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Top Draft Needs of Every NFL Team in 2026 After Trade Deadline

Nov 8, 2025

The NFL trade deadline has passed, leading to ripple effects across the league. From the Jets accelerating their rebuild to several other moves that could impact offseason decisions around the league, multiple teams will have their eyes on the draft from now through the end of the season.

Every week of the season, Bleacher Report writer Alex Ballentine and B/R NFL Scouting Dept.'s Matt Holder will break down each team's biggest needs and highlight potential 2026 draft prospects who 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
Northwestern v Penn State
Northwestern OT Caleb Tiernan

Top Draft Needs

  • Quarterback
  • Right Tackle
  • 2nd Wide Receiver
  • Top RT Fits on B/R Big Board

  • Caleb Tiernan, Northwestern (No. 40)
  • Carter Smith, Indiana (No. 68)
  • Jude Bowry, Boston College (No. 88)
  • It's looking more like Kyler Murray's time in Arizona will be coming to an end soon, heightening the odds that the organization will draft a quarterback this April. With a young signal-caller expected to take over next year or in 2027 if Jacoby Brissett is used as a bridge-gap, right tackle moves up the list for the team's draft needs.

    Protecting the future of the franchise is more important than giving him weapons to throw to, especially with Marvin Harrison Jr. already suiting up for the Cardinals, and the Northwestern product can help solve that problem immediately.

    "Tiernan lacks an elite physical trait but is a technically refined tackle, with an advanced understanding of leverage and rarely off balance or out of sync," offensive line scout Brandon Thorn said. "As a result, Tiernan looks like an early starter at tackle or guard."

    Atlanta Falcons

    2 of 32
    UCF v Baylor
    Baylor TE Michael Trigg

    Draft Needs

  • 2nd Wide Receiver
  • Cornerback
  • Defensive Tackle
  • Top Need Spotlight: WR

    While this week's focus is on a secondary need for the Falcons, keeping tabs on wideouts who can play next to Drake London is important, especially since this year's draft class has some depth to it. Michael Penix Jr.'s arm strength would be a good fit with what Tennessee's Chris Brazzell II brings to the table.

    "Brazzell possesses the top-end speed to consistently win on vertical and downfield routes," offensive skill positions scout Dame Parson said. "He embodies the phrase, 'If he's even, he's leaving'. The combination of his long speed and long strides makes life difficult for opposing defensive backs."

    Top TE Fits on B/R Big Board

  • Michael Trigg, Baylor (No. 67)
  • Eli Raridon, Notre Dame (No. 79)
  • Marlin Klein, Michigan (No. 93)
  • It's been a while since tight end was discussed for Atlanta. Part of the reason is that Kyle Pitts is having a solid season. However, he's still an impending free agent, and the Baylor product would be an intriguing replacement if Pitts leaves during the offseason. 

    "Trigg is a matchup problem for defenses, who already displays the nuance and route detail to contribute to an NFL offense right away," tight ends scout Daniel Hamrs said. "His manipulation tactics align perfectly with his understanding of space, enabling him to exploit whatever defense is in front of him."

    Baltimore Ravens

    3 of 32
    COLLEGE FOOTBALL: SEP 19 Iowa at Rutgers
    Iowa OL Gennings Dunker

    Draft Needs

  • Edge-Rusher
  • Interior Offensive Line
  • Defensive Line
  • 2nd Tier IOL Scheme Fits on B/R Big Board

  • Keylan Rutledge, Georgia Tech (No. 86)
  • Chase Bisontis, Texas A&M (unranked)
  • Gennings Dunker, Iowa (unranked)
  • Last week, we looked at some of the top interior offensive linemen who could be a fit for Baltimore. Andrew Vorhees is a free agent in 2027 and Daniel Faalele is set to hit free agency this offseason.

    The Ravens drafted Emery Jones Jr. in the third round last season. That could mean that they'll wait until later, but they rarely let a draft go by without adding reinforcements up front.

    Keylan Rutledge is a strong, mauling guard who would fit the Ravens ethos up front. He's a powerhouse of a blocker, but will need to prove that he can hold up in pass protection. Chase Bisontis is a tackle convert who has done well protecting the quarterback at Texas A&M, but doesn't offer the same explosiveness in the run game. Gennings Dunker is a fun watch at Iowa, but needs some time to refine his game before starting in the league.

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    Buffalo Bills

    4 of 32
    Duke v Ole Miss - TaxSlayer Gator Bowl
    Duke OL Brian Parker II

    Draft Needs

  • Interior Offensive Line
  • Linebacker
  • Wide Receiver
  • Top C Scheme Fits on B/R Big Board

  • Brian Parker II, Duke (No. 72)
  • Parker Brailsford, Alabama (unranked)
  • Logan Jones, Iowa (unranked)
  • Connor McGovern has played well enough for the Bills at the pivot to be brought back. Unfortunately, his contract, along with David Edwards', both expire at the end of the season. That leaves the Bills with the real possibility that they will need to turn to the draft to replace at least one of them. This week, we'll take a look at who could step in at center.

