It’s here, the first round of the NFL Draft on Thursday night.
A ton of defensive players. Some explosive skill players. 1-Quarterback. And alot of last minute trade rumors.
A unique look at a Mock Draft using insiders from around the country-courtesy of Athlon’s Publications. Who gets picked,and why?
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1. Las Vegas Raiders
The Expert: Moe Moton, Bleacher Report
The Pick: QB Fernando Mendoza, Indiana
“The Las Vegas Raiders have undergone several resets and rebuilds over the last two decades, but this one feels different, with the opportunity to select a potential franchise quarterback. Yes, the Raiders whiffed on JaMarcus Russell the last time they selected a quarterback with the first pick, but Mendoza seems more prepared for extremely high expectations after leading Indiana to a national title in an undefeated season.
“By the way, the Raiders have set up an environment for Mendoza to succeed.
“With Kirk Cousins on the roster, the club won’t have to rush the rookie into action. New offensive-minded head coach Klint Kubiak helped Sam Darnold, a former top-three draft pick, win a Super Bowl. Also, team minority owner Tom Brady, the most accomplished quarterback in NFL history, can help the young signal-caller develop into a true pro.” – Moton
READ MORE: Fernando Mendoza scouting report
2. New York Jets
The Expert: Connor Rogers, NBC Sports
The Pick: Edge Arvell Reese, Ohio State
“The Jets need a difference maker in their front seven and are in the middle of a roster rebuild. They should be patient with that and believe two years from now Reese can be a star pass rusher.” – Rogers
READ MORE: Arvell Reese scouting report
3. Arizona Cardinals
The Expert: Dane Brugler, The Athletic
The Pick: Edge David Bailey, Texas Tech
“While Josh Sweat has been a worthwhile investment (so far), the Cardinals pass rush as a whole was underwhelming last season – both in the stat sheet and when studying their defense. Bailey has the explosiveness off the edge that offenses and quarterbacks must account for, giving Arizona a building block on defense.” – Brugler
READ MORE: David Bailey scouting report
4. Tennessee Titans
The Expert: Turron Davenport, ESPN
The Pick: LB Sonny Styles, Ohio State
“Styles’ height/weight/size is tailor-made to drop in the middle of Robert Saleh’s defense. Middle linebacker may not be a premium position to most teams, but it’s a critical part for the Titans and Saleh, who desires a team that plays fast and violent just like Styles played every Saturday at Ohio State.” – Davenport
READ MORE: Sonny Styles scouting report
Ohio State LB Sonny Styles is an elite talent who’s worthy of a top-five pick. (The
Columbus Dispatch)
The Columbus Dispatch
5. New York Giants
The Expert: Trevor Sikkema, NFL Stock Exchange
The Pick: OT Spencer Fano, Utah
“Fano is the top offensive linemen in the class, in my opinion. His movement skills, balance and grip strength make him a tough assignment to get around, and make him scheme versatile, as well as position versatile. He could play guard in the short term and tackle in the long term for the Giants.” – Sikkema
READ MORE: Spencer Fano scouting report
6. Cleveland Browns
The Expert: Jordan Reid, ESPN
The Pick: WR Carnell Tate, Ohio State
“The Browns get a true WR1 to add to their corps. Tate is a smooth route runner with strong hands that can be an immediate contributor. The Browns offense desperately needs a spark and he provides that.” – Reid
READ MORE: Carnell Tate scouting report
7. Washington Commanders
The Expert: Matt Harmon, Yahoo! Sports
The Pick: RB Jeremiyah Love, Notre Dame
“You can argue Washington just took the best player in the draft at seventh overall. Every signal that the team has sent this year points to the offense leaning into more under-center concepts after living in the shotgun, uptempo Kliff Kingsbury world in Jayden Daniels’ first two seasons. Adding Love to run behind an offensive line that has plenty of proven and promising young talent immediately makes this unit, which about to take a schematic left turn, much more dangerous. Love and Daniels working in tandem in the rushing game will be a headache and weaponizes their play-action attack.” – Harmon
READ MORE: Jeremiyah Love scouting report
8. New Orleans Saints
The Expert: Katherine Terrell, ESPN
The Pick: S Caleb Downs, Ohio State
“With Carnell Tate unavailable, the Saints pivot to the defensive side of the board and take the best safety in the draft. Downs can play all over the field, which would fit nicely in Brandon Staley’s defense. WR will remain a need that the Saints would look to address later in the draft.” – Terrell
READ MORE: Caleb Downs scouting report
Miami edge defender Rueben Bain Jr. was a dominant force for the Canes last season. (Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images)
Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
9. Kansas City Chiefs
The Expert: Chad Reuter, NFL.com
The Pick: Edge Rueben Bain Jr., Miami (FL)
“Kansas City often takes advantage of overlooked talent, whether it’s because of underwhelming measurables or issues away from the field. Bain fits in those categories and the Chiefs desperately need pass rush help.” – Reuter
READ MORE: Rueben Bain Jr. scouting report
10. New York Giants (from CIN)
The Expert: Eric Edholm, NFL.com
The Pick: CB Mansoor Delane, LSU
“I think the pick is likely Downs or a receiver when we get to 10, but there’s a case for Delane if he falls here. They don’t have a CB1, and are hoping Paulson Adebo and Greg Newsome can hold down the outside. Delane makes them better at a lean spot.” – Edholm
READ MORE: Mansoor Delane scouting report
11. Miami Dolphins
The Expert: Joe Schad, Palm Beach Post
The Pick: OL Francis Mauigoa, Miami (FL)
“The Dolphins can have Mauigoa play right guard this season before likely shifting to right tackle next season, or earlier as needed. Physical. Tough. Powerful.” – Schad
READ MORE: Francis Mauigoa scouting report
12. Dallas Cowboys
The Expert: Jon Machota, The Athletic
The Pick: Edge Keldric Faulk, Auburn
“This is the exact scenario the Cowboys need to avoid. The top six defenders were all off the board. While Dallas could choose to go offensive line or trade back here, I went with a defender who could become a versatile piece up front. I’d prefer any of the other six over Faulk, but he was the next-best defender and the Cowboys need all the defensive help they can draft.” – Machota
READ MORE: Keldric Faulk scouting report
USC WR Makai Lemon (6) is a big-play machine, both downfield and after the catch. (Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images)
Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images
13. Los Angeles Rams
The Expert: Lance Zierlein, NFL.com
The Pick: WR Makai Lemon, USC
“It’s pretty well documented by this point, but with Davante Adams’ contract running out after 2026, Lemon makes sense as additional firepower this year for the Rams push for another Super Bowl, and makes sense in 2027 as he takes over for Adams as the new WR2. The only position that could push wide receiver out of the way might be right tackle.” – Zierlein
READ MORE: Makai Lemon scouting report
14. Baltimore Ravens
The Expert: EJ Snyder, Bootleg Football
The Pick: OL Olaivavega Ioane, Penn State
“Best guard in the draft and one of the safest picks regardless of position. Instant starter as a rookie and upgrades a position that sunk a lot of the Ravens offensive efforts last season before they ever got started. Gets Lamar a much more stable pocket, Henry better running lanes, AND the Ravens can still grab more quality receiving targets with any of their 5(!) picks from 45 to 162 overall.” – Snyder
READ MORE: Olaivavega Ioane scouting report
15. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
The Expert: Greg Auman, Fox Sports
The Pick: Edge Akheem Mesidor, Miami (FL)
“This isn’t a great situation for the Bucs, with the best edges off the board, but it might be how the board falls for them. Given these options, I really think they trade down for a team hungry for a receiver or tackle, so the Bucs can pick up like a third-rounder to slide down maybe five spots. If they have to pick, it should be Miami’s Akheem Mesidor. He gets knocked for being 25, but he was productive all through college and especially this past season. He’ll be well-positioned to help their pass rush, which remains a crucial need.” – Auman
READ MORE: Akheem Mesidor scouting report
16. New York Jets (from IND)
The Expert: Connor Rogers, NBC Sports
The Pick: WR Jordyn Tyson, Arizona State
“The Jets swing for the fences as they look to add a number two wide receiver to their offense across from Garrett Wilson. Tyson is an extremely talented separator with standout body control and focus to finish plays.” – Rogers
READ MORE: Jordyn Tyson scouting report
Tennessee CB Jermod McCoy has top-10 talent, but injuries make him a huge question mark. (Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images)
Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
17. Detroit Lions
The Expert: Dave Birkett, Detroit Free Press
The Pick: CB Jermod McCoy, Tennessee
“The Lions have bigger needs at offensive tackle and defensive end, but if Brad Holmes really wants Best Player Available this choice comes down to McCoy and Kenyon Sadiq. McCoy missed last season with a torn ACL but he’s a blue-chip talent who plays a more premium position and the Lions do have some concerns at CB with Terrion Arnold.” – Birkett
READ MORE: Jermod McCoy scouting report
18. Minnesota Vikings
The Expert: Ryan Wilson, CBS Sports
The Pick: DL Peter Woods, Clemson
