B/R Scouting Department's Post-Trade Deadline 2026 NFL Mock Draft
The NFL trade deadline and first College Football Playoff rankings for the current campaign fell on the same day with many of the usual suspects sitting near the top.
However, an unlikely program now finds itself among America's bluebloods, which impacts those rankings and the top of the 2026 NFL draft even after the league's latest round of player movement.
The Indiana Hoosiers have officially crashed the party. Curt Cignetti's crew is now considered a powerhouse program and the ripple effects should be felt well into April, culminating with the draft class' No. 1 overall pick.
Earlier in this cycle, Texas' Arch Manning was the chosen one. He stumbled coming out of the gates, but he's hit his stride as of late, placing him as one of four quarterback prospects to crack the current top 11.
The Bleacher Report Scouting Department of Brandon Thorn, Dame Parson, Daniel Harms and Matt Holder sat down to project where those signal-callers should land based on the current landscape and how all of the other projected top pieces to the upcoming class should fall around them.
Editor's Note: Current draft order is based on the projection by Tankathon.
1. New Orleans Saints: QB Fernando Mendoza, Indiana
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The New Orleans Saints made the switch from Spencer Rattler to rookie Tyler Shough as the squad's starting quarterback. Neither looks like the long-term answer, hence why they are the current owners of next year's No. 1 overall pick.
The organization must take advantage of the opportunity to select a quarterback in the first round for the first time since Archie Manning in 1971. Drew Brees might have worked out, but investments in the likes of Aaron Brooks and Derek Carr didn't. The best way to finally land a franchise quarterback is by drafting one.
Indiana's Fernando Mendoza is the clear QB1 for the 2026 class and an obvious choice at this juncture.
"The 6'5", 225-pound Mendoza is a quick processor with traditional size, arm strength and accuracy to excel in a structured NFL offense," Parson said. "Mendoza has displayed the mental toughness and short memory necessary to bounce back after mistakes. He has also delivered this season in late, game-winning situations. Besides, the Cal transfer would fit nicely into Kellen Moore's offensive scheme."
2. Tennessee Titans: Edge Rueben Bain Jr., Miami
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Cam Ward's rookie season hasn't gone as well as the Tennessee Titans had hoped. Still, the organization has its quarterback in place, with an opportunity to build up the rest of the roster.
Obviously, whoever is hired as Tennessee's next head coach could impact this selection and the franchise's overall direction. At this point, it's a safe assumption to project an elite talent at a premium position, with the potential to make the Titans' defensive front devastating for opposing offenses.
"The Titans have a lot of issues, with one being their lack of a dominant edge-rusher," Holder said. "Miami's Rueben Bain Jr. may not have NFL length—at least, what's usually preferred from a top edge—but he's easily the best prospect among his position group in this year's draft class. The Miami product's tape and ability to collapse the pocket are hard to argue with."
A front four featuring Jeffery Simmons and Bain instantly provides the Titans with a team identity.
3. New York Jets: QB Ty Simpson, Alabama
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New York Jets owner Woody Johnson had no problem publicly placing his team's starting quarterback, Justin Fields, on blast due to his poor play.
The 26-year-old veteran responded with his best outing of the season, but he must provide far more to ensure a second season as the Jets' QB1. As owners of a top-three draft pick in this scenario, he didn't.
Instead, the Jets quickly turn the page and draft a quarterback who's the antithesis of Fields from a skill-set perspective. Alabama's Ty Simpson is an efficient distributor.
"Simpson may be a first-year starter for the Crimson Tide but the maturity in his game is evident," Parson said. "He plays with poise and calmness inside the pocket, while possessing the plus-level athleticism to make plays with his legs when things break down. Simpson throws with accuracy and ball placement. He's particularly effective throwing into the middle of the field.
"The Jets have a Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde scenario with Fields at quarterback. They need stability. Simpson's strengths translate well to the next level."
