defensive fronts in football when they drafted Abdul Carter to pair with Dexter Lawrence, Brian Burns and Kayvon Thibodeaux," Harms said. "However, their secondary needs some pop and coverage upside, particularly among the corners. Deonte Banks hasn't figured it out at the NFL level, and newcomer Paulson Adebo figures to improve the room.
"McCoy would be a great fit with Adebo. His physical, sticky-style of coverage makes it difficult for receivers to breathe, and he has the ball skills to track and locate the football at all levels of the field. McCoy would create a fantastic tandem with Adebo and give that defense playmakers at all levels."
7. Indianapolis Colts: QB Garrett Nussmeier, LSU
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The Indianapolis Colts still don't know who their starting quarterback will be for the 2025 season. What are the odds that the light finally switches on for either Anthony Richardson or Daniel Jones? They're probably not good if the team still ends up with a top-10 selection.
A top-10 pick will likely signal the end of the current regime, with a new general manager and head coach being hired, which is the best time to marry them to a brand-new quarterback.
In this case, Garrett Nussmeier of LSU provides the Colt with a polished passer from the moment he joins the team.
"Nussmeier's insertion into this Colts offense, with the talent already on the roster, is a recipe for success," Parson said. "He is a natural passer who will be coming off his second season as a starter for LSU. He throws with good anticipation, accuracy and ball placement to maximize Indianapolis' talented group of pass-catchers that includes Michael Pittman Jr., Josh Downs, Alec Pierce, AD Mitchell and tight end Tyler Warren."
8. Las Vegas Raiders: QB LaNorris Sellers, South Carolina
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The Las Vegas Raiders made arguably the best quarterback move this offseason with the acquisition of Geno Smith to provide the team with some stability. The organization shouldn't stop there, though.
Smith turns 36 next season. He could be the perfect mentor for a young, developmental quarterback for a year, with the franchise able to move on in 2027 since the veteran signal-caller doesn't have any remaining guaranteed money on his deal by that point.
"South Carolina's LaNorris Sellers has the talent and physical tools to be the first quarterback drafted," Parson said. "He possesses outstanding arm strength/talent, with dynamic and powerful rushing ability. He has an extremely high ceiling due to his physical traits, and being able to sit and learn behind an established veteran like Smith would be great for the 20-year-old's maturation."
9. Miami Dolphins: OT Kadyn Proctor, Alabama
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A top-10 pick may signal significant change for the Miami Dolphins. The team is already experiencing a soft reset, and issues remain on the roster.
The left side of the offensive line is an area that remains a question mark, with a pair of new full-time starters at tackle and guard.
"The Dolphins are banking on the development of second-year left tackle Patrick Paul in a major way this season, with below average starter Austin Jackson on the other side," Thorn said. "Chances are the team will seriously consider drafting a tackle in next year's first round. If Alabama's Kadyn Proctor is on the board here, he is too talented to pass up.
"Proctor is a massive (6'7", 360 lbs), physical tackle with a rocked-up, lean build and top-shelf raw power, who could feasibly stick at tackle or kick inside at guard with All-Pro potential.
"Miami has allocated some more resources to its line over the last two offseasons but a talent like Proctor can take it to another level and provide the team with a building block."
10. Cleveland Browns (via Jacksonville): OT Caleb Lomu, Utah
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The Cleveland Browns pass on a quarterback yet again but address a different premium position.
If Shedeur Sanders or Dillon Gabriel starts, either QB will need excellent play from Cleveland's offensive line.
The Browns already drafted the class' best overall player regardless of position, and now the front office picks the prospect with arguably the most upside in Utah's Caleb Lomu.
"Cleveland could be in the market for two new tackles next offseason and will be in the market for adding one in the first round come draft time," Thorn said. "Lomu isn't as physically developed as his current counterpart, Spencer Fano, but he's just a one-year starter and redshirt sophomore. What makes him a viable candidate to rise into a top-10 selection is the body control and recovery skills he showed on film last year, specifically in pass protection.
