2026 NFL Mock Draft Chaos Edition with a Trade Idea for Every 1st-Round Pick
In the days that lead up to the NFL draft, most try to predict exactly what will happen through the three-day selection process, while some of us root for chaos with unexpected moves and surprise picks. So, it's a good time to introduce an all-trade mock.
Yes, on April 20, we're going to think outside the box in our wildest imagination and lay out what could happen if every team traded its first-round pick. It's a way to play general manager with a touch of reality to figure out what every club would do in a trade-up situation.
We used the Jimmy Johnson trade chart to calculate what it would take for every club to move into a desired spot on Day 1..
These selections are made based on the latest rumors, general manager tendencies, team needs and schematic fits for prospects.
Keep in mind that these picks aren't relative to one another, meaning it's a one-off scenario for each selection. After the first trade for pick No. 1, everything resets to the current order.
In the trade details, picks are listed by round and overall number. For example, the first pick in the second round is written out as 2-33. Since the 2027 selection order is undetermined, those picks are marked only by round.
Here's a 2026 all-trade first-round mock draft that will take you through the twists and turns as general managers frantically move up for preferred targets on their big board.
Welcome to B/R's NFL Mock Draft week. Check out our other installments in the series below:
1. Las Vegas Raiders
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Las Vegas Raiders get: 1-2, 2-33, 4-103, 2027 third-round pick
New York Jets get: 1-1
Jets Select: QB Fernando Mendoza, Indiana
The New York Jets are the most obvious (and best) potential trade partner for the Las Vegas Raiders. They have two first-rounders (No. 2 and No. 16) and two second-rounders in the upcoming draft. They can outbid any other team for the top pick if the Raiders are open to trading it.
The Raiders will likely take Fernando Mendoza with the No. 1 overall pick, though one final push from Gang Green could create some dialogue between the two teams.
If general manager John Spytek isn't quick to end the conversation, the Jets can at least negotiate with their premium draft capital.
Las Vegas would be taking a massive gamble if it passed on Mendoza, since there's no guarantee of how the draft order will pan out next year.
However, if the Raiders see the 2027 quarterback class as a superior group, they may at least consider trading the top selection, only move down one spot, acquire the first selection in the second round and stack additional picks.
Remember, the Jets would have to overpay for the Raiders to pass on a potential franchise quarterback. They pay the price to acquire Mendoza, who just led Indiana through an undefeated season and won the 2025 Heisman Trophy.
2. New York Jets
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Dallas Cowboys get: 1-2
New York Jets get: 1-12, 1-20, 2027 second-round pick
Cowboys Select: LB/EDGE Arvell Reese, Ohio State
Last offseason, the Dallas Cowboys traded Micah Parsons to the Green Bay Packers. They find his replacement in this all-trade mock draft.
Equipped with two first-round picks, Dallas can make strong offers for top-five spots if it deems a prospect worthy of such a move. Arvell Reese fits the bill.
Similar to Parsons, Reese can line up as an off-ball linebacker or edge-rusher. Because of his versatility, the Cowboys can disguise alignments to force opposing quarterbacks to do a little more thinking pre- and post-snap.
In Reese's last year at Ohio State, he registered 69 tackles (10 for loss) and 6.5 sacks. The 20-year-old is still developing, though he's shown signs of a complete defender with pass-rushing ability.
Dallas has a high-level offensive attack; its defense needs a centerpiece and dominant playmaker, specifically in the front seven, after sending Parsons to Green Bay.
Reese may need a defined role to make an immediate impact before he branches out to showcase his full skill set, but there's Defensive Rookie of the Year and Defensive Player of the Year potential in him.
Meanwhile, New York Jets general manager Darren Mougey continues to stockpile premium draft picks.
3. Arizona Cardinals
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Arizona Cardinals get: 1-5, 6-183, EDGE Kayvon Thibodeaux
New York Giants get: 1-3
Giants Select: RB Jeremiyah Love, Notre Dame
The Arizona Cardinals are a strong candidate to trade back, so this is a realistic scenario from their perspective. Arizona can slide down two spots, acquire veteran help for its pass rush after finishing 29th in pressure rate last season and still add a blue-chip prospect within the top five selections.
Two years ago, the New York Giants made the mistake of allowing running back Saquon Barkley walk in free agency, only for him to sign with the division rival Philadelphia Eagles and win a Super Bowl. Still feeling that sting, general manager Joe Schoen drafts a tailback who could be a gold-jacket guy.
The Giants have running backs Cam Skattebo and Tyrone Tracy Jr. on the roster, but they might see Love as an upgrade who can change the complexion of their offense.
According to ESPN's Matt Miller, Love won't fall past the Giants in the No. 5 spot.
Big Blue should be aware that the Tennessee Titans could take him to help their second-year quarterback, Cam Ward.
The Giants' new coaching staff might see an opportunity to raise the production ceiling of the offense with a complete three-down tailback who can produce explosive plays on the ground and create mismatches in the passing game.
Schoen doesn't need to chase the ghost of Barkley, but it would strengthen his resume as a general manager if Love becomes an elite player who helps lead the team back into playoff contention.