4. Miami Dolphins: S Caleb Downs, Ohio State
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With the Ohio State Buckeyes being as good as they are this season, Caleb Downs hasn't needed to be a superstar. He is one, though.
He is the most complete player in this year's draft class, hence why he's Bleacher Report's No. 1 overall prospect regardless of position.
The All-American does slide slightly here based on positional value, but the Miami Dolphins are in dire need of talent as a whole. Without being able to move on from quarterback Tua Tagovailoa, they can't look past an opportunity to select an elite prospect.
"Before positional value becomes too much of an argument, Downs can play anywhere a defense needs him," Harms said. "He plays with great instincts, a physical brand of football and the flexibility to serve as a big nickel against tight ends. After spending a season in Matt Patricia's defense, he'll also be prepared mentally for the NFL transition.
"When a defense needs as much as the Dolphins do, the reset has to start somewhere and it's tough to do much better than Downs."
5. New York Giants: WR Jordyn Tyson, Arizona State
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Much like Drake Maye a year ago, too much is being asked of New York Giants quarterback Jaxson Dart during his first season.
The rookie is forced to shoulder the offense, because the unit lacks quality surrounding talent, particularly with the season-ending injuries to wide receiver Malik Nabers and running back Cam Skattebo.
Still, Dart is piecing a promising debut campaign.
For the Giants, the organization's goal from this point forward is simple: Build the best supporting cast it possibly can around Dart.
Arizona State's Jordyn Tyson is WR1 for the 2026 draft class. His addition gives the Giants a potentially unstoppable duo on the outside, as long as Nabers is healthy.
"Tyson brings a similar skill set to Nabers, which will benefit Dart," Parson said. "Tyson is an outstanding route runner, who hurts defenses after the catch. His improved ball skills unlocked his full skill set this season.
"A pairing of Nabers and Tyson provides nightmare fuel for defensive coordinators trying to devise a gameplan to keep them under control."
6. Cleveland Browns: QB Dante Moore, Oregon
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The NFL is a quarterback-driven league. The Cleveland Browns understand this better than any organization, because it hasn't gotten the position right since Bernie Kosar led the team onto the field over 30 years ago.
Myles Garrett's five-sack performance in a blowout loss to the New England Patriots further proved the point.
With Dillon Gabriel not showing much as the starter and the coaching staff's ongoing unwillingness to play Shedeur Sanders, Cleveland finds itself in the same position it's been since the team returned to the NFL in 1999. The Browns don't have a quarterback and they need to draft one.
Oregon's Dante Moore is young (20) and needs developmental time, but his calm demeanor, play-making skills and natural upside are undeniable. The East Cleveland native could be exactly what the Browns are looking for if he's handled properly after being drafted.
"Unless we see Sanders step in and display enough to keep the Browns from drafting a quarterback, they will be tied to the top guys in this class until further notice," Parson said. "Moore brings mobility, accuracy and poise to the passing offense. He navigates the pocket and locates open targets. Moore's quick release and ball placement will mesh well with Harold Fannin Jr, Jerry Jeudy, and the rest of the Browns' receiving options."
7. Las Vegas Raiders: CB Mansoor Delane, LSU
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Mansoor Delane has benefited greatly based on his transfer from Virginia Tech to LSU.
He was viewed as a potential first-round pick a year ago, but the move has brought out the best in him, to the point where he worked his way into top-10 consideration as the 2026 class' CB1.
His 36 forced incompletion percentage leads all SEC cornerbacks, according to PFSN's Cam Mellor. He can be the piece the Las Vegas Raider drastically need (aside from a young up-and-coming franchise quarterback).
"Once again, the Raiders have a significant need at cornerback," Harms said. "It's time to actually address the position.
"The 6'0", 190-pound Delane plays tough in press-coverage, doesn't panic when the ball is in the air, attacks the catch point and displays the football IQ and athletic versatility to succeed in man- or zone-heavy schemes. He's been one of the biggest risers throughout this process. The Raiders take advantage of his availability."
