Top Draft Needs of Every NFL Team in 2026 for Week 6
Every NFL team already has holes and needs entering Week 6 of the season, and 2026 NFL Draft boards are starting to take shape as the college football season rolls along.
Every week of the season, we'll break down each team's biggest needs and highlight potential 2026 draft prospects that could fill them.
The eventual end product will be a full 2026 draft big board for every team heading into the offseason.
All grades and rankings courtesy of the B/R NFL Draft Scouting Department.
Arizona Cardinals
1 of 32
Top Draft Needs
- 2nd Wide Receiver
- Right Tackle
- Cornerback
Top S Fits on B/R Big Board
- Jalon Kilgore, South Carolina (No. 14)
- Emmanuel McNeil-Warren, Toledo (unranked)
- Kamari Ramsey, USC (unranked)
With Budda Baker and Dadrion Taylor-Demerson under contract for a few years, safety isn't a pressing need in Arizona. Hence why it's not listed above. However, Jalen Thompson is an impending free agent.
Thompson has served as the team's strong safety for several seasons and is currently filling in for injured Garrett Williams at nickelback. So, the Cardinals should look into a few options in the draft to replace the seven-year pro if he walks in free agency, especially since Williams is only under contract through 2026.
All three defensive backs listed above can play in the box and/or cover the slot.
Technically, Kilgore is listed as a cornerback prospect, but he's primarily covered the slot and played strong safety for the Gamecocks. That could make him the most seamless transition from Thompson. Meanwhile, McNeil-Warren is a good replacement at strong safety, and Ramsey is more of a nickel option.
Atlanta Falcons
2 of 32
Draft Needs
- Linebacker
- 2nd Wide Receiver
- Tight End
Top DL Fits on B/R Big Board
- LT Overton, Alabama (No. 17)
- Caleb Banks, Florida (unranked)
- Christen Miller, Georgia (unranked)
Addressing the defensive line likely won't be a top priority in Atlanta after the organization drafted Zach Harrison in 2023 and spent a pair of 2024 picks on Ruke Orhorhoro and Brandon Dorlus.
That's why the position isn't listed in the draft needs above, but the Falcons could afford to add an interior defensive lineman this spring.
Harrison only has two years left on his contract and starter David Onyemata is an impending free agent. Also, Orhorhoro hasn't lived up to the hype yet, suffering an injury as a rookie and struggling to be productive.
The three prospects above all have second-round or later grades from B/R's scouting department, making them options for Terry Fontenot to address a secondary need. Also, they can play several alignments on the defensive line, which has been a priority for Fontenot in the past.
Baltimore Ravens
3 of 32
Draft Needs
- Interior Offensive Line
- Edge-Rusher
- Wide Receiver
Top WR Scheme Fits on B/R Big Board
- Chris Brazzell II, Tennessee (unranked)
- Denzel Boston, Washington (No. 20)
- Ja'Kobi Lane, USC (No. 13)
Watching the Ravens offense with Cooper Rush at the helm was a stark reminder that there isn't much depth at wide receiver. Lamar Jackson can make receivers look good, but Zay Flowers was the only one who came to help Rush get through his start. Ideally, the Ravens could come away from the next draft with a bigger receiver who can be a vertical threat to pair with Flowers.
Jordyn Tyson is the top receiver on our big board, but this isn't a big enough need for the Ravens to move up to take him. Instead, they could be looking further down the big board for a deep threat like Chris Brazzell came into this week with the second-most receiving yards in the country thanks to his deep speed and ball tracking. Denzel Boston and Ja'Kobi Lane would also make sense given their size and skill set.
Buffalo Bills
4 of 32
Draft Needs
- Interior Offensive Line
- Linebacker
- Safety
Top WR Scheme Fits on B/R Big Board
- Germie Bernard, Alabama (unranked)
- Elijah Sarratt, Indiana (unranked)
- Denzel Boston, Washington (No. 20)
The Bills made it clear they were comfortable with their receivers going into the season. That assessment has been fair since the offense has looked strong before suffering their first loss of the season to New England. Still, it would make a lot of sense to look for a younger receiver to replace Joshua Palmer in the long run.
