NFL Draft 2026 Round 1 Grades for Every Pick

The consensus around the 2026 NFL draft has been consistent, and it's wildly off base.

People in and around the league are downplaying the incoming crop of talent, but this class is exciting and deserves to be recognized as such.

Bleacher Report is ready to reflect what happens with each selection by grading every pick throughout the entire weekend, as NFL organizations hit the ground running Thursday in Pittsburgh.

Catch all the Round 1 picks on the B/R Live Draft Show with NFL stars Micah Parsons and Malik Nabers.

Live Draft Results

Scroll down for grades on every Round 1 pick.

1. Las Vegas Raiders: QB Fernando Mendoza, Indiana

AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar

Grade: A+

The Las Vegas Raiders finally got it right. After decades of trying to figure out the quarterback position, with multiple first-round misfires, they can finally build around a true franchise signal-caller in Indiana's Fernando Mendoza.

Mendoza may not be the same caliber of prospect as Andrew Luck or Trevor Lawrence, but make no mistake: He's every bit worthy of being the first overall selection in this year's draft.

Mendoza elevated the Hoosiers program and led IU to its first national championship. His ability to respond after every mistake he made or every misstep that Indiana endured throughout the 2025 season was astounding.

The Raiders have taken this plunge before. Many Raiders fans still shudder at the mere thought of selecting JaMarcus Russell with the No. 1 overall pick in the 2007 NFL draft. 

Fear not, though. Mendoza falls on the opposite side of the spectrum compared to Russell, at least when it comes to work ethic, preparedness and commitment to his team.

Las Vegas found itself on the outside looking in when it came to the quarterback position during the last two drafts. After suffering through a highly disappointing campaign, the silver (and black) lining to that organizational failure is finally addressing the game's most important position with a long-term solution.

Scouting Report Highlights

Strengths: Poise, toughness, quick processor, accurate passer, capable of layering throws to all three levels

Weaknesses: Will take unnecessary hits, can be better climbing pocket to avoid rush, good but not elite arm talent

Complete scouting report via Dame Parson of B/R NFL Scouting Dept.

2. New York Jets: Edge David Bailey, Texas Tech

AP Photo/Gene J. Puskar

Grade: B+

The New York Jets found themselves in a difficult position after quarterback Dante Moore chose to return for another year at Oregon. The team had to pivot, and they did so by addressing another premium position with the selection of David Bailey.

The Jets already brought in Joseph Ossai and Kingley Enagbare during free agency to boost their pass rush after finishing 31st in sacks last year. With Bailey's addition and Will McDonald IV already on the roster, Gang Green can now attack opposing quarterbacks in waves.

Bailey is the best pure pass-rusher in this year's draft class. If his nation-leading 14.5 sacks wasn't a good enough indication, the unanimous All-American's pass-rush grade was on par with Myles Garrett, Chase Young and Nik Bonitto coming out of college, according to Pro Football Focus.

Compared to the likes of Arvell Reese and Rueben Bain Jr., Bailey is the most traditional edge-rusher among this year's top edge options. The reigning Big 12 Defensive Player of the Year is more fluid and quick, which allows him to beat offensive tackles off the edge and glide toward opposing quarterbacks. 

Scouting Report Highlights

Strengths: Excellent first-step quickness, instant acceleration, can turn and bend the corner, varies pass-rush attack

Weaknesses: Not a complete defender, he'll likely struggle early in his career as a run defender, must improve play-strength

Complete scouting report via Matt Holder of B/R NFL Scouting Dept.

3. Arizona Cardinals: RB Jeremiyah Love, Notre Dame

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Grade: A

The Arizona Cardinals understood the assignment. Their roster wasn't good enough to win as it is currently constructed. The organization needed to add a legitimate blue-chip talent regardless of position. Arizona found one in Notre Dame's Jeremiyah Love.

Love immediately provides the Cardinals with an offensive focal point. When a team is entering the season with the expectations of starting Jacoby Brissett at quarterback, a top-flight running back immediately makes the offense viable.

With Mike LaFleur as the team's new head coach, the former offensive coordinator can potentially unlock both Marvin Harrison Jr. and Love to make life far easier on Brissett and any other quarterback that eventually lines up behind center. 

From a historical standpoint, Love is closer to Saquon Barkley and Bijan Robinson than other top-10 running backs over the last decade. He should be viewed as an offensive weapon capable of contributing on all three downs, which is why the B/R Scouting Department graded him as a top-two prospect regardless of position. 

The 20-year-old Love doesn't need to be a workhorse, not with James Conner and Tyler Allgeier already on the offense. The run game now drives everything in the desert. 

Scouting Report Highlights

Strengths: Threat as a runner and receiver, home run hitter, tremendous stop-start acceleration, reliable and physical ball-carrier

Weaknesses: Gets cute at times instead of just taking the yards available to him, can do a better job at not constantly absorbing significant blows

Complete scouting report via Dame Parson of B/R NFL Scouting Dept.

4. Tennessee Titans: WR Carnell Tate, Ohio State

AP Photo/Michael Conroy

Grade: D

Were the Tennessee Titans disappointed because Jeremiyah Love came off the board one pick earlier? Did they not see the potential found in other top prospects in this year's class?

Ohio State's wide receiver Carnell Tate is an excellent target, and his inclusion helps in Cam Ward's development.

At the same time, the Bleacher Report Scouting Department had Tate as the 10th overall prospect behind three teammates that everyone expected to come off the board earlier than him. They were all graded noticeably higher. Tate isn't even the best wide receiver in the class. A healthy Jordyn Tyson is.

The biggest question facing Tate is whether he can be a top target at the next level simply because he was never asked to be "the guy" in Columbus. Tate set a career-high in 2025 with 875 yards. It was the only time during his tenure with the Buckeyes that he finished the season as Ohio State's No. 2 wide receiver.

