As the excitement builds in the football world with the conclusion of the College Football Playoff National Championship and the NFL playoffs, the focus shifts towards the upcoming NFL draft. ESPN”s Mel Kiper has released his first mock draft for the 2026 class, spotlighting potential first-round selections.
At the top of Kiper”s list is Fernando Mendoza, a quarterback from Indiana, who seems destined for the Las Vegas Raiders. The team has struggled with their quarterback situation, particularly with Geno Smith, who finished the 2025 season ranked near the bottom of qualified passers. Mendoza”s impressive season, which included winning the Heisman Trophy, positions him as a standout choice for the Raiders.
Following Mendoza, the New York Jets are projected to select Arvell Reese, a linebacker from Ohio State. The Jets faced challenges on their defensive front, finishing last in the league in sacks. Reese”s versatility as a player could address this pressing need, especially with the team”s focus on shoring up their defense under a new head coach.
The Arizona Cardinals are expected to bolster their offensive line by picking Francis Mauigoa, an offensive tackle from Miami. With the uncertainty surrounding the quarterback position, solidifying protection for whoever is under center is crucial, making Mauigoa a key addition.
Other notable selections include David Bailey, an outside linebacker from Texas Tech, projected to the Tennessee Titans, and Carnell Tate, a wide receiver from Ohio State, heading to the New York Giants. Both teams are looking to enhance their rosters significantly, with the Titans needing defensive reinforcements and the Giants aiming to provide support for their second-year quarterback.
The draft order for the first 28 picks is set, with the remaining four slots dependent on the outcomes of the playoffs. Kiper”s mock draft does not account for trades, but several first-round picks have already been exchanged among teams, adding another layer of complexity to the draft landscape.
As teams prepare for the predraft process, which includes the East-West Shrine Bowl and the Panini Senior Bowl, discussions about potential trades, free agency, and coaching changes will further shape the draft picture. The upcoming months will be crucial in determining how the 2026 NFL draft unfolds.