That would leave them in the market for a bigger receiver who can handle press coverage on the outside. Targeting someone like Carnell Tate could make sense, but there might also be too much overlap with Keon Coleman. Germie Bernard and Elijah Sarratt are both thicker receivers with good play strength, however, they have the separation skills that Coleman doesn't always have. Denzel Boston has just enough size and speed to give them an upgrade over Palmer.
Carolina Panthers
5 of 32
Draft Needs
- Center
- Linebacker
- Safety
2nd Tier LB Fits on B/R Big Board
- Arvell Reese, Ohio State (unranked)
- Whit Weeks, LSU (unranked)
- Deonte Lawson, Alabama (unranked)
Linebacker has been discussed previously for the Panthers, and Christian Rozeboom and Trevin Wallace have continued to struggle this season. So, let's take a look at a few of the second-tier options on the second level.
Reese is one of the top risers in the 2026 draft class during the early stages of the 2025 campaign. The junior hadn't played much until this season, but he's become a very impressive run defender and is strong as a bull to take on blocks from offensive linemen.
Meanwhile, Weeks might be the most complete backer of the players listed above, as he's a decent athlete to make plays in coverage and has good range against the run. Then there's Lawson, who has ball skills that are unique for the position to help defend against the passing game.
Chicago Bears
6 of 32
Draft Needs:
- Left Tackle
- Safety
- Edge-Rusher
Top DT Fits on B/R Big Board
- Tim Keenan III, Alabama (unranked)
- Domonique Orange, Iowa State (unranked)
- Darrell Jackson Jr., Florida State (unranked)
Defensive tackle is more of a nuanced need for the Bears since they don't have a glaring hole at the position with Grady Jarrett, Gervon Dexter and Shemar Turner under contract through next season. Hence why it's not listed above.
However, the Bears have struggled to stop the run so far in 2025 and could use a gap filler in the middle of the defensive line, especially since Andrew Billings is in a contract year. Luckily, this year's draft class has some decent nose tackles, like the three prospects listed above.
Keenan hasn't played much this fall after undergoing tightrope surgery in August, but he was a very good run defender a year ago.
Orange can also be a gap filler with his impressive strength at the point of attack to help defeat combo blocks. Jackson is built from the same cloth to destroy one-on-one blocks and be an effective two-gapper.
Cincinnati Bengals
7 of 32
Draft Needs
- Cornerback
- Edge-Rusher
- Interior Offensive Line
Top TE Scheme Fits on B/R Big Board
- Jack Endries, Texas (No. 21)
- Kenyon Sadiq, Oregon (No. 30)
- Joe Royer, Cincinnati (unranked)
Many of the Bengals needs are on defense. However, the offense is showcasing issues of its own without Joe Burrow. Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins are an expensive receiver duo and adding a young, dynamic tight end to the mix could add another layer to the offense.
Kenyon Sadiq is one of the top prospects at the position. However, his lack of in-line blocking makes him a little less ideal for the Bengals specifically. Jack Endries gives them a little more of that while excelling as an underneath pass-catcher. Cincinnati Bearcat Joe Royer would make more sense if the Bengals want to wait until later to address the need. He's one of the most pure throwback in-line tight ends in the class.
Cleveland Browns
8 of 32
Draft Needs
- Quarterback
- Wide Receiver
- Cornerback
Top IOL Scheme Fits on B/R Big Board
- Francis Mauigoa, Miami (No. 16)
- Olaivavega Ioane, Penn State (unranked)
- Keylan Rutledge, Georgia Tech (unranked)
The Browns have long benefitted from having a steady, durable pair of guards in Joel Bitonio and Wyatt Teller. The veterans have performed toward the top of their position in Cleveland for a while now, but both are set to become free agents next season. Teven Jenkins and Zak Zinter could push for starting jobs next season, but this is a coaching staff and front office that has prioritized offensive line in the past.
Francis Mauigoa should be the top guard in the draft. At the beginning of this process he was considered a tackle but his length and limited range in pass protection could bump him inside. Olaivavega Ioane is not a former tackle, but he demonstrates above-average athleticism and the physicality to succeed in both gap and zone run schemes. Rutledge is another guard who is putting himself on radars around the league.
