2026 NFL Mock Draft with Blind Resume Picks Reveals Surprising 1st Round
The belief that numbers don't lie doesn't necessarily translate to the NFL draft world. Prolific college producers and athletic marvels simply aren't guaranteed to succeed at the next level.
If numbers alone did guarantee NFL success, players like JaMarcus Russell, Vernon Gholston, Case Keenum and Donnel Pumphrey would have become professional megastars.
Plenty of other factors go into the evaluation of a draft prospect. Teams value interviews, level of competition, performance in big moments and often, program pedigree. The reps players put on film and the performances they make in the classroom are often more important than the raw results.
Still, it's easy to become enamored by impressive stats, size or speed, and it's fun to imagine a world in which those are the only metrics that matter. Here, we'll do exactly that for the 2026 draft class.
The following mock draft is based on the current draft order, team needs and positional value. Picks, though, will be based solely on 2026 statistics, physical traits, scouting combine performances and/or pro day results.
Welcome to B/R's NFL Mock Draft week. Check out our other installments in the series below:
1. Las Vegas Raiders: QB1
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2026 Stat Line: 3,535 passing yards, 41 TD, 6 INTs, 72.0% completion, 182.9 QB rating, 276 rushing yards, 7 rushing TDs
Notable Measurables: 6'5", 236 lbs, 9½" hands
Though they recently added Kirk Cousins, the Las Vegas Raiders need a long-term answer at quarterback. The first signal-caller off the board in our blind mock has the tools, traits and proven production to provide Las Vegas' answer.
A three-year starter in college, QB1 completed over 68 percent of his passes over that span. His numbers indicate good accuracy, arm strength (8.2 yards per attempt), an ability to find the end zone (71 career passing TDs), and an amount of care with the football (22 career INTs).
With 473 career rushing yards and 11 touchdowns, QB1 also possesses functional scrambling ability, though he's unlikely to be a true dual-threat in the NFL.
Durability and pocket vision shouldn't be concerns, as QB1 has archetypal size at 6'5" and 236 pounds.
2. New York Jets: Edge1
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2026 Stat Line: 52 combined tackles, 14.5 sacks, 19.5 tackles for loss
Notable Measurables: 6'4", 251 lbs, 34¾" arms, 4.5-second 40-yard dash, 35" vertical
The New York Jets need to find their quarterback of the future. However, New York doesn't need to take a chance on one here. With a second first-round pick and two second-rounders in this draft, plus three first-round picks in 2027, the Jets can focus on maximizing their value at No. 2 overall.
They can get tremendous value by taking the top edge-rusher in the class, too. Edge1 is a four-year starter who recorded at least 5.0 sacks in each of his past three. He backed up a tremendous final season with a strong combine performance, which leaves few questions head into the draft.
Edge1 has the length, burst, and technique needed to get past most blockers one-on-one. While perhaps too undersized to be a full-time edge-setting defender in the NFL, he can shine as a sack specialist.
After recording just 26 sacks as a team and trading Jermaine Johnson II, the Jets could desperately use a prominent sack artist.
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3. Arizona Cardinals: QB2
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2026 Stat Line: 3,813 passing yards, 30 TDs, 12 INTs, 72.4% completion, 157.0 QB rating, 43 rushing yards, 2 rushing TDs
Notable Measurables: 6'5", 233 lbs, 10" hands
Like the Raiders and Jets, the Arizona Cardinals need to find a long-term answer behind center. Unlike the Raiders, they don't have their pick of 2026 draft prospects. Unlike the Jets, they don't have a plethora of extra picks in 2027.
Ultimately, the Cardinals decide to flip the switch on QB2 here.
There's plenty to like about QB2, including his size and experience. A three-year starter who played in big games and who threw for more than 11,000 yards in college, QB2 has had the reps that NFL teams want in a quarterback prospect.
The biggest concerns with QB2 are his lack of elite arm strength. However, he has the height, touch, anticipation, progression skills, and functional mobility needed to be a high-end game manager in the NFL.
4. Tennessee Titans: OT1
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2026 Stat Line: 12 appearances, 12 starts
Notable Measurables: 6'5½", 311 lbs, 32⅛" arms, 4.91-second 40-yard dash, 32" vertical
The Tennessee Titans' biggest responsibility this offseason is to give second-year quarterback Cam Ward an improved supporting cast. With the fourth pick here, they have the option to take the best offensive playmaker in the draft or the top lineman available.