However, the program has a history of producing top-shelf targets despite others being bigger weapons at the collegiate level. Emeka Egbuka, Garrett Wilson and Terry McLaurin never led the Buckeyes in receiving yardage during their collegiate careers. Tate playing second-fiddle to Jeremiah Smith is no slight at all since the 2027 prospect has a chance to be the No. 1 overall talent for next year's class.

Still, this pick doesn't exemplify great value with a hint of desperation.

Scouting Report Highlights

Strengths: Polished route-runner, understands how to use his frame, smooth and quicker than timed speed indicates

Weaknesses: Release package can improve, lacks explosive burst, doesn't have a ton of wiggle when working in space

Complete scouting report via Dame Parson of B/R NFL Scouting Dept.

5. New York Giants: LB Arvell Reese, Ohio State

AP Photo/Julio Cortez

Grade: A

The New York Giants should be thrilled, because Arvell Reese was almost universally seen as a top-three pick throughout the lead up to this event.

Clearly, head coach John Harbaugh brought a bit of the Baltimore Ravens with him to New York, because his previous team was known for getting great value on the regular.

The fascinating aspect of Reese's inclusion is that he's not currently an ideal fit. But he's too talented to bypass. He's not going to help cover up Tremaine Edmunds' issues working in space. The Giants already have a ton invested in their edge rusher. However, this pick could tip an eventual Kayvon Thibodeaux trade.

Furthermore, Reese and Abdul Carter could form a dynamic duo that creates significant flexibility within Dennard Wilson's defense.

Reese is an off-ball linebacker, edge-rusher or somewhere between those two points with a creative defensive gameplan. A specific plan is necessary to fully maximize the versatile defender's capabilities. In Ohio State's final two contests, he wasn't a major factor against Indiana or Miami, and the Buckeyes lost both games.

The Ohio State coaching staff didn't take full advantage of what Reese could do during the team's biggest games of the season, and he became somewhat of a non-factor compared to what he was doing earlier in the season destroying opposing offenses.

The Giants picked Reese high enough not to make the same mistake. 

Scouting Report Highlights

Strengths: Position/scheme flexibility, high-end athlete with excellent movement skills and ideal frame, instinctual run defender, adds thump and reliability as a tackler

Weaknesses: Often projected as an edge-defender despite limited experience, shows a little hip tightness and poor vision when dropping into coverage

Complete scouting report via Matt Holder of B/R NFL Scouting Dept.

6. Kansas City Chiefs (via CLE): CB Mansoor Delane, LSU

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Grade: C+

The Kansas City Chiefs had an obvious need at cornerback after trading Trent McDuffie to the Minnesota Vikings. That move makes a trade-up for Mansoor Delane rather perplexing.

Kansas City did recoup a first-round pick for McDuffie. Then, they packaged third- and fifth-round selections to move up for Delane. It's a half-measure to address a premium position. 

To be fair, Delane is the class' CB1. He can step in immediately and fill the void left by McDuffie. But the team didn't get significantly better in the short team. Over the long haul, this move could definitely be beneficial, particularly with Delane on a rookie contract for the next four to five years.

Delane may be the best example of a prospect benefiting from the NCAA's current transfer rule. David Bailey could make an argument, too, but he was generally considered a first-round prospect before playing a down for the Texas Tech Red Raiders. On the other hand, Delane received a thorough evaluation as part of the Virginia Tech Hokies during last year's cycle and looked like a potential Day 2 target.

During Delane's time in Baton Rouge, he elevated his status as a top-10 prospect and the top corner among the incoming class. He became a true shutdown option by allowing the lowest passer rating into his coverage, according to Pro Football Focus.

Scouting Report Highlights

Strengths: Physical and competitive cover corner, smooth in his backpedal and turn, plays through the ball when it's in the air or reaches the catchpoint.

Weaknesses: Better in man-coverage than zone, can do a better job trusting his eyes when the route/ball is in front of him

Complete scouting report via Daniel Harms of B/R NFL Scouting Dept.

7. Washington Commanders: LB Sonny Styles, Ohio State

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Grade: A

The Washington Commanders found the perfect piece to balance their defense. Entering the draft, the team had previously invested in Frankie Luvu and Leo Chenal to be their off-ball linebackers. They're both aggressive and physical. However, they're both much better playing downhill and definitely not as effective dropping into space.

Whereas, Styles is a safety-convert whose athleticism and movement skills are truly special. He can be an ideal complement and eventual leader among this group, thanks to his previous experience wearing the green dot as part of Ohio State's loaded defense.

Styles is such a special athlete that he made people forget that he plays a non-premium position rarely viewed as a top-10 possibility. In fact, only three off-ball linebackers have been chosen that highly over the last 10 years, with only Devin White cracking the top five.

The first-team All-American wore No. 0 at Ohio State for representing "toughness, accountability and the highest of character, inspired by the great Bill Willis." Styles also posted a perfect 10 as the highest relative athletic score among linebackers over the last 29 years, according to Kent Lee Platte. 

Scouting Report Highlights

Strengths: Elite athleticism with previous safety experience, huge frame and excellent length, physical run-defender, excellent tackler, NFL bloodlines

Weaknesses: Tends to be overaggressive reading run keys, can still add play-strength as he continues to mature physically

Complete scouting report via Matt Holder of B/R NFL Scouting Dept.

8. New Orleans Saints: WR Jordyn Tyson, Arizona State

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Grade: A

This grade can easily vacillate between an A or F depending on how healthy Jordyn Tyson is throughout his professional career.

Let's stay positive at this point, because he graded as the Bleacher Report Scouting Department's WR1 based on his on-field performance. He can make a huge impact as part of the New Orleans Saints offense, specifically in the development of second-year quarterback Tyler Shough.

Given Chris Olave's history with concussions, the addition of another receiver capable of being the focal point of the passing game became a priority.

Still, everything with Tyson revolves around his medical reports. He's an outstanding talent bordering on dominant when he's on the field. Unfortunately, he missed time during all four of his collegiate seasons.