8. Cincinnati Bengals: LB Arvell Reese, Ohio State
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A philosophical argument will ensue within the Cincinnati Bengals organization leading up to the 2026 NFL draft: Should the front office do everything in its power to protect franchise quarterback Joe Borrow at all costs, or address a historically bad defense?
The B/R Scouting Department chose the latter by adding Ohio State's hybrid defender Arvell Reese, who's gained the most draft equity of any prospect thanks to an outstanding performance during the current campaign.
"It's no secret that the Bengals need help on defense," Holder said. "Just ask wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase and running back Chase Brown after last Sunday's 47-42 loss to the Chicago Bears. Reese's best position at the next level—whether he's an off-ball linebacker or edge-rusher—is up for debate. But there's no denying he can help a defense come up with a few stops regardless of where he aligns.
"The Buckeye's strength is top-notch, allowing him to stand up offensive linemen on the second level or collapse the pocket with a long-arm when working off the edge."
9. Washington Commanders: Edge Cashius Howell, Texas A&M
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The Washington Commanders' regression has occurred for numerous reasons. Among the top, the team's defense went from finishing among in the top 15 last season to the league's bottom 10 this season.
Dan Quinn's unit is surrendering just over 50 more yards per contest between the two campaigns. An addition of someone who can provide some juice, particularly as an edge-rusher, should be a priority. Currently, the 36-year-old Von Miller is the team's second-leading sack artist.
The Commanders can replace an all-time Texas A&M great with another promising Aggie in Cashius Howell.
"Howell's lack of length will be heavily discussed during the pre-draft process," Holder said, "but his tape is hard to argue with. This Aggie may have short arms, but he uses them well and can win as a pass-rusher in a handful of ways. He currently leads the SEC with 9.5 sacks heading into the weekend. That level of production is exactly what the Commanders' defense could use."
10. Baltimore Ravens: OT Spencer Fano, Utah
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As good of a passer as Lamar Jackson is, the Baltimore Ravens offense will always be built around the physical brand of football they've developed throughout their existence, particularly with the two-time NFL MVP behind center.
However, a reliable offensive line is necessary in order to execute at peak performance.
Utah's Spencer Fano is currently graded as Bleacher Report's top-rated offensive lineman. He can help plug the holes starting to form along Baltimore's front five.
"The Ravens' O-line has begun to show cracks in the foundation," Thorn said. "The group will need an influx of talent this upcoming offseason.
"Fano brings excellent competitive toughness, much-needed athletic ability and balance to the interior of this unit and could potentially fill in for Ronnie Stanley in a pinch at left tackle. Fano's movement skills are also dramatic upgrades over both current starting guards, which allows more versatility to the run game with his ability to track and intersect targets on the move."
11. Los Angeles Rams (via Atlanta): QB Arch Manning, Texas
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The Los Angeles Rams are playing with house money thanks to the extra first-round pick acquired from the Atlanta Falcons in last year's draft-day trade.
As such, the Rams can take a big swing here and select Matthew Stafford's heir apparent.
Texas' Arch Manning endured the heavy burden that comes from his family name, and many buried him after a slow start to the 2025 campaign. An understanding was needed then and now. He is still in his first season as a full-time collegiate starter. Maybe a contest against the best team in the nation isn't an ideal opening for an inexperienced signal-caller.
How Manning has responded says a lot about him and where he can eventually be as a future NFL starter. The Longhorns have won four in a row, with their quarterback providing eight total touchdowns and only one interception during that stretch.
"Stafford cannot play forever and there isn't an option on the roster worthy of handing the franchise's keys," Parson said. "Enter Manning, who is finding himself late in the CFB season. Manning is throwing with more confidence, accuracy and better overall decision-making. He is anticipating windows more quickly and being more decisive with his passes. Give this gifted prospect a year under Stafford's tutelage to learn/master Sean McVay's offense and the Rams will be a problem for another decade-plus."