    Connor Lew was the best pure center prospect in the class, but a torn ACL now makes his projection a little murky. Brian Parker II plays tackle at Duke, but his stout frame makes a move inside likely. If he proves he can snap the ball in the pre-draft conference he would make a lot of sense.

    "Parker Brailsford is an undersized, center-only prospect, who is alert and twitched-up with very good competitive toughness and sustain skills that are a chore to handle. He should be able to carve out an NFL role and even compete for a center job if flanked with bigger, hulking guards to help mitigate his slender frame," B/R offensive line scout Brandon Thorn wrote.

    Logan Jones is another undersized center-only prospect who could benefit from playing alongside a bigger guard like O'Cyrus Torrence.

    Carolina Panthers

    5 of 32
    Alabama v South Carolina
    Alabama QB Ty Simpson

    Draft Needs

  • Center
  • Linebacker
  • Quarterback
  • Top QB Fits on B/R Big Board

  • Fernando Mendoza, Indiana (No. 5)
  • Dante Moore, Oregon (No. 11)
  • Ty Simpson, Alabama (No. 19)
  • The Panthers have a decision to make this offseason when it comes to Bryce Young's fifth-year option. While the team has won four out of its last five games, Young has only thrown for over 200 yards once this season.

    That doesn't scream franchise quarterback, so Carolina should be doing its homework on this year's crop of prospects.

    Turning to another Alabama product is an option, especially considering the redshirt junior is a Heisman Trophy candidate. "Simpson has emerged as a top quarterback in the NFL draft class with a savvy, polished skill set that translates well into professional offenses," offensive skill positions scout Dame Parson said.

    "Simpson is a first-year starter but continues to play beyond his limited experience. His poise, pocket navigation, and passing accuracy scream long-term NFL starter. If he continues this level of play, Simpson's draft stock will skyrocket entering draft season."

    Chicago Bears

    6 of 32
    SMU v Clemson
    Clemson CB Avieon Terrell

    Draft Needs:

  • Left Tackle
  • Safety
  • Cornerback
  • Top CB Fits on B/R Big Board

  • Avieon Terrell, Clemson (No. 22)
  • Malik Muhammad, Texas (No. 26)
  • Davison Igbinosun, Ohio State (No. 50)
  • Cornerback hasn't been discussed for the Bears since Week 2 and was removed from the team's top draft needs. That was because Tyrique Stevenson was playing relatively well in Weeks 1-4. 

    However, Stevenson has regressed since then, and Chicago ranks third to last in passing yards allowed per game over the last three weeks, per TeamRankings.

    So, keeping tabs on prospects in the secondary should be a point of emphasis for the club, especially the Clemson product, who is the brother of Falcons' corner A.J. Terrell.

    "Terrell is a competitor and showcases the best zone-coverage eyes among the nation's corners," scout Daniel Harms said in the Tiger's scouting report. "...[He also] breaks on the football quickly and regularly attacks the catch point with his hands and ball tracking skills."

    Cincinnati Bengals

    7 of 32
    Mississippi State v Texas A&M
    Texas A&M CB Will Lee III

    Draft Needs

  • Cornerback
  • Edge-Rusher
  • Interior Offensive Line
  • 2nd Tier CB Scheme Fits on B/R Big Board

  • Davison Igbinosun, Ohio State (No. 50)
  • Chris Johnson, San Diego State (No. 63)
  • Will Lee III, Texas A&M (No.
  • The Bengals are in a desperate need of a new identity and culture on defense. That was never more evident than in a 47-42 loss to the Chicago Bears. The Bengals easily lead the league in missed tackles with 100 on the year. Finding a cornerback who can help with that culture shift and offer physicality on the outside should be a high priority.

    There are a few prospects who fit that mold that could be had on Day 2 of the draft. Davison Igbinosun has become one of the most improved prospects in this year's class. He has the size and ball production to work himself into the first-round conversation, but the Bengals should be all over him if he makes it beyond the first 32 picks.

    Will Lee III is a willing tackler who plays a fiery style at corner. His ability to play press-man and come up to make tackles in the flats is the kind of thing the Bengals should be looking for in whatever defenders they target in the next draft.

    Cleveland Browns

    8 of 32
    COLLEGE FOOTBALL: OCT 11 Alabama at Missouri
    Alabama OT Kadyn Proctor

    Draft Needs

  • Quarterback
  • Wide Receiver
  • Offensive Tackle
  • Top OT Scheme Fits on B/R Big Board

  • Spencer Fano, Utah (No. 13)
  • Kadyn Proctor, Alabama (No. 21)
  • Caleb Lomu, Utah (No. 27)
  • The Browns will have two first-round picks and moving up the draft board just got potentially more difficult. The New York Jets decision to trade away Sauce Gardner and Quinnen Williams at the deadline puts them in pole position to move up for any quarterback prospects who are deemed worthy. That means the Browns could be looking to stand pat and potentially add a personal protector for whoever is at quarterback in 2026.