Given the scarcity of high-level offensive tackles in the NFL, and the laughable level of protection Ward had in 2025, Tennessee opts for door No. 2. Ward was sacked 55 times, tied for the most in the league.
OT1 is a three-year starter with experience at both tackle spots who should step right into a starting role in Tennessee.
With an excellent blend of size, play strength, and athleticism, OT1 can quickly become a valuable piece in Brian Daboll's offense. He's a fast, fluid mover who can handle speed rushers off the edge and block on the run in the ground game.
5. New York Giants: RB1
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2026 Stat Line: 1,372 rushing yards, 27 receptions, 280 receiving yards, 21 combined touchdowns
Notable Measurables: 6'0", 212 lbs, 4.36-second 40-yard dash
Like the Titans, the New York Giants are looking to build around a second-year quarterback while also implementing a new culture under a new head coach.
This may be considered early for a running back, but RB1 is much more than just a starting-caliber ball-carrier. He has consistently been a high-level producer over the past two seasons, both as a runner and as a receiver. He should be used in a variety of roles and alignments at the next level.
RB1 possesses an elite combination of size, play strength, and speed—and the straight-line speed he showcased in Indianapolis translates to the field, as evidenced by a 6.7 career yards-per-carry average.
Adding RB1 will help take pressure off of Jaxson Dart while giving John Harbaugh another special playmaker on his offense. RB1 is one of the biggest home-run hitters at any position in this class.
6. Cleveland Browns: OT2
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2026 Stat Line: 14 appearances, 13 starts
Notable Measurables: 6'7", 315 lbs, 34¾" arms, 4.93-second 40-yard dash, 33.5-inch vertical
It won't come as a shock if the Cleveland Browns trade down in the early first round for the second straight year. If they stay put at No. 6, however, they have two big needs they can address at offensive tackle and wide receiver.
There will likely be two schools of thought when it comes to drafting receivers this year. The positional pool is viewed as a deep one, so some teams will be willing to wait at the position. At the same time, though, many of the top prospects are pass-catchers, which justifies taking them early.
Six of the top 30 prospects on the Bleacher Report Scouting Department's draft board are receivers.
Here, the Browns look to dip into the receiver pool later, choosing instead to snag a mammoth offensive tackle with intriguing traits and a high athletic ceiling. OT2's limited on-field resume may lead to a lengthy developmental period, but his physical tools give him an encouraging amount of long-term potential.
7. Washington Commanders: S1
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2026 Stat Line: 96 combined tackles, 3.5 tackles for loss, 2 INTs
Notable Measurables: 6'0", 201 lbs, 4.35-second 40-yard dash, 41-inch vertical
The Washington Commanders snap up the first defensive back. While this is a traditionally high spot for a safety—Jamal Adams was the last safety drafted in the top 10, in 2017—the Commanders need defensive difference-makers, and S1 is exactly that.
A three-year starter with 39 games on his resume, S1 has flashed a terrific blend of playmaking ability, durability, and alignment versatility. He averaged just over 100 tackles per season while totaling 14 passes defended, eight interceptions, and two forced fumbles.
Adding S1 will give new defensive coordinator Daronte Jones a versatile chess piece and should immediately boost a defense that ranked 28th in passing defense and 32nd in total defense last season.
S1 would be a terrific addition to a safety rotation that includes Will Harris and free-agent addition Nick Cross. His versatility should get him on the field early, and his elite physical traits should allow him to develop into a Pro Bowl-caliber starter.
7. Washington Commanders: Dillon Thieneman, S, Oregon
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Full scouting report can be found here.
8. New Orleans Saints: WR1
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2026 Stat Line: 62 catches, 1,017 yards, 9 TDs
Notable Measurables: 6'4", 198 lbs, 4.37-second 40-yard dash
The New Orleans Saints have their own second-year quarterback in Tyler Shough. The Saints could certainly consider a defensive standout, but the prospect of giving Shough their receiver of choice could be difficult to pass up.
While not every team's receiver board is likely to look the same, WR1 is a perfect fit for the Saints. Though he has just one year of high-level production, he showed this past season that he's a legitimate deep threat, averaging 16.4 yards per catch.