The two-time first-team All-Big 12 honoree suffered a devastating knee injury with a torn ACL, MCL and PCL in 2022. He redshirted the following season. He didn't finish the 2024 campaign due to a broken collarbone. Hamstring issues held him up during his final year on campus.

Despite those issues, Tyson still finished the last two seasons with 136 receptions for 1,812 yards and 18 touchdowns in 21 games. 

Scouting Report Highlights

Strengths: Explosive target, legitimate vertical threat, can contort body for difficult catches, strong hands

Weaknesses: Significant injury history, route-running requires refinement, not the most physical target due to questionable play-strength

Complete scouting report via Dame Parson of B/R NFL Scouting Dept.

9. Cleveland Browns (via KC): OT Spencer Fano, Utah

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Grade: A

The Cleveland Browns moved down, added a pair of mid-round picks and almost certainly landed the player they would have chosen with the sixth pick. That's adept draft maneuvering by general manager Andrew Berry.

Spencer Fano was graded as the class' top offensive tackle prospect by the B/R Scouting Department because of his natural movement skills. He's a natural right tackle even though the Browns desperately needed a blindside protector.

Clearly, Cleveland is comfortable with him making the switch to protect whomever starts at quarterback. It's not even the first time the organization asked a first-round pick to do so since 2020 first-round pick Jedrick Wills Jr. made the same transition.

Some trepidation does exist with the reigning Outland Trophy winner. Fano's movement skills and demeanor are massive feathers in his cap. At the same time, he lacks length, with sub-33-inch arms.

Even so, the Browns have completely renovated their offensive line room, with five new projected starters this fall. Fano will serve as the unit's anchor.

Scouting Report Highlights

Strengths: Regularly hits his spots in pass protection, excellent when asked to block on the move or in space, consistently works to finish, strong hands

Weaknesses: Can improve play-strength, opens up chest, lacks ideal length

Complete scouting report via Brandon Thorn of B/R NFL Scouting Dept.

10. New York Giants (via CIN): OT Francis Mauigoa, Miami

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Grade: C

Earlier, the New York Giants did a wonderful job allowing the draft to come to them and ending up with Arvell Reese. The same can't be said with the selection of Francis Mauigoa.

Granted, a powerful offensive lineman does feel like a John Harbaugh-type of selection. The team's new coach wants to set the tone physically and the incoming blocker can certainly do so.

Mauigoa had been earmarked for the NFL from the day he stepped onto Miami's campus as a heralded 5-star recruit. As a true freshman, he immediately took over at right tackle and started every game during his three seasons on campus.

The near-6'6", 329-pound powerhouse is a people-mover. His power at the point of attack can set the tone for any entire front five, whether he starts at tackle or guard during his professional career. He'll be prepared either way after facing Rueben Bain Jr. and Akheem Mesidor in practice every day.

"I mean, Rueben Bain and Akheem Mesidor, they gave me all the work," Mauigoa said, per ESPN's Stephen Holder. "They built who I am right now."

With all of that said, Mauigoa will likely slide to guard and play next to Jermaine Eluemunor. Mauigoa may eventually move to right tackle and replace the veteran. If the Giants wanted a guard now, Penn State's Vega Ioane was the higher-rated option and natural prospect for the position. 

Scouting Report Highlights

Strengths: Impressive play-strength, once he anchors the rep is over, good enough athleticism to recover in pass set

Weaknesses: Not the most flexible lower body to get adequate depth in pass set at all times, can get overaggressive as a run-blocker and play over his toes

Complete scouting report via Brandon Thorn of B/R NFL Scouting Dept.

11. Dallas Cowboys (via MIA): S Caleb Downs, Ohio State

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Grade: A++

The Dallas Cowboys got the steal of the draft. It doesn't matter that they flipped two fifth-round picks to the Miami Dolphins to move up one spot, because Caleb Downs was easily the best player in this year's class regardless of position.

Dallas ensured it got exactly who it wanted and desperately needed. The Cowboys fielded the third-worst defense last season and ranked dead-last in pass defense.

Downs will immediately make everyone on the unit better and give Dallas the highest IQ defender among the rookie crop and an all-around playmaker who can be used in a variety of ways. 

Downs went wire-to-wire as the No. 1 overall prospect on the B/R Scouting Department's draft board. He's a complete defender who's capable of not just contributing at a high level but leading a unit from the back line. His intelligence and understanding of everything that goes on in front of him border on uncanny. 

He may not be a Sean Taylor or Brian Dawkins along the back line. However, Downs is more than capable of playing at all three levels and making a massive impact, changing the entire complexion of a defense.

Scouting Report Highlights

Strengths: Defensive orchestrator with excellent communication skills, understands and excels in multiple concepts/schemes, three-level defender

Weaknesses: Can be more consistent with tackling technique, not necessarily a tone-setter from a physical perspective

Complete scouting report via Daniel Harms of B/R NFL Scouting Dept.

12. Miami Dolphins (via DAL): OT Kadyn Proctor, Alabama

Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images

Grade: F

The Miami Dolphins made a massive strategic mistake. The organization allowed positional and outright draft-pick greed to blur their vision of what should have been a no-brainer.

Caleb Downs was graded as the No. 1 overall prospect in this year's class by the B/R Scouting Department. Proctor was viewed as a fringe first-round talent based on his play in 2025.

An argument will be immediately made that the Dolphins desperately needed talent, everyone. While that's true, Downs is still the answer. More draft picks certainly weren't, because Miami already owned seven selections in this year's initial 95 picks. They're not in a position to pass on an elite talent to address a specific need. But Miami did it anyway.

To be fair, Proctor did a fantastic job turning around his last season on campus. The 20-year-old left tackle entered the 2025 campaign as a highly regarded prospect with top-10 potential. But he really struggled through the early portions of the campaign. Proctor almost looked lethargic and displayed significant technique issues.