"With smooth movement skills and the rare ability to get out of compromising positions, the underclassman has some of the most coveted skills for a tackle. If he can continue to improve his play strength and anchor, he has a chance to leapfrog Fano as the first Utah tackle off the board."
11. Los Angeles Rams (via Atlanta): QB Cade Klubnik, Clemson
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The Los Angeles Rams have reached the point where the organization must plan for life without Matthew Stafford.
The veteran has already mentioned the possibility of retiring, as he continues to deal with injuries from the wear and tear of a 16-year career. The 2009 first overall draft pick also turns 38 in February.
The luxury of owning a pair of first-round picks places the Rams in an ideal position to select Stafford's successor or outright replacement during next April's draft.
"Stafford's back injury continues to linger," Parson said. "The Rams' backup quarterbacks are not talented enough to pass up on a first round-caliber prospect.
"Cade Klubnik's combination of athleticism and play-making brings a different element than what the team currently has. He has developed his overall anticipation and accuracy over the last two seasons at Clemson.
"With head coach Sean McVay calling plays and Klubnik's talent, the Rams would make a clean transition at quarterback that most teams dream of experiencing."
12. Seattle Seahawks: Edge T.J. Parker, Clemson
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The Seattle Seahawks are still trying to figure out who they are under the direction of head coach Mike Macdonald.
The organization's free-agent signing of quarterback Sam Darnold helps provide a new direction on offense, but Macdonald is a defensive-minded coach. He prefers an aggressive approach to harass opposing quarterbacks. Last season, the Seahawks tied for third in total sacks.
However, the squad's defensive front has question marks. Demarcus Lawrence is getting older, Boye Mafe is a free agent after this season, and Uchenna Nwosu will turn 30 while playing under the final year of his current contract in 2026 as well.
"Unless Derick Hall takes a big step forward this season, the Seahawks could use a young edge-defender for the long haul, seeing as Lawrence is already 33 years old," Holder said. "Parker is similar to Lawrence in both size and play style, and he'd be a good value pick at No. 12."
13. New England Patriots: S Dillon Thieneman, Oregon
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The New England Patriots did an impressive job retooling their roster this offseason and making it so the lineup looks competitive at nearly every level.
The safety position finds itself in an interesting position since both Kyle Dugger and Jabrill Peppers will be 30 next season, with no guaranteed money left on their current contracts.
"Mike Vrabel is doing 'the Patriot Way' his way," Harms said, "and he's making a statement by having Dugger running with the backups. With Peppers' contract status what it is, the Patriots could feature a very different-looking safety room in 2026.
"Enter Oregon's Dillon Thieneman. He feels like a bona fide Vrabel-type of player, who will do whatever is asked of him, can defend the run, has the range to play over the top of the defense and the size to contribute in the box. He plays with a ton of effort and is a good culture fit for the Patriots."
14. Arizona Cardinals: OT Spencer Fano, Utah
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Eventually, the Arizona Cardinals need to get more out of their offensive investments, particularly quarterback Kyler Murray and wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. The best way to do so is by making sure the front five is solid and allows the team's playmakers to take over contests.
Paris Johnson Jr. is already at left tackle, and bookend first-round offensive tackles can be a strong start.
"Utah's Spencer Fano is light on his feet and a fluid mover, who is rarely caught off balance" Thorn said. "He also brings excellent competitive toughness and desire to finish defenders. Fano could also add bulk and mass onto his relatively slender build but has the bones of being an asset in the run game at tackle or guard, specifically in a creative run scheme that features gap concepts and pullers.
"Arizona would be the ideal landing spot for what they would ask of the incoming rookie as a run-blocker and with stopgap right tackle Jonah Williams set to hit free agency next offseason."