    "Spencer Fano is the 2026 class' top offensive tackle prospect due to his loose, fluid movement skills and relentless motor that allows him to get out of compromising positions, strain and sustain blocks at a high level," Brandon Thorn noted in the Utah prospects' scouting report.

    Kadyn Proctor is a bit more of a big swing at the position.

    "Kadyn Proctor is a mountain of a man with elite-level power, physicality and pedigree," Thorn said of the 6'7", 366-pound prospect. "At the same time, his unrefined technique results in a boom-or-bust prospect with too many glaring, clean losses on film, especially in pass-protection."

    Fano's Utah teammate Spencer Fano rounds out the top options in the first round for the Browns. He's a little more raw but the tools are there for him to succeed early in his career.

    Dallas Cowboys

    9 of 32
    Ohio State v Illinois
    Ohio State LB Sonny Styles

    Draft Needs:

  • Edge Defender
  • No. 2 Wide Receiver
  • Linebacker
  • Top LB Fits on B/R Big Board

  • Sonny Styles, Ohio State (No. 29)
  • CJ Allen, Georgia (No. 31)
  • Deontae Lawson, Alabama (No. 43)
  • While linebacker was discussed previously for the Cowboys, the focus was on run defenders. Here, we'll pivot to a few second-level defenders who can help in coverage, starting with a former defensive back.

    "Styles is an impressive athlete with the necessary skills to be an excellent coverage linebacker in the NFL and a top-tier backer in the 2026 NFL draft class," the Buckeye's scouting report says. "...[He's also a] physical player against the run and takes on blocks with his hands to help get extension when he adds more strength."

    Denver Broncos

    10 of 32
    Ohio State v Wisconsin
    Ohio State LB Arvell Reese

    Draft Needs

  • Tight End
  • Offensive Tackle
  • Linebacker
  • Top Scheme Fits on B/R Big Board

  • Arvell Reese, Ohio State (No. 16)
  • Sonny Styles, Ohio State (No. 29)
  • CJ Allen, Georgia (No. 31)
  • The Broncos need at receiver might be filled if Troy Franklin continues to show improvement. Denver has thrown resources at the receiver position in recent years. That makes room for the Broncos need at linebacker to earn a spot in the top three. The Denver defense is one of the best young units in the game, but upgrading the linebacker crew would give Vance Joseph even more weaponry to work with.

    Arvell Reese sits atop the Broncos board. He's considered to be the "best blitzer", "best run-stopper" and most versatile in the latest iteration of the big board. Joseph would find ways for Reese to wreak havoc in the league.

    Sonny Styles hasn't lost much ground from his preseason ranking. B/R scout Matt Holder likes how Styles holds up in coverage.

    "Movement skills, fluid hips and speed allow him to cover tight ends and running backs in man coverage or carry wide receivers on vertical routes when playing Tampa 2," Holder wrote in his scouting report.

    Detroit Lions

    11 of 32
    COLLEGE FOOTBALL: NOV 01 Texas Tech at Kansas State
    Texas Tech Edge David Bailey

    Draft Needs

  • 2nd Edge Rusher
  • Cornerback
  • Center
  • Top Edge Fits on B/R Big Board

  • T.J. Parker, Clemson (No. 9)
  • Zion Young, Missouri (No. 53)
  • David Bailey, Texas Tech (No. 34)
  • It's been a while since adding an edge-rusher to play on the other side of Aidan Hutchinson was discussed. That means it's time to revisit the position and note a few prospects that the Lions should be interested in. 

    Both Parker (6'3", 260 pounds) and Young (6'5", 262 pounds) fit the size profile that the organization typically looks for at the position, while Bailey (6'3", 250 pounds) would be a bit of a change of pace. However, the latter might be hard to pass up, seeing as he leads the country with 11.5 sacks heading into the weekend. 

    "Bailey is an impressive athlete, who has a deep bag of pass-rush moves to be a significant contributor on third downs in the NFL," the Stanford transfer's scouting report says. "...Bailey uses his hands well as a pass-rusher, showing quick and active hands to 'defeat the hands, defeat the man' against offensive tackles.

    Green Bay Packers

    12 of 32
    Kansas State v Baylor
    Baylor TE Michael Trigg

    Draft Needs

  • Outside Cornerback
  • Defensive Tackle
  • Guard
  • Top Need Spotlight: DT

    While this week's focus for the Packers is on a secondary need, the club should be keeping tabs on this year's crop of defensive tackles, especially Ohio State's Kayden McDonald.

    The Buckeye's technique is a big work in progress, but McDonald's strength and athleticism for his size (6'3", 326 pounds) are worth taking a flier on.

    Top TE Fits on B/R Big Board

  • Michael Trigg, Baylor (No. 67)
  • Eli Raridon, Notre Dame (No. 79)
  • Marlin Klein, Michigan (No. 93)
  • Adding a tight end in the draft was discussed recently for the Packers, and the position might be moving up the team's list of priorities after Tucker Kraft tore an ACL last weekend.

