Final B/R NFL Draft Scouting Department 2026 Mock
The start of the 2026 NFL draft is mere hours away and the uncertainty with this year's class may be an all-time high...after the first overall pick, that is.
Quarterback Fernando Mendoza may be the most obvious top selection since at least Trevor Lawrence to the Jacksonville Jaguars in 2021. From there, though, things could get wild.
The Bleacher Report Scouting Department started its assessments of this draft class in August. Brandon Thorn, Dame Parson, Daniel Harms and Matt Holder have spent the subsequent eight months evaluating prospects, stacking the site's board and projecting what may happen once this year's event in Pittsburgh finally begins.
This final mock draft is based on what B/R believes teams plan to do at each slot. No trades are included, even though they're expected. The full three rounds provide a better understanding of how each organization can stack its class beyond those much‑anticipated opening‑round choices, especially for franchises that aren't expected to select on Day 1.
Welcome to B/R's NFL Mock Draft week. Check out our other installments in the series below:
1. Las Vegas Raiders: QB Fernando Mendoza, Indiana
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This pairing might as well have been written down in ink weeks ago, if not longer. The Las Vegas Raiders have an obvious decision to make, which will end with getting their new franchise quarterback in Indiana's Fernando Mendoza.
"Mendoza plays quarterback the right way with a high football IQ, accuracy and ball placement," Parson said. "He will sit behind Kirk Cousins and learn head coach Klint Kubiak's offense before being given the keys to the franchise."
Unlike the Raiders' previous first-round quarterbacks, the organization is trying its best to set Mendoza up for success. It's a welcome change of pace after years of organizational indecision at the game's most important position.
2. New York Jets: LB Arvell Reese, Ohio State
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Without a quarterback in play, the New York Jets must aim to add the highest upside prospect possible with this year's second overall pick.
Ohio State's Arvell Reese may not have a defined position entering the NFL ranks, but his athletic profile and varied skill set can make him Gang Green's new defensive centerpiece.
"Whether Reese is playing on the edge or at off-ball linebacker, the Jets are getting a playmaker," Holder said. "He'll make an impact as a run defender on Day 1, with the athleticism to develop into a quality pass-rusher if New York wants to place the former Buckeye on the line of scrimmage. If the latter is the case, Reese would give Gang Green a replacement for Jermaine Johnson II, who was traded to the Tennessee Titans earlier this offseason."
3. Arizona Cardinals: Edge David Bailey, Texas Tech
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The Arizona Cardinals may or may not make this selection when it's all said or done. Either way, Texas Tech's David Bailey is the likely choice, because he provides value at a premium position in a class where most of the top prospects can't make the same claim.
"Arizona has a handful of avenues it can go down with this pick," Holder said, "but the defense could use some pass-rush help.
"Bailey is the class' best pure pass-rusher, and he can spend a season behind Josh Sweat, Zaven Collins and Baron Browning to get stronger and become a better run defender."
It's an excellent setup based on the Cardinals' current roster, though Sweat did reportedly request a trade earlier this offseason. A trade may not be imminent or even entertained, but the addition of another talented pass-rusher will only help Arizona.
4. Tennessee Titans: RB Jeremiyah Love, Notre Dame
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The Tennessee Titans could easily walk away with the best player from this year's draft class, while not even selecting among this year's top three selections.
Notre Dame's Jeremiyah Love may be devalued slightly because he's a running back. At the same time, he can make a very real case as the top-rated incoming prospect regardless of position.
The B/R Scouting Department has Ohio State safety Caleb Downs ranked slightly higher, but no one would have blinked had Love come out on top because he could easily be a top-five running back the day he steps onto an NFL field.
"Love is an offensive weapon," Parson said. "He's an explosive, home run threat as a runner and a mismatch for linebackers flexed out as a receiving option. Love immediately takes pressure off second-year quarterback Cam Ward's shoulders and gives the Titans a blue-chip prospect."
5. New York Giants: LB Sonny Styles, Ohio State
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On the surface, the New York Giants are set at linebacker after signing Tremaine Edmunds in free agency and Micah McFadden returning from last year's season-ending foot injury.
