2026 NFL Mock Draft: New 2-Round Projections Heading Into Week 15

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2026 NFL Mock Draft: New 2-Round Projections Heading Into Week 15

Luke Easterling · Athlon Sports

Tue, Dec 9, 2025 ·

18 min read

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Championship week is over and the College Football Playoff bracket is set, and we have just four weeks left in the 2025 NFL regular season, which means the 2026 NFL Draft is season is about to kick into high gear.

While there are still plenty of teams throughout the league fighting for a postseason berth, it's time for the rest to look ahead to next season, with hopes that a stellar rookie class can turn them into contenders for 2026 and beyond.

With a handful of teams still desperate to find franchise passers, will their be enough top quarterback prospects to go around? How will the four teams with multiple first-rounders choose to use their double-dip of Day 1 selections?

Here's an updated look at how the first two rounds of next year's draft could turn out, using the latest updated order following Week 14 results:

1. New York Giants

Arvell Reese | LB/Edge | Ohio State

Last year, the Giants spent their top pick on a versatile front-seven defender in Abdul Carter who can wreak havoc whether he's lined up on the edge or off the ball. They could do it again with Reese, who has proven this season to be the best overall prospect in this class. Having Reese and Carter on the field at the same time would give New York 's next defensive coordinator endless possibilities when it comes to deploying their rare athleticism and unique skill sets.

2. Las Vegas Raiders

Fernando Mendoza | QB | Indiana

There's plenty of blame to go around when it comes to the Raiders' offensive struggles, but there's no denying that Geno Smith hasn't lived up to offseason expectations. He's also 35 years old, so the Raiders need both an immediate and long-term upgrade at the game's most important position. Mendoza has separated himself from the rest of this year's quarterback class, and checks all the boxes when it comes to projecting a potential franchise passer at the next level.

3. Tennessee Titans

Rueben Bain Jr. | Edge | Miami (FL)

The Titans already have their franchise quarterback in 2025 No. 1 overall pick Cam Ward , but now they need to build a winner around him to help ensure he hits his lofty ceiling. You could make a strong case for Bain as the most dominant player in all of college football this season, and he would fill a massive need on Tennessee's defense for a high-impact edge rusher who can get after opposing quarterbacks with consistency.

4. Cleveland Browns

Spencer Fano | OT | Utah

Shedeur Sanders continues to prove that he deserves more than a handful of games as the starter before the Browns give up and spend a top-five pick on another quarterback. If they want Sanders and the offense to reach their full potential, they could spend this pick on an elite receiver like Carnell Tate or Jordyn Tyson, but they'd be better off investing in the trenches first. Fano's quality experience at both tackle spots would be a huge boost to a unit that has struggled to consistently protect the quarterback this season.

Ohio State safety Caleb Downs is arguably the best overall player in the entire draft. (The Columbus Dispatch)

5. New Orleans Saints

Caleb Downs | S | Ohio State

The Saints have tons of needs on both sides of the ball, so this pick should be a simple "best player available" decision. That should point them to Downs, who is arguably the best player in the entire draft , regardless of position. His combination of athleticism, intelligence, versatility, instincts, and ball skills makes him the rare safety prospect worthy of a top-five selection, and his presence could immediately transform this entire defense.

6. Washington Commanders

Keldric Faulk | Edge | Auburn

A receiver to help out Jayden Daniels would be mighty tempting here, but Washington can't keep ignoring their lack of difference-makers on the other side of the ball. This defense has sorely missed the impact of edge rushers like Chase Young and Montez Sweat since trading them away, and Faulk's combination of size, athleticism and versatility gives him a sky-high ceiling as an every-down player who can line up all over the defensive front.

7. New York Jets

Dante Moore | QB | Oregon

Aaron Glenn's defense needs a ton of help after trading away the two best players on that unit in Quinnen Williams and Sauce Gardner , but nothing matters until the Jets figure out their quarterback situation. I still think Moore ultimately decides to return for another season with the Ducks, but if he does declare, he's a poised and precise passer with the arm talent and athleticism to elevate both the floor and the ceiling of the position for New York.

8. Arizona Cardinals

Carnell Tate | WR | Ohio State

There are more pressing needs at other positions, but if the board falls this way, the Cards might not be able to pass up the value at receiver with a pair of top-10 talents still on the board. Tate is the latest in a long line of elite pass-catchers to come out of Columbus, with the size and well-rounded skill set to quickly develop into a top target. In Arizona , he'd give the Cards a dynamic trio alongside Marvin Harrison Jr. and Trey McBride .