    Considering Kraft and Luke Musgrave will be in contract years next season, Green Bay would be wise to at least keep tabs on someone like the Baylor product.

    "Trigg is a matchup problem for defenses, who already displays the nuance and route detail to contribute to an NFL offense right away," scout Daniel Harms said. "His manipulation tactics align perfectly with his understanding of space, enabling him to exploit whatever defense is in front of him."

    Houston Texans

    13 of 32
    COLLEGE FOOTBALL: DEC 31 CFP Quarterfinal Vrbo Fiesta Bowl - Penn State vs Boise State
    Boise State OT Kage Casey

    Draft Needs

  • Interior Offensive Line
  • Defensive Line
  • Offensive Tackle
  • Top Scheme Fits on B/R Big Board

  • Kadyn Proctor, Alabama (No. 21)
  • Kage Casey, Boise State (No. 59)
  • Carter Smith, Indiana (No. 68)
  • The jury is still out on whether Aireontae Ersery will pan out as the Houston Texans' left tackle. The rookie is showing signs, though. Their decision to draft him also points toward what kind of tackle they could be looking for going forward. Ersery has some work to do as a pass protector, but he's in the starting lineup for the physicality and play strength he brings to the run game.

    If those are the traits they are looking for then Kadyn Proctor should be at the top of their tackle board. The hulking tackle can erase defenders at the line of scrimmage and displays incredible athleticism for his size.

    Spencer Fano and Caleb Lomu are also in the first round discussion, but don't have the same strength and size combination. Kage Casey might be a more fitting option outside of the first round.

    Casey has, "very good play strength with a stiff punch and strong core to brace and anchor on command," as noted by Brandon Thorn in his scouting report.

    Indianapolis Colts

    14 of 32
    Auburn v Texas A&M
    Texas A&M LB Taurean York

    Draft Needs

  • Linebacker
  • Offensive Tackle
  • Defensive Line
  • 2nd Tier LB Scheme Fits on B/R Big Board

  • Jake Golday, Cincinnati (unranked)
  • Isaiah Glasker, BYU (No. 78)
  • Taurean York, Texas A&M (No. 97)
  • The Colts signaled to the rest of the league that they are ready to compete now at the trade deadline. Dealing mutliple first-round picks for Sauce Gardner indicates a team that is confident in what they have. It's also a team that will have to lower their expectations on the kind of draft haul they can have in 2025. A need at linebacker could have been filled with an early pick, but now might move down the list of priorities without a first-round pick.

    With that in mind, it's worth shifting the conversation from the likes of Arvell Reese and Sonny Styles to Jake Golday and Isaiah Glasker. Lou Anarumo favors linebackers with great instincts and high Football IQ. General manager Chris Ballard loves players with outlier athleticism.

    This trio projects to have a little bit of both. They might not be the most refine group of linebackers, but Taurean York is a great example of a linebacker who does what he's coached to do with the athleticism to cover NFL tight ends and running backs.

    Jacksonville Jaguars

    15 of 32
    Michigan v USC
    USC S Kamari Ramsey

    Draft Needs

  • Safety
  • Cornerback
  • Defensive Line
  • 2nd Tier S Scheme Fits on B/R Big Board

  • Emmanuel McNeil-Warren, Toledo (No. 25)
  • Kamari Ramsey, USC (No. 36)
  • Keon Sabb, Alabama (No. 52)
  • The Jaguars secondary still feels like it's in repair despite trading for Greg Newsome earlier this season. Their solutions at safety are short-term and they could need to fill he slot with a prospect as well. Building out their safety big board includes some Top 50 talents because it is a fairly deep class at the position.

    Emmanuel McNeil-Warren isn't far from the top three in the safety class.

    "McNeil-Warren is yet another safety in a loaded positional class capable of being a quality defender either as a free or strong safety. He can be deployed all over the field because of how disciplined the senior prospect is with his reads," B/R scout Daniel Harms noted in a piece on top risers in this year's draft class.

    Kamari Ramsey could be a solution as both a deep safety or the slot. While Keon Sabb projects as a free safety who could give the Jaguars a little playmaking in the secondary.

    Kansas City Chiefs

    16 of 32
    COLLEGE FOOTBALL: NOV 01 Georgia vs Florida
    Georgia DL Christen Miller

    Draft Needs

  • Cornerback
  • Running Back
  • Defensive Line
  • Top DL Scheme Fits on B/R Big Board

  • Peter Woods, Clemson (No. 6)
  • Christen Miller, Georgia (No. 42)
  • A'Mauri Washington, Oregon (No. 44)
  • The Chiefs continue to utilize Chris Jones as both an interior defender and edge-rusher. The only problem is that they just don't have a lot of great option on the interior. Making an investment early in the draft could address that issue and free up Jones to play wherever the Chiefs feel he has the best matchup.

    Peter Woods is still the top defensive tackle in the class and would be a dream addition for Kansas City. However, the top of the board has shifted since we last addressed this need for Kansas City.