Even so, Ohio State's Sonny Styles offers a completely different, high-end skill set that will only make the Giants better, while simultaneously providing a different attitude within the team.
"It's been reported that this isn't the draft class to worry about positional value," Holder said. "While selecting an off-ball linebacker with a top-five pick is rare—Devin White was the last in 2019—the Giants and head coach John Harbaugh shouldn't be deterred from getting a potential culture-changer to kick off a new era in the Big Apple.
"Besides, Styles proved at this year's NFL combine that he's an elite athlete and a different type of player compared to traditional linebackers."
6. Cleveland Browns: OT Spencer Fano, Utah
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Multiple offensive tackle prospects have been floated as potential options for the Cleveland Browns. Currently, the team doesn't have a starting-caliber left tackle on the roster.
Utah's Spencer Fano is a natural right tackle. Browns general manager Andrew Berry once drafted Jedrick Wills Jr. in the first round with the intention of moving him from right to left tackle, and the team believes Fano can make the same transition, according to NewsBreak's Tony Pauline.
"Cleveland has rebuilt the majority of its offensive line heading into the 2026 season," Thorn said, "but Fano can fill the remaining hole. The reigning Outland Trophy winner made 11 career starts at left tackle as a true freshman in 2023, so he wouldn't be completely unfamiliar with lining up on that side. Fano's movement skills are NFL left tackle-caliber. From an athletic ability standpoint, the move makes sense."
7. Washington Commanders: S Caleb Downs, Ohio State
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The Washington franchise chose two safeties among the top-10 picks since the turn of the century. Caleb Downs is a completely different player compared to Sean Taylor and LaRon Landry, but he's every bit worthy of this selection.
Downs is the B/R Scouting Department's No. 1 overall prospect regardless of position because of his high-football IQ and playmaking ability at every level.
"The Ohio State safety can be the quarterback of the Commanders defense," Harms said, "because he's a high-level communicator. His understanding of defenses and how he can contribute is unmatched. He's the smartest player in this draft class, makes everyone around him better, and can play anywhere he's needed.
"A stigma around safeties may exist, but throw it out the window in this class. Head coach Dan Quinn enters a make-or-break season. Downs' addition is easily one of the best ways for Washington to get back on track."
8. New Orleans Saints: WR Jordyn Tyson, Arizona State
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Jordyn Tyson being the first wide receiver to hear his name called and drafted this high in the process may be surprising. It shouldn't be, at least from a talent perspective.
Tyson is the No. 1 wide receiver in this year's draft based purely on his on-field performance. Unfortunately, he dealt with injuries every year on campus. As long as the New Orleans Saints are comfortable with his medical assessments, Tyson can immediately give them a dynamic playmaker.
"Tyson has been our WR1 since last summer," Parson said. "His combination of twitch, explosiveness and elite leaping ability offers a potential game-changing talent. The two-time first-team All-Big 12 performer pairs well with Chris Olave. He will also help in the development of second-year quarterback Tyler Shough."
9. Kansas City Chiefs: Edge Rueben Bain Jr., Miami
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The Kansas City Chiefs need more from their pass rush. The team already features two former first-round picks in George Karlaftis and Felix Anudike-Uzomah, but they haven't developed to expected levels.
Karlaftis has been a solid contributor, but he's not the caliber of pass-rusher that scares opposing offenses. Anudike-Uzomah's career is bordering on bust territory with only three sacks since being drafted in 2023.
However, Miami's Rueben Bain Jr. is a true game-wrecker despite any concerns over shorter arms.
"Chiefs defensive coordinator Steve Spagnuolo loves defensive ends who can bring some juice off the edge," Holder said. "Bain is hands down the class' best power rusher. His addition takes some pressure off Chris Jones' shoulders.
"The Miami product is a complete player who can impact the running game, too."
10. New York Giants (via Cincinnati): IOL Olaivavega Ioane, Penn State
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The New York Giants benefit greatly from the Cincinnati Bengals' desperation to improve their defense by trading for Dexter Lawrence. Now with a second top-10 pick, the organization can continue to remake the team in John Harbaugh's image.
A big, physical offensive line is standard based on the coach's previous history. Penn State's Olaivavega Ioane brings a level of physicality that can reshape the Giants' starting front five.