WR1 backed up his breakthrough season by showing elite speed at the scouting combine.
An explosive athlete with a large catch radius, WR1 may only be scratching the surface of his potential. He'd be a terrific complement to Chris Olave in New Orleans and a welcome replacement for the speedy Rashid Shaheed, who was traded at last year's deadline.
8. New Orleans Saints: Chris Brazzell II, WR, Tennessee
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Full scouting report can be found here.
9. Kansas City Chiefs: CB1
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2026 Stat Line: 45 combined tackles, 11 passes defended, 2 INTs
Notable Measurables: 6'0", 187 lbs, 4.38-second 40-yard dash
The Kansas City Chiefs will have options with this pick. They could follow the Saints into the receiver pool, and they could afford to add another pass-rusher to their rotation. Ultimately, though, they may find it difficult to pass on the top cornerback in the draft.
Reliable cornerback play is a necessity for Steve Spagnuolo's defense. While Kansas City has done a fine job of back-filling the cornerback position in recent years, the task could be especially challenging this offseason.
The Chiefs traded starting corner Trent McDuffie, who was a first-team All-Pro in 2023, to the Los Angeles Rams. They also lost starter Jaylen Watson in free agency.
CB1 played through injury in 2025 and still performed like a top-tier cover corner. With good length for the position, elite speed, refined man coverage skills, and a physical play style, CB1 should be an early starter and an ideal fit for the perimeter of Spagnuolo's defense.
10. New York Giants (from Cincinnati): S2
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2026 Stat Line: 77 combined tackles, 5.5 tackles for loss, 2 INTs, 1 TD
Notable Measurables: 6'3½", 201 lbs, 4.52-second 40-yard dash, 35.5-in vertical
According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, the Giants will trade defensive tackle Dexter Lawrence to the Cincinnati Bengals for the 10th overall pick in the 2026 draft. After getting an offensive playmaker with their first pick, the Giants should be looking to snag a defensive playmaker with their second. S2 certainly fits the bill.
A three-year starter with great length and adequate speed for the position, S2 has a proven nose for the football. In 48 career games, he tallied 13 passes defended, five interceptions, nine forced fumbles, and 10 fumble recoveries.
S2 projects as an impact box safety and a long-term complement to 2025 free-agent addition Javon Holland. He may quickly replace Tyler Nubin, who was ranked 78th among qualifying safeties last season by Pro Football Focus, and he should find an early role in the secondary, even if he isn't a rookie starter.
New head coach John Harbaugh and new defensive coordinator Dennard Wilson regularly used a three-safety rotation with the Baltimore Ravens. Adding S2 to New York's rotation makes a ton of sense here.
10. New York Giants (from Cincinnati): Emmanuel McNeil-Warren, S, Toledo
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Full scouting report can be found here.
11. Miami Dolphins: WR2
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2026 Stat Line: 101 catches, 1,278 receiving yards, 13 TDs
Notable Measurables: 5'11⅝", 192 lbs, 4.4-second 40-yard dash, 41-inch vertical
The rebuilding Miami Dolphins could go in a number of directions here, but taking one of the top receivers would make perfect sense. The Dolphins added their next quarterback of the future when they signed Malik Willis to a three-year, $67.5 million contract in free agency. However, they're not currently poised to pair Willis with an impressive receiving corps.
Miami released Tyreek Hill and traded Jaylen Warren to the Denver Broncos this offseason.
WR2 has a good combination of size and explosiveness, and he should bring inside-outside versatility to Bobby Slowik's offense. While he doesn't quite have the speed of Hill or Warren, he showed plenty of home-run-hitting ability in college.
Over 52 career games, WR2 averaged 13.2 yards per reception. He averaged an impressive 17.2 yards per catch in 2024 and averaged 12.7 yards per catch in 2025 while topping 100 receptions.
12. Dallas Cowboys: Edge2
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2026 Stat Line: 63 combined tackles, 12.5 sacks, 17.5 tackles for loss
Notable Measurables: 6'3", 259 lbs, 32⅛" arms
The Dallas Cowboys need to add defensive help after ranking 32nd in points allowed last season, and they may be inclined to trade up to get it. In this blind mock, however, one of the top two edge-rushers falls to them at No. 2.