“The Vikings whiffed on Jonathan Allen and Javon Hargrave, and while Woods had a down 2025 season for Clemson, his 2024 tape is top-10 worthy. I’d imagine Brian Flores will have no trouble getting the most out of him.” – Wilson
READ MORE: Peter Woods scouting report
19. Carolina Panthers
The Expert: Mike Kaye, Charlotte Observer
The Pick: S Dillon Thieneman, Oregon
“The Panthers have a clear need for long-term answers in the nickel and post positions. While those aren’t really considered premium positions, Thieneman is a premium prospect who can hold down the fort at either spot (or both) for the next five years. Plug and play, enjoy the rest of your Thursday, Dan Morgan.” – Kaye
READ MORE: Dillon Thieneman scouting report
20. Dallas Cowboys (from IND)
The Expert: Jon Machota, The Athletic
The Pick: CB Colton Hood, Tennessee
“Dallas needs another starting cornerback. Perhaps it gets addressed at Pick 12. If not, this is a great spot to get an immediate impact player for new defensive coordinator Christian Parker. His specialty is the defensive backfield. He’s had success working with Patrick Surtain II, Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean. Giving him another top prospect in that area makes a lot of sense.” – Machota
READ MORE: Colton Hood scouting report
Washington WR Denzel Boston is a dominant red-zone threat with size and athleticism. (Joe Nicholson-Imagn Images)
Joe Nicholson-Imagn Images
21. Pittsburgh Steelers
The Expert: Doug Farrar, Athlon Sports
The Pick: WR Denzel Boston, Washington
“The Steelers’ offensive splits without DK Metcalf last season were nightmarish, especially when Metcalf served his two-game suspension at the end of the regular season. Adding Michael Pittman Jr. in free agency gives Aaron Rodgers (or whoever plays quarterback in Pittsburgh) another reliable target, but it doesn’t take care of the need for another big, fast, ball-winner in Mike McCarthy’s offense. At 6′ 3⅝” and 212 pounds, with a vertical route palette that has smoked several cornerbacks, and as a contested-catch bully, Boston would serve well as Metcalf’s understudy and eventual bookend.” – Farrar
READ MORE: Denzel Boston scouting report
22. Los Angeles Chargers
The Expert: Brett Kollmann, Bootleg Football
The Pick: Edge T.J. Parker, Clemson
“Khalil Mack is in the twilight of his career, and Tuli Tuipolotu is going to cost an arm and a leg, given that Will Anderson just reset the Edge market again. We need another Edge in the pipeline that can both offset Tuipolotu with a cost-controlled deal, and also plan for post-Mack life. Plus Parker was developed by Chris Rumph at Clemson, who used to coach Mack. Perfect mentor for him.” – Kollmann
READ MORE: T.J. Parker scouting report
23. Philadelphia Eagles
The Expert: Devin Jackson, Philadelphia Enquirer
The Pick: TE Kenyon Sadiq, Oregon
“Offensive line is a future need for the Eagles and Monroe Freelonf and Kadyn Proctor are worth candidates to be picked here, but with Sadiq, the top tight end, still on the board here, the team not only gets their TE of the future, but a dynamic receiving weapon who has the ability to block as well. He’s my highest player remaining at this spot and would break the typical tendencies for Howie Roseman. Sadiq is a tremendous athlete who can be a seam stretcher, create after the catch, and be a competitive move blocker in an Eagles offense that will look much different in 2026.” – Jackson
READ MORE: Kenyon Sadiq scouting report
24. Cleveland Browns (from JAX)
The Expert: Jordan Reid, ESPN
The Pick: OT Monroe Freeling, Georgia
“Cleveland is jumping for joy as Freeling falls to them at 24. While he may not be as polished as some of the other blockers in this years class, he arguably has the most long-term potential. Freeling would be the Day 1 starter at left tackle to complete the reshuffle that’s happened this offseason.” – Reid
READ MORE: Monroe Freeling scouting report
Georgia OT Monroe Freeling has flown up the draft board after a stellar 2025 campaign. (Petre Thomas-Imagn Images)
Petre Thomas-Imagn Images
25. Chicago Bears
The Expert: Carmen Vitali, Fox Sports
The Pick: Edge Zion Young, Missouri
“I absolutely love what Young can do against the run in addition to how he can open up pass rushing lanes to the quarterback. Imagine having 6-foot-5 Montez Sweat with a 6-foot-6 Young book-ending the Bears defensive line? I’m sure defensive coordinator Dennis Allen can.” – Vitali
READ MORE: Zion Young scouting report
26. Buffalo Bills
The Expert: Ryan Talbot, Syracuse.com
The Pick: WR KC Concepcion, Texas A&M
“I fully anticipate the Bills looking to trade down on draft night after sending their second-round pick to the Chicago Bears for DJ Moore. At pick 26, there are some intriguing options like Kayden McDonald, Emmanuel McNeil-Warren and CJ Allen on the defensive side of the ball. All three would make sense for Jim Leonhard’s defense, but wide receiver KC Concepcion stands out above them all.