"Ioane is B/R's top-rated offensive lineman because his blend of physical traits and on-tape consistency is the best in the class," Thorn said. "The Giants need a right guard so Ioane would switch sides. This move instantly completes the 2026 unit and provides a long-term building block along with left tackle Andrew Thomas."
11. Miami Dolphins: OL Francis Mauigoa, Miami
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Beggars can't be choosers, and the Miami Dolphins are the NFL's poorest team in a talent-rich league.
The organization's primary goal is to upgrade its overall talent level and build a base under the direction of the Dolphins' new brass.
Miami's Francis Mauigoa is a 20-year-old prospect with Pro Bowl potential at two different positions. He's a powerhouse at the point of attack, with enough movement skills to remain on an island depending on the franchise's long-term plans.
"In this scenario, Miami would likely need less than five seconds to make the call and upgrade at either right tackle or right guard," Thorn said. "Mauigoa is a skilled run-blocker with high-end play strength, who will bring a stout presence and provide a young pillar on a rebuilding roster."
12. Dallas Cowboys: CB Mansoor Delane, LSU
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The Dallas Cowboys require defensive help of any kind. An opportunity to draft the class' top cornerback prospect upgrades a unit that finished dead last in pass defense last season.
LSU's Mansoor Delane can take on the task of covering every opponent's top target, even as a rookie.
"In a world where Caleb Downs is off the board, it's hard to get much better for the Cowboys this far down the board," Harms said. "Their secondary is in desperate need of coverage talent, and Delane can step in right away and make an impact. He's a physical player with zone/man versatility and a mentality that NFL defenses want in their secondary. Not only did he take the competition bump from Virginia Tech to LSU in stride, but he thrived in that environment."
13. Los Angeles Rams (via Atlanta): WR Carnell Tate, Ohio State
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The Los Angeles Rams should be absolutely thrilled to land a wide receiver prospect of Carnell Tate's caliber with the 13th overall pick. For some, Tate is the top prospect at his position. While that's not the case for the B/R Scouting Department, he could very well be the first one selected because of Jordyn Tyson's extensive injury history.
Whatever the case may be, the Rams need a third wide receiver to make last year's No. 1 overall offense even more potent.
"Stafford is working on a contract extension with the Rams and going all in to support him should be the top priority," Parson said. "Meanwhile, Davante Adams is in the final year of his contract and Puka Nacua needs a long-term running mate. Tate is a route technician and a springy athlete to high-point passes down the field. He would be a strong WR3 to feast against the third and fourth-best corners on opposing defenses."
14. Baltimore Ravens: TE Kenyon Sadiq, Oregon
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The Baltimore Ravens may have a new head coach and coordinators, but their organizational DNA hasn't changed.
"The use of 12 personnel is in the Ravens' bones," Harms said. "After losing two tight ends this offseason and Mark Andrews getting another year older, it's the perfect time to add a unique talent.
"Oregon's Kenyon Sadiq isn't just another body for two-tight end sets. He's a weapon. As a devastating blocker, especially at his size, and an athletic nightmare, he adds untapped potential. Sadiq is a mismatch creator, who will demand valuable reps right away."
Keep in mind, Declan Doyle is now the Ravens' new offensive play-caller, a year after rookie Colston Loveland led his previous team, the Chicago Bears, as its leading receiver even with a proven veteran in Cole Kmet already on the roster.
15. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Edge Akheem Mesidor, Miami
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The Tampa Bay Buccaneers are teetering on the point where the roster requires a reset. The team is 35-33 over the last four seasons. Tampa wasn't able to win a divisional title last season despite how poor the NFC South has been. Plus, quarterback Baker Mayfield is entering the last year of his current contract.
The Bucs need a boost now. So, the organization attacks a premium position of need by adding an older prospect in Akheem Mesidor, whose ceiling may be low but his floor is higher than most.
"The Buccaneers haven't had a player record double-digit sacks since Shaq Barrett notched 10 in 2021," Holder said. "Yaya Diaby led last year's team with seven sacks. Meanwhile, Todd Bowles, who's a defensive-minded head coach, is widely expected to enter the season on the hot seat. Tampa Bay needs pass-rush help now if it's going to make the playoffs in 2026, and the 25-year-old Mesidor can provide that exact skill set."