    "The Georgia defensive tackle (Christen Miller) is one of those rare players who combines size, strength and movement skills to have the potential to make an impact on every down at the next level." - Holder

    Meanwhile A'Mauri Washington has established himself as one of the top defensive tackles to watch. He plays with impressive explosiveness and violent han for a 6'3", 330-pound prospect.

    Las Vegas Raiders

    17 of 32
    South Carolina v Alabama
    Alabama CB Domani Jackson

    Draft Needs

  • Cornerback
  • Linebacker
  • Quarterback
  • 2nd Tier CB Scheme Fits on B/R Big Board

  • Davison Igbinosun, Ohio State (No. 50)
  • Jyaire Hill, Michigan (No. 66)
  • Domani Jackson, Alabama (No. 82)
  • The Raiders have given up back-to-back 30-point games, which stands as a stark reminder that they need reinforcements in the secondary. Darien Porter has shown signs of being a long-term answer. The third-rounder has proven that Pete Carroll and Co. can find a reasonable solution on Day 2 of the draft.

    These three prospects all fit that mold. They aren't as fluid in coverage as the top of our draft board, but they check the boxes for a Pete Carroll corner as taller cornerback prospects who play with a certain level of physicality.

    Domani Jackson has struggled with discipline this season so he might slide, but was praised in his scouting report last season as a, "technician that plays with good technique in press and off coverage. Good lateral quickness and hand usage in press, paired with a tight smooth backpedal when off."

    Los Angeles Chargers

    18 of 32
    COLLEGE FOOTBALL: OCT 25 Kansas State at Kansas
    Kansas OL Bryce Foster

    Draft Needs

  • Cornerback
  • Interior Offensive Line
  • Interior Defensive Line
  • 2nd Tier C Scheme Fits on B/R Big Board

  • Bryce Foster, Kansas (unranked)
  • Iapani Laloulu, Oregon (unranked)
  • Pat Coogan, Indiana (unranked)
  • The Chargers attempted to find their answer at center by moving Zion Johnson there. That experiment didn't pan out, leaving a long-term hole at the position. Bradley Bozeman has filled in this season, but that's a band-aid solution.

    We've already talked about the top center prospects like Connor Lew, Logan Jones and Jake Slaughter. Now we turn our attention to a trio of centers who could be taken as developmental projects later in the draft.

    Bryce Foster is a former 4-star prospect with the kind of strength and size to match the physical ethos that Jim Harbaugh embraces. The same could be said for Iapani Laloulu. He's been instrumental in a dominant Oregon offensive line while Pat Coogan rounds out the list as a potential utility option at all three interior positions.

    Los Angeles Rams

    19 of 32
    Iowa v Iowa State
    Iowa S Xavier Nwankpa

    Draft Needs

  • Quarterback
  • Right Tackle
  • Cornerback
  • Top Need Spotlight: RT

    While this week's focus for the Rams is on a secondary need, the club should keep tabs on Indiana's Carter Smith, too, as a potential mid-round replacement for Rob Havenstein.

    "Smith is an alert, strong blocker with a stifling punch and excellent competitive toughness to steer and finish blocks," offensive line scout Brandon Thorn said. "Closer to average lateral quickness and arm length can create soft edges, but his strength and effort help him minimize clean losses."

    2nd Tier S Fits on B/R Big Board

  • Keon Sabb, Alabama (No. 52)
  • Robert Spears-Jennings, Oklahoma (No. 77)
  • Xavier Nwankpa, Iowa (No. 98)
  • Filling impending free agent Kam Curl's role on Los Angeles' defense has been discussed previously, but it's important to keep tabs on a few second-tier options. That makes the Iowa product an interesting late-Day 2 or early-Day 3 option for the club.

    "Nwankpa has the physical traits to make a natural transition to safety in the NFL," defensive backs scout Daniel Harms said. 

    "He's a responsibility-sound defender, who does his best work closer to the line of scrimmage, while throwing around his body for big hits to ignite the defense. Nwankpa is the type of effort-based player who will do whatever is asked of him, which NFL coaching staffs will love."

    Miami Dolphins

    20 of 32
    Michigan v USC
    MIami CB Jyaire Hill

    Draft Needs

  • Cornerback
  • Wide Receiver
  • Offensive Tackle
  • 2nd Tier CB Scheme Fits on B/R Big Board

  • Davison Igbinosun, Ohio State (No. 50)
  • Jyaire Hill, Michigan (No. 66)
  • Will Lee III, Texas A&M (No. 76)
  • The Dolphins decision to unload Jaelan Phillips at the trade deadline nearly vaulted edge-rusher into the top three needs. For now, the duo of Chop Robinson and Bradley Chubb is enough to make it a less dire need then the ones listed. Specifically, the need at cornerback requires urgent attention.

    Moving on from the top names in the class, the Dolphins could use bigger boundary corners that would allow Anthony Weaver to establish his style in South Beach. Davison Igbinosun has put good things on film throughout this season and could hear his name called sooner than expected if he continues in the Buckeyes biggest games this season.