If you ask former NFL general manager Mike Tannenbaum, the Giants would make a franchise tone-setting move with a trade up for Love.
4. Tennessee Titans
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New Orleans Saints get: 1-4, 5-142, 5-144
Tennessee Titans get: 1-8, 2-42
Saints Select: EDGE David Bailey, Texas Tech
The Tennessee Titans can address their pass-rushing or pass-catching needs in this spot, but if they can move back without slipping out of the top 10 and pick up an additional second-rounder, it would help the team's rebuild under incoming head coach Robert Saleh.
If David Bailey is on the board for the Titans at No. 4, it could take a lot for general manager Mike Borgonzi to pass on a high-level prospect, but it depends on how he sees the talent gap between top-tier and second-tier edge-rushers in the class. If it's a small margin, Tennessee could be open for business.
Also, the Titans don't have a dire need on the defensive line with Jeffery Simmons, John Franklin-Myers and Jermaine Johnson II on the roster. They drafted edge-rusher Oluwafemi Oladejo in the second round last year.
If the New Orleans Saints pull off this trade, it would arguably have the best pure pass-rusher in this year's class.
The Saints haven't re-signed edge-rusher Cameron Jordan. Although Chase Young registered a career-high 10 sacks last season, he missed five games and has an extensive injury history dating back to his early career years in Washington.
New Orleans can pair Young and Bailey on the edge, with Carl Granderson rotating in on pass-rushing downs. The Texas Tech product wins with quickness and agility, though he's also technically skilled with a pass-rush plan.
Bleacher Report scout Matt Holder highlighted Bailey's "hand swipe, rip, ghost rush, inside spin and long-arm" as part of his move set.
The Saints should be willing to invest in a polished prospect who can be a consistent threat opposite Young.
5. New York Giants
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Kansas City Chiefs get: 1-5
New York Giants get: 1-9, 3-74, 2027 third-round pick
Chiefs Select: S Caleb Downs, Ohio State
If Jeremiyah Love isn't available for the New York Giants, they could draft Sonny Styles to upgrade their linebacker room, which includes Tremaine Edmunds and Micah McFadden. However, general manager Joe Schoen could be enticed by an offer that allows him to make back-to-back picks at No. 9 and 10.
The Kansas City Chiefs slide into this spot to take Caleb Downs, who's the No. 1 prospect on B/R's latest big board.
The Chiefs lost multiple starters in their secondary in free agency and via trade. Defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo needs a leader in his secondary, and Downs can fill that void with his on-field communication and playmaking ability.
A two-time unanimous All-American, Downs played key roles in Ohio State's stingy defensive units. He recorded 94 tackles (12.5 for loss), 12 pass breakups and four interceptions with the Buckeyes.
If Downs played at a position higher on the premium scale, he would be a surefire top-five pick, but his spot in the draft order could depend on how much teams value safeties.
The Chiefs should see a ton of value in Downs' versatility. They need a player capable of playing at a high level at multiple spots in the secondary.
6. Cleveland Browns
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Cleveland Browns get: 1-17, 2-50, 2027 second-round pick
Detroit Lions get: 1-6
Lions Select: CB Mansoor Delane, LSU
Regarding the No. 6 pick, Cleveland Browns general manager Andrew Berry said he's trying to "maximize the asset." He can do that by moving back and picking up a couple of second-round picks for the next two drafts.
While this trade would indicate a pivot from Terrion Arnold or D.J. Reed, the Detroit Lions shouldn't hesitate on a potential long-term upgrade at cornerback.
The Lions are in a win-now window. So don't be surprised if they go all-in to fill a need with a top prospect to make up for Arnold's inconsistent career start.
In two seasons, Arnold has logged 18 pass breakups and an interception while allowing a 96.3 passer rating in coverage, which isn't bad for an average defender, but it's underwhelming for a recent first-rounder.
Reed had a solid first year with the Lions, but he'll turn 30 in November.
Widely considered the top cornerback in this class, Mansoor Delane can provide an immediate impact. Over the last two years, he showcased his ball skills, logging 18 pass breakups and six interceptions.
Mansoor plays with physicality and matches up well with big-bodied receivers. The Lions can use the 6'0", 187-pound cover man in zone coverage and rely on him to match up against the opponent's best wideout.
Sure, Detroit would take a significant gamble, going up 11 spots, but if the team operates in the same fashion that Dan Campbell manages games, this is on-brand for the Lions.
7. Washington Commanders
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Los Angeles Rams get: 1-7
Washington Commanders get: 1-13, 2-61
Rams Select: OT Spencer Fano, Utah
The Washington Commanders don't have a second-round pick in the draft, so they can restock their Day 2 capital with this move.
The Los Angeles Rams gave their first-round pick to the Chiefs in the Trent McDuffie trade, but they can use the Atlanta Falcons' first-round pick to move up for one of the top offensive tackles in the class.
Following the 2025 season, Rob Havenstein retired, leaving Warren McClendon Jr. in line to compete for the starting job.
Head coach Sean McVay told reporters that McClendon earned the opportunity to fill the vacancy at right tackle. However, the Rams may be intrigued by Spencer Fano, who has three years of starting experience at the position, two on the right side and one on the left.