16. New York Jets (via Indianapolis): WR Makai Lemon, USC
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The New York Jets may not have a long-term plan at quarterback and this year's class doesn't help their current setup. But Geno Smith still needs quality targets in the passing game.
Garrett Wilson is a proven, dynamic threat as the team's WR1. Adonai Mitchell still presents significant upside and a viable vertical threat. USC's Makai Lemon can slide into this group and present the perfect complementary skill set.
"Lemon is arguably the class' toughest receiver prospect," Parson said. "He is a pure slot, who can create after the catch with great ball skills. He is a talented and deceptive route-runner. This pairing makes the offense significantly better for Smith and whichever quarterback the Jets eventually select to become the next face of the franchise."
17. Detroit Lions: OT Kadyn Proctor, Alabama
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In order for the Detroit Lions quarterback Jared Goff to operate at peak efficiency, he must remain protected and not be asked to move off his spot regularly. The team has been highly successful during Dan Campbell's tenure because it has featured an elite offensive line.
Taylor Decker's release leaves a significant hole on the team's blind side. The selection of Alabama's Kadyn Proctor helps clarify the team's direction, with the rookie likely sticking at left tackle.
"Detroit is considering moving All-Pro Penei Sewell from right-to-left tackle to account for Decker's loss," Thorn said. "With only the free-agent signing of Larry Borom on the roster as a fill-in, the team has a long-term concern at whichever tackle spot is opposite Sewell. Proctor's addition provides a talented, raw and physical presence with big-time upside to serve as Sewell's long-term bookend."
18. Minnesota Vikings: CB Jermod McCoy, Tennessee
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Safety is usually viewed as a bigger need in the Minnesota Vikings' secondary thanks to Harrison Smith's uncertain status. However, Brian Flores' defense can receive a significant boost by adding Jermod McCoy, who could have easily been a top-five prospect in this year's class had he been healthy and played during the 2025 campaign.
"McCoy's surgically-repaired knee remains a concern, which could precipitate a draft-day slide," Harms said. "The slide should definitely stop here.
"Minnesota received decent production and play from its corners last season. By the middle of the season, Byron Murphy was forced to play outside more because the Vikings didn't have an answer after another Jeff Okudah injury.
"McCoy has the explosive traits to start right away and give the Vikings a player that Flores can rely upon in man coverage, while the coordinator plays games with the opposing quarterback."
19. Carolina Panthers: S Dillon Thieneman, Oregon
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The Carolina Panthers' secondary remained untouched after the organization made significant investments in its front seven during free agency. Oregon safety Dillon Thieneman could be the final piece to elevate the entire unit.
"The Panthers added real improvements at two levels of their defense in free agency with the free-agent signings of Devin Lloyd and Jaelen Phillips," Harms said. "It's time to add some help to the secondary.
"Thieneman will let everyone underneath function at a high level, is a trustworthy safety valve and can live on top of a defense. He's broadened his tool chest with experience in robber and nickel roles, and remains at his best in the post.
"The Purdue transfer is a high-effort player and a cornerstone workman who sets an example for everyone around him."
20. Dallas Cowboys (via Green Bay): Edge Malachi Lawrence, UCF
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The Dallas Cowboys are believed to be heavily invested in adding even more pass-rush help, even though the organization already traded for Rashan Gary this offseason to pair with Donovan Ezeiruaku.
Even so, the Cowboys can still improve in this specific area, which is ironic since they're addressing it with a selection acquired from the Green Bay Packers for Micah Parsons.
"Jerry Jones likes to swing big and hear people talking about his team," Holder said. "Don't be surprised if the Cowboys try to be bold and go for a home run with at least one of their two first-round picks.
"UCF's Malachi Lawrence has a chance to be a Barry Bonds-level splash into McCovey Cove thanks to his elite physical traits. His upside rivals any other pass-rusher in the class."
21. Pittsburgh Steelers: OT Monroe Freeling, Georgia
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News that Broderick Jones experienced a setback on the neck injury he suffered last season expedites the Pittsburgh Steelers' plan at offensive tackle.