Ohio State wide receiver Carnell Tate is yet another elite pass-catching talent to come out of Columbus. (The Columbus Dispatch)Adam Cairns/Columbus Dispatch/USA TODAY NETWORK via Imagn Images

9. Los Angeles Rams (from ATL)

Mansoor Delane | CB | LSU

This year's draft-day trade with Atlanta is the gift that keeps on giving for the Rams, as the Falcons ' first-round pick has now slid into the top 10. With that premium selection, Los Angeles could address their need for a true shutdown corner, something they haven't had since trading away Jalen Ramsey . Delane has been an absolute eraser for the Bayou Bengals this season, dominating SEC competition.

10. Cincinnati Bengals

Peter Woods | DL | Clemson

This defense has been the NFL's worst in 2025, and they need as much help as possible at every level. Rebuilds should always start in the trenches, though, and that's where the Bengals could find the ideal match of need and value with Woods, the top interior defender in this year's class. He's an every-down mauler who can blow up run plays in the backfield and push the pocket from the inside as a pass rusher.

11. Minnesota Vikings

Jeremiyah Love | RB | Notre Dame

There's an argument to be made about positional value here, and the Vikings definitely have some glaring needs at other spots that could warrant this pick. But if we're talking about the best player available, as well as doing everything you can to help out your young quarterback in J.J. McCarthy , Love is the easy pick. He's a three-down playmaker with the explosiveness and versatility to threaten opposing defenses as both a runner and a receiver.

12. Miami Dolphins

Jordyn Tyson | WR | Arizona State

I don't expect Tyson to be on the board here, but we see these kinds of surprises in the draft every year. It would be a massive win for the Dolphins, who could be in need of a high-quality starter if they part ways with Tyreek Hill this offseason. Tyson is a complete player who can create separation with route-running technique and explosiveness, as well as make big plays in the red zone and after the catch.

Texas Tech's David Bailey is one of the top edge-rushing prospects in this class. (Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images)

13. Baltimore Ravens

David Bailey | Edge | Texas Tech

So many things are broken for the Ravens right now, but the most glaring needs are on defense, where the front seven just doesn't have enough impact players. Baltimore needs to find a game-wrecking edge defender who can get after the quarterback with regularity, and few in the college ranks have done that better than Bailey this season. He's an absolute lightning bolt off the snap, with the technique and balance to win in multiple ways.

14. Kansas City Chiefs

Kenyon Sadiq | TE | Oregon

This remains one of my favorite player/team fits of this draft cycle. It's clear that Travis Kelce is no longer the dynamic playmaker he was in his prime, and while there's plenty ailing the Chiefs offense right now, the opportunity to replace the future Hall of Famer with another athletic, versatile prospect would be an ideal scenario. Sadiq is a constant matchup nightmare for opposing defenses, thanks to his impressive combination of athleticism and physicality.

15. Dallas Cowboys

Makai Lemon | WR | USC

George Pickens has been a massive steal for the Cowboys this season, but I'd be shocked if Jerry Jones is willing to pay top dollar to keep him as the WR2 across from CeeDee Lamb , who has already gotten his massive contract extension. Instead, Dallas could use one of their two first-rounders to replace him with Lemon, who brings big-play potential as both a downfield threat and after-the-catch weapon with explosiveness and toughness.

16. Carolina Panthers

Francis Mauigoa | OT | Miami (FL)

Bryce Young is finally starting to look like a No. 1 overall pick, but the Panthers need to keep building around him if they want sustained success in the future. Adding reinforcements to the offensive line should be a top priority, and Mauigoa would be a fantastic addition. He could be the long-term replacement for Taylor Moton at right tackle, or at worst, eventually slide inside and be a Pro Bowl guard depending on what Carolina needs down the road.

Clemson's T.J. Parker is a well-rounded edge defender with a three-down skill set. (Bob Donnan-Imagn Images)Bob Donnan-Imagn Images

17. Detroit Lions

T.J. Parker | Edge | Clemson

Aidan Hutchinson continues to be one of the most dominant edge rushers in the NFL, but the Lions are still searching for another bookend to line up across from him and take advantage of 1-on-1 opportunities. Parker is a well-rounded prospect who can set a strong edge against the run, as well as get after the quarterback with both speed and power off the edge. He'd be a strong value pick while filling a huge need.

18. New York Jets (from IND)

Jermod McCoy | CB | Tennessee

After landing a new franchise quarterback, the Jets can now start reloading on defense. If the board falls this way, the best value comes at corner, where they need a potential shutdown presence on the outside to replace Gardner. McCoy is a huge wild-card after missing the entire 2025 season due to injury, but when fully healthy, he's a top-10 talent with Pro Bowl potential at the next level.