The Rams have a Super Bowl-caliber roster. If Fano is a rotational player or backup in his rookie term, it wouldn't be a big blow to their title aspirations. Still, it's important that they make sure Matthew Stafford has quality pass protection. Fano and McClendon can ensure that.
8. New Orleans Saints
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Miami Dolphins get: 1-8
New Orleans Saints get: 1-11, 3-87
Dolphins Select: OL Francis Mauigoa, Miami
Starting Thursday, the Miami Dolphins must make moves to rebuild a depleted depth chart. This offseason, the new regime has stripped down the roster with trades that involved key veterans, Jaylen Waddle, Tyreek Hill and Bradley Chubb.
General manager Jon-Eric Sullivan's first order of business should be pass protection for quarterback Malik Willis, who's expected to be a full-time starter for the first time in his career.
Francis Mauigoa played right tackle at Miami, though B/R scout Brandon Thorn believes he has a brighter pro future as a guard.
"His range and redirect ability in pass protection grade closer to adequate, creating shorter corners once rushers gain width and exposing his inside shoulder to counters. Those limitations raise questions about long-term tackle viability, projecting him most cleanly as a solid-to-good starting right tackle with an even higher ceiling if eventually moved inside to guard."
In Miami, Mauigoa could line up at both spots on the right side of the offensive line, given the Dolphins' need on the interior and Austin Jackson's injury history. The veteran tackle has missed 20 games over the last two seasons.
The Dolphins can plug-and-play Mauigoa at guard, and eventually, he could take over for Jackson, who has one year left on his deal.
9. Kansas City Chiefs
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Dallas Cowboys get: 1-9
Kansas City Chiefs get: 1-12, 3-92
Cowboys Select: LB Sonny Styles, Ohio State
The Kansas City Chiefs could pick up an additional third-round pick as they look to bring in high-upside rookie talent to fill holes, specifically on the back end of their defense. They may not be in a rush to make a selection if another club presents an intriguing offer.
This is another spot that the Dallas Cowboys can make a move to improve their defense, which gave up the most points and third-most yards last season.
Furthermore, Dallas can slip ahead of the New York Giants, who acquired the No. 10 overall pick from the Cincinnati Bengals in the Dexter Lawrence II trade and may consider Sonny Styles in that slot.
When healthy, inside linebacker DeMarvion Overshown has played at a Pro Bowl level, but he's missed 32 games in three seasons. The Cowboys need a more reliable centerpiece for their defense.
Styles is a do-it-all linebacker with a safety background who made an impact against the run, racked up six sacks in his junior year and has the athleticism to play in space. He registered eight pass breakups in his last two years at Ohio State.
If the Cowboys aren't able to maneuver their way into the top five for Arvell Reese, Styles would be a good alternative trade target within the top 10.
10. New York Giants
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New York Giants get: 1-16, 2-44
New York Jets get: 1-10, 4-105, CB Deonte Banks
Jets Select: WR Carnell Tate, Ohio State
According to NFL Network's Mike Garafolo, Jordyn Tyson's odds of being drafted in the top 10 increased after the New York Giants traded Dexter Lawrence II to the Cincinnati Bengals for the No. 10 overall pick, but Big Blue slides back six spots instead of taking a receiver here.
If general manager Joe Schoen wants a wideout, he should be able to get one at No. 16. The Giants take the additional second-rounder and dump 2023 first-rounder Deonte Banks, who lost a starting cornerback job last season.
Perhaps New York Jets head coach and former NFL cornerback Aaron Glenn can get the most out of Banks.
More importantly for the Jets, they would jump over the Miami Dolphins, who have a clear need at wide receiver after cutting Tyreek Hill and trading Jaylen Waddle to the Denver Broncos.
The Jets have a star wide receiver, but as everyone saw last season, they're a Garrett Wilson injury away from disaster at that position.
Yes, quarterback Justin Fields' inefficiencies contributed to the Jets' struggles in the passing game, but Wilson led the team with just 395 receiving yards and four touchdown receptions last year. John Metchie III and Adonai Mitchell, who were midseason acquisitions, paced the passing attack as lead targets while Wilson missed time with a knee injury.
Carnell Tate isn't a flashy receiver with uncanny speed or unique size. Yet he can consistently create separation with his route-running and produce big plays. In 2025, the Ohio State product averaged 17.2 yards per catch and scored nine touchdowns.
Some may question if Tate can be a true No. 1 receiver because Jeremiah Smith and Emeka Egbuka overshadowed him over the previous two years. Well, he could be a prominent 1B to Wilson in the Jets' passing game.
11. Miami Dolphins
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Baltimore Ravens get: 1-11, 5-151
Miami Dolphins get: 1-14, 3-80, WR Rashod Bateman
Ravens Select: EDGE Rueben Bain Jr., Miami
The Ringer's Todd McShay slotted Rueben Bain Jr. outside the top 10 in his latest mock draft and cited league concerns about his arm length.
"From what I've been told, Bain could still go as high as no. 9 to Kansas City, but his arm length is a real concern and may contribute to a draft-day slide (no edge with sub-31-inch arms has gone in the first round in at least two decades)," McShay wrote.