However, the true junior seemingly recommitted to his craft midseason, got into better shape and played well down the stretch, to the point where it became obvious he could be an NFL left tackle. At 6'7" and 352 pounds, Proctor is a mountainous and powerful human being. As long as he remains committed, he has the potential to be a long-time, high-level blocker. 

Scouting Report Highlights

Strengths: Shut-down, controlling power upon first contact, tremendous movement skills for a lineman of his stature, enjoys finishing blocks

Weaknesses: Inconsistent technique and body positioning in both phases, too many easy losses in pass protection, too often unbalanced in the run game

Complete scouting report via Brandon Thorn of B/R NFL Scouting Dept.

13. Los Angeles Rams: QB Ty Simpson, Alabama

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Grade: C

It's easy to see both sides of the argument regarding the Los Angeles Rams' decision to draft Ty Simpson with the 13th overall pick.

Matthew Stafford is 38 years old and has been beaten up throughout his career. The veteran quarterback has also flirted with retirement multiple times already. The Rams needed a succession plan at the game's most important position.

Conversely, this squad's Super Bowl window is rapidly closing. The Rams are in win-now mode. Simpson doesn't help the team now. It's an ideal situation for the incoming rookie because he won't be pressed into action. He doesn't move the needle for a team looking to capitalize on Stafford's final year(s).

The impression Simpson left as a prospect depends on which part of the 2025 season a person watched. During the first half, he looked like a legitimate first-round talent ripping NFL-caliber throws; over the second half, something wasn't quite right, which was later revealed to be a litany of injuries.

The one-year starter played through a lower back issue, gastritis and elbow bursitis before being benched in a College Football Playoff meeting with the Indiana Hoosiers due to a broken rib, per the Tuscaloosa News' Colin Gay.

Despite the later issues, Simpson's earlier sample size, albeit small, eventually projects as a quality starting NFL quarterback. 

Scouting Report Highlights

Strengths: Good rhythm passer that should fit seamlessly into an NFL offense, goes through entire progression, shows very good accuracy and touch

Weaknesses: Limited starting experience, took a beating in 2025, pressure impacts effectiveness

Complete scouting report via Dame Parson of B/R NFL Scouting Dept.

14. Baltimore Ravens: IOL Olaivavega Ioane, Penn State

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Grade: A

The Baltimore Ravens just go about their business and make smart draft picks time and time again. With the 14th overall pick, the Ravens remained patient and landed the class's best pure guard prospect.

In the end, Vega Ioane graded as the top offensive lineman on the B/R Scouting Department's rankings. He's a tone-setter in the middle, which is vital for Baltimore as it rebuilds the squad's offensive interior.

Ioane might not replace Pro Bowl center Tyler Linderbaum. However, his inclusion, as well as John Simpson's return to the lineup, will protect Danny Pinter, who is scheduled to take over snapping duties. 

Ready-made guard prospects appear in every draft. Quenton Nelson, Chris Lindstrom and Tyler Booker are first-round examples from the last eight draft classes. They didn't play offensive tackle in college. They were meant to be war daddies along the interior and proved to be so. Ioane is the next in line.

The 6'4", 320-pound blocker is a bulldozer capable of instantly stalemating a bull-rush or driving defenders off the line of scrimmage. Position versatility is big in a league where a limited number of offensive linemen can be carried on a squad's game-day roster. However, a plug-and-play guard is highly valuable if he slides directly into the starting unit and secures a spot for years to come.

Scouting Report Highlights

Strengths: Perfect guard build, powerful at the point of attack, people-mover, maintains depth of pocket

Weaknesses: Movement skills make him a guard where he's best working in a phone booth, not most explosive off the snap, can struggle with defensive front movement

Complete scouting report via Brandon Thorn of B/R NFL Scouting Dept.

15. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Edge Rueben Bain Jr., Miami

AP Photo/Michael Laughlin

Grade: A+

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers just made a statement. The organization waded through all of the noise and landed an elite prospect. Miami's Rueben Bain Jr. was an every-down disruptor the past season. His power to rock blockers is an absolute joy to watch. Then again, too many allowed one number to blur the evaluation. 

Bain is a prime example of "Watch the tape and see what he actually does on the field." Too many became hung up on the fact that this defensive end doesn't have ideal length. To be fair, Bain's arms are much shorter than what's preferred. However, his 30⅞-inch levers didn't prevent him from being the most dominating defender on a college football field in 2025.

The reigning Ted Hendricks award winner is a primal force thanks to his raw power and explosive traits. He's more than capable of giving an offensive tackle everything he can handle, consistently disrupting in both phases of the game and presenting some defensive front flexibility depending on personnel packages. 

The Buccaneers didn't have anyone manage more than seven sacks last season. YaYa Diaby will be better served as a bookend than the primary threat off the edge. Bain can even reduce down over guards in sub-packages with veteran Al-Quadin Muhammad coming in as a designated pass-rusher to ratchet up Todd Bowles' aggressive defensive scheme. 

Scouting Report Highlights

Strengths: Thick and powerful, converts speed to power, rocks blockers when firing off the ball, flexibility to bend edge and shorten corner

Weaknesses: Lacks length, hand usage and gap responsibility can be erratic, not a pure speed-rusher

Complete scouting report via Matt Holder of B/R NFL Scouting Dept.

16. New York Jets: TE Kenyon Sadiq, Oregon

AP Photo/Amanda Loman

Grade: B+

Forget that Geno Smith is the New York Jets' projected starting quarterback. It is what it is based on the options available to the franchise. Once a person gets beyond that point, the Jets are building something interesting after selecting David Bailey with this year's second pick, then followed it up by choosing Kenyon Sadiq.

The Jets needed weapons for their offense. Sadiq fits the bill, even if he's not a wide receiver–which was expected at this particular slot. New offensive coordinator Frank Reich will almost certainly utilize heavy 12-personnel packages, with Mason Taylor and the rookie on the field at the same time.

Sadiq is TE1 in the 2026 class. A close second didn't exist.

