2026 NFL Mock Draft: Round 1 Projections for 2026 NFL Draft Entering Week 16

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2026 NFL Mock Draft: Round 1 Projections for 2026 NFL Draft Entering Week 16

2026 NFL Mock Draft: Round 1 Projections for 2026 NFL Draft Entering Week 16 — Brad Penner-Imagn Images

Matt Johnson · Sportsnaut

Thu, Dec 18, 2025 ·

17 min read

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As the NFL playoff race tightens with just three weeks remaining in the regular season, there are a growing number of teams that have been eliminated from playoff contention. It means a growing focus on the 2026 NFL Draft, with an intriguing class of prospects that includes the Heisman Trophy winner and a few stars on both sides of the ball.

Let's dive into our latest 2026 NFL mock draft for the first round, with the NFL Draft order entering Week 16.

1. Cleveland Browns *: Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana

With the Las Vegas Raiders holding the second overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft, the only path to having a choice at quarterback for the Cleveland Browns is trading up. Fortunately for Andrew Berry, that's precisely what Browns general manager will want to do in this spot. Cleveland keeps its 2027 first-round pick and lands Fernando Mendoza. The Browns offensive line and receiving corps would absolutely need work to maximize Mendoza, but the reigning Heisman winner still offers above-average tools and advanced makeup that have been lacking from the face of the franchise for decades.

TRADE:Cleveland Browns trade 4th, 28th overall pick, 2026 2nd and 2027 2nd to the New York Giants for the 1st overall pick

2. Las Vegas Raiders: Dante Moore , QB, Oregon

Raider Nation wouldn't be happy to lose out on Mendoza, but this should still be viewed as a win. Oregon Ducks quarterback Dante Moore offers better physical tools than the Hoosiers quarterback; he just doesn't have as much starting experience. Another huge plus with Moore: he's poised under pressure and can make pinpoint throws with defenders around him. That's a necessary skill to have playing behind the Raiders offensive line.

3. Tennessee Titans : Arvell Reese, LB, Ohio State

The Tennessee Titans should be pretty elated about the 2026 NFL Draft order right now, as a trade-up by a quarterback-needy team for the No. 1 pick is likely. That positions Tennessee to take Arvell Reese, the best player in the 2026 NFL Draft. Reese still has some room for growth as an edge rusher, but it ishis long-term position and he is also comfortable dropping back in zone coverage. Putting him on a front seven with T'Vondre Sweat and Jeffery Simmons is the best way to unlock all three players.

Read More: NFL Coaching Candidates 2026

4. New York Giants: Jeremiyah Love, RB, Notre Dame

This might not necessarily be the most popular pick for the fan base, but it accomplishes a few things for the New York Giants. Jeremiyah Love is in the Bijan Robinson-caliber of prospects at running back, a potential All-Pro talent who can make explosive plays and be a dangerous threat in the passing game. Adding Love to the Giants backfield takes pressure off Jaxson Dart while giving him another receiving threat. Plus, unlike the Saquon Barkley draft, New York gets premium draft capital by trading down before taking its star RB.

5. New York Jets : Carnell Tate, WR, Ohio State

We still hold the belief that the New York Jets' plan is to build a quality supporting cast before taking a franchise-caliber quarterback prospect. That means snagging Carnell Tate, who is poised to become one of the next high-end WR1s who can immediately challenge for 1,000 yards coming out of Ohio State. Pairing Tate with Garrett Wilson creates a duo that can be similar to that of Ja'Marr Chase and Tee Higgins , and this is just the start of building an environment that can make the next Jets quarterback successful.

6. Arizona Cardinals : Francis Mauigoa, OL, Miami

It feels increasingly likely that the Arizona Cardinals bring back Jacoby Brissett to be their starting quarterback in 2025, making him the bridge for a rookie taken on Day 2 of the 2026 NFL Draft. So, Arizona will need to use its first-round pick on an offensive lineman. Miami's Francis Mauigoa could play right tackle or guard at the next level; either would be a massive upgrade in the trenches for Arizona.