Also, The Guardian's Oliver Connolly obtained reports about Bain's involvement in a 2024 car crash that fatally injured a passenger in another vehicle.
If Bain falls outside the top 10, the Miami Dolphins could get several inquiries about their spot at No. 11. If so, the Baltimore Ravens may be one of those clubs, and they can offer wideout Rashod Bateman to the receiver-needy Dolphins as an add-on in a trade package.
After the Ravens backed out of the Maxx Crosby trade with the Las Vegas Raiders, general manager Eric DeCosta said he planned to pair the star edge-rusher with Trey Hendrickson, who signed with the team in free agency.
If true, the Ravens may add another pass-rusher early in the draft to fill a void opposite Hendrickson.
On the field, Bain looks like a top-tier prospect who can be a Day 1 starter. In three collegiate years at Miami, he recorded 121 tackles (33.5 for loss) and 20.5 sacks.
If Bain's speed and bend off the edge offset his short arm length, he has Pro-Bowl potential. The Ravens would have a first-round steal at No. 11.
12. Dallas Cowboys
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Cleveland Browns get: 1-12, 5-152
Dallas Cowboys get: 1-24, 2-39
Browns Select: WR Makai Lemon, USC
The Dallas Cowboys can be patient if they don't love any of the prospects available in this spot. Remember, the Cowboys have two first-round picks, their own and one from the Green Bay Packers.
The Cleveland Browns have a long wait between pick Nos. 6 and 24. If they don't take a wide receiver with their first selection, general manager Andrew Berry could miss out on an opportunity to bolster the weakest non-quarterback position on his roster.
ESPN's Peter Schrager believes we'll see a run on receivers in the top half of the first round. Cleveland can jump back in before the teens to make sure it gets a top-tier wideout for an offense in transition under new head coach Todd Monken.
Primarily a slot receiver out of USC, Makai Lemon can be the Browns' go-to target in the passing game. He topped his receiving yard totals every year on the collegiate level and recorded 79 receptions for 1,156 yards and 11 touchdowns in 2025.
Don't make the mistake of labeling Lemon as just a "slot guy." Justin Jefferson and Amon-Ra St. Brown came out of college as slot receivers, and they're All-Pros who pace their respective team's aerial attacks.
13. Los Angeles Rams
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Los Angeles Rams get: 1-16, 4-103, 2027 fourth-rounder
New York Jets get: 1-13
Jets Select: CB Jermod McCoy, Tennessee
The New York Jets can swoop in for a boundary cornerback to adequately replace Sauce Gardner, whom they traded to the Indianapolis Colts in a blockbuster deal before the 2025 deadline.
Last season, Brandon Stephens struggled mightily in coverage, allowing 10 touchdowns and a 134.3 passer rating. Free-agent acquisition Nahshon Wright can add resistance to Gang Green's perimeter defense, but he can't do it alone.
According to ESPN's Rich Cimini, the Jets hosted Jermod McCoy for a predraft visit. It's worth noting that he missed the entire 2025 season because of a torn ACL. Essentially Sports' Tony Pauline reported that teams have medically flagged McCoy's knee for a degenerative issue.
The Jets are doing their due diligence on a top cornerback who could fill a significant need. If McCoy's knee isn't an issue for them, they can plug him into their starting lineup over Stephens.
Between 2023 and 2024 at Oregon State and Tennessee, McCoy frequently found the ball, logging 16 pass breakups and six interceptions. His natural instincts, coupled with his athleticism, give him tremendous upside.
This is a risky move for a player who sat out last year, but if McCoy's medicals check out, Gang Green may have a new No. 1 cornerback here.
14. Baltimore Ravens
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Baltimore Ravens get: 1-17, 4-118, 2027 fourth-round pick
Detroit Lions get: 1-14
Lions Select: G Olaivavega Ioane, Penn State
Detroit Lions general manager Brad Holmes isn't shy about making a move for his preferred draft target, regardless of position. In 2023, he drew criticism for drafting running back Jahmyr Gibbs with the No. 12 overall pick and linebacker Jack Campbell six selections later because of low position value.
This year, Holmes may have his eyes on an upgrade at guard. According to Pro Football Focus, Christian Mahogany allowed six sacks while on the field for 407 pass-blocking snaps last season.
At 6'4", 320 pounds, Olaivavega Ioane can be an anchor on the Lions' offensive line. He's not light on his feet, but he'll drive defenders out of running and pass-rushing lanes with a firm grip and brute force.
If the Lions see an issue with their interior pass protection and want to implement more downhill action on the ground with the addition of running back Isiah Pacheco, Ioane is the ideal pick, even if they need to move up a few spots for him.
15. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
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Pittsburgh Steelers get: 1-15
Tampa Bay Buccaneers get: 1-21, 4-121, EDGE Alex Highsmith
Steelers Select: QB Ty Simpson, Alabama
The Pittsburgh Steelers are usually in playoff contention with a draft pick on the back end of the first round. So, general manager Omar Khan may be inclined to gamble on arguably the second-best quarterback in the class while dumping Alex Highsmith, who may want to rework a non-guaranteed salary.