19. Pittsburgh Steelers

Ty Simpson | QB | Alabama

Aaron Rodgers has had his moments this season, but the Steelers need to find a better long-term plan at quarterback than "let's hope Aaron comes back and keeps playing like he's 28 every now and then." Simpson lacks the high-end physical tools of the other top passers in this class, but he's accurate and efficient , makes sound decisions with the ball, and throws with touch and anticipation.

20. Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Sonny Styles | LB | Ohio State

It's time for the Bucs to plan for life after Lavonte David , as the future Hall of Famer could call it a career after 14 seasons this offseason. Even if he returns, Tampa Bay desperately needs to upgrade the other linebacker spot next to him, and Styles would be an ideal match. He's got a rare blend of size, athleticism and versatility, with the smarts and playmaking instincts to be a three-down force for years to come.

Utah offensive tackle Caleb Lomu is polished and pro-ready. (Rob Gray-Imagn Images)

21. Houston Texans

Caleb Lomu | OT | Utah

Rookie left tackle Aireontae Ersery is showing signs of positive development after replacing Laremy Tunsil , but the Texans need a long-term upgrade on the right side over veteran Trent Brown , who will turn 33 in April. Lomu has been a dominant force at right tackle, with the physical tools, experience and polish to immediately slot into the starting lineup in Houston and protect C.J. Stroud .

22. Los Angeles Chargers

Cashius Howell | Edge | Texas A&M

The Chargers have a promising young edge rusher in Tuli Tuipolotu, but with Joey Bosa 's departure and Khalil Mack in the twilight of his career, they could use another one. Howell has been a one-man wrecking crew for the Aggies this season, single-handedly ending drives and taking over games. He's a polished, pro-ready sack artist who can get to the quarterback with a wide range of effective moves.

23. Philadelphia Eagles

Avieon Terrell | CB | Clemson

Philly's biggest problems right now are on offense, but that won't force them to reach for need at the top of the draft. Instead, they'll wait for value to fall into their laps, and that leads them to the corner spot in this scenario. What Terrell may lack in terms of ideal size for the position, he more than makes up for with a tenacious playing style, polished technique, nonstop effort, and impressive ball skills.

24. Chicago Bears

Kayden McDonald | DL | Ohio State

The Bears are just a few key pieces on defense away from being one of the most complete teams in the NFL, and the most important one is a dominant, disruptive presence along the interior. McDonald has been just that for the Buckeyes this season, with the ability to fight through double-teams and still blow up the run, as well as deliver valuable pass-rushing juice right into the quarterback's face from inside.

Washington wide receiver Denzel Boston is a towering red-zone weapon. (Joe Nicholson-Imagn Images)

25. Buffalo Bills

Denzel Boston | WR | Washington

The Bills are still in search of a true No. 1 receiver for Josh Allen to rely on, and this scenario gives them an ideal candidate. Boston has a towering frame and a blend of physicality and body control that makes him dominant at the catch point. Throw in strong tracking ability and ball skills, and you've got a recipe for a red-zone threat who is open even when he's covered, and can move the chains every time the ball comes his way.

26. San Francisco 49ers

Kadyn Proctor | OT | Alabama

Trent Williams will be a first-ballot Hall of Famer whenever he decides to hang up his cleats, and despite maintaining a high level of play at the moment, that time will come sooner than later. The 49ers would be wise to plan for that inevitability by spending this pick on Proctor, who would be the ideal understudy to such a legend. Proctor needs a ton of refinement in terms of his technique, but he has rare physical gifts that give him unlimited potential.

27. Cleveland Browns (from JAX)

Brandon Cisse | CB | South Carolina

Tyson Campbell hasn't exactly impressed since he arrived via trade from Jacksonville , and the Browns could lose Martin Emerson Jr. to free agency. If they want to find a blue-chip cover man to line up across from Denzel Ward next season and beyond, they could set their sights on Cisse, who has consistently climbed his way up the draft board throughout the season. He's been able to shut down top talent in the SEC, and could do the same in the AFC North.

28. Dallas Cowboys (from GB)

CJ Allen | LB | Georgia

There are multiple spots on this defense that need attention, but I wouldn't be surprised if the Cowboys prioritized finding a three-down playmaker at the second level. Allen has been a huge reason for the Bulldogs' defensive improvement throughout the 2025 season, and his combination of every-down playmaking ability and intangible/leadership qualities would be a massive addition to this unit.