7. New Orleans Saints : Jordyn Tyson, WR, Arizona State

The New Orleans Saints have built a young offensive line that they feel can be the bedrock of this offense, and Tyler Shough has proven more than enough in his rookie year to be the starting quarterback in 2026. It's now time to find a 1B receiver, someone who complements Chris Olave . Jordyn Tyson does have some durability issues, but the 6-foot-2 wideout will provide Shough with a reliable offensive weapon who will round out this passing game and put Shough in the best position for long-term success.

8. Washington Commanders : Rueben Bain Jr, EDGE, Miami

If the 2026 NFL Draft unfolds this way, the Washington Commanders should feel elated. Rueben Bain Jr. is a top-five prospect in this class, and he fills one of the most glaring needs on Washington's roster. Dan Quinn has tried to make things work with a patchwork pass rush, but he hasn't ever had a difference-maker in Washington. Bain can be that caliber of edge defender.

9. Cincinnati Bengals : David Bailey, EDGE, Texas Tech

It's going to sound crazy to the Cincinnati Bengals, but we're giving them an edge rusher who actually produced in college. On top of that, David Bailey also made real strides as an edge defender against the run this season. Plus, Texas Tech's dynamic pass rusher has recorded 26.5 tackles for loss with 20.5 sacks over the last two seasons. Given Trey Hendrickson is unlikely to return, Bailey would instantly become the best edge defender on the Bengals' roster.

10. Los Angeles Rams (via ATL): Caleb Downs , S, Ohio State

This is a dream for the Los Angeles Rams. Caleb Downs is a do-it-all safety, offering a similar versatility as All-Pro defensive back Kyle Hamilton and former standout Eric Berry . Corner might be the most pressing need on this side of the ball, but a safety of Downs' caliber can easily help improve the Rams' pass defense while providing support against the run.

11. Miami Dolphins : Makai Lemon, WR, USC

The Miami Dolphins obviously have a quarterback problem, one that will require a bargain-bin starter because the franchise is stuck with the Tua Tagovailoa contract. For the next signal-caller to be put in the best position for success, Miami must find a wide receiver to pair with Jaylen Waddle . Makai Lemon is a bit undersized, but he makes contested catches like he's 6-foot-2, and he's better than just about anyone at creating separation. An offense with Waddle, Lemon, and De'Von Achane can make a league-average quarterback look good.

12. Kansas City Chiefs : Spencer Fano, OT, Utah

The Patrick Mahomes injury and his long-term recovery from surgery to repair his ACL and LCL should bring massive changes to the Kansas City Chiefs. Among them ispouring every resource possible into creating an offensive line that can excel in pass protection and also create some running lanes. Spencer Fano allowed just 1 sack in his last two seasons, and if he can handle a transition to right tackle, Kansas City would have in Fano and Josh Simmons a potential tackle tandem like the Eagles and Chargers have.

13. Minnesota Vikings : Mansoor Delane, CB, LSU

Jeremiyah Love and Caleb Downs are off the board, so the Minnesota Vikings pivot to taking arguably the best cornerback in the 2026 NFL Draft. Mansoor DeLane performed like an All-American this season. He's a willing run defender with an aggressive style of play that Brian Flores will love. Plus, the Vikings' front seven will create the kind of pressure that makes life easier for DeLane in his rookie season.

14. Dallas Cowboys : Jermod McCoy, CB, Tennessee

If he hadn't missed the entire season recovering from ACL surgery, Jermod McCoy would probably be a top-10 pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. The Dallas Cowboys have long proven they aren't afraid of the risk that comes with drafting a corner coming off an ACL tear, only this time McCoy will be healthy for the pre-draft process. The coverage skills are outstanding and exactly what Dallas needs for this defense to take a huge step forward and finally stand a chance in coverage against good receivers.