Concepcion was a pre-draft visitor for the Bills and last season their entire draft class made a top-30 visit, minus Landon Jackson. Concepcion creates immediate space and can beat man and zone. It won’t take long for Concepcion to surpass Joshua Palmer and Keon Coleman on the depth chart to emerge as Buffalo’s WR3 behind DJ Moore and Khalil Shakir.” – Talbot
READ MORE: KC Concepcion scouting report
27. San Francisco 49ers
The Expert: Kyle Madson, Niners Wire
The Pick: Edge Malachi Lawrence, UCF
“The 49ers badly need pass rush help with Nick Bosa and Mykel Williams both coming off ACL injuries. Lawrence can provide an immediate lift in that area. He’s also a pure edge rusher, unlike Williams who will spend most of his time rushing the quarterback from the interior. The UCF star has the size, strength and athleticism to eventually become a three-down player on the edge across from Nick Bosa — something San Francisco hasn’t had in the last few years.” – Madson
READ MORE: Malachi Lawrence scouting report
28. Houston Texans
The Expert: Stephanie Stradley, Houston Chronicle
The Pick: WR Omar Cooper Jr., Indiana
“At the Texans press conference with Texans EVP/GM Nick Caserio, Assistant GMs James Liipfert and Chris Blanco, they all maintained they stay fluid looking at options, do not choose for need, and they are not certain who will be available at the 28th spot. Given history and options at 28, if they get good value, they would trade down. That said, Omar Cooper Jr is good value in this spot, gives another productive tool for the offense.” – Stradley
READ MORE: Omar Cooper Jr. scouting report
Indiana WR Omar Cooper Jr. was a clutch performer for the national champs last season. (Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images)
Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images
29. Kansas City Chiefs (from LAR)
The Expert: Chad Reuter, NFL.com
The Pick: OT Kadyn Proctor, Alabama
“The Chiefs allowed penalty-prone Jawaan Taylor to leave in free agency and Jaylon Moore is a swing tackle at best. Proctor’s size and strength will translate to the right tackle spot barring a switch by last year’s first-rounder, Josh Simmons, to the right side where he started as a redshirt freshman at San Diego State.” – Reuter
READ MORE: Kadyn Proctor scouting report
30. Miami Dolphins (from DEN)
The Expert: Joe Schad, Palm Beach Post
The Pick: OT Caleb Lomu, Utah
“It’s surprising that Lomu is on the board here. Miami looks to trade out, but if they can’t, Lomu is a potential right tackle who may be able to start at guard as a rookie, or be a premium swing tackle backup for a season. Solid value at 30.” – Schad
READ MORE: Caleb Lomu scouting report
31. New England Patriots
The Expert: Danny Kelly, The Ringer
The Pick: OT Max Iheanachor, Arizona State
“The Patriots still need help on the offensive line, particularly at right tackle, with 35-year old Morgan Moses currently manning that spot. The run on tackles is in full swing here, so New England can’t hesitate. They grab a high-upside but relatively green right tackle out of Arizona State; Iheanachor is nimble footed and highly athletic, with the traits and demeanor to bring massive upside as a long-term starter at the position. This will be a nice boost for Drake Maye, and the team’s run game, long-term.” – Kelly
READ MORE: Max Iheanachor scouting report
32. Seattle Seahawks
The Expert: Michael-Shawn Dugar, The Athletic
The Pick: DL Kayden McDonald, Ohio State
“The Seahawks aren’t desperate for help in the trenches. And sometimes that’s the best time to invest in the trenches. With McDonald, the Seahawks strengthen an already strong position group, allowing the rookie to come in and learn before he’s thrust into a more prominent role.” – Dugar
READ MORE: Kayden McDonald scouting report
LEE HACKSAW HAMILTON – 4/23/2026
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It’s here, the first round of the NFL Draft on Thursday night.