Edge2 lacks the archetypal length some teams will prefer on the edge. However, he has a solid frame, adequate arm length, an impressive resume of production, and a pro-ready experience level.
Over six collegiate seasons, Edge2 appeared in 65 games with 53 starts. While 2025 was his most productive campaign, Edge2 recorded 35.5 sacks, 52.5 tackles for loss, five forced fumbles, and four passes defended during his college career.
As a pass-rushing specialist, Edge2 should make an immediate impact for the Cowboys, who added Rashan Gary via trade but could still use help on the edge. Dallas recorded a mere 34 sacks this past season.
13. Los Angeles Rams (from Atlanta): WR3
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2026 Stat Line: 61 catches, 919 yards, 9 TDs
Notable Measurables: 6'0", 196 lbs
After adding cornerbacks Jaylen Watson and Trent McDuffie, the Rams don't have many pressing needs. They could consider an off-ball linebacker with this pick, but it won't be a surprise to see them get involved with the early receiver run.
No. 2 receiver Davante Adams is 33 years old and is entering the final year of his contract. Los Angeles also considered trading Adams this offseason before ultimately deciding against it.
Picking up WR3 here gives L.A. a long-term replacement for Adams and a strong complement to Puka Nacua.
WR3 showed a terrific burst in college, as evidenced by a 15.1 yards-per-catch average in 2025. He topped 800 receiving yards in two of his three seasons and scored 25 touchdowns in 38 career games. With good size and inside-outside versatility, WR3 would regularly create mismatches in Sean McVay's offense.
13. Los Angeles Rams (from Atlanta): KC Concepcion, WR, Texas A&M
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Full scouting report can be found here.
14. Baltimore Ravens: IOL1
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2026 Stat Line: 11 appearances, 11 starts
Notable Measurables: 6'4¼", 320 lbs, 32¾" arms, 31.5-inch vertical
The Baltimore Ravens are picking toward the middle of Round 1, which is less-than-ideal, according to general manager Eric DeCosta.
"First round, there's definitely a drop off probably midway through the round in terms of talent," DeCosta told reporters.
In this blind mock, DeCosta scoops up the first interior lineman of the draft. Baltimore could use help along the interior after losing both Tyler Linderbaum and Daniel Faalele in free agency.
IOL1 possesses an intriguing combination of experience, size, and athleticism. A 32-game starter at guard, he did see a handful of snaps at center. He should immediately plug into Baltimore's line as a starter and has the potential to develop into a regular Pro Bowler.
14. Baltimore Ravens: Olaivavega Ioane, IOL, Penn State
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Full scouting report can be found here.
15. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: LB1
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2026 Stat Line: 82 combined tackles, 6.5 tackles for loss, 1 INT
Notable Measurables: 6'5", 244 lbs, 32⅞" arms, 4.46-second 40-yard dash, 43.5-inch vertical
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers lost longtime starting linebacker Lavonte David to retirement this offseason. While Tampa did sign Alex Anzalone to help replace him, it could afford to add a high-upside off-ball linebacker to its defense.
LB1 should fit what the Buccaneers are looking for. While his numbers were down in 2025 compared to the previous season, he has shown the ability to do a little bit of everything well—not unlike Davis in his prime.
While LB1 is perhaps a bit lean for his height, he does a good job finding the ball-carrier and flowing to the football. With a great combination of length and quickness, he should excel as a coverage 'backer at the next level.
LB1 didn't regularly create turnovers in college (3 forced fumbles, 1 INT in 53 games), but he was a dependable defender on all three downs. In short, LB1 has all the tools and traits needed to replace David as Tampa's new second-level star.
15. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Sonny Styles, LB, Ohio State
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Full scouting report can be found here.
16. New York Jets (from Indianapolis): QB3
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2026 Stat Line: 3,567 passing yards, 28 TDs, 5 INTs, 64.5% completion, 145.2 QB rating, 93 rushing yards, 2 TDs
Notable Measurables: 6'1⅛", 211 lbs, 9⅞" hands
The Jets didn't gamble on a quarterback with their first pick in the Round, but they'll do so here. We're at the point in the draft where the top-tier players at most positions are already taken, and if QB3 doesn't show enough promise in 2026, New York can use its three 2027 first-round picks to revisit the quarterback position.