15. Dallas Cowboys: CB Jalon Kilgore, South Carolina
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On paper, the Dallas Cowboys secondary looks strong. In reality, it's a mess, specifically at cornerback.
Trevon Diggs has dealt with injuries in back-to-back seasons. Kaiir Elam, who was acquired from the Buffalo Bills, hasn't lived up to his first-round draft status. Third-round rookie Shavon Revel Jr. suffered a torn ACL last season. DaRon Bland should be good, but he's a free agent after the 2025 campaign.
"In trying to replace the do-it-all cornerback in Bland, the Cowboys could effectively do so with this draft pick," Harms said. "South Carolina's Jalon Kilgore is a top-tier athlete with the size (6'1", 211 lbs) and versatility to play multiple positions in the NFL. He's a willing run defender and a good tackler at all levels of the field.
"Kilgore should bring great energy to the Dallas defense."
16. Chicago Bears: RB Jeremiyah Love, Notre Dame
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The Chicago Bears feature plenty of talent in their backfield. However, no one on the roster is the same caliber of runner or playmaker as Notre Dame's Jeremiyah Love.
The 20-year-old initially grades as a top-10 prospect in this year's class.
Head coach Ben Johnson, who previously served as the Detroit Lions' offensive coordinator, again moves on from D'Andre Swift with a more explosive playmaker.
"Love would be a great fit inside Johnson's offense," Parson said. "He presents the Bears with a three-down running back, who lowers his shoulder upon contact with defenders and has homerun-hitting, top-end speed.
"Most expect the Bears' passing attack to be improved with their new head coach/play-caller scheming things up for quarterback Caleb Williams and Co. Their rushing attack is the concern, though. Besides, Love is a dynamic pass-catcher out of the backfield. As such, he could be Johnson's next version of Jahmyr Gibbs."
17. Houston Texans: OL Francis Mauigoa, Miami
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The Houston Texans offensive line is currently held together by duct tape and bubble gum.
At least, that's what it feels like after making significant changes to the front five, with the free-agent signings Cam Robinson, Laken Tomlinson and Ed Ingram, who all all operating under one-year deals.
A more permanent solution is necessary to ensure the Texans' maximize what they have in quarterback C.J. Stroud.
"Miami's Francis Mauigoa fits the same archetype as the Dolphins' 2025 second-round pick, Jonah Savaiinaea, who played mostly offensive tackle at Arizona before getting kicked inside to guard," Thorn said. "Mauigoa has adequate range on an island in pass protection that signals a hard cap on his ceiling as a tackle in the pro game but offers very good size, length, play-strength and power to make a smooth transition inside, where the Texans have nothing but question marks."
18. Minnesota Vikings: CB Avieon Terrell, Clemson
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The Minnesota Vikings' secondary has been a work-in-progress for some time.
They can rely on longtime safety Harrison Smith for only so long. From there, Byron Murphy Jr. is the only reliable cornerback on the roster, which is why the position is targeted with this selection.
"Defensive coordinator Brian Flores has been able to cobble together the Vikings' defense every season in a new, weirder way than before," Harms said, "and we appreciate him for it. However, the team could possibly start Isaiah Rodgers and Jeff Okudah at cornerback this season. They need help.
"Clemson's Avieon Terrell is a talented, fluid athlete who constantly attacks the ball at the catch point. He has the recovery speed and length to play man-coverage and the eye discipline and route-recognition to succeed in zone.
"Terrell would be a great addition to a Flores' aggressive defensive scheme, which, in turn, could help the defensive back grow into an even better player."
19. Pittsburgh Steelers: QB Drew Allar, Penn State
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The Pittsburgh Steelers think they can contend with 41-year-old Aaron Rodgers at quarterback. Maybe they will.
If they land in this specific area, they're good enough for another one-and-done playoff run, which places them in a difficult position to secure Rodgers' replacement.
Fortunately, next year's QB class looks strong entering the 2025 campaign. Penn State's Drew Allar is a prototypical quarterback who fits what the Steelers prefer.