    Jyaire Hill and Will Lee III are other bigger corners who are listed over 6'1" and are capable of playing with the kind of physicality that Weaver would like to see.

    Minnesota Vikings

    21 of 32
    Georgia v Florida
    Georgia WR Zachariah Branch

    Draft Needs

  • Cornerback
  • Safety
  • Defensive Line
  • Top Need Spotlight: S

    While the focus this week for the Vikings is on a secondary need, the team should be keeping close tabs on Iowa safety Xavier Nwankpa as a mid-round option. "Nwankpa has great size, length and strength to transition to the NFL at the safety position," scout Daniel Harms said. 

    "He's a responsibility-sound football player, who does his best work closer to the line of scrimmage and throwing around his body with big hits to ignite the defense. He's the type of effort-based player who will do whatever is asked and NFL coaching staffs will love.

    2nd Tier WR Fits on B/R Big Board

  • Zachariah Branch, Georgia (No. 61)
  • Brenen Thompson, Mississippi State (unranked)
  • Josh Cameron, Baylor (No. 96)
  • Finding a replacement for impending free agents Jalen Nailor and Adam Thielen was discussed previously, but let's continue to work down B/R's big board and note a few second-tier options at wide receiver. Of the prospects listed above, the Georgia product is the most important to keep tabs on.

    "Branch is one of the most dynamic athletes in college football. He is lightning in a bottle and a dangerous playmaker out in space," offensive skill positions scout Dame Parson said. "Branch excels with quick touches where he makes defenders miss out in the open field for yards after the catch."

    New England Patriots

    22 of 32
    COLLEGE FOOTBALL: SEP 27 Oregon at Penn State
    Oregon Edge Matayo Uiagalelei

    Draft Needs

  • Edge-Rusher
  • Cornerback
  • Wide Receiver
  • 2nd Tier Edge Scheme Fits on B/R Big Board

  • Matayo Uiagalelei, Oregon (No. 28)
  • Zion Young, Missouri (No. 53)
  • Dani Dennis-Sutton, Penn State (No. 58)
  • Keion White saw his stock drop with the Mike Vrabel regime and was eventually traded to the 49ers before the deadline. Paired with the decision to trade Kyle Dugger, it's clear that Vrabel is looking to rebuild the defense in his image. That should include drafting one, if not two, edge-rushers who can get after the quarterback.

    But Vrabel rarely looks to add pure pass-rushers. He's going to want bigger edge-defenders who can set the edge against the run and be strong at the point of attack. That may make someone like David Bailey less appealing. Matayo Uiagalelei, however, is a nice fit.

    B/R scout Matt Holder noted that he, "takes on blocks with his hands, a wide base and has enough strength to keep offensive tackles away from his body to hold ground, set the edge and get off blocks."

    That's the kind of player that Vrabel will love. Zion Young and Dani Dennis-Sutton present similar styles with slightly lower ceilings.

    New Orleans Saints

    23 of 32
    Oregon Penn St Football
    Oregon G Emmanuel Pregnon

    Draft Needs

  • Wide Receiver
  • Guard
  • Cornerback
  • Top G Fits on B/R Big Board

  • Olaivavega Ioane, Penn State (No. 24)
  • Emmanuel Pregnon, Oregon (No. 45)
  • Brian Parker II, Duke (No. 72)
  • While guard was discussed previously for the Saints, there have been a few risers on B/R's big board since then. What Ioane can bring to New Orleans was spotlighted a couple of weeks ago, so let's get a snapshot of the Oregon product's game. 

    "Pregnon is a stoutly-built people mover with a nasty demeanor, plus the tools and tape, to be a long-term starting NFL guard," offensive line scout Brandon Thorn said. "He brings an enforcing mentality with an affinity for contact, straining and finishing through the whistle."

    New York Giants

    24 of 32
    Boston College v Louisville
    Louisville WR Chris Bell

    Draft Needs:

  • Right Tackle
  • Cornerback
  • Linebacker
  • Top Need Spotlight: RT

    While this week's focus is on a secondary need for the Giants, New York needs to keep tabs on this year's offensive tackle class. That should put Auburn's Xavier Chaplin on the organization's radar.

    "Chaplin is a long-limbed, wide-bodied tackle prospect with good play strength who casts a wide net with strong hands to end reps quickly once latched," scout Brandon Thron said in the Tiger's scouting report.

    "Chaplin needs to shore up his footwork and overall consistency to protect his edges, but he displays the physical traits to develop into a mid-tier, functional starter.

    Top WR Fits on B/R's Big Board

  • Chris Bell, Louisville (No. 35)
  • Elijah Sarratt, Indiana (No. 41)
  • Denzel Boston, Washington (No. 46)
  • Playing without Malik Nabers over the last month has highlighted how crucial it will be for the G-Men to get a second wide receiver for Jaxson Dart this offseason. Plus, there have been a few risers on B/R's big board since the position was discussed previously, including the Louisville product.