Giving QB3 an audition would be a much better use of the Jets' 2026 season than simply treading water with Geno Smith—unless head coach Aaron Glenn and general manager Darren Mougey are truly committed to the tank.
QB3 is worth a flier here, even though he falls just a bit short of desired NFL size for the position. The former 5-star recruit may not be as big as the two quarterbacks drafted before him, but he has the necessary tools to be a very capable pro pocket passer.
This past season, QB3 demonstrated the ability to get the ball out on time to the open receiver, regularly generating big plays and protecting the football. (only five INTs across 473 passing attempts).
16. New York Jets (from Indianapolis): Ty Simpson, QB, Alabama
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Full scouting report can be found here.
17. Detroit Lions: OT3
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2026 Stat Line: 13 appearances, 13 starts
Notable Measurables: 6'6¾", 317 lbs, 34¼" arms, 5.04-second 40-yard dash
This offseason, the Detroit Lions agreed to part with longtime starting tackle Taylor Decker. While the Lions have the option of moving Penei Sewell to left tackle, that will leave them with a hole on the right side.
Flipping the switch on OT3 here makes plenty of sense. OT3 has an ideal combination of size, length, and athleticism, and he should develop into a legitimate asset on the right side of Detroit's line.
OT3 has the explosiveness and quickness needed to block on the move in the ground game, and he possesses the frame and length to fend off edge-rushers in pass protection.
A four-year starter with over 50 games on his resume, OT3 has the experience to be an early contributor for the Lions. While there's room for improvement, Detroit won't be inheriting a raw prospect.
18. Minnesota Vikings: S3
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2026 Stat Line: 68 combined tackles, 5.0 tackles for loss, 2 INTs
Notable Measurables: 6'0", 206 lbs
The Minnesota Vikings released longtime safety Harrison Smith with a post-June 1 designation. While this doesn't guarantee that Smith won't return for his 15th NFL season, it's time for the Vikings to nail down a long-term replacement.
S3 should be able to fill the void for Minnesota. While he doesn't quite have the size or length of some other safeties in this class, S3 was a consistently impactful and productive defender in college.
A three-year starter in college, S3 showcased a variety of skills that should appeal to the Vikings. He was very effective in run support, as evidenced by 164 solo tackles in 44 games. He was also a difference-maker in coverage (12 passes defended, 6 INTs) and was an effective run blitzer (16 tackles for loss).
Adding S3 here would give the Vikings a future starter at safety and would be a sensible move, whether or not Harrison is leaning toward a return.
19. Carolina Panthers: TE1
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2026 Stat Line: 62 catches, 769 yards, 4 TDs
Notable Measurables: 6'4", 239 lbs, 4.51-second 40-yard dash, 45.5-inch vertical
Three years after drafting him first overall, the Carolina Panthers are still in the evaluation process with quarterback Bryce Young. The Alabama product flashed a lot of upside this past season while helping Carolina reach the playoffs. However, the Panthers haven't consistently seen him play at a high level.
The Panthers should hope to get a look at Young with an improved supporting cast this season. Adding a premier pass-catching tight end would help achieve that goal.
Tommy Tremble led Panthers tight ends with just 249 receiving yards last season.
TE1 has the potential to be a mismatch target for Young. With the length and speed of a big slot receiver, TE1 can feast in the middle of the field as Tetairoa McMillan and Xavier Legette operate on the perimeter. The five-year player averaged 12.1 yards per catch in college and topped 600 receiving yards in each of the past two seasons.
20. Dallas Cowboys (from Green Bay): CB2
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2026 Stat Line: 48 combined tackles, 3.0 sacks, 9 passes defended
Notable Measurables: 5'11", 186 lbs, 34" vertical
After bolstering their pass rush earlier in Round 1, the Cowboys come back to improve their secondary here. CB2 should immediately help bolster a unit that was flat-out not good in 2025.
This past season, Dallas surrendered more passing yards than any other team while coughing up 35 passing touchdowns and logging just six interceptions. It also released former star cornerback Trevon Diggs late in the year.
CB2 isn't overly long but has adequate size for the position. While he may struggle against bigger and more physical receivers, he shouldn't be a complete liability on the perimeter. He showed the ability to contest catches in college, logging 25 passes defended in 39 career games.