"There are three things we can count on: Death, taxes and Mike Tomlin leading his team to winning football games," Parson said. "The Steelers bypassed a quarterback during the early portions of 2025 NFL draft. Rest assured, they're expected to be involved with this incoming quarterback class.
"Allar is a physically gifted thrower with functional mobility. He is a big-framed and big-armed quarterback, who resembles a former long-term starter in Pittsburgh. He is heading into a pivotal senior season to complete his development. He can fit well with the other young pieces the Steelers have acquired."
20. Los Angeles Chargers: Edge Rueben Bain Jr., Miami
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When two of a team's primary edge-defenders are Khalil Mack and Bud Dupree, a young addition is necessary.
The Los Angeles Chargers can draft Miami's Rueben Bain Jr. and give the team a solid rotation for the future alongside Tuli Tuipulotu, Kyle Kennard and even Caleb Murphy.
"The Chargers let Joey Bosa go this offseason, while Mack is on a one-year deal at 34 years old and admitted to contemplating retirement this offseason," Holder said. "In other words, Jim Harbaugh's crew could use some help on the edge, and Bain's physicality should pique the coach's interest."
A soft-tissue injury slowed Bain last year. He's expected to have a big bounce-back season during his junior campaign and presents significant upside. If he returns to the player who won ACC Defensive Rookie of the Year in 2023, he could land much higher in the first round."
21. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: LB Sonny Styles, Ohio State
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The Tampa Bay Buccaneers haven't invested heavily in the linebacker position for some time. Even the failed Devin White selection was six years ago.
Beyond that choice, Tampa hasn't chosen a linebacker in the first two rounds since Lavonte David in 2012.
Amazingly, David is still with the team but for how long?
"Whether Styles is replacing David or learning under him for a year or two, this would be a great pick for the Bucs," Holder said. "Like David, the converted defensive back is an impressive athlete who can make an immediate impact in coverage. Also, he's better at taking on blocks than one might expect, giving the Buckeye plenty of potential to develop into a well-rounded linebacker."
Furthermore, fellow Bucs linebacker Anthony Walker Jr. is 30 years old and operating under a one-year contract. Styles gives Tampa a legitimate playmaker and athlete along the second line of defense.
22. Denver Broncos: TE Max Klare, Ohio State
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Tight end became a major sticking point for the Denver Broncos last season, with no one on the roster managing more than 19 receptions.
Now, they sit in a position to bring in the class' TE1 based on preseason scouting.
"Sean Payton and Broncos brought in Evan Engram this offseason to be the pass-catching tight end in the room," Harms said, "but they'll want to run more 12 personnel and have a successor to Engram, with his contract only being for two seasons.
"Ohio State's Max Klare is a nuanced route-runner who does a great job of getting into and exploiting space. He's a threat after the catch and will be a mismatch to smaller defensive backs and bigger linebackers with his speed. He's used in a variety of ways and is a willing blocker with sound technique. He'd be a great addition to the weapons surrounding quarterback Bo Nix and the eventual No. 1 tight end in Denver."
23. Los Angeles Rams: OT Isaiah World, Oregon
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Earlier, the Los Angeles Rams landed their quarterback of the future.
Now, they select a massive offensive tackle in Oregon's Isaiah World to ensure Cade Klubnik remains upright.
"The Rams currently feature aging right tackle Rob Havenstein, who is still solid but becoming more injury-prone and slowing down," Thorn said. "Havenstein is a free agent after the upcoming season as well. Left tackle Alaric Jackson is currently battling blood clots with an unknown timeline for a return to the field. The cupboard is bare behind them.
"World is a Nevada transfer facing the perfect opportunity to prove himself against top competition this season, while learning from renowned offensive line coach A'lique Terry. World is a long, fluid mover with a nasty streak, who needs to prove that he has the necessary play-strength and anchoring ability to contend with the bull-rush in the Big Ten this year. If he can show those things, expect to see his name among next year's top offensive line prospects."
