As the 2025 NFL season approaches its conclusion, many teams are shifting their focus towards the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft. With playoff aspirations dwindling for many franchises, attention is now centering on the top draft picks slated to reshape their futures.
Current standings leading into Week 15’s Sunday Night Football have the New York Giants at the top of the draft order, holding a 2-12 record. Their remaining schedule includes games against the Minnesota Vikings, Las Vegas Raiders, and Dallas Cowboys, providing them with a chance to gather some momentum despite a challenging season. The Giants are expected to seek a franchise quarterback, and Jaxson Dart emerges as a notable possibility if he can refine his gameplay.
Tied for the first pick are the Las Vegas Raiders, also with a 2-12 record. Their future looks uncertain at the quarterback position, especially after the Geno Smith-Pete Carroll partnership has not panned out in the way many had hoped. The Raiders’ schedule features tough matchups against the Houston Texans, New York Giants, and Kansas City Chiefs.
Following closely are the Tennessee Titans, who share the same record. They will face the Kansas City Chiefs, New Orleans Saints, and travel to play the Jacksonville Jaguars in their concluding games. The Titans have potential with QB Cam Ward, who presents an intriguing option for the future.
The Cleveland Browns, currently at 3-11, have a challenging schedule ahead with games against the Buffalo Bills, Pittsburgh Steelers, and Cincinnati Bengals. Their future at quarterback remains uncertain, as speculation surrounding Shedeur Sanders and Dillon Gabriel generates discussion.
The New York Jets and Arizona Cardinals, both holding a 3-11 record, face similar predicaments. The Jets have tough remaining contests against the Saints, Patriots, and Bills, ultimately complicating their pursuit of a stable quarterback. Meanwhile, the Cardinals are unlikely to retain Kyler Murray as their franchise quarterback.
The New Orleans Saints, at 4-10, and Washington Commanders, also at 4-10, are seeking answers at the quarterback position. Tyler Shough offers promise for the Saints, while Jayden Daniels could still be a viable option for the Commanders despite his less-than-stellar sophomore season.
The Cincinnati Bengals, sharing a 4-10 record, are in the draft mix as well, with Joe Burrow’s injury impacting their season. However, the Bengals have a promising future should Burrow regain his form.
Finally, the Los Angeles Rams, with a solid 11-3 record, hold the 10th pick due to a trade with the Atlanta Falcons. While their quarterback situation beyond Matthew Stafford is under review, the Rams remain in a competitive position.
Teams are gearing up to make critical decisions leading into the draft, aiming to secure players who can potentially transform their futures. With many teams in search of franchise quarterbacks, the 2026 NFL Draft is set to be highly competitive and impactful.