While CB2 is rarely the biggest defensive back on the field, he's willing to engage in run support and has a knack for forcing turnovers. Over the past two seasons, he recorded 75 solo tackles, two interceptions, and eight forced fumbles.
20. Dallas Cowboys (from Green Bay): Avieon Terrell, CB, Clemson
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Full scouting report can be found here.
21. Pittsburgh Steelers: OT4
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2026 Stat Line: 13 appearances, 13 starts
Notable Measurables: 6'7", 352 lbs, 33⅜" arms, 5.21-second 40-yard dash
Without a clear long-term plan at quarterback, the Pittsburgh Steelers might consider a signal-caller here if one of the top two or three is left on the board. That didn't happen in our blind mock, so Pittsburgh pivots to pass protection.
The Steelers could opt for an interior lineman after losing Isaac Seumalo in free agency. However, the potential to find an upgrade over Broderick Jones at tackle will be extremely tempting. Moving Troy Fautanu to left tackle is an option, but it would likely require replacing Jones on the right side.
Pro Football Focus ranked Jones 68th among 89 qualifying tackles in pass protection this past season.
OT4 has a massive frame with good athleticism for a player his size. He has the play strength to slot in at guard during what will likely be the last year of Jones' rookie contract—the Steelers are widely expected to decline his fifth-year option—and the physical potential to develop into a solid starting tackle.
22. Los Angeles Chargers: Edge3
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2026 Stat Line: 54 combined tackles, 9.5 sacks, 15.5 tackles for loss, 1 INT
Notable Measurables: 6'2", 263 lbs, 30⅞" arms
The Los Angeles Chargers could look to address their offensive or defensive line with this selection. With Edge3 still on the board, though, they scoop up a player they hope can be a future game-wrecker.
The Chargers recorded a respectable 45 sacks in 2025, but they lost Odafe Oweh in free agency. While they re-signed future Hall of Fame sack artist Khalil Mack, he turned 35 in February.
Edge3 isn't as long as teams typically prefer on the edge, and his arms are worryingly short for the position. However, his powerful, compact frame regularly allowed him to make plays in the backfield in college.
A three-year collegiate starter, Edge3 racked up 20.5 sacks and 33.5 tackles for loss in 38 games. He can help bolster Los Angeles' pass rush while also aiding a run defense that ranked 18th in yards per carry allowed last season.
22. Los Angeles Chargers: Rueben Bain Jr., Edge, Miami
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Full scouting report can be found here.
23. Philadelphia Eagles: WR4
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2026 Stat Line: 79 catches, 1,156 receiving yards, 11 TDs
Notable Measurables: 5'11", 192 lbs, 4.48-second 40-yard dash
Philadelphia Eagles general manager Howie Roseman has a long history of planning for future needs in the draft. The Eagles may have a future need at receiver if they part with A.J. Brown.
Brown has expressed his displeasure with the Eagles, and there's been no shortage of trade speculation this offseason. While the entire saga could have any number of outcomes, it feels like a trade after June 1 is entirely possible.
Trading Brown before June 1 would cost Philadelphia $20.1 million in additional cap space.
With this in mind, the Eagles snap up WR4. One of the nation's most productive pass-catchers in 2025, WR4 had strong production in each of the past two seasons. He has enough speed to get open deep (14.7 career yards-per-catch average), and enough inside-outside versatility to find a role in the Eagles' offense even if Brown doesn't depart.
24. Cleveland Browns (from Jacksonville): WR5
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2026 Stat Line: 69 catches, 937 yards, 13 TDs, 74 rushing yards
Notable Measurables: 6'0⅛", 199 lbs, 4.42-second 40-yard dash, 37-inch vertical
The Browns grabbed a tackle at the top of the draft, which should help their 2026 evaluation of quarterbacks Deshaun Watson, Shedeur Sanders, and Dillon Gabriel. However, the Browns still need a quality starting receiver opposite Jerry Jeudy.
Enter WR5.
While Cleveland isn't going to land its pick of 2026 receiver prospects at this point in the draft, it can still get a borderline No. 1 receiver. WR5 has the combination of size and speed needed to be a go-to target for whoever the Browns decide to start behind center.