The reigning Big Ten Tight End of the Year is legitimately unique, because he's not the biggest prospect, yet he's as physical as you'll find at the position. He's truly an elite athlete, though Oregon never fully utilized him as an offensive weapon.

Some will look at Sadiq and say he can't play inline at 6'4" and 241 pounds without acknowledging he's a sculpted athlete with very little fat. Meanwhile, he regularly buried dudes as a blocker. Conversely, his stunning athletic profile–which includes a 4.39-second 40-yard dash–should have led to more production.

Basically, expect Sadiq to be an even better pro than collegian. 

Scouting Report Highlights

Strengths: Unbelievable athlete, highlight-reel blocker, legitimate threat every time he touches the ball thanks to one-of-a-kind speed

Weaknesses: Less-than-ideal tight end frame, must improve route-running, can't rely solely on his natural gifts

Complete scouting report via Daniel Harms of B/R NFL Scouting Dept.

17. Detroit Lions: OT Blake Miller, Clemson

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Grade: B

Blake Miller is a fascinating choice with the 17th overall pick, because it tells everyone what they need to know about the direction of the Detroit Lions' offensive line. Welcome to left tackle, Penei Sewell.

The three-time first-team All-Pro is a natural left tackle, but the Lions didn't need him on the blind side with Taylor Decker already on the roster. Decker asked for and was subsequently granted his release this offseason. Sewell can now make the switch, with right tackle being handled by the incoming rookie.

Miller might as well be nicknamed, "Mr. Consistency." 

The 6'7", 315-pound blocker entered the Clemson program as a 3-star recruit and turned into a four-year starter. He didn't miss a game during that stretch and started 54 consecutive contests. Despite so much experience, Miller will be 22 years old during the entirety of his rookie campaign.

While in the Tigers' lineup, the strongside blocker continually improved, with his final season on campus being his best. The career right tackle may not offer significant versatility, but he has a defined role from Day 1 to settle Detroit's front five. 

Scouting Report Highlights

Strengths: Uses hands well, understands aiming points in his pass sets, presents adequate play-strength to strain and finish

Weaknesses: Tends to play with a high pad-level, lateral movement is suspect, top-heavy at times

Complete scouting report via Brandon Thorn of B/R NFL Scouting Dept.

18. Minnesota Vikings: DT Caleb Banks, Florida

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Grade: F

The Minnesota Vikings decided to move beyond Jonathan Allen and Javon Hargrave this offseason. Those decisions made sense based on their ages and salary-cap implications. The selection of Caleb Banks isn't rooted in logic.

The team definitely needed to address its defensive line. Banks presents significant upside, but he's never developed beyond that point. Furthermore, he's coming off an injury-plagued season where he barely played.

To understand how much of a need-based reach this is, Banks was graded as the 60th overall prospect on the B/R Scouting Department's final draft board and the sixth-best interior defender, even though the entire positional class was still available to the Vikings at this spot.

Banks does have the size, length and athletic profile to be a dominant interior defender. He's just never been that guy. His redshirt junior campaign provided significant optimism as a prospect capable of carrying a solid first-round grade.

Unfortunately, a foot injury held him to only three games in 2025. Then, the 6'6", 327-pound defender suffered a broken foot at this year's NFL combine and won't return to the field until at least June, according to The Athletic's Dane Brugler.

Too much risk exists within this pick when other viable options were present. 

Scouting Report Highlights

Strengths: Unexpected upfield burst for a massive interior defender, power to stack and shed, as well as collapse the pocket, ideal frame

Weaknesses: Poor pad level, inconsistent hand usage, plays too linear, history of foot injuries

Complete scouting report via Matt Holder of B/R NFL Scouting Dept.

19. Carolina Panthers: OT Monroe Freeling, Georgia

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Grade: C

The Carolina Panthers are preparing for their future at offensive tackle. Monroe Freeling could step in at left tackle while Ikem Ekwonu continues to rehab from the patellar tear he suffered in this year's postseason. But the Panthers did bring in veteran Rasheed Walker to fill that potential void.

This year's 19th overall pick could eventually replace Ekwonu if the team doesn't believe he's the long-term answer on their blind side, or flip to the strong side and take over for Taylor Moton when the soon-to-be 32-year-old right tackle is no longer a viable option. In either case, the Panthers aren't a better team this year because of this selection.

Freeling is but a portion of what he can become. The 21-year-old prospect started one year at Georgia. His athletic profile is nearly off the charts, but he's still a major work in progress.

The 6'7", 315-pound offensive lineman has all the requisite physical tools to be a 10-plus year starter at left tackle. His arms reach nearly 35 inches. Freeling posted a near-perfect 9.99 relative athletic score at this year's NFL Scouting Combine, per Kent Lee Platte. Physically, he's the total package.

But he had to wait his turn at Georgia and eventually became the Bulldogs' starting left tackle in Week 12 of the 2024 campaign after former SEC All-Freshman Team performer Earnest Greene III suffered an injury. To Freeling's credit, he held down the fort, while Green moved to right tackle last season.

Scouting Report Highlights

Strengths: Elite athlete and ideal frame/length, quick and fluid with obvious play-strength

Weaknesses: Aiming points, pad level, leverage and balance must become more consistent to sustain and finish blocks in both phases

Complete scouting report via Brandon Thorn of B/R NFL Scouting Dept.

20. Philadelphia Eagles (via DAL): WR Makai Lemon, USC

Grade: B

The Philadelphia Eagles have seemingly said goodbye to AJ Brown without outright doing so. The organization traded up with the archrival Dallas Cowboys to draft wide receiver Makai Lemon.

In order to do so, general manager Howie Roseman gave up a pair of fourth-round draft picks likely to get ahead of the Pittsburgh Steelers, who may be looking for a wide receiver as well. Lemon's style of play will fit quite nicely alongside DeVonta Smith.

The Rams' influence on the wide receiver position helped Lemon greatly throughout this year's draft cycle.