Dallas Cowboys
9 of 32
Draft Needs:
- No. 2 Wide Receiver
- Cornerback
- Edge-rusher
Top CB Fits on B/R Big Board
- Avieon Terrell, Clemson (unranked)
- Malik Muhammad, Texas (No. 27)
- Chandler Rivers, Duke (unranked)
Cornerback hasn't been discussed yet for the Cowboys since they just spent a third-round pick on Shavon Revel last spring, signed DaRon Bland to an extension and have Trevon Diggs under contract through 2028.
However, Revel hasn't played yet after suffering a torn ACL last September, while Bland and Diggs have been struggling to begin this season. Plus, Dallas is giving up the most passing yards per game (284.6), per TeamRankings, and Kaiir Elam is on a contract year.
So, at this stage, it's worth keeping tabs on a few mid-round options at corner for Dallas, especially Terrell, the younger brother of Atlanta Falcons' cornerback A.J. Terrell.
"Clemson's Avieon Terrell is a talented, fluid athlete who constantly attacks the ball at the catch point," defensive backs scout Daniel Harms said. "He has the recovery speed and length to play man-coverage and the eye discipline and route-recognition to succeed in zone."
Denver Broncos
10 of 32
Draft Needs
- Wide Receiver
- Tight End
- Offensive Tackle
Top LB Scheme Fits on B/R Big Board
- Sonny Styles, Ohio State (No. 29)
- Arvell Reese, Ohio State (unranked)
- Whit Weeks, LSU (unranked)
The Broncos continue to field one of the most exciting young defenses in the game. With Patrick Surtain II holding down the secondary and Nik Bonitto continues to be an ascending star up front. The second level is the only concern for the Broncos. The linebacker duo of Justin Strnad and Alex Singleton leaves something to be desired.
An athletic upgrade would make the Broncos defense even more scary. Ideally, they'd be able to find a versatile defensive weapon who can cover the seam or flats while bringing attitude in the run game. Sonny Styles is our top linebacker and the former safety can cover.
His running mate Arvell Reese is also making a name for himself in the Buckeye defense. Whit Weeks isn't an ideal run-stopper, but his ability in coverage could make him more appealing than a traditional thumper like Deontae Lawson.
Detroit Lions
11 of 32
Draft Needs
- 2nd Edge Rusher
- Center
- Cornerback
Top G Fits on B/R Big Board
- Francis Mauigoa, Miami (No. 15)
- Olaivavega Ioane, Penn State (unranked)
- Keylan Rutledge, Georgia Tech (unranked)
Center has been discussed previously for the Lions. So, let's take a slightly different approach toward fixing the interior offensive line by exploring a scenario where Tate Ratledge or Christian Mahogany moves to the pivot. That way we can get a glimpse of a few guards to keep tabs on.
Ioane and Rutledge are the top two true guards on B/R's big board to be options for Detroit. Meanwhile, the Miami product would have to switch positions, but he has a brighter future on the inside, according to offensive line scout Brandon Thorn.
"Mauigoa is a wide-bodied, densely-built, stout presence with very good play strength and square power," Thorn said.
"He has good body control and fluidity for his size but shows adequate range in pass protection that signals a classic quality collegiate tackle-to-guard convert in the mold of recent draft picks Jonah Savaiinaea and Steve Avila."
Green Bay Packers
12 of 32
Draft Needs
- Defensive Tackle
- Outside Cornerback
- Left Tackle
Top NT Fits on B/R Big Board
- Darrell Jackson Jr., Florida State (unranked)
- Christen Miller, Georgia (unranked)
- Domonique Orange, Iowa State (unranked)
While defensive tackle has been discussed previously for the Packers, the focus there was on the position as a whole. Here, we'll take a look at three nose tackles to replace what the defense lost this offseason with the departures of Kenny Clark and T.J. Slaton.
Jackson and Miller would be great fits in Jeff Hafley's defense since both can line up as a shade nose and are very impressive run defenders. Meanwhile, Orange primarily plays as a 0-technique at Iowa State, but shouldn't have many issues sliding over a touch if need be in Green Bay.