Jones had plenty to prove on the field before the injury became a glaring problem. The organization may need to acquire an immediate replacement.
Georgia's Monroe Freeling may not be ready to take over Pittsburgh's blind side, but his growth potential eclipses what Jones originally brought to the table when the Steelers chose him in the first round of the 2023 NFL draft.
"Steelers fans may be hesitant to take another first-round swing on a one-year Georgia starter after mediocre results from Jones," Thorn said, "but Freeling should be evaluated beyond shared similarities in school and experience-level.
"In some ways, the incoming prospect is more raw than Jones was coming into the draft. Conversely, he doesn't have as many bad habits to untangle. Freeling is also a looser, more fluid mover, with a skill set that this offensive coaching staff can maximize in their presumed zone-based run scheme."
22. Los Angeles Chargers: DL Keldric Faulk, Auburn
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Typically, the Los Angeles Chargers are viewed as the perfect landing spot for an offensive lineman after the unit's dismal performance during the 2025 campaign. But the defensive line shouldn't be overlooked in this equation.
Auburn's Keldric Faulk has the ideal frame and upside to develop into an outstanding talent as part of the Chargers' defensive scheme.
"Head coach Jim Harbaugh will love how Faulk plays the run," Holder said. "Plus, the addition becomes even more intriguing upon considering the 20-year-old has a 6'6", 276-pound frame and 34⅜-inch arms."
Faulk can play up and down the line of scrimmage, with the upside to eventually develop into a more effective pass-rusher, either off the edge or along the interior.
23. Philadelphia Eagles: OT Max Iheanachor, Arizona State
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The Philadelphia Eagles must prepare for life without Lane Johnson, even though the veteran right tackle will play this season and still has two seasons remaining on his contract.
At the same time, Johnson's career is littered with injuries, where he's been forced to miss games on a semi-regular basis. An investment in Arizona State's Max Iheanachor isn't just a succession plan for one of the game's best blockers. The incoming rookie could be pressed into action sooner rather than later, though that wouldn't be the plan.
"The Eagles are an ideal landing spot for a very raw, very talented tackle prospect like Iheanachor," Thorn said, "because limited pressure is expected in 2026 with Johnson and Jordan Mailata in place. Iheanachor can be developed slowly inside an elite offensive line room, which will immensely help build his skill-set over time and maximize his upside."
24. Cleveland Browns (via Jacksonville): WR KC Concepcion, Texas A&M
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The Cleveland Browns are fortunate that KC Concepcion remains available this late in the process, because he's an electric receiving threat, especially when he's in the open field.
Concepcion may not offer a traditional X-receiver build, but he's the type of weapon that can completely change the complexion of an entire offense, particularly in Cleveland where Jerry Jeudy is far too inconsistent.
"Concepcion possesses the physical talent and nuanced skill set to become the best and class' most productive receiver," Parson said. "The 21-year-old prospect is an explosive mover with a great release package. He showcased natural receiving ability and IQ at the position. The Browns need a WR1. New head coach Todd Monken helped shape Zay Flowers as the Ravens' top receiver. He can do this and more with Concepcion's skill set."
25. Chicago Bears: S Emmanuel McNeil-Warren, Toledo
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Out with the old and in with the new turned out to be the offseason plan for the Chicago Bears at safety.
Veterans Kevin Byard and Jaquan Brisker both left in free agency and signed with New England Patriots and Pittsburgh Steelers, respectively. The combination started every single game for the Bears last season, including the playoffs.
Toledo's Emmanuel McNeil-Warren takes over the role left by Brisker.
"Coby Bryant's signing to take over for Byard was a good start," Harms said. "McNeil-Warren adds a needed physical presence who can float between the hash marks or down in the box. His instincts are better than he gets credit for, and he brings a unique body type to the secondary, as someone who can mix it up with NFL tight ends and tackle in the run game. Toledo produced multiple NFL-caliber defensive backs as of late, and EMW is the next man up."
26. Buffalo Bills: DT Kayden McDonald, Ohio State
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The Buffalo Bills decided a significant change was needed on the defensive side of the ball.