15. Baltimore Ravens : Peter Woods, DT, Clemson

The neck injury for Nnamdi Madubuike seems career-ending as of now, so there is a glaring need in the middle of the Baltimore Ravens' defensive line. Peter Woods is a disruptive force on the interior who also offers the ability to kick outside to the edge for some snaps. Adding Woods is just a first step toward improving Baltimore's pass rush, but it is a great one.

16. Carolina Panthers : Keldric Faulk, EDGE, Auburn

Off-ball linebacker is perhaps more of a need for the Carolina Panthers, but there will be some very good ones ( Quay Walker and Devin Lloyd ) available in NFL free agency. That's why we think Carolina should take a pass rusher with its first-round pick. While Keldric Faulk wasn't one of the most productive edge rushers in college football this past season, he was the season prior, and his physical tools suggest he can be an above-average starter with the right coaching.

17. Detroit Lions : Kadyn Proctor, OT, Alabama

Picking this early in the 2026 NFL Draft probably won't happen often for the Detroit Lions. There are a few directions the front office could go, but the long-term outlook of the offensive line is the likeliest path. Kadyn Proctor is a three-year starter at left tackle who has consistently improved each year. Detroit could kick him inside to guard for a season and then have him serve as the successor to Taylor Decker .

18. New York Jets (via IND): Sonny Styles , LB, Ohio State

The New York Jets should come out of Round 1 with something for head coach Aaron Glenn. Why not the best off-ball linebacker in the 2026 NFL Draft. A former safety, Styles offers excellent skills dropping back in coverage and he can be deployed as a blitzer. Glenn's scheme needs a versatile linebacker who can make plays all over the field and that is Styles.

19. Tampa Bay Buccaneers : CJ Allen, LB, Georgia

Edge rusher is a consideration here, but the Tampa Bay Buccaneers really can't pass on a top off-ball linebacker for the second consecutive year. CJ Allen has been instrumental to the success of the Georgia Bulldogs defense this season, with instincts that amplify his athleticism. He has an excellent feel for the game and should be exactly the kind of linebacker Todd Bowles wants in the middle of his defense.

20. Pittsburgh Steelers : Ty Simpson , QB, Alabama

Aaron Rodgers has exceeded expectations this season, leaving the Pittsburgh Steelers wishing that he'd be willing to play another year. It's just not happening. So, a Round 1 quarterback is on the table. Ty Simpson can extend plays with his legs and run for first downs when needed, but his real calling card is his ability to remain calm when under pressure and make the right read. He might not offer the highest ceiling, but he could develop into an above-average starter for Pittsburgh.

21. Philadelphia Eagles : Kenyon Sadiq, TE, Oregon

Dallas Goedert is in a contract year and the Philadelphia Eagles have absolutely nothing behind him at tight end. Kenyon Sadiq doesn't have phenomenal size for his position, but he makes up for it with elite athleticism. The ideal scenario would be bringing Goedert back for one more year and deploying Sadiq as the TE2, giving two short and intermediate weapons with one able to move the sticks and the other providing a YAC threat.

22. Houston Texans : Vega Ioane, OG, Penn State

There's almost nothing left to be done with this defense, and it's clear that head coach DeMeco Ryans can fill whatever small vulnerabilities arise in his system both in free agency andthe middle rounds of the NFL Draft. So, Nick Caserio can focus on using a first-round pick to help C.J. Stroud . Vega Ioane is a plug-and-play starter who will shore up the interior, helping Houston run the football a bit more effectively and he'll help provide C.J. Stroud with a cleaner pocket to step into.

23. Dallas Cowboys (via GB): Cashius Howell, EDGE, Texas A&M

The Dallas Cowboys' defensive line is improved, but it's still not close to being near the upper-echelon in the NFL. If you are going to have a sub-par secondary, you need multiple dudes who can get after the quarterback. That's precisely what Cashius Howell does. He might only be a designated pass rusher as a rookie, but playing that role has worked out quite well for James Pearce Jr. (8 sacks) in Atlanta.