Also, Pittsburgh would move ahead of the New York Jets, who may consider Ty Simpson to be Geno Smith's successor.
In an attempt to move up, the Steelers could offer Highsmith to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, who need help with their pass rush. Buccaneers free-agent acquisition Al-Quadin Muhammad logged 11 sacks with the Indianapolis Colts last season, but he only played 41 percent of the defensive snaps.
Simpson only started through one collegiate season (15 games). So, the Steelers would probably be open to bringing him along gradually behind Aaron Rodgers if he returns, though they shouldn't hold him back from competition against Mason Rudolph and Will Howard in an open quarterback battle.
In one year with the Crimson Tide, Simpson showed flashes of pro-starter potential, throwing for 28 touchdowns and five interceptions with a 64.5 percent completion rate. With more experience and a decent supporting cast, he could be a long-term starter.
16. New York Jets
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New York Jets get: 1-23, 3-68
Philadelphia Eagles get: 1-16
Eagles Select: S Dillon Thieneman, Oregon
Although teams rarely prioritize needs at safety, the Philadelphia Eagles must address the position early in the draft.
Philadelphia lost Reed Blankenship in free agency and traded Sydney Brown to the Atlanta Falcons, leaving second-year pro Andrew Mukuba and 30-year-old Marcus Epps as the top safeties on the depth chart.
Last season, Mukuba allowed a passer rating of 113, and Epps played a higher percentage of snaps on special teams than on defense.
Dillon Thieneman should be able to carve out an immediate role in the Eagles' secondary. With experience in both safety spots and in the slot, he would bring more versatility to Philadelphia's defensive back group.
More importantly, Thieneman can force takeaways at a high rate. In his first year at Oregon, he recorded six interceptions. The 6'0", 201-pounder is also a plus run defender who logged 100-plus tackles in his first two collegiate seasons.
17. Detroit Lions
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Detroit Lions get: 1-29, 3-74, 2027 fourth-round pick
Kansas City Chiefs get: 1-17
Chiefs Select: WR Jordyn Tyson, Arizona State
The Kansas City Chiefs have more questions on defense than offense, specifically in the secondary, though they're led by star quarterback Patrick Mahomes, who's recovering from a torn ACL.
Mahomes is arguably the league's best quarterback when healthy, but he needs help.
In recent years, the Chiefs' pass-catching group has struggled with drops. Wideouts Rashee Rice and Xavier Worthy missed significant time because of injuries. The former served a lengthy suspension last season. Entering his age-36 term, Travis Kelce is still a reliable receiving threat at tight end, but he's seen a significant drop-off in scoring.
Kansas City needs a spark in its aerial attack, and a move up for Jordyn Tyson can provide that.
Tyson can use his speed to beat defenders over the top for explosive gains, which is what the Chiefs need to spice up their passing offense. Through four collegiate terms, he averaged 14.4 yards per catch and made strides as a route-runner.
In Kansas City, Tyson could reach his maximum potential under offensive-minded head coach Andy Reid, though he needs to stay healthy.
Entering the draft, the Arizona State product has some durability concerns because of recent injuries, but his upside is worth the gamble midway through the first round.
18. Minnesota Vikings
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Minnesota Vikings get: 1-27, 2-58
San Francisco 49ers get: 1-18, 4-97
49ers Select: OT Kadyn Proctor, Alabama
The Minnesota Vikings move out of the No. 18 spot and acquire a second-rounder from the San Francisco 49ers, who target a potential long-term starter at left tackle with this selection.
The 49ers hosted Kadyn Proctor for a predraft visit, doing their due diligence on a potential early-round target.
At 6'7", 352 pounds, Proctor is a powerful offensive tackle who uses his massive mitts to stifle defenders. On the pro level, he'll need to keep excessive weight off his frame, but a disciplined offseason program should help him maintain playing shape.
The 49ers are in contract negotiations with perennial All-Pro Trent Williams. Regardless of the outcome in those talks, San Francisco must plan ahead for the future at left tackle.
In the meantime, the 49ers can cross-train Proctor at guard and put his big body to work as an asset to the ground game.
19. Carolina Panthers
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Carolina Panthers get: 1-30, 3-75, 4-130
Miami Dolphins get: 1-19
Dolphins Select: WR Omar Cooper Jr., Indiana
If there's a run on receivers, it could happen in the teens after a couple of clubs swipe the top prospects off the board. The Miami Dolphins have plenty of roster voids to address and may need to trade into a sweet spot for a first-round wideout.
At 19, the Dolphins should have options, though Omar Cooper Jr. stands out as an ideal target.
Miami enters the draft with arguably the worst receiver unit that features Jalen Tolbert, Tutu Atwell and Malik Washington. General manager Jon-Eric Sullivan needs a prospect who can make immediate contributions and has reliable hands.
A year before quarterback Fernando Mendoza transferred to Indiana, Cooper averaged 21.2 yards per catch for a struggling offense. With competent quarterback play, he showcased more of his potential, hauling in 69 passes for 937 yards and 13 touchdowns last year.