WR5 has been both a big-play threat (15.6 career yards-per-catch average) and a high-volume target in college. He also possesses enough play strength to contribute as a ball-carrier, which should be a boon for a Browns team that lacked offensive threats in 2025.
24. Cleveland Browns (from Jacksonville): Omar Cooper Jr., WR, Indiana
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Full scouting report can be found here.
25. Chicago Bears: LB2
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2026 Stat Line: 69 combined tackles, 6.5 sacks, 10 tackles for loss
Notable Measurables: 6'4", 241 lbs, 32½" arms, 4.46-second 40-yard dash
After ranking just 29th in total defense this past season, the Chicago Bears have worked to overhaul that side of the ball. They replaced both 2025 starters at safety and replaced middle linebacker Tremaine Edmunds with Devin Bush.
Adding LB2 here would help give Chicago's new-look defense a bit more flexibility.
While LB2 isn't particularly polished in any one area, he has the overall length and burst needed to provide a pass-rushing presence off the edge (7 career sacks), while providing early-down run support (52 career solo tackles).
A two-year starter in college, LB2 may need some time to develop and to find an appropriate role as a pro. The Bears can afford to try him as a dedicated pass-rusher early while potentially preparing him to be an every-down outside linebacker.
26. Buffalo Bills: WR6
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2026 Stat Line: 62 catches, 1,017 receiving yards, 9 TDs
Notable Measurables: 6'1⅞", 222 lbs
While the Buffalo Bills traded for D.J. Moore and insist that they still believe in Keon Coleman, they could afford to add another playmaker to Josh Allen's supporting cast in the draft.
WR6 has the potential to be a legitimate difference-maker in the Bills' offense, though he's coming off a significant season-ending injury.
Before the injury, WR6 was one of the most prolific pass-catchers in the country. He has an ideal combination of size and length to play on the perimeter, and he showed plenty of downfield ability in college, as evidenced by his 14.3 career yards-per-catch average.
WR6 topped 700 yards in each of the past two seasons and scored 10 touchdowns over that span. He has the tools and the skills to be the big boundary target that Coleman was supposed to be.
27. San Francisco 49ers: Edge4
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2026 Stat Line: 37 combined tackles, 5.0 sacks, 9.5 tackles for loss
Notable Measurables: 6'3⅝", 263 lbs, 33⅛" arms, 4.68-second 40-yard dash
The San Francisco 49ers managed to overcome a plethora of defensive injuries in 2025 and still reached the playoffs. One of the biggest injuries San Francisco had to endure was the ACL tear that star pass-rusher Nick Bosa suffered in Week 3.
With Bosa sidelined for most of the season, the 49ers' defense finished with a mere 20 sacks.
Even if Bosa is back to 100 percent by the start of the 2026 season, San Francisco could afford to add a high-end complement across from him. Edge4 doesn't boast the most impressive college resume (11.5 sacks in 39 games), but he has a very promising physical profile.
With a great combination of size, length, and quickness, Edge4 would give San Francisco another promising edge-defender to develop, alongside 2025 first-round pick Mykel Williams—who is coming off a torn ACL of his own.
28. Houston Texans: IOL2
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2026 Stat Line: 16 appearances, 16 starts
Notable Measurables: 6'5½", 329lbs, 33¼" arms, 5.12-second 40-yard dash
The Houston Texans have spent the last two offseasons reshuffling their offensive line. Houston signed right tackle Braden Smith and guard Wyatt Teller this offseason, but both are in their early 30s, are coming off injury-hampered seasons, and are signed to two-year deals.
Teller and Smith have both been top-tier starters when healthy and at their best, but Houston shouldn't really view either as more than a bridge starter in 2025.
Taking IOL2 here would give Houston some much-needed insurance and a long-term plan for the offensive line.
While IOL2 was a three-year starter at right tackle in college, his frame and play strength could allow him to make an easy transition to guard at the next level. The Texans could afford to take him here and figure out his best position over the next season or two.
29. Kansas City Chiefs (from Rams): CB3
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2026 Stat Line: 50 combined tackles, 4.5 tackles for loss, 1 INT, 1 TD
Notable Measurables: 6'0", 193 lbs, 4.44-second 40-yard dash, 40.5-inch vertical
While it's rare for a team to kick off its draft with two straight cornerback selections, it's not unprecedented. The Eagles did it in 2024, and the Chiefs got a firsthand look at the early contributions of Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean in Super Bowl LIX.