Lemon is a talented prospect unto himself, as the reigning Fred Biletnikoff Award winner. However, Sean McVay's influence can be seen throughout the NFL. How the Rams head coach utilizes his wide receivers has changed the position, with a greater emphasis on versatility, toughness and even blocking.

Lemon is counted among the incoming crop's grittiest players. He's going to be physical, which projects well as a slot receiver and future security blanket. 

Scouting Report Highlights

Strengths: Not afraid of doing the dirty work over the middle of the field, sticky hands to pluck the ball, excels after that catch, excellent route-runner

Weaknesses: Skill set doesn't lend to all three receiver positions, not the most explosive option, lacks size/length which limits him to a degree

Complete scouting report via Dame Parson of B/R NFL Scouting Dept.

21. Pittsburgh Steelers: OT Max Iheanachor, Arizona State

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Grade: C

The Pittsburgh Steelers felt almost forced into a corner with this particular selection after learning that left tackle Broderick Jones suffered a setback with last season's neck injury.

Even a healthy version of Jones could have been replaced after a disappointing performance over the last two seasons. He likely won't be replaced by Max Iheanachor, who is a natural right tackle still learning the game.

Instead, the team's 2024 first-round pick, Troy Fautanu, will likely move back to his natural position at left tackle.

Iheanachor has one of the most fascinating stories in this year's class. The native Nigerian didn't move to the United States until he was 13. He didn't even play American football until he attended East Los Angeles College. Five years later, he's considered a top offensive tackle prospect, with huge long-term potential.

The former basketball and soccer player's footwork definitely translated to the gridiron since Iheanachor's natural movement skills are tremendous. 

Scouting Report Highlights

Strengths: Easy mover, particularly in his pass set, excels when blocking down in the run game

Weaknesses: Relatively inexperienced despite 31 starts over last three seasons, inconsistent technique in all areas, can improve play-strength

Complete scouting report via Brandon Thorn of B/R NFL Scouting Dept.

22. Los Angeles Chargers: Edge Akheem Mesidor, Miami

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Grade: C

The Los Angeles Chargers needed help on the edge, considering Khalil Mack and Bud Dupree are 33 or older. Mesidor is really filling the void left by Odafe Oweh, who joined the Washington Commanders in free agency.

Oweh finished second on the team last season with 7.5 sacks. Mesidor won't need to be an every-down defender from Day 1. Instead, he'll enter the lineup as a designated pass-rusher and eventual bookend to Tuli Tuipulotu. 

Age is just a number, unless you're an NFL team trying to project a prospect's long-term value to a roster. Mesidor would have been counted among the class's elite pass-rushers had he not turned 25 before the draft even began.

Even at an advanced age and previous surgeries to both feet, Mesidor's ability to harass opposing quarterbacks couldn't be overlooked.

"Mesidor possesses rare pass-rush ability for an NFL prospect, as his pass-rush artistry led to an impressive 92.5 PFF pass-rush grade (96th percentile), 71 total pressures, 21.3 percent pass-rush win (94th percentile) rate and 16.0 percent pressure rate," John Owning wrote.

Scouting Report Highlights

Strengths: Legitimate pass-rush plan with good hand usage, smooth and fluid turning the edge, good initial burst

Weaknesses: Potential one-contract prospect, struggles to convert speed to power, history of foot injuries

Complete scouting report via Matt Holder of B/R NFL Scouting Dept.

23. Dallas Cowboys: Edge Malachi Lawrence, UCF

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Grade: A

Despite Jerry Jones taking numerous potshots throughout the process, thanks to last year's Micah Parsons trade, the Dallas Cowboys crushed this year's first round.

Dallas success is based on value, upside and manipulating the draft to its advantage. The Cowboys traded up to get Downs, who is the class's top-rated prospect. Jones and company then moved off the 20th overall pick to recoup part of what they lost and still added a talent in Malachi Lawrence, who brings huge upside at a premium position.

Lawrence gets to join Donovan Ezeiruaku and Rashan Gary to reset Dallas' edge presence.

Every NFL team is looking for pass-rushers, even if one or two are already on the roster. The ability to harass opposing quarterbacks brings an added premium. In Lawrence's case, he produced 19.5 sacks over the last three seasons and became a first-team All-Big 12 selection in 2025. Even though he never managed more than seven sacks in a single campaign, his traits signal significant growth potential.

At 6'4" and 253 pounds with nearly 34-inch arms, Lawrence brings a 9.95 relative athletic score along with him, according to Kent Lee Platte. Danielle Hunter and Odafe Oweh shared similar profiles before bursting onto the professional scene. Lawrence could do the same.

Scouting Report Highlights

Strengths: Size, length, burst and flexibility to be a consistent pass-rush threat off the edge, brings a pass-rush plan, can convert speed to power

Weaknesses: Significant downside as a run-defender at this point in his development, lacks strength to consistently hold point of attack

Complete scouting report via Matt Holder of B/R NFL Scouting Dept.

24. Cleveland Browns: WR KC Concepcion, Texas A&M

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Grade: B+

The primary question for the Cleveland Browns entering this year's event centered on how the team planned to stack its two first-round picks, given obvious needs at offensive tackle and wide receiver.

Well, Cleveland traded down in the top 10 and still landed Spencer Fano to become the team's new left tackle. Now, the Browns pair him with Texas A&M KC Concepcion to give their offense a legitimate big-time threat and push Jerry Jeudy down a peg since he's never proven himself as a reliable No. 1 option.

Top-notch wide receiver prospects no longer need to fill the traditional X-receiver roles. Coaches have adapted and changed their offensive systems to feature different skill sets. Smaller targets capable of creating instant separation and producing after the catch are now a big part of offensive game plans, if not the featured part of passing games.

Concepcion is tailor-made for the modern approach. The 6'0", 196-pound target is electric in the open field, as a receiver and returner. Since the start of the 2023 season, Concepcion has generated 1,232 yards after the catch and 575 yards after contract, according to Pro Football Focus. 