Cooper plays fearlessly over the middle of the field, and that will endear him to quarterback Malik Willis. He also works back to the quarterback as a moving target.
A well-rounded pass-catcher who lacks top-end speed, Cooper isn't a highlight-reel receiver, but he's capable of being a consistent primary target for an inexperienced starting signal-caller.
20. Dallas Cowboys
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Cleveland Browns get: 1-20
Dallas Cowboys get: 1-24, 4-107, 5-146
Browns Select: OT Monroe Freeling, Georgia
This is another spot in which the Cleveland Browns and Dallas Cowboys can work together on a draft-day deal. The Cowboys would slide down four spots and pick up two early Day 3 picks. The Browns take Monroe Freeling to shore up a revamped offensive line.
The Browns should target offensive tackles with Dawand Jones' extensive injury history. He's yet to play more than 11 games in a single season. In 2025, the 24-year-old missed 14 outings.
Cleveland should be intrigued by Freeling's physical traits. He's a 6'7", 315-pounder who moves well on his feet and uses his 34 ¾" arms to his advantage in the trenches.
Some draft analysts have a second-round grade on Freeling because he's only started one full season at Georgia. The Browns' coaching staff will need to work on his hand usage and clean up some of his footwork, but he has the physical makeup and upside to warrant top-20 consideration in this class.
21. Pittsburgh Steelers
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Chicago Bears get: 1-21
Pittsburgh Steelers get: 1-25, 4-129, 7-239
Bears Select: EDGE Zion Young, Missouri
Before the Las Vegas Raiders attempted to trade Maxx Crosby to the Baltimore Ravens and the transaction fell apart, the Chicago Bears were linked to the star edge-rusher.
Don't expect Chicago to land Crosby in a trade deal, though. ESPN's Adam Schefter reported that the Bears don't have the financial means to acquire him.
General manager Ryan Poles is more likely to make a move for a pass-rusher on a rookie contract. Outside the top 20, Zion Young could be an option for the Bears, who have pick No. 25.
Young's collegiate pass-rushing production doesn't jump off the screen. In his final term at Missouri, he recorded 6.5 sacks, but he's shown growth in his pass-rush development with more playing time over the years.
Moreover, Young should be able to provide an immediate impact against the run. In 2025, he racked up 16.5 tackles for loss, breaking through the backfield to make stops and setting the edge on the perimeter.
Although Young isn't the most polished edge-rusher, he's an ascending prospect with a 6'5", 262-pound NFL frame, good length (33" arms) and an endless motor.
22. Los Angeles Chargers
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Buffalo Bills get: 1-22
Los Angeles Chargers get: 1-26, 4-126, 5-165
Bills Select: DT Peter Woods, Clemson
In 2025, the Buffalo Bills struggled mightily to stop the run. They gave up the second-most rushing touchdowns, the third-most yards per carry and the fifth-most rushing yards.
General manager Brandon Beane should have defensive tackle film on a loop as he waits for the right time to strike a deal in the first round. This is the spot to trade up for arguably the best defensive tackle in the class.
Peter Woods can be the solution to the Bills' leaky interior run defense. He's B/R's top-ranked run-stopper among this year's defensive tackles. In 2024, the Clemson product logged 8.5 tackles for loss as a consistent disruptor on early downs. Though he saw a drop-off in production last year, his presence against the run was still evident as ball-carriers ran opposite his direction.
The Bills could experiment with Deone Walker at nose tackle, but they shouldn't put all their hopes in one tweak to patch up a bottom-tier run defense. Also, Woods can provide more impact, lining up in multiple spots across the defensive line.
23. Philadelphia Eagles
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Houston Texans get: 1-23
Philadelphia Eagles get: 1-28, 4-106
Texans Select: G Keylan Rutledge, Georgia Tech
Usually, it's Philadelphia Eagles general manager Howie Roseman's motive to stock up on offensive and defensive linemen. This time, he swaps first-rounders with the Houston Texans and picks up an early fourth-round pick.
According to ESPN's DJ Bien-Aime, the Texans are targeting offensive linemen in the upcoming draft. Instead of waiting to see who's available on Day 2, general manager Nick Caserio trades up for his preferred target.
Last season, Ed Ingram had a solid showing at left guard, but he had some struggles in pass protection. The four-year veteran allowed four sacks while on the field for 546 pass-blocking snaps, per Pro Football Focus.
Keylan Rutledge could be a superior pass protector with his active hands and smooth technique on passing downs. He'll come into the league with a wealth of experience, too. The standout ACC offensive lineman started at right guard for one full term at Middle Tennessee State and two years at Georgia Tech.
24. Cleveland Browns
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Cleveland Browns get: 1-31, 3-95, 5-171
New England Patriots get: 1-24
Patriots Select: TE Kenyon Sadiq, Oregon
The New England Patriots are heading into the draft with 11 picks. They have the resources to take a swing on a first-round prospect who can change the complexion of their offensive attack.
After a standout year at Oregon, Kenyon Sadiq will likely be the first tight end off the draft board and go somewhere in the middle of the first round. He slipped a bit here, but it wouldn't be surprising to see him go in the mid-to-late teens.