A ton of defensive players. Some explosive skill players. 1-Quarterback. And alot of last minute trade rumors.
A unique look at a Mock Draft using insiders from around the country-courtesy of Athlon’s Publications. Who gets picked,and why?
===========
1. Las Vegas Raiders
The Expert: Moe Moton, Bleacher Report
The Pick: QB Fernando Mendoza, Indiana
“The Las Vegas Raiders have undergone several resets and rebuilds over the last two decades, but this one feels different, with the opportunity to select a potential franchise quarterback. Yes, the Raiders whiffed on JaMarcus Russell the last time they selected a quarterback with the first pick, but Mendoza seems more prepared for extremely high expectations after leading Indiana to a national title in an undefeated season.
“By the way, the Raiders have set up an environment for Mendoza to succeed.
“With Kirk Cousins on the roster, the club won’t have to rush the rookie into action. New offensive-minded head coach Klint Kubiak helped Sam Darnold, a former top-three draft pick, win a Super Bowl. Also, team minority owner Tom Brady, the most accomplished quarterback in NFL history, can help the young signal-caller develop into a true pro.” – Moton
READ MORE: Fernando Mendoza scouting report
2. New York Jets
The Expert: Connor Rogers, NBC Sports
The Pick: Edge Arvell Reese, Ohio State
“The Jets need a difference maker in their front seven and are in the middle of a roster rebuild. They should be patient with that and believe two years from now Reese can be a star pass rusher.” – Rogers
READ MORE: Arvell Reese scouting report
3. Arizona Cardinals
The Expert: Dane Brugler, The Athletic
The Pick: Edge David Bailey, Texas Tech
“While Josh Sweat has been a worthwhile investment (so far), the Cardinals pass rush as a whole was underwhelming last season – both in the stat sheet and when studying their defense. Bailey has the explosiveness off the edge that offenses and quarterbacks must account for, giving Arizona a building block on defense.” – Brugler
READ MORE: David Bailey scouting report
4. Tennessee Titans
The Expert: Turron Davenport, ESPN
The Pick: LB Sonny Styles, Ohio State
“Styles’ height/weight/size is tailor-made to drop in the middle of Robert Saleh’s defense. Middle linebacker may not be a premium position to most teams, but it’s a critical part for the Titans and Saleh, who desires a team that plays fast and violent just like Styles played every Saturday at Ohio State.” – Davenport
READ MORE: Sonny Styles scouting report
Ohio State LB Sonny Styles is an elite talent who’s worthy of a top-five pick. (The
Columbus Dispatch)
The Columbus Dispatch
5. New York Giants
The Expert: Trevor Sikkema, NFL Stock Exchange
The Pick: OT Spencer Fano, Utah
“Fano is the top offensive linemen in the class, in my opinion. His movement skills, balance and grip strength make him a tough assignment to get around, and make him scheme versatile, as well as position versatile. He could play guard in the short term and tackle in the long term for the Giants.” – Sikkema
READ MORE: Spencer Fano scouting report
6. Cleveland Browns
The Expert: Jordan Reid, ESPN
The Pick: WR Carnell Tate, Ohio State
“The Browns get a true WR1 to add to their corps. Tate is a smooth route runner with strong hands that can be an immediate contributor. The Browns offense desperately needs a spark and he provides that.” – Reid
READ MORE: Carnell Tate scouting report
7. Washington Commanders
The Expert: Matt Harmon, Yahoo! Sports
The Pick: RB Jeremiyah Love, Notre Dame
“You can argue Washington just took the best player in the draft at seventh overall. Every signal that the team has sent this year points to the offense leaning into more under-center concepts after living in the shotgun, uptempo Kliff Kingsbury world in Jayden Daniels’ first two seasons. Adding Love to run behind an offensive line that has plenty of proven and promising young talent immediately makes this unit, which about to take a schematic left turn, much more dangerous. Love and Daniels working in tandem in the rushing game will be a headache and weaponizes their play-action attack.” – Harmon
READ MORE: Jeremiyah Love scouting report
8. New Orleans Saints
The Expert: Katherine Terrell, ESPN
The Pick: S Caleb Downs, Ohio State
“With Carnell Tate unavailable, the Saints pivot to the defensive side of the board and take the best safety in the draft. Downs can play all over the field, which would fit nicely in Brandon Staley’s defense. WR will remain a need that the Saints would look to address later in the draft.” – Terrell
READ MORE: Caleb Downs scouting report
Miami edge defender Rueben Bain Jr. was a dominant force for the Canes last season. (Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images)
Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images
9. Kansas City Chiefs