24. Green Bay Packers: CB Malik Muhammad, Texas
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The secondary remains a sticking point with the Green Bay Packers despite finishing 13th in pass defense a season ago.
The organization made some moves to fill out the backline of its defense, but more talent is necessary in order to complete the group.
"An addition to Green Bay's secondary has to be a priority for general manager Brian Gutekunst after the long anticipated departure of Jaire Alexander, while also allowing Eric Stokes to walk in free agency," Harms said. "Even with the addition of Nate Hobbs, the position groups needs more talent and Texas' Malik Muhammad is on the same trajectory as former teammate Jahdae Barron.
"Muhammad's breakout last season came in the form of eight passes broken up to go along with his exceptional athleticism and physical play-style. The 20-year-old prospect will be stepping into the lead cornerback role this season. As long as he builds upon last year, he’d be a welcome addition to the Packers defense."
25. Cincinnati Bengals: DL LT Overton, Alabama
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The Cincinnati Bengals offense is pretty much set. The defense needs an overhaul, though.
With Sam Hubbard's retirement, Trey Hendrickson's ongoing contractual dispute and B.J. Hill turning 31 next year, the Bengals should again invest in their defensive front, despite recent the first-round selections of Myles Murphy and Shemar Stewart.
Besides, Alabama's LT Overton brings a completely different skill set than those recent draft picks.
"Overton would be a good pickup for the Bengals since he has some position versatility to lineup anywhere from a 3-technique to a 5-technique," Holder said.
At 6'5" and 283 pounds, the 20-year-old prospect isn't built like many other prospects. He has showed the capabilities to play on the edge for Alabama. Though his game is predicted on power, which will translate well to wherever the Bengals plan to use him.
26. San Francisco 49ers: WR Ja'Kobi Lane, USC
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The San Francisco 49ers find themselves in a more difficult position after signing quarterback Brock Purdy to a contract extension.
The Niners previously benefited from Purdy being under a seventh-round rookie contract. Well, his deal kicks into gear next year, when his salary-cap charge nearly triples. It only goes up from there.
As such, the 49ers can't pay everyone. They'll make some tough decisions and may start at wide receiver.
"The wide receiver position for the San Francisco 49ers is not shaping up too well this preseason," Parson said. "Multiple injuries are currently found in that room, as well as a contract dispute with one of the squad's most reliable options (Jauan Jennings). San Francisco did select Ricky Pearsall in the first round of the 2024 draft. He flashed down the stretch of his rookie season. But the team probably needs more.
"USC's Ja'Kobi Lane offers a prototypical X-receiver build and frame. Lane can operate as a three-level threat, with a game similar to the new Dallas Cowboys' target, George Pickens."
27. Washington Commanders: Edge Cashius Howell, Texas A&M
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The Texas A&M Aggies program is known for producing defensive linemen with huge upside yet are somewhat raw and require development.
Cashius Howell is next in line.
"This pairing is more of a projection since most outlets don't have Howell as a first-round pick yet," Holder said. "But he's a player to look out for now that he won't be sitting behind Nic Scourton and Shemar Stewart. Meanwhile, the Washington Commanders are looking for help on the edge, signing a fellow Aggie in the 36-year-old Von Miller, to a one-year deal ahead of training camp."
The Commanders can take a big swing, because they're already one of the league's better teams but need help at a very specific area.
Beyond Miller, Washington will rely on Dorance Armstrong, Deatrich Wise Jr. and Clelin Ferrell as their primary edge-defenders this fall.
28. Kansas City Chiefs: DL Keldric Faulk, Auburn
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Auburn defensive linemen Keldric Faulk being available to the Kansas City Chiefs feels like another instance of the rich getting richer.
Others are much higher on Faulk's potential and what he could become as the 2025 campaign progresses.