Houston Texans
13 of 32
Draft Needs
- Interior Offensive Line
- Defensive Line
- Offensive Tackle
Top DL Scheme Fits on B/R Big Board
- Peter Woods, Clemson (No. 2)
- LT Overton, Alabama (No. 17)
- Christen Miller, Georgia (unranked)
Will Anderson Jr. has been one of the most effective pass-rushers in the league in the early part of the season. The Texans defense is an ascending unit with a lot of good young pieces. However, Denico Autrey and Sheldon Rankins are set to become free agents and the Texans could use more talent on the interior defensive line.
Woods and Miller were highlighted the last time we talked about the defensive interior. However, LT Overton would be another interesting match for the Texans defense. At 6'5", 278 pounds, he has a unique build. That might not be an issue for the Texans as Autrey and Mario Edwards Jr. are similarly built. DeMeco Ryans is one of the defensive coordinators who could figure out how to best use Overton.
Indianapolis Colts
14 of 32
Draft Needs
- Linebacker
- Offensive Tackle
- Defensive Line
Top CB Scheme Fits on B/R Big Board
- Mansoor Delane, LSU (unranked)
- Jermod McCoy, Tennessee (No. 7)
- Avieon Terrell, Clemson (unranked)
The Colts found a true No. 1 cornerback in Charvarius Ward. He's been a bright spot in Lou Anarumo's defense, but he's 29 years old. There's no telling how well he will play into his 30's in the coming seasons. Kenny Moore II is a good slot option, but the rest of the cornerback room is a bit unproven.
That could make cornerback a surprise target in the 2026 draft. Mansoor Delane should be at or near the top of every cornerback big board. He's tough and sticky in coverage with the athleticism to stick with receivers in space. Avieon Terrell won't be for everyone due to size limitations (5'10", 180 pounds). However, Anarumo has seemed to favor versatility and competitive fire over measurables throughout his time as a DC.
Jacksonville Jaguars
15 of 32
Draft Needs
- Safety
- Cornerback
- Defensive Line
Top Edge Edge Scheme Fits on B/R Big Board
- Matayo Uiagalelei, Oregon (unranked)
- Tyreak Sapp, Florida (unanked)
- David Bailey, Texas Tech (unranked)
Travon Walker and Josh Hines-Allen have combined for 38 total pressures so far, per Sports Info Solutions. Outside of that, Emmanuel Ogbah has been the Jags most productive outside pass-rusher. It doesn't move edge-rusher to the top of Jacksonville's needs, but it does mean they need to find more depth at the position through the draft.
The Jags don't have a first-round pick and this is more of a secondary pick so they shouldn't have players like Rueben Bain or T.J. Parker on their radar. Instead, their board probably starts with a player like Matayo Uiagalelei. The Oregon defender is a solid pass-rusher with a little bit of coverage versatility. Tyreak Sapp would be an ideal third rusher. Like Ogbah, he has powerful hands and the ability to set the edge against the run.
Kansas City Chiefs
16 of 32
Draft Needs
- Defensive Line
- Safety
- Wide Receiver
Top RB Scheme Fits on B/R Big Board
- Le'Veon Moss, Texas A&M (unranked)
- Nicholas Singleton, Penn State (unranked)
- Jonah Coleman, Washington (unranked)
Isiah Pacheco has been inconsistent since breaking his fibula last season. Breshard Smith has shown some potential as a pass-catching specialist out of the backfield, but the Chiefs backfield might need further investment in the draft. Brett Veach might be a bit hesitant to use a first round pick after taking Clyde Edwards-Helaire in 2020 so Jeremiyah Love is probably off the board.
However, Le'Veon Moss and Nicholas Singleton headline a solid second-tier at the position. Both have the size, power and vision to be the primary back in the backfield. Jonah Coleman isn't quite as explosive, but he's an effective between-the-tackles runner who would complement Smith well in the coming years.