12. Arizona Cardinals: WR Carnell Tate, Ohio State
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Since the start of October, the Arizona Cardinals are finally getting to see what they really have in Marvin Harrison Jr., with a pair of 90-plus-yard outings. He only posted three such performances during the entirety of his rookie campaign.
"It is clear the Cardinals have their WR1," Parson said, "but the rest of their pass catchers are just OK. Ohio State's Carnell Tate is a savvy and crafty route-runner with immense ball skills. He has the springy athleticism to climb the ladder and make plays at the catch-point. He is a team-first receiver, who fits nicely into the locker room dynamic.
"With Harrison as Arizona's top receiver, Tate will feast against the team's second- and third-string cornerbacks."
To Parson's point, Tate continues to experience a breakout season by taking advantage of coverages that tend to be rolled toward Jeremiah Smith. Opponents quickly find out Tate can make them pay as well.
13. Houston Texans: OL Francis Mauigoa, Miami
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The Houston Texans must keep quarterback C.J. Stroud upright and healthy, which he isn't currently. The team's offensive line requires significant upgrades to ensure it can protect him or whoever is behind center.
Miami's Francis Mauigoa can immediately help, whether it's at right tackle or guard. For Houston, he may be better served as an interior blocker.
"Houston's line needs a sturdy and stout presence at the guard spot and Mauigoa's physical traits and skill set translate perfectly to fill that void," Thorn said. "At 6'6" and 335 pounds, he has an elite anchor and excellent square power to uproot down linemen in the run game, with the dexterity to handle himself when isolated against NFL defensive tackles.
"The Texans reset their line this past offseason with low-level assets, aside from spending a second-round pick on Aireontae Ersery, and will need to allocate more resources to the unit this off-season, primarily to maximize Stroud's rookie contract and beyond."
14. Dallas Cowboys: CB Jermod McCoy, Tennessee
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The Dallas Cowboys are desperately trying to find ways to upgrade their defense, hence the additions of defensive tackle Quinnen Williams and linebacker Logan Wilson at the trade deadline.
The previous comment isn't a shot after the Micah Parsons trade, because the entire unit isn't playing well.
At this point, the idea of adding the best available defensive prospect with the most upside is a logical choice. Tennessee's Jermod McCoy is a top-10 talent based on last year's film, but he's yet to play this season due to a torn ACL he suffered in January.
"McCoy is an ultra-gifted athlete with the size (6'0", 193 lbs) to man up on the outside, trigger downhill in an instant and brings a 'dawg' mentality wherever he goes," Harms said. "He can immediately help a Cowboys defense where questions marks are found all over the secondary."
The Cowboys take a chance with McCoy's selection. The reward is a potential elite cover corner. He's worth the risk.
15. Minnesota Vikings: DL Peter Woods, Clemson
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The Minnesota Vikings' defensive interior may not be an immediate need, but it will be sooner than some might think.
Javon Hargrave and Jonathan Allen will be 33 and 31, respectively, going into the 2026 campaign. Jalen Redmond isn't signed beyond the current season, though he's an exclusive rights free agent.
An understanding of the situation, coupled with the chance to select a prospect previously viewed as a top-10 lock, becomes a tantalizing opportunity.
"Peter Woods' draft stock has been sliding since the summer, as his pass-rush production has been underwhelming with only two sacks in eight games," Holder said. "However, Minnesota's run defense has been soft. The Vikings are surrendering nearly 30 more yards per game on the ground compared to last season. Clemson's 6'3", 311-pound defensive tackle can help solve that problem and still present enough potential as a developmental pass-rusher."
16. Carolina Panthers: S Dillon Thieneman, Oregon
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The Carolina Panthers are building their identity on a ground-and-pound offensive approach and a talented defense.
Bryce Young doesn't appear to be the answer at quarterback. However, the organization may not be ready to give up on him just yet. Besides, Carolina isn't in a position to select a quarterback prospect at this point in the first round.