The Expert: Chad Reuter, NFL.com
The Pick: Edge Rueben Bain Jr., Miami (FL)
“Kansas City often takes advantage of overlooked talent, whether it’s because of underwhelming measurables or issues away from the field. Bain fits in those categories and the Chiefs desperately need pass rush help.” – Reuter
READ MORE: Rueben Bain Jr. scouting report
10. New York Giants (from CIN)
The Expert: Eric Edholm, NFL.com
The Pick: CB Mansoor Delane, LSU
“I think the pick is likely Downs or a receiver when we get to 10, but there’s a case for Delane if he falls here. They don’t have a CB1, and are hoping Paulson Adebo and Greg Newsome can hold down the outside. Delane makes them better at a lean spot.” – Edholm
READ MORE: Mansoor Delane scouting report
11. Miami Dolphins
The Expert: Joe Schad, Palm Beach Post
The Pick: OL Francis Mauigoa, Miami (FL)
“The Dolphins can have Mauigoa play right guard this season before likely shifting to right tackle next season, or earlier as needed. Physical. Tough. Powerful.” – Schad
READ MORE: Francis Mauigoa scouting report
12. Dallas Cowboys
The Expert: Jon Machota, The Athletic
The Pick: Edge Keldric Faulk, Auburn
“This is the exact scenario the Cowboys need to avoid. The top six defenders were all off the board. While Dallas could choose to go offensive line or trade back here, I went with a defender who could become a versatile piece up front. I’d prefer any of the other six over Faulk, but he was the next-best defender and the Cowboys need all the defensive help they can draft.” – Machota
READ MORE: Keldric Faulk scouting report
USC WR Makai Lemon (6) is a big-play machine, both downfield and after the catch. (Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images)
Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images
13. Los Angeles Rams
The Expert: Lance Zierlein, NFL.com
The Pick: WR Makai Lemon, USC
“It’s pretty well documented by this point, but with Davante Adams’ contract running out after 2026, Lemon makes sense as additional firepower this year for the Rams push for another Super Bowl, and makes sense in 2027 as he takes over for Adams as the new WR2. The only position that could push wide receiver out of the way might be right tackle.” – Zierlein
READ MORE: Makai Lemon scouting report
14. Baltimore Ravens
The Expert: EJ Snyder, Bootleg Football
The Pick: OL Olaivavega Ioane, Penn State
“Best guard in the draft and one of the safest picks regardless of position. Instant starter as a rookie and upgrades a position that sunk a lot of the Ravens offensive efforts last season before they ever got started. Gets Lamar a much more stable pocket, Henry better running lanes, AND the Ravens can still grab more quality receiving targets with any of their 5(!) picks from 45 to 162 overall.” – Snyder
READ MORE: Olaivavega Ioane scouting report
15. Tampa Bay Buccaneers
The Expert: Greg Auman, Fox Sports
The Pick: Edge Akheem Mesidor, Miami (FL)
“This isn’t a great situation for the Bucs, with the best edges off the board, but it might be how the board falls for them. Given these options, I really think they trade down for a team hungry for a receiver or tackle, so the Bucs can pick up like a third-rounder to slide down maybe five spots. If they have to pick, it should be Miami’s Akheem Mesidor. He gets knocked for being 25, but he was productive all through college and especially this past season. He’ll be well-positioned to help their pass rush, which remains a crucial need.” – Auman
READ MORE: Akheem Mesidor scouting report
16. New York Jets (from IND)
The Expert: Connor Rogers, NBC Sports
The Pick: WR Jordyn Tyson, Arizona State
“The Jets swing for the fences as they look to add a number two wide receiver to their offense across from Garrett Wilson. Tyson is an extremely talented separator with standout body control and focus to finish plays.” – Rogers
READ MORE: Jordyn Tyson scouting report
Tennessee CB Jermod McCoy has top-10 talent, but injuries make him a huge question mark. (Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images)
Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
17. Detroit Lions
The Expert: Dave Birkett, Detroit Free Press
The Pick: CB Jermod McCoy, Tennessee
“The Lions have bigger needs at offensive tackle and defensive end, but if Brad Holmes really wants Best Player Available this choice comes down to McCoy and Kenyon Sadiq. McCoy missed last season with a torn ACL but he’s a blue-chip talent who plays a more premium position and the Lions do have some concerns at CB with Terrion Arnold.” – Birkett
READ MORE: Jermod McCoy scouting report
18. Minnesota Vikings
The Expert: Ryan Wilson, CBS Sports
The Pick: DL Peter Woods, Clemson
“The Vikings whiffed on Jonathan Allen and Javon Hargrave, and while Woods had a down 2025 season for Clemson, his 2024 tape is top-10 worthy. I’d imagine Brian Flores will have no trouble getting the most out of him.” – Wilson