    "Bell has become arguably the most impactful wide receiver in college football," offensive skill positions scout Dame Parson said. "He's the perfect height, weight (6'2", 220 pounds) and speed receiver for NFL teams to bet on early in the draft process.

    "Bell is a physically imposing receiver, who puts defenses in conflict after the catch. He is built as an outside receiver but brings usage and alignment versatility to an offense."

    New York Jets

    25 of 32
    South Carolina v LSU
    LSU CB Mansoor Delane

    Draft Needs

  • Quarterback
  • Defensive Line
  • Cornerback
  • Top CB Scheme Fits on B/R Big Board

  • Mansoor Delane, LSU (No. 4)
  • Jermod McCoy, Tennessee (No. 8)
  • Avieon Terrell, Clemson (No. 22)
  • The New York Jets were the center of attention at the trade deadline. They certainly made things interesting when they traded away both Quinnen Williams and Sauce Gardner on deadline day. Dealing two foundational pieces of their defense has changed their priorities for the 2026 draft. Defensive line moves up to No. 2 on our list while cornerback joins the top three. Wide receiver is now less of a consideration since they at least held on to Garrett Wilson.

    Gardner's departure makes the need for a sticky cornerback who can be the No. 1 option a huge priority. These are the top three players at the position on our board.

    "Sticky, man-cover corner who presents a physical presence on the outside. He doesn't back down to bigger, ball-winning wide receivers," B/R scout Daniel Harms said of top corner Mansoor Delane.

    Jermod McCoy could still have that distinction if he weren't still recovering from a torn ACL. Harms described Terrell as a player who, "has a great competitive nature across the board and won't back down to anyone. He's improved strength and leverage understanding to deliver hits and get off blocks."

    Philadelphia Eagles

    26 of 32
    NC State v Notre Dame
    Notre Dame TE Eli Raridon

    Draft Needs:

  • Tight End
  • Cornerback
  • Edge
  • Top TE Fits on B/R's Big Board

  • Eli Raridon, Notre Dame (No. 79)
  • Marlin Klein, Michigan (No. 93)
  • Tanner Koziol, Houston (No. 95)
  • Tight end was discussed previously, and Baylor's Michael Trigg was spotlighted last week for the Eagles, so let's continue to work down B/R's big board at the position and note a few more mid-round options.

    Seeing as Notre Dame has produced several quality tight ends, the Golden Domer is certainly worth taking a deeper dive into.

    "Raridon has legitimate three-down ability, with a well-rounded game that will help offenses in the run game and add explosives through the air," scout Daniel Harms said.

    "He has the size (6'7", 252 pounds) and speed to make him a mismatch against most defenders down the field, and is improving his functional strength to get movement on defenders."

    Pittsburgh Steelers

    27 of 32
    COLLEGE FOOTBALL: OCT 25 Wisconsin at Oregon
    Oregon QB Dante Moore

    Draft Needs

  • Quarterback
  • Wide Receiver
  • Cornerback
  • Top Scheme Fits on B/R Big Board

  • Fernando Mendoza, Indiana (No. 5)
  • Dante Moore, Oregon (No. 11)
  • Ty Simpson, Alabama (No. 19)
  • The Steelers success this season has potentially set them up to pursue veteran quarterback options in the future. Aaron Rodgers has the Steelers in first place in the AFC North and the offense is carrying their weight. That being said, the Steelers will need to keep tabs on the top of the quarterback class if they feel there is a strong fit who would be worth the price.

    Fernando Mendoza is our top-rated quarterback in the class. He's going to be at the top of a lot of wishlists as the most pro-ready prospect. Ty Simpson has also made an interesting case as first-rounder. But it's Dante Moore that presents the most interesting fit with Arthur Smith.

    "Moore is an accurate passer from inside the pocket and outside on the move. He throws with a very catchable football that has good pacing and control. Moore places the football where his receivers can make a play and get yards after the catch," Dame Parson noted in his scouting report.

    San Francisco 49ers

    28 of 32
    Penn State v Ohio State
    Ohio State WR Carnell Tate

    Draft Needs

  • Wide Receiver
  • Guard
  • Cornerback
  • Top WR Fits on B/R Big Board

  • Carnell Tate, Ohio State (No. 12)
  • Makai Lemon, USC (No. 32)
  • Chris Bell, Louisville (No. 35)
  • Wide receiver has been discussed a couple of times for the 49ers–ahead of Week 1 and Week 5–but there have been a few risers on B/R's big board recently. None bigger than the 6'3", 191-pound Buckeye.

    "Tate's height and wingspan offer a quarterback-friendly target," scout Dame Parson said in the Ohio State product's scouting report

    "He extends the catch point away from his frame and plucks the ball from the air. Tate is a bouncy athlete who can climb the ladder over defenders at the catch point. He has soft, reliable hands and excellent ball tracking skills."