After Sean McDermott's dismissal and Joe Brady's promotion, the latter hired Jim Leonard as the organization's new defensive coordinator. Now, the Bills must add the type of talent that fits into the play-caller's preferred scheme.
Kayden McDonald is the class' top nose tackle prospect.
"The Bills are switching to a base 3-4 defense," Holder said. "However, the roster lacks a quality nose tackle. McDonald can immediately help stop the run, while Deone Walker comes off the bench on third downs to provide an interior pass rush.
"This addition gives Buffalo a trio of young, quality defensive tackles in the Ohio State product, Walker and T.J. Sanders, while Ed Oliver becomes the wily veteran, who can be deployed up and down the line of scrimmage."
27. San Francisco 49ers: WR Omar Cooper Jr., Indiana
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Omar Cooper Jr.'s skill set practically screams that he is a perfect fit for the San Francisco 49ers.
Yes, the Niners already brought in veterans Mike Evans and Christian Kirk, as well as expect more from Ricky Pearsall in Year 3. The group currently lacks a talent like Cooper, who essentially turns into a running back after he catches the ball.
"Cooper is a great run-after-catch receiver, with top-end speed and elite body control at the catch-point," Parson said. "He would be an ideal addition for Kyle Shanahan's offense and quarterback Brock Purdy as part of the 49ers vaunted offensive scheme. Cooper can win from the slot and the outside. In this system, he should quickly become Purdy's favorite target."
28. Houston Texans: DL Peter Woods, Clemson
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The Houston Texans organization understands where its identity lies, and it's on the defensive side of the ball. But the unit can still be upgraded to make a strength even stronger.
Clemson's Peter Woods may not have developed as a strong interior pass-rusher, but he brings a clearly defined skill set as a run defender to ensure long-term stability along the Texans' defensive interior.
"Tommy Togiai has one year left on his contract and Sheldon Rankins just turned 32 years old," Holder said. "The Texans should invest in a young defensive tackle, and they end up getting good value here since Woods was widely expected to be drafted much higher entering the 2025 campaign. The Clemson product is coming off a down season, but that statement seems to be a common theme with prospects from that program this past year."
29. Kansas City Chiefs (via LA Rams): OT Blake Miller, Clemson
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Jawaan Taylor's release left the Kansas City Chiefs with a significant hole at right tackle that has yet to be adequately addressed.
Clemson's Blake Miller is a plug-and-play strongside protector, who started 54 straight games, which began in Week 1 of his true freshman campaign. More importantly, he improved every season. The two-time All-ACC performer will enter the NFL ranks on an upward trajectory that can continue.
"The Chiefs would be hard-pressed to bypass Miller considering Jaylon Moore is clearly more comfortable and effective on the left rather than the right side," Thorn said. "The former Tiger is as close to a shot down the fairway as a team can get. Miller would instantly complete the Chiefs' offensive line, while bolstering the depth with Moore taking over as the team's swing tackle."
30. Miami Dolphins: Edge TJ Parker, Clemson
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The game is won in the trenches, which is exactly why the Miami Dolphins should attack their lines to upgrade arguably the league's worst roster.
The Dolphins addressed their offensive line earlier with the addition Francis Mauigoa. The organization now flips to the other side of the ball and snags Clemson's T.J. Parker, who presents a distinct skill set with remaining growth potential.
"Between Chop Robinson, Josh Uche and David Ojabo, the Dolphins have a collection of decent edge-rushers who struggle to defend the run," Holder said. "Parker gives Miami's defense someone who can set the edge and the potential to contribute as a power-rusher, too. Plus, the Clemson product is a good scheme fit under new head coach Jeff Hafley."
31. New England Patriots: LB CJ Allen, Georgia
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The New England Patriots exceeded expectations this past season. Even though the organization is once again operating at a Super Bowl standard, the roster still features multiple holes.
Case in point, the team's linebackers were solid, but they can be exposed in coverage. Georgia's CJ Allen has been overlooked in a draft class that features two elite off-ball linebacker in Sonny Styles and Arvell Reese, but the former Bulldog has the skill set to man the middle of New England's defense.