Scouting Report Highlights

Strengths: Immediately places defenses on their heels after the catch, sudden acceleration, open-field escapability, legitimate vertical threat

Weaknesses: Concentration drops, small frame, limited catch radius, marginal play-strength

Complete scouting report via Dame Parson of B/R NFL Scouting Dept.

25. Chicago Bears: S Dillon Thieneman, Oregon

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Grade: A

In any other class, Dillon Thieneman would have been the incoming group's top-ranked safety. He just happened to be in the same class as Caleb Downs. That's OK. The Chicago Bears should be thrilled that he remained available until he was selected with the 25th overall pick.

Thieneman fits the most obvious need on the Bears roster. Kevin Byard and Jaquan Brisker started all 19 games last season as the squad's starting safety duo. Both left in free agency this offseason and signed elsewhere.

Chicago did bring in Coby Bryant to offset one of the departures. Thieneman fills the other spot.

The decision to transfer from Purdue to Oregon allowed Thieneman to expand his game. The safety prospect's usage flipped from one season to the next, meaning he played double the snaps at free safety compared to strong safety in 2024, then did the opposite in 2025.

Obviously, the decision to play at Oregon allowed Thieneman to thrive in a more high-profile and successful program that reached the College Football Playoff. He expanded his game and showed greater versatility. But he's a true free safety and a really good one at that. He'll be at his best playing along the back line rather than consistently finding himself in the box. So, his usage alongside Bryant will be a fascinating decision by defensive coordinator Dennis Allen. 

Scouting Report Highlights

Strengths: Class' best pure free safety, ideal sideline-to-sideline speed, explosive athlete, versatility to come down into the box and defend the run

Weaknesses: Inconsistent angles, isn't the most physical tackler, can be overaggressive with his reads

Complete scouting report via Daniel Harms of B/R NFL Scouting Dept.

26. Houston Texans (via BUF): IOL Keylan Rutledge, Georgia Tech

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Grade: B

The Houston Texans are trying to ensure their offensive line is solid after multiple years of C.J. Stroud taking far too many hits. The organization already brought in veterans Braden Smith, Wyatt Teller and Evan Brown, while also signing Ed Ingram to a three-year contract extension.

Keylan Rutledge won't immediately solidify this group, but he can learn from two fantastic veterans in Teller and Smith. Once the Georgia Tech product is in the lineup, the physical nature of this unit will increase tenfold.

Rugged interior linemen can last a long time in the NFL because they're going to move bodies and set the tone for a front five. Rutledge fits the definition of a mauler. He's not entering the professional ranks as a polished pass-protector, but he will bring a different attitude to the group.

"It's how I'm wired," Rutledge said at the Senior Bowl. "I think I've said it over and over again, but I think that sets me apart. How I'm gonna finish blocks. How hard I'm gonna work. My mental makeup is different than everyone else out there. I truly believe that."

Scouting Report Highlights

Strengths: Finisher, power to contort, strain and control defender, strong base nasty attitude

Weaknesses: Inconsistent footwork and pad level, later agility in pass protection is questionable

Complete scouting report via Brandon Thorn of B/R NFL Scouting Dept.

27. Miami Dolphins (via SF): CB Chris Johnson, San Diego State

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Grade: B

The Miami Dolphins tempered their earlier mistake by trading out of the 11th overall pick and allowing the Dallas Cowboys to select Caleb Downs by addressing their secondary with Chris Johnson's selection.

Miami's group of cornerbacks was the league's worst entering Thursday's first round. Johnson becomes the squad's CB1 by default. Then again, he's more than capable of filling the role and thriving under the direction of head coach and former secondary coach Jeff Hafley.

The one issue here is that the Dolphins had to give up a higher draft pick to trade up for Johnson than either of the ones they got in return from Dallas earlier. Still, Johnson absolutely is an upgrade in Miami's secondary.

The expansion of college football's transfer rule has lessened the number of quality prospects from non-traditional programs. If a player from a lower level or even non-Power Four school draws NFL interest, he's likely to transfer to a bigger program for his final season or two on campus. Johnson didn't.

Instead, the talented cover corner thrived as part of the Aztecs program. The reigning Mountain West Defensive Player of the Year spent all four seasons at San Diego State. This past season, he put together a phenomenal effort by not surrendering a touchdown, allowing a measly 16.1 passer rating into his coverage and posting a 92.8 coverage grade, according to Pro Football Focus. 

Scouting Report Highlights

Strengths: Technician with high-level athleticism, fluid change-of-direction, excels in both man and zone coverage, quick recognition

Weaknesses: Not the biggest, longest or more physical option, can do a bigger job working through the catch-point

Complete scouting report via Daniel Harms of B/R NFL Scouting Dept.

28. New England Patriots (via BUF): OT Caleb Lomu, Utah

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Grade: C

Some will jump to conclusions. Don't view Caleb Lomu's selection as a response to Will Campbell's poor showing in the postseason. Instead, Lomu is a developmental project who will likely replace Morgan Moses at right tackle when he's ready.

Right now, Lomu isn't ready. The underclassman has huge growth potential. He could even take over at left tackle if Campbell continues to disappoint. Right now, he should be viewed exclusively as the long-term plan as Campbell's bookend.

Spencer Fano received the lion's share of recognition among Utah's outstanding pair of offensive tackles. After all, he is the reigning Outland Trophy winner. Of the two, Lomu presented even higher upside.

Lomu's biggest issue is that he simply needs time to mature and build his play strength. He's a 21-year-old prospect who took over the Utes' blind side as a redshirt freshman. Lomu started 24 consecutive games before declaring for the NFL draft.

While the early entrant's power needs to improve, his movement skills are outstanding, which will allow him to survive on the island as he continues to develop. 

Scouting Report Highlights

Strengths: Top-notch body control, doesn't get rattled early in the rep, excels when asked to block on the move

Weaknesses: Not a people-mover, mostly stalemates, moves so well presents tendency to overset

Complete scouting report via Brandon Thorn of B/R NFL Scouting Dept.