READ MORE: Peter Woods scouting report
19. Carolina Panthers
The Expert: Mike Kaye, Charlotte Observer
The Pick: S Dillon Thieneman, Oregon
“The Panthers have a clear need for long-term answers in the nickel and post positions. While those aren’t really considered premium positions, Thieneman is a premium prospect who can hold down the fort at either spot (or both) for the next five years. Plug and play, enjoy the rest of your Thursday, Dan Morgan.” – Kaye
READ MORE: Dillon Thieneman scouting report
20. Dallas Cowboys (from IND)
The Expert: Jon Machota, The Athletic
The Pick: CB Colton Hood, Tennessee
“Dallas needs another starting cornerback. Perhaps it gets addressed at Pick 12. If not, this is a great spot to get an immediate impact player for new defensive coordinator Christian Parker. His specialty is the defensive backfield. He’s had success working with Patrick Surtain II, Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean. Giving him another top prospect in that area makes a lot of sense.” – Machota
READ MORE: Colton Hood scouting report
Washington WR Denzel Boston is a dominant red-zone threat with size and athleticism. (Joe Nicholson-Imagn Images)
Joe Nicholson-Imagn Images
21. Pittsburgh Steelers
The Expert: Doug Farrar, Athlon Sports
The Pick: WR Denzel Boston, Washington
“The Steelers’ offensive splits without DK Metcalf last season were nightmarish, especially when Metcalf served his two-game suspension at the end of the regular season. Adding Michael Pittman Jr. in free agency gives Aaron Rodgers (or whoever plays quarterback in Pittsburgh) another reliable target, but it doesn’t take care of the need for another big, fast, ball-winner in Mike McCarthy’s offense. At 6′ 3⅝” and 212 pounds, with a vertical route palette that has smoked several cornerbacks, and as a contested-catch bully, Boston would serve well as Metcalf’s understudy and eventual bookend.” – Farrar
READ MORE: Denzel Boston scouting report
22. Los Angeles Chargers
The Expert: Brett Kollmann, Bootleg Football
The Pick: Edge T.J. Parker, Clemson
“Khalil Mack is in the twilight of his career, and Tuli Tuipolotu is going to cost an arm and a leg, given that Will Anderson just reset the Edge market again. We need another Edge in the pipeline that can both offset Tuipolotu with a cost-controlled deal, and also plan for post-Mack life. Plus Parker was developed by Chris Rumph at Clemson, who used to coach Mack. Perfect mentor for him.” – Kollmann
READ MORE: T.J. Parker scouting report
23. Philadelphia Eagles
The Expert: Devin Jackson, Philadelphia Enquirer
The Pick: TE Kenyon Sadiq, Oregon
“Offensive line is a future need for the Eagles and Monroe Freelonf and Kadyn Proctor are worth candidates to be picked here, but with Sadiq, the top tight end, still on the board here, the team not only gets their TE of the future, but a dynamic receiving weapon who has the ability to block as well. He’s my highest player remaining at this spot and would break the typical tendencies for Howie Roseman. Sadiq is a tremendous athlete who can be a seam stretcher, create after the catch, and be a competitive move blocker in an Eagles offense that will look much different in 2026.” – Jackson
READ MORE: Kenyon Sadiq scouting report
24. Cleveland Browns (from JAX)
The Expert: Jordan Reid, ESPN
The Pick: OT Monroe Freeling, Georgia
“Cleveland is jumping for joy as Freeling falls to them at 24. While he may not be as polished as some of the other blockers in this years class, he arguably has the most long-term potential. Freeling would be the Day 1 starter at left tackle to complete the reshuffle that’s happened this offseason.” – Reid
READ MORE: Monroe Freeling scouting report
Georgia OT Monroe Freeling has flown up the draft board after a stellar 2025 campaign. (Petre Thomas-Imagn Images)
Petre Thomas-Imagn Images
25. Chicago Bears
The Expert: Carmen Vitali, Fox Sports
The Pick: Edge Zion Young, Missouri
“I absolutely love what Young can do against the run in addition to how he can open up pass rushing lanes to the quarterback. Imagine having 6-foot-5 Montez Sweat with a 6-foot-6 Young book-ending the Bears defensive line? I’m sure defensive coordinator Dennis Allen can.” – Vitali
READ MORE: Zion Young scouting report
26. Buffalo Bills
The Expert: Ryan Talbot, Syracuse.com
The Pick: WR KC Concepcion, Texas A&M
“I fully anticipate the Bills looking to trade down on draft night after sending their second-round pick to the Chicago Bears for DJ Moore. At pick 26, there are some intriguing options like Kayden McDonald, Emmanuel McNeil-Warren and CJ Allen on the defensive side of the ball. All three would make sense for Jim Leonhard’s defense, but wide receiver KC Concepcion stands out above them all.