Outside the top 20, Sadiq has great value because of his pass-catching ability. Last year, he hauled in 51 passes for 560 yards and eight touchdowns, which elevated his profile as a premier tight end prospect.
In New England, Sadiq would split tight end snaps with Hunter Henry, though he could have a significant role alongside the 31-year-old.
Like most rookie tight ends, Sadiq may post modest receiving numbers while he adjusts to the pro level. That being said, the athletic 6'3", 241-pounder can still be a matchup nightmare in the passing game.
25. Chicago Bears
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Chicago Bears get: 2-37, 2027 third-round pick, EDGE Kayvon Thibodeaux
New York Giants get: 1-25, CB Tyrique Stevenson
Giants Select: DL Keldric Faulk, Auburn
This trade would stir up some buzz late on Day 1. Two teams swap early picks and veteran players to fill notable defensive needs.
If the Giants don't trade Kayvon Thibodeaux early in the first round, they could try to do it in this scenario with the Chicago Bears, who need an edge-rusher to pair with Montez Sweat.
With limited cap space, the Bears acquire Thibodeaux, who's in the final year of his rookie contract, and trade Tyrique Stevenson, a starting-caliber cornerback in the final term of his deal. Chicago can use the No. 37 pick on a new boundary defender for its secondary.
Meanwhile, the Giants find their replacement for Dexter Lawrence II, whom they traded to the Cincinnati Bengals.
Some teams may see Keldric Faulk as a second-round pick, but there's not much difference between prospects in the 25-37 range.
Secondly, Big Blue shouldn't wait 12 picks in hopes that he's available at No 37. Faulk is one of the top defensive tackles in the class, and he's a versatile defender who can produce in any down-and-distance situation.
In 2024, Faulk registered 11 sacks and seven tackles for loss. He followed with a less spectacular junior campaign, though his size (6'6", 276 lbs) and recent production are intriguing for a team that just parted ways with its best interior defender.
26. Buffalo Bills
26 of 32
Buffalo Bills get: 2-36, 4-102, 4-117
Las Vegas Raiders get: 1-26
Raiders Select: WR Denzel Boston, Washington
Whether it's Kirk Cousins or Fernando Mendoza under center, the Las Vegas Raiders are eyeing prospects on the offensive side of the ball to support their quarterback.
According to ESPN's Matt Miller, Las Vegas is targeting an offensive tackle or a wide receiver. He and his colleague, Raiders beat reporter Ryan McFadden, mentioned Denzel Boston as an option at No. 36.
But there's no guarantee that Boston will be available four picks into the second round. So, general manager John Spytek lands him at No. 26, following a trade with the Buffalo Bills, who have a stacked roster.
Las Vegas added to its receiver room in free agency, signing Jalen Nailor. Still, Tre Tucker is entering the final year of his contract. Jack Bech and Dont'e Thornton Jr. were mostly ineffective with limited snap counts as rookies last year.
Offensive-minded head coach Klint Kubiak may have his sights set on adding a big-target receiver in case his young wideouts aren't ready to take a Year 2 leap in a new offense.
At 6'4", 212 pounds, Boston knows how to use his body frame to haul in contested catches. Over his last two years at Washington, he racked up scores as a reliable target in the red zone, scoring 20 touchdowns.
Boston has the skill set to be the Raiders' No. 1 wideout and complement to star tight end Brock Bowers in the passing game.
27. San Francisco 49ers
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Minnesota Vikings get: 1-27
San Francisco 49ers get: 2-49, 3-97, 2027 fifth-round pick, EDGE Jonathan Greenard
Vikings Select: CB Avieon Terrell, Clemson
The San Francisco 49ers may be looking to add draft capital on Thursday. They have six selections, four of them in the fourth round.
General manager John Lynch could check off two objectives in this trade scenario: recouping picks and adding a veteran edge-rusher to bolster a pass rush that finished with the third-lowest pressure rate without Nick Bosa for most of last season.
Jonathan Greenard is coming off a down year with three sacks, though he still generated 24 pressures. That said, league insiders have mentioned the veteran pass-rusher in the trade rumor mill following Dallas Turner's eight-sack 2025 season.
Only two to three years removed from consecutive 12-plus-sack seasons, Greenard could have a bounce-back campaign with the 49ers.
The Minnesota Vikings can use this selection to strengthen their secondary. They signed backup cornerback James Pierre in free agency. Avieon Terrell can challenge him and Isaiah Rodgers for a lead role on the boundary.
Terrell has an NFL bloodline with his brother A.J. Terrell Jr., who's a starting cornerback with the Atlanta Falcons. Like his older sibling, he has smooth footwork and locates the ball in coverage.
At 5'10", 186 pounds, Terrell is a slender cover defender, but he's not afraid to play downhill. He recorded four sacks and nine tackles for loss over his last two years at Clemson.
28. Houston Texans
28 of 32
Houston Texans get: 2-46, 4-116, 2027 third-round pick
Tampa Bay Buccaneers get: 1-28
Buccaneers Select: EDGE Akheem Mesidor, Miami
The Tampa Bay Buccaneers move up for Akheem Mesidor, a seasoned defensive end who could see the field in a significant role in his rookie campaign.