However, the selection of CB3 here isn't the result of Kansas City playing copycat. The Chiefs have two starting spots to fill, and having two starting-caliber corners on rookie contracts for the next 4-5 years will give Kansas City future financial flexibility.
The Chiefs also missed out on the initial receiver run in this blind mock, so they opted for a defensive starter instead of adding a pass-catcher.
Like Mansoor Delane, out CB1 earlier in this exercise, CB3 should be a strong fit for Spagnuolo's defense. A physical press-man specialist, he has the length, quickness, and explosiveness needed to consistently match up with top receivers on the perimeter. A two-year starter in college, CB3 should have a short runway to a starting job in the NFL.
29. Kansas City Chiefs (from Rams): Colton Hood, CB, Tennessee
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Full scouting report can be found here.
30. Miami Dolphins (from Denver): DL1
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2026 Stat Line: 29 combined tackles, 5.0 tackles for loss, 2.0 sacks
Notable Measurables: 6'6", 276 lbs, 34⅜" arms, 4.67-second 40-yard dash, 35-inch vertical
After reloading their receiver room with their first selection, the Dolphins turn to the other side of the ball with pick No. 2. That would be a logical choice, considering their defense ranked 22nd overall and 24th in scoring defense last season.
DL1 has legitimate edge-rushing potential, but he can do much more than just get after opposing quarterbacks. With a rare blend of size, play strength and speed, he can be a legitimate disruptor against the run.
Physically, DL1 has a similar profile to former Green Bay Packers edge-defender Rashan Gary, with perhaps a touch less athleticism.
Miami happens to employ former Packers defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley as its head coach, and DL1 should be a strong fit for his scheme. He's versatile enough to play defensive end while occasionally moving inside next to 2025 first-round pick Kenneth Grant on passing downs.
30. Miami Dolphins (from Denver): Keldric Faulk, DL, Auburn
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Full scouting report can be found here.
31. New England Patriots: WR7
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2026 Stat Line: 51 catches, 875 yards, 9 TDs
Notable Measurables: 6'2", 192 lbs, 4.53-second 40-yard dash
The New England Patriots won't be thrilled about the earlier run on receivers, but fortunately, the class is deep enough for them to come out of Round 1 with a starting-caliber wideout.
WR7 didn't have elite production in any of his three collegiate seasons, and his performance at the scouting combine left plenty to be desired. While his 40-yard dash time was on the disappointing side, it doesn't indicate a lack of functional football speed.
Six-time Pro Bowler Davante Adams ran a 4.56-second 40-yard dash during his combine workout.
Despite rarely being the biggest and the fastest receiver on the field, WR7 does an excellent job of maximizing his opportunities, as evidenced by a 17.2 yards-per-catch average in 2025. He might not take the top off a defense, but WR7 can be the dependable go-to perimeter target that Drake Maye lost when the Patriots released Stefon Diggs.
31. New England Patriots: Carnell Tate, WR, Ohio State
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Full scouting report can be found here.
32. Seattle Seahawks: RB2
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2026 Stat Line: 1,070 rushing yards, 28 receptions, 226 receiving yards, 9 combined TDs
Notable Measurables: 6'1", 223 lbs, 4.33-second 40-yard dash, 39-inch vertical
The defending champion Seattle Seahawks should be looking for players who can contribute to their Super Bowl window early. With only four total selections in the 2026 draft, that could be easier in theory than in practice.
Taking RB2 here would essentially ensure that Seattle gets at least one rookie starter out of the draft. Seattle has a capable back in Zach Charbonnet, but it lost starter and Super Bowl LX MVP Kenneth Walker III in free agency.
Like RB1, RB2 combines an elite blend of size and speed with efficient running and good receiving skills. He recorded 73 career receptions and a 5.0 yards-per-carry career average while averaging 6.4 yards per carry in 2025.
RB2 would be a terrific complement to Charbonnet in Seattle's offense. He can match Charbonnet's punishing running style, but he also possesses the breakaway speed that Charbonnet lacks.
32. Seattle Seahawks: Mike Washington Jr., RB, Arkansas
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Full scouting report can be found here.
*Stats from Sports Reference. Contract information via Spotrac.
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