Instead, the Panthers continue to build the defense with a versatile defensive back, who can help in a variety of manners.
"The future of Carolina's defensive backfield is murky," Harms said. "While Tre'von Moehrig looks like a great offseason signing, rookie Lathan Ransom is fighting for snaps and Nick Scott is a free agent after the season.
"Oregon's Dillon Thieneman is a versatile playmaking safety prospect with excellent range and football IQ. He's got the size (6'0", 205 lbs) to play big nickel, while maintaining his instincts as a free safety to close on throws deep down the field.
"No matter what the Panthers decide to do with their safeties, Thieneman can handle any role and make everyone's job easier."
17. Kansas City Chiefs: Edge Keldric Faulk, Auburn
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The Kansas City Chiefs may not be humming along as they usually do during the regular season. However, this year's squad has looked outstanding in spurts, which may portend another long postseason run.
Considering how long Andy Reid's crew has been successful to this point, there's no need to worry or identity a specific area which must be addressed sooner rather than later.
Though the team likes to operate in a certain manner and definitely has specific preferences depending on the position group.
Case in point, Auburn's Keldric Faulk is tailor-made to play in the Chiefs' defense.
"Steve Spagnuolo loves big, physical and long base ends, who can play the run and slide inside during obvious passing situations," Holder said. "The description fits Faulk perfectly, making him a good fit next to Chris Jones in Kansas City. Plus, the 20-year-old is still young and has a lot of tools to develop and provide a bright NFL future."
18. Chicago Bears: Edge T.J. Parker, Clemson
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The Chicago Bears made an excellent deadline trade two years ago when they acquired Montez Sweat from the Washington Commanders. They're still searching for a complementary bookend, though.
Sweat currently leads the Bears with 4.5 sacks. Outside of defensive tackle Gervon Dexter Sr., no one on the roster has been able to muster more than 1.5. Plus, Dayo Odeyingbo will be coming off a season-ending Achilles injury.
Clemson's T.J. Parker presents significant upside. He hasn't been anywhere near as productive or disruptive this fall as many early projections expected, but that potential remains present.
"The Bears could use some help on the edge opposite Montez Sweat and Parker could be an ideal complement," Holder said. "At 6'3", 260 pounds, the Clemson product has good size. He's also a physical defender, which is similar to Sweat coming out of Mississippi State. Chicago is a great setup for Parker since he'd have a mentor while filling an obvious need on the Bears' defense."
19. Cleveland Browns (via Jacksonville): OT Kadyn Proctor, Alabama
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Along with quarterback, the Cleveland Browns haven't got left tackle right since injuries forced Joe Thomas to retire.
Earlier, Cleveland selected its quarterback of the future in Dante Moore. General manager Andrew Berry can now address the position's personal protector.
The selection of Alabama's Kadyn Proctor may be uncomfortable for Browns fans after Cleveland's previous experience with Jedrick Wills Jr. In this case, Proctor presents a higher upside and a far more physical presence.
In total, Cleveland's front five should look drastically different in 2026.
"Guards Joel Bitonio and Wyatt Teller are both set to become free agents this off-season," Thorn said. "The same applies to current starting left tackle Cam Robinson, while the incumbent starter Dawand Jones will be coming off his second season-ending injury. This line is set for a total rebuild, so adding a starter high in the draft is critical.
"Proctor has been inconsistent this season, but he's also slowly settled down over the second half of the year allowing more of his physical traits, power and strength to shine. A move inside may even occur at the next level. Whatever the case may be, there's little standing in his way of entering the Cleveland's starting lineup."
20. Pittsburgh Steelers: CB Avieon Terrell, Clemson
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The Pittsburgh Steelers secondary is being held together with duct tape and bubble gum at this point in the season. The addition of a quality defensive back will be a smart decision by general manager Omar Khan.