Concepcion was a pre-draft visitor for the Bills and last season their entire draft class made a top-30 visit, minus Landon Jackson. Concepcion creates immediate space and can beat man and zone. It won’t take long for Concepcion to surpass Joshua Palmer and Keon Coleman on the depth chart to emerge as Buffalo’s WR3 behind DJ Moore and Khalil Shakir.” – Talbot
READ MORE: KC Concepcion scouting report
27. San Francisco 49ers
The Expert: Kyle Madson, Niners Wire
The Pick: Edge Malachi Lawrence, UCF
“The 49ers badly need pass rush help with Nick Bosa and Mykel Williams both coming off ACL injuries. Lawrence can provide an immediate lift in that area. He’s also a pure edge rusher, unlike Williams who will spend most of his time rushing the quarterback from the interior. The UCF star has the size, strength and athleticism to eventually become a three-down player on the edge across from Nick Bosa — something San Francisco hasn’t had in the last few years.” – Madson
READ MORE: Malachi Lawrence scouting report
28. Houston Texans
The Expert: Stephanie Stradley, Houston Chronicle
The Pick: WR Omar Cooper Jr., Indiana
“At the Texans press conference with Texans EVP/GM Nick Caserio, Assistant GMs James Liipfert and Chris Blanco, they all maintained they stay fluid looking at options, do not choose for need, and they are not certain who will be available at the 28th spot. Given history and options at 28, if they get good value, they would trade down. That said, Omar Cooper Jr is good value in this spot, gives another productive tool for the offense.” – Stradley
READ MORE: Omar Cooper Jr. scouting report
Indiana WR Omar Cooper Jr. was a clutch performer for the national champs last season. (Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images)
Gary A. Vasquez-Imagn Images
29. Kansas City Chiefs (from LAR)
The Expert: Chad Reuter, NFL.com
The Pick: OT Kadyn Proctor, Alabama
“The Chiefs allowed penalty-prone Jawaan Taylor to leave in free agency and Jaylon Moore is a swing tackle at best. Proctor’s size and strength will translate to the right tackle spot barring a switch by last year’s first-rounder, Josh Simmons, to the right side where he started as a redshirt freshman at San Diego State.” – Reuter
READ MORE: Kadyn Proctor scouting report
30. Miami Dolphins (from DEN)
The Expert: Joe Schad, Palm Beach Post
The Pick: OT Caleb Lomu, Utah
“It’s surprising that Lomu is on the board here. Miami looks to trade out, but if they can’t, Lomu is a potential right tackle who may be able to start at guard as a rookie, or be a premium swing tackle backup for a season. Solid value at 30.” – Schad
READ MORE: Caleb Lomu scouting report
31. New England Patriots
The Expert: Danny Kelly, The Ringer
The Pick: OT Max Iheanachor, Arizona State
“The Patriots still need help on the offensive line, particularly at right tackle, with 35-year old Morgan Moses currently manning that spot. The run on tackles is in full swing here, so New England can’t hesitate. They grab a high-upside but relatively green right tackle out of Arizona State; Iheanachor is nimble footed and highly athletic, with the traits and demeanor to bring massive upside as a long-term starter at the position. This will be a nice boost for Drake Maye, and the team’s run game, long-term.” – Kelly
READ MORE: Max Iheanachor scouting report
32. Seattle Seahawks
The Expert: Michael-Shawn Dugar, The Athletic
The Pick: DL Kayden McDonald, Ohio State
“The Seahawks aren’t desperate for help in the trenches. And sometimes that’s the best time to invest in the trenches. With McDonald, the Seahawks strengthen an already strong position group, allowing the rookie to come in and learn before he’s thrust into a more prominent role.” – Dugar
READ MORE: Kayden McDonald scouting report
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