Las Vegas Raiders
17 of 32
Draft Needs
- Cornerback
- Linebacker
- Edge-Rusher
Top S Scheme Fits on B/R Big Board
- Caleb Downs, Ohio State (No. 1)
- Dillon Thieneman, Oregon (No. 12)
- Keon Sabb, Alabama (unranked)
The Raiders have just two interceptions in their first five games under Pete Carroll. Maxx Crosby has one of them and also leads the team in passes defended with five. The bottom line is that the Raiders need more playmaking in the secondary. Finding a ball-hawking safety who could make the secondary dangerous would be a huge addition.
Caleb Downs is going to be the no-brainer selection for any team looking for that kind of safety. Downs can play all over the defense. He's a sure tackler whose ability to play man-to-man will give a defensive coordinator plenty of room to get creative.
That being said, Oregon's Dillon Thieneman is also a good tackler who actually has more career ball production. Keon Sabb stands out as an intelligent deep safety with the fluidity to play a centerfield role in the Raiders defense.
Los Angeles Chargers
18 of 32
Draft Needs
- Cornerback
- Interior Defensive Line
- Interior Offensive Line
Top DL Scheme Fits on B/R Big Board
- Peter Woods, Clemson (No. 2)
- LT Overton, Alabama (No. 17)
- Christen Miller, Georgia (unranked)
The Chargers addressed a major need earlier this week when they traded for Odafe Oweh. Jim Harbaugh noted that his new edge-rusher reminds him of Khalil Mack. The 26-year-old could be a part of the long-term picture in Los Angeles. The Bolts still don't have an interior defensive lineman who could be a long-time disruptor.
Acquiring Peter Woods would be the dream scenario. He profiles as the most disruptive defensive tackle in the draft class. However, LT Overton would be a nice addition as well because of his ability to play all along the defensive line. Christen Miller has done some good things to put himself in the conversation for the Chargers. Harbaugh would love his explosiveness at 310 pounds.
Los Angeles Rams
19 of 32
Draft Needs
- Quarterback
- Offensive Tackle
- Cornerback
Top QB Fits on B/R Big Board
- Dante Moore, Oregon (unranked)
- Ty Simpson, Alabama (unranked)
- Taylen Green, Arkansas (unranked)
Finding Matthew Stafford's successor was discussed prior to Week 1, but there have been a handful of quarterbacks who have elevated their draft stock since then. So, let's take a look at a few more options to be the future of the Rams franchise.
"Mentally, Moore plays with poise inside the pocket," offensive skill positions scout Dame Parson said. "He is not easily rattled or thrown off his game. Moore shows the leadership and respect of his teammates on the sidelines that NFL coaches will love."
"Simpson has emerged as a top quarterback in the 2026 NFL draft class with a polished skill set that translates well into NFL offenses. He is a first-year starter but is playing beyond his years. His poise, pocket navigation, and passing abilities scream NFL starter." – Parson.
"Green is a toolsy dual-threat quarterback with a high ceiling and a floor that is rising with each game played. A creative NFL play-caller would be wise to feature some designed QB runs in the offensive game plan with Green in the lineup. His stature and physical abilities are worth dedicating the time to develop." – Parson
Miami Dolphins
20 of 32
Draft Needs
- Cornerback
- Wide Receiver
- Offensive Tackle
Top S Scheme Fits on B/R Big Board
- Caleb Downs, Ohio State (No. 1)
- Dillon Thieneman, Oregon (No. 12)
- Emmanuel McNeil-Warren, Toledo (unranked)
The Dolphins traded for Minkah Fitzpatrick ahead of the season, but not even the former All-Pro safety has kept them from giving up the highest passer rating in the league. Fitzpatrick can roll up and play in the slot, but the Dolphins could consider another play-making safety to pair with him or outright replace him considering e has just one year left on his current deal.
Caleb Downs is the closest thing this draft has to an outright replaceent. Downs can play anywhere in the secondary and would become an instant leader of the defense. Dillon Thieneman's range, versatility and ball skills would make him the top safety in most classes. Emmanuel McNeil-Warren would also make sense for Anthony Weaver, he's a physical run defender who would be a tone-setter for a defense that could use one.