Head coach Mike Tomlin has been far too content placing long-in-the-tooth veterans at cornerback. The Steelers haven't selected a first-round cornerback since Artie Burns in 2016.
Clemson's Avieon Terrell is a much better prospect at the same point in their careers.
"The defense in Pittsburgh isn't what it used to be," Harms said. "Even though the Steelers traded for and extended Jalen Ramsey, the back end needs help. Joey Porter Jr is inconsistent and Darius Slay is a shell of himself.
"Terrell is one of the class' most competitive corners. He provides the flexibility to play inside or outside, allowing Jalen Ramsey to drift to safety from time to time.
"The chance to solidify the secondary should be a priority for the Steelers. Terrell, whose brother plays for the Atlanta Falcons, can come in and immediately help."
21. Detroit Lions: Edge Matayo Uiagalelei, Oregon
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The story remains the same with the Detroit Lions: The organization is still looking for a second pass-rusher to complement the defense's true standout.
This problem has lingered since Ziggy Ansah played for the franchise. He hasn't been with the Lions in seven years. Now, Aidan Hutchinson requires a long-term running mate.
Al-Quadin Muhammad has played well this season, but he is already 30 and not signed beyond the 2025 campaign.
The Lions can make another first-round investment in another defensive lineman to give them a much stronger edge presence. Oregon's Matayo Uiagalelei has been a consistent presence over the last two seasons.
"The Lions locked Hutchinson down contractually for the foreseeable future," Holder said, "but the defense still needs a secondary threat coming off the edge.
"At 6'5", 275 pounds, Uiagelelei fits the size profile that Detroit looks for in a defensive end. He also has the skills as a pass-rusher to help take some of the pressure off of Hutchinson."
22. Los Angeles Chargers: IOL Olaivavega Ioane, Penn State
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Clearly, the Los Angeles Chargers aren't thrilled with the current state of their guards, as evidenced by the team's acquisition of Trevor Penning prior to Tuesday's trade deadline.
The situation won't get drastically better next offseason. Zion Johnson and Penning are upcoming free agents. Mekhi Becton's extensive injury history won't disappear.
Los Angeles should seriously entertain the idea of drafting a tone-setting interior blocker, and Penn State's Vega Ioane fits the bill.
"Aside from Joe Alt, Chargers head coach Jim Harbaugh hasn't gotten to draft a high-level blocker since taking over the team," Thorn said. "Ioane fits the coach's traditional style of player to a tee.
"At 6'4" and 330 pounds, with heavy hands and jarring power, Ioane has been a force all season for the Nittany Lions despite the inconsistencies found around him. Ioane can slot into either guard spot for Los Angeles and provide the requisite size, anchor and power in the run game that this offense desperately needs to play its brand of football."
23. San Francisco 49ers: OT Caleb Lomu, Utah
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Trent Williams can't play forever. The 11-time Pro Bowl honoree turns 38 next summer. He might be able to squeeze another year or two out of his career, but the San Francisco 49ers need to prepare for life without the future Hall of Fame inductee.
Utah's Caleb Lomu has enough upside to develop into the 2026 class' best blocker. At the same time, though, he may not be ready for the NFL.
"Lomu might be best-served to return for another year at Utah to add more size and strength, which would make him an early favorite for OT1 in the '27 cycle," Thorn said. "But with this class being underwhelming at tackle, he should find his way into the first round regardless.
"The Niners can provide the proper runway for him to potentially ease his way into the lineup over his first season or two depending on Williams' plans. Lomu has silky-smooth movement skills and the natural feel in pass protection of a quality starting NFL tackle, which are difficult-to-find, highly coveted traits that provide excellent value at this spot in the draft."
24. Dallas Cowboys (via Green Bay): RB Jeremiyah Love, Notre Dame
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With a pair of first-round draft picks, the Dallas Cowboys can wade into luxury-selection territory.
The defense could always use more help, but the Cowboys won't be able to land the class' top-ranked running back if they continue to wait.