"While Robert Spillane and Christian Elliss are quality run defenders, the Patriots could use a coverage linebacker," Holder said. "Plus, Elliss is entering a contract year. Allen is an impressive athlete who makes plays on the ball that most linebackers can't. He has the potential to develop into a well-rounded, every-down linebacker."
32. Seattle Seahawks: CB Chris Johnson, San Diego State
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Four years ago, the Seattle Seahawks pieced together a draft class that became the impetus behind the organization's latest success. The organization can take a similar approach this year by placing an emphasis on the secondary.
Seattle opened that draft by selecting Charles Cross, Boye Mafe, Kenneth Walker III and Abraham Lucas with back-to-back-to-back-back picks. They followed up that phenomenal run by choosing Coby Bryant and Riq Woolen. The last two left in free agency, but San Diego State's Chris Johnson can help the void left by one of them.
"By the end of this process, this pairing became a chalky pick for the reigning Super Bowl champs," Harms said. "It's easy to see why. Johnson is a highly coachable player, a willing run defender and a versatile coverage boundary corner who can fill Woolen's slot in the secondary.
"Seattle's defense is the backbone of how head coach Mike Macdonald built the team's championship success. This pick helps maintain the status quo."
Round 2
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33. New York Jets: CB D'Angelo Ponds, Indiana
34. Arizona Cardinals: QB Ty Simpson, Alabama
35. Tennessee Titans: LB Jacob Rodriguez, Texas Tech
36. Las Vegas Raiders: WR Denzel Boston, Washington
37. New York Giants: CB Avieon Terrell, Clemson
38. Houston Texans (via Washington): Edge Zion Young, Missouri
39. Cleveland Browns: S Jalon Kilgore, South Carolina
40. Kansas City Chiefs: WR Chris Bell, Louisville
41. Cincinnati Bengals: CB Colton Hood, Tennessee
— The Bengals already made the draft's biggest splash so far by trading this year's 10th overall pick for Dexter Lawrence. While the three-time Pro Bowler's inclusion in the lineup will help, the Bengals still have plenty to address on a woeful defense. The 21-year-old Hood provides first-round-caliber athletic traits and man-coverage skills, but he's still developing as an all-around defensive back.
42. New Orleans Saints: DL Lee Hunter, Texas Tech
43. Miami Dolphins: WR Skyler Bell, Connecticut
44. New York Jets (via Dallas): IOL Chase Bisontis, Texas A&M
45. Baltimore Ravens: IOL Emmanuel Pregnon, Oregon
46. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: LB Jake Golday, Cincinnati
47. Indianapolis Colts: LB Anthony Hill Jr., Texas
— On paper, the Colts' linebackers may be the worst position group in the entire NFL. Akeem Davis-Gaither is the only one of the roster worthy of starting. Hill not only fills a massive need; he also fits what the Colts love at the position as a super-athletic, long-limbed defender with significant upside. Plus, he has experience wearing the green dot to call plays.
48. Atlanta Falcons: Edge Cashius Howell, Texas A&M
— The Falcons have now sunk three first-round picks and a second-round selection over the last year to address their pass rush. The team thought it finally had the problem solved, but recent legal issues involving James Pearce Jr., as reported by ESPN, forced the organization to change course. Howell may lack length, but he's the reigning SEC Defensive Player of the Year because of his quickness and relentlessness working off the edge.
49. Minnesota Vikings: RB Jadarian Price, Notre Dame
50. Detroit Lions: Edge Gabe Jacas, Illinois
51. Carolina Panthers: WR Zachariah Branch, Georgia
52. Green Bay Packers: DL Christen Miller, Georgia
— As part of the Micah Parsons trade, the Packers sent Kenny Clark to the Dallas Cowboys. Colby Wooden filled in at nose tackle, but he wasn't an ideal fit. The Packers then shipped Wooden to the Indianapolis Colts as part of the Zaire Franklin trade. Miller is a well-coached, space-eater, who will make life easier on everyone else within Green Bay's defense.