Minnesota Vikings
21 of 32
Draft Needs
- Cornerback
- Defensive Line
- Safety
2nd Tier S Fits on B/R Big Board
- Zakee Wheatley, Penn State (unranked)
- Tao Johnson, Utah (unranked)
- Keon Sabb, Alabama (unranked)
Since this is likely Harrison Smith's last season in Minnesota–his contract expires in the offseason and he turns 37 in February–safety will likely be one of the team's draft needs.
More specifically, the team could use a deep defender to play next to Theo Jackson and allow Josh Metellus to line up at strong safety or nickelback in Brian Flores' two-high looks.
And since the position has been discussed previously for the Vikings, let's take a look at a few second-tier options outside who don't have first-round grades from B/R.
All three prospects above could fill that role for Flores, especially the Utah product. "Defenders with a nose for the football find ways to make plays, and Johnson fits the bill while entering his third season playing safety for the Utes," defensive backs scout Daniel Harms said.
"The former wide receiver saw a massive leap in performance last season. He totaled 70 tackles (41 solo), with two tackles for loss, an interception, four passes defended and a forced fumble. His instincts and closing speed form a good combo to trigger downhill, and he's growing to trust his eyes."
New England Patriots
22 of 32
Draft Needs
- Edge-Rusher
- Wide Receiver
- Cornerback
Top TE Scheme Fits on B/R Big Board
- Kenyon Sadiq, Oregon (No. 30)
- Jack Endries, Texas (No. 21)
- Max Klare, Ohio State (unranked)
Drake Maye continues to make strides toward becoming an elite franchise quarterback. Hunter Henry has been a big part of that progression. He's second on the team in receiving going into Week 6. However, he'll be 32 next season and he's only signed through 2026. Austin Hooper, the team's second tight end, is slated to be a free agent this offseason so it would make sense that the Patriots would look for a young, dynamic tight end in this draft.
Kenyon Sadiq is the most dynamic of them all. He's an athletic move tight end with solid blocking in space. His versatility in the passing game will be the biggest draw and it would be interesting to see what the Patriots could do with him as Maye continues to develop. Jack Endries and Max Klare would be options as well. They both have reliable hands and are developing as blockers.
New Orleans Saints
23 of 32
Draft Needs
- Wide Receiver
- Guard
- Cornerback
Top CB Fits on B/R Big Board
- Mansoor Delane, LSU (unranked)
- Avieon Terrell, Clemson (unranked)
- Malik Muhammad, Texas (No. 27)
Cornerback has been discussed previously for the Saints, but there will be some shakeups at the top of the position rankings on B/R's next big board, which is scheduled to drop in a few weeks. So, let's get a quick preview of a few of the corner prospects who have moved up the board.
"Delane is a complete corner in the 2026 class, and he's finally in a defense where he can thrive," defensive backs scout Daniel Harms said. "The 6'0", 190-pound defensive back has been a shutdown corner for the LSU Tigers, putting his top-tier skills on display in the national spotlight."
"Terrell is a competitor and showcases the best zone-coverage eyes among the nation's corners. He also brings NFL bloodlines as the younger brother of former Clemson corner A.J. Terrell." – Harms
"For those who love watching ultra-competitive, twitchy-man coverage corners who frustrate wide receivers, Malik Muhammad fits the type…He built a reputation as someone quarterbacks don't often want to test because his basketball and track backgrounds show up on the football field." – Harms
New York Giants
24 of 32
Draft Needs:
- Right Tackle
- Cornerback
- Wide Reciever
2nd Tier RT Fits on B/R Big Board
- Isaiah World, Oregon (No. 18)
- Jude Bowry, Boston College (unranked)
- Caleb Tiernan, Northwestern (unranked)
Right tackle was discussed previously for the Giants, but the focus there was on the top options at the position. So, let's take a look at a few prospects who are further down on B/R's big board. While all three players listed above currently protect the blind side, they all have at least some experience holding down the right edge in college.
The Oregon product is the biggest name to keep tabs on in New York. "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," offensive line scout Brandon Thorn said.
"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."
New York Jets
25 of 32
Draft Needs
- Quarterback
- Wide Receiver
- Defensive Line
Top CB Scheme Fits on B/R Big Board
- Jermod McCoy, Tennessee (No. 7)
- Mansoor Delane, LSU (unranked)
- Avieon Terrell, Clemson (unranked)
Sauce Gardner is still one of the best young cornerbacks in the league. Unfortunately, that doesn't mean as much if the rest of the cornerback room struggles. That's where the Jets are at right now with Brandon Stephens and Isaiah Oliver playing on the outside and in the slot.