Notre Dame's Jeremiyah Love is a top-10 talent, but his positional value drives him down to a degree. With Javonte Williams and Miles Sanders not signed beyond this season, the Cowboys can again add a bell cow to the offense and have the scheme run through him like it did with Emmitt Smith and Ezekiel Elliott, which will only make quarterback Dak Prescott and his wide receivers even more dangerous.
"Love will bolster an NFL team's entire offensive operation," Parson said. "The Notre Dame ball-carrier is an explosive homerun threat, who runs with patience and vision. By adding his playmaking versatility, the Cowboys can also line him up in the slot and feature him as another weapon in the passing game. Prescott will once again have a back that teams must worry about every week in the NFL."
25. Buffalo Bills: S Zakee Wheatley, Penn State
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The Buffalo Bills are good once again, even though two glaring holes can be found in their lineup.
Offensively, Buffalo lacks wide receivers who can consistently create separation and makes themselves available targets for quarterback Josh Allen. Defensively, the roster has major issues at safety that have been present for well over a season now.
General manager Brandon Beane could go in either direction. In this instance, the Bills front office chooses a tone-setting safety to give the defense some security along the back line.
"Penn State's Zakee Wheatley isn't a household name," Harms said, "but he should be. He's a big body (6'2", 200 lbs) along the back end with real range and instincts once the football is in the air. The Nittany Lions also has a knack for anticipating route concepts while reading the quarterback. As a willing run defender to boot, he'd be a welcome addition to Buffalo's secondary."
26. Seattle Seahawks: Edge David Bailey, Texas Tech
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The Seattle Seahawks are playing outstanding football. Even so, the defense isn't quite where it needs to be for Mike Macdonald's standards.
Currently, Seattle sits just outside the league's Top 10 in total defense. Macdonald comes from the Baltimore Ravens, where aggressiveness and consistent pressure are defensive calling cards.
With Boye Mafe set to hit free agency after the season, plus the combination of Uchenna Nwosu and DeMarcus Lawrence being 30 or older by the end of the 2026 campaign, a natural edge-rusher should be at the top of Seattle's wish list.
"Insert Texas Tech's David Bailey, who leads the country with 11.5 sacks and has shown several pass-rush moves which which he can win," Holder said. "Also, he'd be a great fit in Macdonald's defensive scheme."
Bailey can stand up when working off the edge and provide significant juice to offset any potential losses to the roster or just give the Seahawks far more explosiveness when getting after opposing quarterbacks.
27. Los Angeles Rams: OT Caleb Tiernan, Northwestern
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The Los Angeles Rams are another team double-dipping in the first round with a quarterback/offensive tackle combo.
Unlike the Cleveland Browns, the Rams are nowhere near as desperate to address both positions. The board fell in their favor, though.
Northwestern's Caleb Tiernan may not be the most athletically-gifted blocker, but he may be exactly what the Rams need to make sure their offensive line remains stable and protect whomever is behind center.
"Tiernan has been one of the class' most well-rounded and consistent blockers," Thorn said. "The Rams will have a hole at right tackle this offseason with aging veteran Rob Havenstein set to hit free agency. Tiernan could slide over to the strong side and start immediately for this ultra-O-line-friendly scheme, providing the unit with a very similar player after Havenstein's solid 11-year tenure."
28. Denver Broncos: TE Kenyon Sadiq, Oregon
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Veteran tight end Evan Engram hasn't been much of a factor in the Denver Broncos offense. Sean Payton's squad needs a more dynamic presence at the position.
Oregon's Kenyon Sadiq provides plus-athleticism, hellacious blocking and a previous connection with quarterback Bo Nix.
"Nix just loves throwing the ball to ex-teammates, as his connection with Troy Franklin indicates," Harms said. "Let's try that approach again.
"Sadiq played with Nix as a true freshman. He has since blossomed into one of the most impactful and effective blockers in the entire class. Engram may have a few more years on his contract, but Broncos head coach Sean Payton wants to have a blocking tight end he can trust.