29. Kansas City Chiefs: DL Peter Woods, Clemson

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Grade: C

The Kansas City Chiefs stayed on the defensive side of the ball after the New England Patriots jumped ahead of them and took Caleb Lomu, who was likely the last offensive tackle worthy of first-round consideration.

So, Chiefs brass pivoted to the other side of the ball yet stuck with the trenches. Peter Woods adds more talent around Chris Jones. He doesn't address Kansas City's immediate need: improving the team's pass rush. However, the Chiefs are banking on the defensive lineman's talent.

Woods entered the 2025 campaign as a projected top-five pick. His final season didn't add to the momentum he had built coming off the previous year's performance. Specifically, Woods never took the next step as an interior rusher. At best, he maintained. At worst, he regressed.

Even so, the first-team All-American retained value as a highly regarded interior defender based on his ability to consistently win at the point of attack. Woods can instantly help against the run despite less-than-ideal weight (298 lbs) and length (sub-32-inch arms). The 21-year-old defender still provides significant growth potential because he should continue to develop physically and technically. 

Scouting Report Highlights

Strengths: Stack-and-shed savant, powerful to hold point of attack with movement skills to be effective on stunts, can make tackles up and down line of scrimmage

Weaknesses: Minimal pass-rush production with poor hand usage, gets caught peeking in the backfield, lacks length

Complete scouting report via Matt Holder of B/R NFL Scouting Dept.

30. New York Jets (via SF): WR Omar Cooper Jr., Indiana

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Grade: A

Again, the quarterback position remains a major concern for the New York Jets. But the organization is doing an excellent job of adding legitimate talent to its roster and becoming a better overall team.

New York surrendered a fifth-round pick to move up three spots and secure an outstanding wide receiver in Indiana's Omar Cooper Jr.

With the additions of Cooper and Keyon Sadiq, the Jets are far more talented at the skill positions than they were entering the evening. Add them to Breece Hall, Garrett Wilson, Adonai Mitchell and Mason Taylor, New York now has legitimate firepower among its skill positions.

Elijah Sarratt may have been Fernando Mendoza's favorite target on money or red-zone downs and Charlie Becker emerged as an undeniable weapon during Indiana's national championship run, but Cooper was the best and most pro-ready target on the Hoosiers' roster.

Cooper's game-winning, toe-tap touchdown grab against the Penn State Nittany Lions to save Indiana's perfect season will be replayed forever as one of the greatest last-minute plays in college football history. That one play serves as a microcosm for the 6'0", 199-pound receiver's game. The same insane body control, vice-like hands and ability to complete the catch through contact were seen throughout the season when IU needed someone to make a play. 

Furthermore, Cooper is particularly tough to bring down in the open field, which makes him even more enticing at the professional level.

Scouting Report Highlights

Strengths: Has the strength and toughness to excel working over the middle of the field, excels after the catch, works through contact, understands tempo within route-running

Weaknesses: Less-than-ideal catch radius, must expand route-tree

Complete scouting report via Dame Parson of B/R NFL Scouting Dept.

31. Tennessee Titans (via BUF): DL Keldric Faulk, Auburn

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Grade: B

Keldric Faulk is a system fit for the Tennessee Titans. Don't view him as a traditional edge-rusher, but he's not that. However, he can be a base end or 5-/4i-technique in Robert Saleh's defensive scheme.

Faulk should fit nicely alongside Jeffrey Simmons and John Franklin-Myers. The incoming rookie couldn't find a better two veteran to learn from regarding his skill set and what he can become. 

The argument of potential versus production is primarily on display when discussing Faulk as a prospect. His standing has been built upon the idea of what he may become, not what he is at the moment.

The early entrant stands 6'6" and weighs nearly 280 points. He's long, powerful and doesn't turn 21 until September. His size and length alone made him a tantalizing talent throughout this year's draft cycle.

At the same time, Faulk doesn't display the flexibility to be an every-down NFL edge-defender. He didn't produce at a high level during his three years on campus, either. A plan is necessary to fully engage a developmental prospect capable of much more in the right situation. 

Scouting Report Highlights

Strengths: Ideal frame, long arms, experience playing 0-technique to wide alignment, ready-made run defender, high motor

Weaknesses: Straight-line athlete, middling burst off snap, unrefined pass-rush repertoire

Complete scouting report via Matt Holder of B/R NFL Scouting Dept.

32. Seattle Seahawks: RB Jadarian Price, Notre Dame

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Grade: B+

Super Bowl champions often experience attrition after reaching the game's pinnacle. The Seattle Seahawks aren't any different. 

Kenneth Walker III's departure in free agency after being named the Super Bowl LX was the Seahawks' most high-profile loss. Furthermore, fellow ball-carrier Zach Charbonnet suffered a torn ACL in the postseason, which means it's unlikely he'll be ready for the start of the 2026 campaign.

Seattle's offense is built upon establishing the run game. The Seahawks staff may like Emanuel Wilson and George Holani, but the team needed a new lead back and got one in Jadarian Price, who wasn't one in college. 

The fact that Price shared the backfield with Jeremiyah Love throughout his collegiate career, yet still shone in his own right, says a lot about the other Notre Dame running back. Love may have been graded as a top-three prospect by the Bleacher Report Scouting Department, but Price still managed to be the site's RB2, while maintaining a grade within the top 40 overall.

Even as a clear second option, Price ran for nearly 1,700 yards over the last three seasons and displayed traits to become a lead back at the professional level. Though he'll need to develop in the passing game once he's given more opportunities.

Scouting Report Highlights

Strengths: Patience, pacing and vision to consistently find openings and create positive yardage, agility to create in small spaces and bounce laterally, return capabilities

Weaknesses: Not an overly powerful runner, ball security concerns, limited third-down experience in passing game

Complete scouting report via Dame Parson of B/R NFL Scouting Dept.

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