Pairing Gardner with a young talent could give the Jets secondary the juice it needs to thrive under Aaron Glenn's coaching. Jermod McCoy came into the season as the top corner in the class. McCoy still hasn't made his debut after tearing his ACL in January, but his stickiness in man coverage is something Glenn will get behind.
Mansoor Delane has made a strong case to be CB1 with LSU this season. He's another big, physical man corner who Glenn would like. Avieon Terrell doesn't have the traditional size that Glenn would prefer, but he's an ultra-competitive defensive back who would thrive in New York.
Philadelphia Eagles
26 of 32
Draft Needs:
- Tight End
- Cornerback
- Edge
Top S Fits on B/R Big Board
- Zakee Wheatley, Penn State (unranked)
- Tao Johnson, Utah (unranked)
- Keon Sabb, Alabama (unranked)
With Reed Blankship's contract about to expire, an argument could be made that safety should be included in the Eagles' top draft needs listed above. So it's at least a close fourth and worth mentioning.
While Ohio State's Caleb Downs and Oregon's Dillon Thieneman are ranked higher than the prospects above, Downs and Thieneman will likely be taken well before Philadelphia is picking this spring.
That brings us to the second tier at the position. However, Toledo's Emmanuel McNeil-Warren is excluded since he's primarily a strong safety, and Vic Fangio will likely be looking for defensive backs who can line up at free safety in his two-high heavy scheme. All three prospects above can fill that role, especially Wheatley.
"Penn State's Zakee Wheatley isn't a household name, but he should be," defensive backs scout Daniel Harms said. "He's a big body (6'2", 200 lbs) in the back end with real range and instincts once the football is in the air.
"He also has a knack for anticipating route concepts while reading the quarterback. A willing run defender to boot, he'd be a welcome addition to [the Eagles'] secondary."
Pittsburgh Steelers
27 of 32
Draft Needs
- Quarterback
- Wide Receiver
- Cornerback
Top S Scheme Fits on B/R Big Board
- Caleb Downs, Ohio State (No. 1)
- Dillon Thieneman, Oregon (No. 12)
- Zakee Wheatley, Penn State (unranked)
The Steelers decision to trade away Minkah Fitzpatrick for Jalen Ramsey gave them a temporary boost in the slot, but it left them with a questionable safety room. DeShon Elliott's emergence has covered for some of that, but the Steelers secondary would be much better with a safety who could play over top and make plays on the ball.
That isn't Caleb Downs' specialty, but he's easily the top safety in the draft for anyone in the market. His tackling and alignment versatility are going to make him a popular prospect among defensive coaches. Dillon Thieneman isn't that far behind and his ability to tackle and fill the alley would be popular in Pittsburgh. Zakee Wheatley staying in state would give the Steelers a taller safety who can rove the middle of the field while Elliott delivers big hits underneath and in the alley.
San Francisco 49ers
28 of 32
Draft Needs
- Offensive Tackle
- Wide Receiver
- Guard
Top C Fits on B/R Big Board
- Connor Lew, Auburn (unranked)
- Parker Brailsford, Alabama (unranked)
- Logan Jones, Iowa (unranked)
While guard has been discussed previously and is the bigger need for the 49ers, Jake Brendel turned 33 years old in September and is only signed through next season. So, John Lynch should look into a few center options in the 2026 draft class as well.
All three prospects above would fit well into Kyle Shanahan's offense, especially Lew, who offensive line scout Brandon Thorn compared to the current backup center in San Francisco and impending free agent, Matt Hennessy.
"Lew is a very young prospect with a solid all-around skill-set who operates on time with good positional leverage," Thorn said. "Lew has an underdeveloped frame and lacks an elite trait but has the runway to improve and develop into a starter over time."