"Sadiq happens to also be an incredible athlete with top-tier upside as a pass-catcher, who Payton can mold into a frightening weapon. This pairing seems like a match made in heaven."
29. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: DL LT Overton, Alabama
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Offensively, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers have all the pieces in place, as long as the group stays healthy—which it hasn't been this season. The same can't be said about the squad's defense.
Tampa Bay's defensive front seven will need retooling after the season. Logan Hall and Greg Gaines are upcoming free agents. Calijah Kancey will be coming off a season-ending torn pectoral muscle. Vita Vea isn't getting any younger, either, since he turns 31 in February.
Alabama's LT Overton can address multiple issues after his selection.
"The Buccaneers' defensive line could use a quality run defender to pair with Vita Vea," Holder said. "Overton can fill that specific role and be a good fit as a 4i-technique in Bowles' defense. Plus, the Alabama product has the potential to grow in the pass-rush department, with the versatility to play multiple alignments on the defensive line."
30. New England Patriots: WR Chris Brazzell II, Tennessee
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Imagine Drake Maye and his big arm having a big-bodied vertical threat in the New England Patriots' offense. Well, he does now with the selection of Tennessee's Chris Brazzell II.
"Maye is proving he's the face of the Patriots franchise. Let them continue to build around him," Parson said. "Brazzell is a 6'5", long-limbed, athletic pass catcher. He has the stride-length and top-end speed to take the top off of any defense. He runs good routes and doesn't have an issue separating from man coverage—which should be a great match of skill sets and strengths between quarterback and wide receiver."
Brazzell stretching the field will also open up more of the passing game for the Patriots' other receivers, who can shine in the short to intermediate areas. The first-rounder's presence alone can change New England entire offensive dynamic.
The Tennessee product may not be a fit for everyone, but he's an ideal choice for the Patriots.
31. Philadelphia Eagles: WR Chris Bell, Louisville
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DeVonta Smith is now the Philadelphia Eagles' WR1. A.J. Brown may be in a funk, but he's still more than capable. Even with both on the roster, the Eagles should be looking for yet another threat in the passing game.
Brown hasn't found his footing this season. The 28-year-old veteran is on pace to finish the campaign with fewer than 1,000 receiving yards.
General manager Howie Roseman can hedge by adding another physically impressive wide receiver to provide a similar presence.
Louisville's Chris Bell is a 6'2", 220-pound target. He plays through contact and creates after the catch. Initially, he can be the Eagles' third option in the passing game.
"The Eagles passing offense needs a reliable third receiving threat," Parson said. "Bell is an outstanding prospect in terms of height, weight and speed. He is a physical receiver after the catch with enough nimbleness to force missed tackles in space. His post-catch acceleration is scary for a receiver of his size/frame. A potential trio of Brown and Bell, with Smith in the slot, should extend the Eagles Super Bowl window a few more years."
32. New York Jets (via Indianapolis): CB Jalon Kilgore, South Carolina
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The New York Jets' fire sale at the trade deadline changed the organization's entire trajectory.
Now armed with multiple first-round picks in the 2026 and 2027 draft, the Jets can build their roster in the image of the current regime (as long as it remains in place past this season).
The Sauce Gardner deal to the Indianapolis Colts creates a void in the secondary, though general manager Doug Mougey doesn't need to execute a one-for-one exchange with this particular selection.
Instead, South Carolina's Jalon Kilgore is more of a defensive chess piece to use along the back line.
"The 6'1", 211-pound Kilgore can play anywhere in the defensive backfield but primarily lines up over the slot for the Gamecocks," Thorn said. "Early on, he can play some safety for the Jets then slide down into the nickel when needed. Overall, he plays with speed, ball skills, and wants to come downhill and tackle. He can be a building block for the new-look Jets."
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.jpg?w=600 "Every NFL 5th-Year Contract Option for 2027")
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