Georgia linebacker CJ Allen has been a dominant force for the Bulldogs. (The Montgomery Advertiser)

29. Seattle Seahawks

Vega Ioane | OL | Penn State

The Seahawks hit a grand slam with 2025 first-rounder Grey Zabel , but they still need an upgrade at the other guard spot if they want to keep their offense running on all cylinders next season. Ioane has been one of the few bright spots in a difficult season for the Nittany Lions, and he has the athleticism, strength and polish to make an immediate impact at the next level.

30. New England Patriots

Matayo Uiagalelei | Edge | Oregon

Mike Vrabel's rebuild is ahead of schedule, which is scary when you consider how many areas they could still use upgrades, particularly on defense. The Pats could definitely use a dynamic edge rusher who can beat opposing tackles with both speed and power, as well as bring enough of strength and size to anchor against the run. Uiagalelei checks all of those boxes, and would be a solid value pick thanks to a loaded class at the position.

31. Los Angeles Rams

LaNorris Sellers | QB | South Carolina

Matthew Stafford is the MVP front-runner at the moment, but he can't play forever, and the Rams have a prime opportunity to invest in his eventual successor with this extra first-round pick. Sellers is a strong candidate to return for another season in the college ranks, but if he wants to maximize his rare physical traits while polishing the rough edges in his game, landing with Sean McVay and learning behind a future Hall of Famer would be ideal if he makes the early jump to the pros.

32. Denver Broncos

Chris Bell | WR | Louisville

Evan Engram has filled the role of undersized tight end/oversized receiver in Sean Payton's offense this season, but he's not getting any younger, and injuries have nagged at him. Bell would be a fantastic candidate for that same role, as the 6-2, 220-pounder would give Bo Nix another dynamic pass-catcher with the size and athleticism to create serious matchup problems for opposing defenses.

SECOND ROUND

Alabama wide receiver Germie Bernard has been a reliable weapon for the Crimson Tide. (Will McLelland-Imagn Images)Will McLelland-Imagn Images

33. Las Vegas Raiders

Gennings Dunker | OT | Iowa

34. Tennessee Titans

KC Concepcion | WR | Texas A&M

35. New York Giants

Monroe Freeling | OT | Georgia

36. New Orleans Saints

LT Overton | Edge | Alabama

37. Houston Texans (from WAS)

Caleb Banks | DL | Florida

38. New York Jets

A'Mauri Washington | DL | Oregon

39. Arizona Cardinals

Isaiah World | OT | Oregon

40. Cleveland Browns

Chris Brazzell | WR | Tennessee

41. Cincinnati Bengals

Zion Young | Edge | Missouri

42. Atlanta Falcons

Germie Bernard | WR | Alabama

43. Minnesota Vikings

Colton Hood | CB | Tennessee

44. Baltimore Ravens

Anthony Hill Jr. | LB | Texas

45. Kansas City Chiefs

Christen Miller | DL | Georgia

46. Miami Dolphins

Chris Johnson | CB | San Diego State

47. New York Jets (from DAL)

Ja'Kobi Lane | WR | USC

48. Carolina Panthers

Keith Abney II | CB | Arizona State

49. Indianapolis Colts

Joshua Josephs | Edge | Tennessee

50. Detroit Lions

Emmanuel Pregnon | OL | Oregon

51. Tampa Bay Buccaneers

R Mason Thomas | Edge | Oklahoma

52. Pittsburgh Steelers

Davison Igbinosun | CB | Ohio State

53. Houston Texans

Connor Lew | OL | Auburn

54. Philadelphia Eagles

Trevor Goosby | OT | Texas

55. Los Angeles Chargers

Domonique Orange | DL | Iowa State

56. Chicago Bears

Jake Golday | LB | Cincinnati

57. San Francisco 49ers

A.J. Harris | CB | Penn State

58. Jacksonville Jaguars

Chase Bisontis | OL | Texas A&M

59. Buffalo Bills

Dani Dennis-Sutton | Edge | Penn State

60. Green Bay Packers

Julian Neal | CB | Arkansas

61. Seattle Seahawks

Malachi Fields | WR | Notre Dame

62. New England Patriots

Emmanuel McNeil-Warren | S | Toledo

63. Los Angeles Rams

Blake Miller | OT | Clemson

64. Denver Broncos

Caleb Tiernan | OT | Northwestern

This story was originally published by Athlon Sports on Dec 9, 2025, where it first appeared in the NFL section. Add Athlon Sports as a Preferred Source by clicking here.

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