24. Buffalo Bills : KC Concepcion, WR, Texas A&M

Buffalo Bills general manager Brandon Beane was very confident in the receiving corps he assembled coming into the season. That confidence, as many anticipated, was misplaced. Let's throw K.C. Concepcion into the mix. A home-run hitter as a returner (460 punt return yards) and just as explosive with the football in his hands as a receiver, he's something Buffalo's receiving corps lacks. Drops are the big issue, but the big-play ability justifies the risk here.

25. Chicago Bears : Damon Wilson II, EDGE, Missouri

Injuries have been the biggest reason for the defense underperforming this season, but Chicago Bears defensive coordinator Dennis Allen needs more help next season. Mizzou edge rusher Damon Wilson offers enticing length, explosiveness off the edge and he's got an impressive motor with a penchant for standing out in big games. He might not offer the highest ceiling, but pass-rushing depth is needed in Chicago.

26. Los Angeles Chargers: A'Mauri Washington, DT, Oregon

With Brandon Staley likely leaving for a head-coaching gig in 2026, the Los Angeles Chargers can't rely on scheme as much to win moving forward. That just means the front office must start pouring more resources into the defensive line. A'Mauri Washington is a phenomenal athlete for his size (6-foot-3) and would provide an interior penetrator who could help Los Angeles consistently generate pressure.

27. San Francisco 49ers : Caleb Banks, DT, Florida

With Mykel Williams and Nick Bosa both recovering from ACL tears, the San Francisco 49ers will need to find some more help on the defensive line this offseason. Caleb Banks didn't quite meet the preseason hype surrounding him, but that's largely because he suffered a foot injury early that required surgery. With a defensive front of Banks, Williams and Bosa, Robert Saleh would have a defensive front that can consistently win its individual battles in the trenches.

28. NY Giants* (via CLE via JAX): Avieon Terrell, CB, Clemson

As good as the New York Giants' defensive line is, the secondary has been a massive disappointment this season. Enter Avieon Terrell. While he lacks prototypical size (5-foot-11) for a corner, he plays bigger than his frame. The hope is that a corner tandem of Terrell and Paulson Adebo , with the existing defensive front, will finally put New York in position to reach its ceiling defensively.

29. New England Patriots : T.J. Parker, EDGE, Clemson

Viewed as a potential top-10 pick entering the season, T.J. Parker will need a strong pre-draft process to stick in Round 1. For the New England Patriots, this is a bet on upside. The length he brings to the table with his 6-foot-3 frame pairs nicely with his power. He's more of an all-around player than a standout in any area, but there's a higher ceiling that could be reached, and he'd at the very least be a productive addition to New England's defense.

30. Seattle Seahawks : Colton Hood, CB, Tennessee

With Riq Woolen likely departing in free agency this offseason, there'll be an opening at cornerback for the Seattle Seahawks. Given some of the durability issues experienced in the secondary this year, this should be a position that Mike Macdonald prioritizes. Colton Hood emerged as the top corner at Tennessee this season, playing at an All-SEC level. Between his physicality and ball skills, we feel like he'd be an excellent fit for Seattle in the years to come, and there's not a better place for him to develop and grow into his top form.

31. Los Angeles Rams: Emmanuel Pregnon, OL, Oregon

The Los Angeles Rams will be a Super Bowl contender for as long as Matthew Stafford is around, but they also must think about what this offensive line looks like in the next few years. He's been a standout on the Oregon Ducks offensive line this season and be the enxt in line to play either guard spot or he can develop for a year.

32. Denver Broncos : Denzel Boston, WR, Washington

Wide receiver might not be the No. 1 need for the Denver Broncos, but you can't pass on this value. Courtland Sutton is now on the wrong side off 30 and there isn't a true No. 2 receiver emerging at this point in Denver. There are some similarities between Denzel Boston and Michael Pittman Jr. , with the wideout coming out of a program that has a strong record with wide receivers. This move would bring more stability to Denver's passing game and help Bo Nix take that next step to more consistently perform like a top-12 quarterback.

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