53. Pittsburgh Steelers: WR Germie Bernard, Alabama
54. Philadelphia Eagles: Edge R Mason Thomas, Oklahoma
55. Los Angeles Chargers: IOL Keylan Rutledge, Georgia Tech
56. Jacksonville Jaguars: TE Eli Stowers, Vanderbilt
— The Jaguars are in a good position even though they don't own a first-round pick, because the team still has four Day 2 picks in its back pocket. This setup provides flexibility. So, the front office won't feel pressed to address a major need. Instead, the team can add another offensive weapon with the class' top receiving tight end in Stowers.
57. Chicago Bears: OT Caleb Lomu, Utah
58. San Francisco 49ers: Edge Derrick Moore, Michigan
59. Houston Texans: TE Oscar Delp, Georgia
60. Chicago Bears (via Buffalo): DL Domonique Orange, Iowa State
61. Los Angeles Rams: OT Caleb Tiernan, Northwestern
62. Denver Broncos: DL Caleb Banks, Florida
— John Franklin-Myers' offseason departure is a significant blow to the Broncos' outstanding defensive front. Denver requires another interior pass-rusher. Banks has a different body type, but he is much quicker and explosive than his massive size indicates. Since the Broncos lack a first-round pick, they can take a chance on a talent like Banks, even though he's dealt with foot problems as of late.
63. New England Patriots: TE Max Klare, Ohio State
64. Seattle Seahawks: RB Mike Washington Jr., Arkansas
Round 3
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65. Arizona Cardinals: WR Chris Brazzell II, Tennessee
66. Tennessee Titans: CB Treydan Stukes, Arizona
67. Las Vegas Raiders: S A.J. Haulcy, LSU
68. Philadelphia Eagles (via NY Jets): WR De'Zhaun Stribling, Ole Miss
69. Houston Texans (via NY Giants): OT Markel Bell, Miami
70. Cleveland Browns: TE Sam Roush, Stanford
71. Washington Commanders: WR Ted Hurst, Georgia State
72. Cincinnati Bengals: LB Josiah Trotter, Missouri
73. New Orleans Saints: CB Chandler Rivers, Duke
74. Kansas City Chiefs: CB Malik Muhammad, Texas
75. Miami Dolphins: CB Davison Igbinosun, Ohio State
76. Pittsburgh Steelers (via Dallas): CB Ephesians Prysock, Washington
77. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: TE Michael Trigg, Baylor
78. Indianapolis Colts: Edge Dani Dennis-Sutton, Penn State
79. Atlanta Falcons: WR Josh Cameron, Baylor
80. Baltimore Ravens: RB Emmett Johnson, Nebraska
81. Jacksonville Jaguars (via Detroit): S Zakee Wheatley, Penn State
82. Minnesota Vikings: DL Darrell Jackson Jr., Florida State
83. Carolina Panthers: Edge Keyron Crawford, Auburn
84. Green Bay Packers: CB Daylen Everette, Georgia
85. Pittsburgh Steelers: QB Drew Allar, Penn State
86. Los Angeles Chargers: Edge Jaishawn Barham, Michigan
87. Miami Dolphins (via Philadelphia): S Bud Clark, TCU
88. Jacksonville Jaguars: LB Deontae Lawson, Alabama
89. Chicago Bears: CB Keionte Scott, Miami (6.9)
90. Miami Dolphins (via Houston): TE Justin Joly, North Carolina State
91. Buffalo Bills: Edge Romello Height, Texas Tech
92. Dallas Cowboys (via San Francisco): WR Deion Burks, Oklahoma
93. Los Angeles Rams: CB Brandon Cisse, South Carolina
94. Miami Dolphins (via Denver): WR Malachi Fields, Notre Dame
95. New England Patriots: OT Travis Burke, Memphis
96. Seattle Seahawks: IOL Gennings Dunker, Iowa
97. Minnesota Vikings: IOL Sam Hecht, Kansas State
98. Philadelphia Eagles: TE Eli Raridon, Notre Dame
99. Pittsburgh Steelers: S Kamari Ramsey, USC
100. Jacksonville Jaguars: DL Zane Durant, Penn State
.jpg?w=600 "Vrabel Seeking Counseling")
.jpg?w=600 "Former President Crashes Cowboys Presser")
.jpg?w=600 "Cardinals May Be Bluffing Pick")
.jpg?w=600 "Report: Jets Likely Passing on Simpson")