Mesidor spent six years on the collegiate level, and he enters the draft at 25 years old. While critics see a low ceiling because of his age, the Buccaneers may value his playing experience.
Mesidor flashed his pass-rushing skills throughout his extended run in college. In two seasons at West Virginia, he registered 9.5 sacks. Last season, he finished with 12.5. The 6'3", 265-pounder also routinely made plays in the backfield with 52.5 tackles for loss across six terms.
The Buccaneers add Mesidor to solidify their rotation of edge-rushers that include Yaya Diaby, Al-Quadin Muhammad and Anthony Nelson.
29. Kansas City Chiefs
29 of 32
Kansas City Chiefs get: 1-31, 4-131
New England Patriots get: 1-29
Patriots Select: WR KC Concepcion, Texas A&M
In a shrewd move, the New England Patriots leapfrog the receiver-needy Miami Dolphins for KC Concepcion. New England signed wideout Romeo Doubs, but its pass-catching group needs an explosive playmaker with speed.
And for now, the Patriots may be on hold with the Philadelphia Eagles about a potential trade for A.J. Brown.
So, New England uses the No. 29 pick on an electric receiver who should be among the league leaders in yards after the catch if used to exploit defenses in space.
The Patriots can feature Concepcion in their offense. His ceiling is higher than a gadget receiver used specifically for trick plays. He eclipsed 800 receiving yards in two of his three collegiate seasons and racked up 25 touchdowns in total.
Concepcion's ability to find holes in zone coverage and open space should translate to high-end production at the pro level. The Patriots need that skill set with the possession wideouts and chain-movers in their pass-catching group.
30. Miami Dolphins
30 of 32
Jacksonville Jaguars get: 1-30
Miami Dolphins get: 2-56, 4-124, OT Walker Little
Jaguars Select: DT Kayden McDonald, Ohio State
This would be consecutive years in which the Jacksonville Jaguars move up for a prospect in the first round under general manager James Gladstone. This time, they target a defensive tackle to maintain their stout run defense and physicality in the trenches.
In order to jump from No. 56 to No. 30, Jacksonville sends offensive tackle Walker Little along with second- and fourth-round picks to the Miami Dolphins.
The Dolphins need a starting offensive tackle on Malik Willis' blind side. It should be a priority rather than a by-chance addition at the end of Round 1.
Nonetheless, the Dolphins pull off a good deal, acquiring additional picks to rebuild their roster and an offensive tackle who has 39 starts on his resume. Little lost the lead left tackle job to Cole Van Lanen at the end of the previous campaign, but he's still a starting-caliber player.
The Jaguars select Kayden McDonald, which would likely seal Arik Armstead's fate as a salary-cap casualty.
McDonald would bring fresh energy to the Jaguars' defensive front. In 2025, he was a consistent disruptor against the run, logging nine tackles for loss. The Ohio State product has room to grow as a pass-rusher, but his ability to penetrate through gaps shows signs of upside in that regard. He recorded three sacks last year.
31. New England Patriots
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Miami Dolphins get: 1-31
New England Patriots get: 2-43, 4-111, 5-151
Dolphins Select: S Emmanuel McNeil-Warren
The Miami Dolphins don't have an established starting safety on their roster. At that position, Dante Trader Jr. is the most experienced holdover from the previous regime, and he played just 39 percent of the defensive snaps last season.
Miami signed Lonnie Johnson Jr., Zayne Anderson and Omar Brown, a trio of special teamers in recent years.
The Dolphins traded safety Minkah Fitzpatrick to the division rival New York Jets, which created a glaring void in the secondary. Now, they fill that need by selecting Emmanuel McNeil-Warren.
At 6'3", 201 pounds, McNeil-Warren can match up with big-bodied pass-catchers and use his length to close passing windows in coverage. Over his last three collegiate years, he logged 13 pass breakups and five interceptions. The Toledo product also seeks out ball-carriers and makes clean tackles in pursuit.
The Dolphins get the second safety off the board, which is a good value for a position of need.
32. Seattle Seahawks
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Carolina Panthers get: 1-32
Seattle Seahawks get: 2-51, 4-119, 2027 third-round pick
Panthers Select: CB D'Angelo Ponds, Indiana
Just two years ago, the Carolina Panthers defense gave up the most single-season points in NFL history. Last year, the unit made strides, but general manager Dan Morgan, a former NFL linebacker, needs to invest more resources in his defense to turn it around for the long term.
In free agency, Carolina signed edge-rusher Jaelan Phillips and linebacker Devin Lloyd. On the back end of the first round, the Panthers can add a feisty cornerback to complement the additions within the front seven.
D'Angelo Ponds plays a lot bigger than his 5'8", 182-pound frame. He lined up primarily on the outside at James Madison and Indiana and found the ball in all three of his collegiate terms, recording 33 pass breakups and seven interceptions.
If you look past Ponds' size limitations, he's a first-round talent. The Panthers could move him into the slot where he can cover underneath routes and channel his competitive energy into run support. He would start over Chau Smith-Wade, who allowed a 105.8 passer rating in coverage last season.
College football statistics are provided by cfbstats.com.
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