At the same time, he a very young prospect, who's raw and presents a body type that's not typical for an edge-defender. Instead, he'll need to grow as a 6'6", 285-pound defender capable of winning from multiple alignments.
"Tershawn Wharton had an impressive tenure in Kansas City as a defensive end/tackle tweener type of player," Holder said. "However, Wharton signed with the Carolina Panthers in the offseason, leaving the Chiefs with a need for a replacement. Faulk is built similarly. He's currently just 19 years old and won't turn 21 until September of next year, thus giving him plenty of growth potential at the next level."
29. Detroit Lions: Edge Matayo Uiagalelei, Oregon
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The Detroit Lions' search for an edge-defender seemingly never ends. Even with Aidan Hutchinson healthy and back in the lineup, the unit requires a legitimate bookend.
Once upon a time, the Lions needed someone opposite Ziggy Ansah. Now, it's Hutchinson. Marcus Davenport hasn't been healthy during the last two seasons, and he's never produced like a former first-round pick should.
Oregon's Matayo Uiagalelei, who doesn't turn 21 until after next April's draft, has the size and motor to fit in nicely among Dan Campbell's roster.
"On an Oregon defensive line that featured three 2025 draft picks—Derrick Harmon (first round), Jordan Burch (third round) and Jamaree Caldwell (third round)—Uiagalelei led the Ducks in sacks (10.5) and TFLs (13) last season," Holder said. "He'd be a great fit at defensive end opposite Hutchinson."
30. Baltimore Ravens: WR Denzel Boston, Washington
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It'll be interesting to see the type of impact DeAndre Hopkins provides as part of the Baltimore Ravens offense. He's not the same player he once was. However, he gives the unit a different skill set from Rashod Bateman and Zay Flowers.
Hopkins isn't signed beyond this season, though, and the Ravens should be looking for something similar next offseason.
"Ravens quarterback Lamar Jackson has never thrown to a real and traditional X-receiver," Parson said. "Well, insert Washington's Denzel Boston to fill that role. The 6'4", 209-pound Boston understands how to use his frame and wingspan to his advantage at the catch point by boxing out smaller defenders.
"Baltimore is a run-heavy offense that will create ample one-on-one opportunities for Boston to thrive. Jackson would finally have his 'He's down there somewhere' ball-winner."
31. Philadelphia Eagles: TE Kenyon Sadiq, Oregon
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Longtime Philadelphia Eagles tight end Dallas Goedert almost certainly won't be a part of the roster beyond his eight seasons with the franchise and possibly even sooner.
Whereas, Oregon's Kenyon Sadiq could eventually emerge as TE1 throughout his junior campaign and provide the Eagles offense with yet another weapon.
"Goedert is an aging commodity and a free agent after the 2025 season, with no successor in line," Harms said. "General manager Howie Roseman has built a juggernaut of a football team by finding diamonds in the rough to go with the studs that fall to the Eagles every year.
"Sadiq is a fantastic athlete at the tight end position, will make defenders miss in space or run them over and brings his lunch pail when working in-line and blocking. Sadiq is poised to be the No.1 tight end this season in Oregon and has a huge opportunity in front of him."
32. Buffalo Bills: LB Anthony Hill Jr., Texas
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Texas' Anthony Hill Jr. will provide an interesting evaluation this fall. He's been an off-ball linebacker to this point in his collegiate career. Though he might be viewed as more of an edge by NFL scouts, much like Abdul Carter a year ago.
In the case of the Buffalo Bills, the first-team All-American should enter the lineup as an off-ball option, with the potential to move him around and be creative within the defensive scheme.
"Eight-year veteran Matt Milano has struggled to stay healthy over the last two seasons and is entering a contract year after turning 31 years old this summer," Holder said. "So, the Bills might want to consider finding his replacement, making Hill or a linebacker in general a strong option for Buffalo at the end of the first round."
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