    Seattle Seahawks

    29 of 32
    Tennessee v Kentucky
    Tennessee WR Chris Brazzell II

    Draft Needs

  • Interior Offensive Line
  • Cornerback
  • Edge
  • Top Need Spotlight: CB

    While this week's focus is on a secondary need for the Seahawks, it's still important to keep tabs on this year's crop of cornerbacks. Alabama's Domani Jackson could be an intriguing mid-round option.

    "Jackson is a talented press-man cover corner, who shows the versatility and football IQ to flip between Cover 2 and man while staying responsible and sound," defensive backs scout Daniel Harms said. 

    "His physical play style gives wide receivers little room on the vertical plane and triggers downhill with authority. He has the size, length, and skill to be an NFL starter, but questions about his effort level and in-game consistency from the coaching staff will impact his evaluation."

    Top WR Fits on B/R Big Board

  • Chris Bell, Louisville (No. 35)
  • Chris Brazzell II, Tennessee (No. 37)
  • Germie Bernard, Alabama (No. 49)
  • Seattle just traded for Rashid Shaheed, but he's in a contract year. Also, 32-year-old Cooper Kupp hasn't been terribly productive with just 24 catches for 293 yards and a touchdown entering the weekend. 

    So, it wouldn't be surprising to see John Schneider look for a wide receiver to complement Jaxon Smith-Njigba during the draft. The Tennessee product could replace what Shaheed brings to the offense if the latter walks in free agency.

    "Brazzell possesses the top-end speed to consistently win on vertical and downfield routes. He embodies the phrase, 'If he's even, he's leaving,'" offensive skill positions scout Dame Parson said. "The combination of his long speed and long strides makes life difficult for opposing defensive backs."

    Tampa Bay Buccaneers

    30 of 32
    Utah v BYU
    Utah Edge John Henry Daley

    Draft Needs

  • Linebacker
  • Edge Defender
  • Tight End
  • 2nd Tier EDGE Fits on B/R Big Board

  • John Henry Daley, Utah (No. 80)
  • Joshua Josephs, Tennessee (No. 94)
  • Mikail Kamara, Indiana (unranked)
  • Edge rusher has been discussed for the Buccaneers ahead of Week 1 and Week 6, but the position is universally considered one of the team's biggest needs this offseason. So, let's continue to work down B/R's big board and dive into a few other notable pass-rushers.

    Daley has burst onto the scene with 9.5 sacks and 14 tackles for loss in nine games this season, and his quickness and bend should help him be productive at the next level, too. 

    Josephs hasn't been quite as productive with four sacks heading into the weekend, but he leads the country in forced fumbles (three) and is a "toolsy" prospect with good traits to develop.

    Finally, Kamara is having a down year with just one sack so far, but he did crack double-digits with 10 last year and has shown plenty of athleticism to work with.

    Tennessee Titans

    31 of 32
    Illinois v Washington
    Washington WR Denzel Boston

    Draft Needs

  • Edge-Rusher
  • Wide Receiver
  • Interior Offensive Line
  • 2nd Tier WR Scheme Fits on B/R Big Board

  • Denzel Boston, Washington (No. 46)
  • Chris Bell, Louisville (No. 35)
  • Elijah Sarratt, Indiana (No. 41)
  • The Titans are still in the infancy stages of building their offense around Cam Ward. With Brian Callahan out as the head coach, the new coach will have a few key components to build his offense around. The front office seems to have found two good weapons in last year's draft. Elic Ayomanor has bee the team's top receiver and Chimere Dike has made plays as well.

    The Titans would be wise to target Jordyn Tyson in the first round, but there are options later in the draft who could complement Ayomanor and Dike. Denzel Boston is one of those players.

    "Boston is known for his outstanding body control and ball skills, which enable him to consistently win contested catches. Boston tracks the football well as he works further down the field. He is a red-zone weapon on fade throws, getting his head and eyes around to the football quickly once he has gained upfield leverage on the defensive back. He is a savvy pass catcher who flashes his hands late as the football arrives." - Dame Parson

    Washington Commanders

    32 of 32
    TCU v Arizona State
    Arizona State WR Jordyn Tyson

    Draft Needs

  • Edge
  • No. 2 Wide Receiver
  • Cornerback
  • Top WR Fits on B/R Big Board

  • Jordyn Tyson, Arizona State (No. 3)
  • Carnell Tate, Ohio State (No. 12)
  • Makai Lemon, USC (No. 32)
  • The Commanders had high hopes heading into the season, but they head into this weekend at 3-6 and in possession of a Top 10 pick for the 2026 NFL draft. 

    So, while finding a wide receiver for the club was discussed ahead of Week 2, the Arizona State product wasn't mentioned because the team wasn't expected to have a high draft pick. Now that the situation has changed in Washington, let's take a peek at what he can bring to the table.

    "Tyson is a skilled, detailed and nuanced wide receiver prospect, who projects as an eventual WR1 for an NFL passing attack," scout Dame Parson said in the Sun Devil's scouting report. "He has an NFL-ready game and skill set. This season, he has emerged as a high-volume target that translates well to the next level."

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