As the 2025 NFL season approaches its climax, teams’ focuses are beginning to shift. While some franchises have their sights set on the playoffs, others are preparing for the 2026 NFL Draft. Following the conclusion of the college football regular season, it’s an opportune moment to consider potential first-round selections.
Since the initial mock draft released in August, significant trades have altered the trajectory of the upcoming draft. Currently, four teams possess multiple first-round picks: the Rams (trading with the Falcons), Browns (from the Jaguars), Cowboys (from the Packers), and Jets (from the Colts). Rookie quarterbacks on teams like the Browns, Giants, and Saints may lessen the need for another quarterback selection in 2026, underscoring that team needs are already evolving.
As the NFL Draft approaches on April 23, there remain uncertainties regarding draft order and team rosters, with bowl games and pre-draft events still to unfold. In this mock draft, the projected selections are based on the inverse of current standings through Week 14.
One notable predicted trade would involve the Jets moving up to the No. 1 pick, allowing them to secure a quarterback. Indiana’s Fernando Mendoza, renowned for his outstanding accuracy and performance during an impressive season, tops the list for their selection. He leads the FBS with 33 passing touchdowns and played a crucial role in Indiana’s first Big Ten Championship since 1967.
Oregon quarterback Dante Moore is another player of interest, drawing attention for his downfield accuracy and mobility. Securing either quarterback could decisively resolve the Jets’ ongoing quarterback issues.
Further selections feature a mix of talent across various positions, starting with Ohio State’s Arvell Reese as a potential top edge rusher for the Titans and Ohio State’s Carnell Tate strengthening the Browns’ receiving corps. Miami’s Francis Mauigoa is considered a solid offensive tackle for the Saints, providing much-needed protection for the quarterback.
The Commanders may look to bolster their edge rush with Texas Tech’s David Bailey, while the Giants, riding the wave of a potential trade with the Jets, could opt to address their need for playmakers by selecting Arizona State’s Jordyn Tyson.
With each selection, positions of need are being filled not just for the immediate future, but with foresight toward long-term development and success. The continual evaluation of underclassmen, with talented prospects like Caleb Downs and Rueben Bain Jr., indicates that teams are gearing up for a competitive draft period.
The approaching draft is set to be pivotal for many franchises as they strategize to either enhance their playoff potential or lay the groundwork for future seasons. With so much talent on display in college football, anticipation builds for how these players will translate to the professional level, and how teams will leverage their draft positions to achieve their goals.
With the NFL landscape constantly shifting, the 2026 NFL Draft promises to be full of excitement and unpredictability as franchises look to secure their paths to success.