Seattle Seahawks
29 of 32
Draft Needs
- Interior Offensive Line
- Edge
- Cornerback
Top Edge Fits on B/R Big Board
- Keldric Faulk, Auburn (unranked)
- Matayo Uiagalelei, Oregon (unranked)
- Cashius Howell, Texas A&M (No. 23)
The Seahawks have a decent collection of edge defenders between DeMarcus Lawrence, Derick Hall, Boye Mafe and Uchenna Nwosu. But Lawrence, the oldest of the bunch at 33, is the only one signed through next season, and Mafe is scheduled to hit free agency in the spring.
So, John Schneider might want to stay one step ahead of Seattle's need and explore this year's edge class.
Faulk could use some time to develop but has intriguing traits at 6'6", 285 pounds and is only 20 years old, making him a good candidate to sit behind Lawrence at first.
Meanwhile, Uiagalelei may not have as high a ceiling as the Auburn product, but the Duck is more "pro-ready" and has the flexibility to play as a base end or standup linebacker. Howell is definitely the outside linebacker type and is good at turning speed to power as a pass-rusher, a trait that Schneider has coveted in the past.
Tampa Bay Buccaneers
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Draft Needs
- Edge Defender
- Linebacker
- Tight End
2nd Tier Edge Fits on B/R Big Board
- Derrick Moore, Michigan (unranked)
- R Mason Thomas, Oklahoma (unranked)
- Romello Height, Texas Tech (unranked)
Edge defenders have been discussed previously for the Buccaneers, but the focus there was on the top prospects at the position. So, let's dive into a handful of second-tier options for Jason Litch.
Todd Bowles tends to learn toward the standup outside linebacker type of edges, which the three plays above fit into over players who rank higher on B/R's big board.
As a pass-rusher, Moore stands out with his ability to turn speed to power, and that's shown up recently with 2.5 sacks in the last two games. Thomas is undersized, listed at 6'2" and 243 pounds, but also excels at turning speed to power and has impressive twitch to be effective at putting pressure on the quarterback.
Finally, Height has been a riser this fall for similar reasons as the other two prospects discussed here. The Red Raider is a quick and twitchy pass-rusher to beat offensive tackles across their faces or around the edge.
Tennessee Titans
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Draft Needs
- Edge-Rusher
- Wide Receiver
- Tight End
Top OT Scheme Fits on B/R Big Board
- Spencer Fano, Utah (No. 25)
- Caleb Lomu, Utah (No. 22)
- Francis Mauigoa, Miami (No. 15)
Just last week we talked about the Titans need for an interior offensive lineman, but there's a case to be made they could be on the lookout for a tackle as well. JC Latham has struggled with injuries and Dan Moore Jr. has struggled in pass protection depite receiving a four-year, $82 million contract. It's possible the Titans could already get out of that deal next offseason with a $12.5 million dead cap.
Protecting Cam Ward is going to be important over the next few seasons. Both tackles coming out of Utah, Spencer Fano and Caleb Lomu, play with good athleticism and have the movement skills to be good pass protectors in the league. They aren't quite the bulldozing forces in the run game that Latham or fellow prospect Kadyn Proctor would be, but they have relatively high floors.
Francis Mauigoa was discussed as an interior lineman prospect, but there are other outlets who have him ranked as a tackle. If the Titans feel the same way he would be worth a look as well.
Washington Commanders
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Draft Needs
- Edge
- No. 2 Wide Receiver
- Guard
Top LB Fits on B/R Big Board
- Arvell Reese, Ohio State (unranked)
- Whit Weeks, LSU (unranked)
- Deontae Lawson, Alabama (unranked)
Linebacker may not be a top need for the Commanders, hence why it's not listed above, but the organization may want to consider adding one in the draft. Bobby Wagner is on a contract year and turns 36 years old this summer, so putting together a succession plan wouldn't be a bad idea.
Reese is one of the top risers in the 2026 draft class during the early stages of the season. The junior hadn't played much until this season, but he's become a very impressive run defender and is strong as a bull to take on blocks from offensive linemen on the second level.
Meanwhile, Weeks might be the most complete backer of the players listed above, as he's a decent athlete to make plays in coverage and has good range against the run. Then there's Lawson, who has ball skills that are unique for the position to help defend against the passing game.
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