NCAAF · 5 hours ago

USA Today 2027 NFL Mock Draft 1.0: 32 First Round Picks

Paul Connor

Host · Writer

32. Seattle Seahawks – Mateen Ibirogba, DT, Texas Tech
Mateen Ibirogba NFL Draft Profile
- Height: 6’4”
- Weight: 300 lbs
- Age (on CFB Week 1): 22
- Position: Defensive Lineman
- School: Texas Tech
- Class: Senior
- Hometown: Clarksburg, MD
- Jersey Number: 98
"Mike Macdonald's deep and varied pass rush appears due for upheaval next year, with defensive tackle Leonard Williams and edge rushers Uchenna Nwosu and Derick Hall all unsigned beyond this season. A former edge rusher at Georgetown, Ibirogba bulked up to become an interior pest at Wake Forest but maintained the explosiveness and versatility that Macdonald and general manager John Schneider would no doubt appreciate." — Schwartz

Reaction: A high-motor, versatile interior rusher is exactly the kind of chess piece Mike Macdonald needs to restock his defensive line.

Mateen Ibirogba Mock Drafts
- ESPN: NR
- CBS Sports: NR
- The Sporting News (10.14.26): NR
- Todd McShay (Ringer): NR
- Sports Illustrated 9.0 (9.23.26): NR
- Tankathon (10.4.26): NR
- The Athletic (10.7.26): NR
- USA TODAY Sports (10.14.26): NR
- Athlon Sports (10.23.26): NR
- Cleveland.com (10.29.26): NR
1. New York Jets – Arch Manning, QB, Texas
Arch Manning NFL Draft Profile
- Height: 6’4”
- Weight: 219 lbs
- Age (on CFB Week 1): 22
- Position: Quarterback
- School: Texas
- Class: Junior
- Hometown: New Orleans, LA
- Jersey Number: 16
"Manning would provide an unparalleled level of hope and excitement to a franchise that doesn't look equipped to end the lengthiest active postseason drought in North American men's team sports anytime soon." — Michael Middlehurst-Schwartz

Reaction: It is the obvious marriage of need and star power, but Manning's 2026 performance, not his famous last name, must ultimately justify the No. 1 pick.

Arch Manning Mock Drafts
- ESPN 2.0 (Reid): No. 2 to Arizona Cardinals
- CBS Sports: No. 1 to Miami Dolphins
- The Sporting News (10.14.26): No. 1 to Tennessee Titans
- Todd McShay (Ringer): No. 1 to Miami Dolphins
- Sports Illustrated 9.0 (9.23.26): No. 2 to New York Jets
- Tankathon (10.4.26): No. 2 to Tennessee Titans
- The Athletic (10.7.26): No. 12 to Cleveland Browns
- USA TODAY Sports (10.14.26): No. 5 to New York Jets
- Athlon Sports (10.23.26): No. 11 to Cleveland Browns
- Cleveland.com (10.29.26): No. 8 to Arizona Cardinals
2. Miami Dolphins – Jeremiah Smith, WR, Ohio State
Jeremiah Smith NFL Draft Profile
- Height: 6’3”
- Weight: 223 lbs
- Age (on CFB Week 1): 20
- Position: Wide Receiver
- School: Ohio State
- Class: Junior
- Hometown: Miami Gardens, FL
- Jersey Number: 4
"Taking a wide receiver this early certainly isn't part of the roster-building playbook to which Dolphins general manager Jon-Eric Sullivan subscribed when he was with the Packers. Smith, however, is no ordinary pass catcher." — Schwartz

Reaction: Miami may have bigger structural needs, but passing on a receiver this talented could be the riskier decision.

Jeremiah Smith Mock Drafts
- ESPN 2.0 (Reid): No. 4 to Miami Dolphins
- CBS Sports: No. 3 to Arizona Cardinals
- The Sporting News (10.14.26): No. 2 to Los Angeles Chargers
- Todd McShay (Ringer): No. 4 to Tennessee Titans
- Sports Illustrated 9.0 (9.23.26): No. 1 to Houston Texans
- Tankathon (10.4.26): No. 1 to Houston Texans
- The Athletic (10.7.26): No. 1 to Miami Dolphins
- USA TODAY Sports (10.14.26): No. 1 to Miami Dolphins
- Athlon Sports (10.23.26): No. 1 to Los Angeles Chargers
- Cleveland.com (10.29.26): No. 1 to Los Angeles Chargers
3. Arizona Cardinals – Dante Moore, QB, Oregon
Dante Moore NFL Draft Profile
- Height: 6’3”
- Weight: 206 lbs
- Age (on CFB Week 1): 21
- Position: Quarterback
- School: Oregon
- Class: Junior
- Hometown: Detroit, MI
- Jersey Number: 5
"Even with Jeremiyah Love in the fold, Arizona's offense likely won't take off until it can find a true catalyst behind center." — Schwartz

Reaction: Moore's high ceiling makes this a worthwhile gamble to fully unlock the potential of Arizona's evolving offense.

Dante Moore Mock Drafts
- ESPN 2.0 (Reid): No. 1 to Cleveland Browns
- CBS Sports: No. 2 to New York Jets
- The Sporting News (10.14.26): No. 3 to Miami Dolphins
- Todd McShay (Ringer): No. 2 to Cleveland Browns
- Sports Illustrated 9.0 (9.23.26): No. 3 to Atlanta Falcons
- Tankathon (10.4.26): No. 8 to Arizona Cardinals
- The Athletic (10.7.26): No. 6 to Arizona Cardinals
- USA TODAY Sports (10.14.26): No. 3 to Arizona Cardinals
- Athlon Sports (10.23.26): No. 7 to Philadelphia Eagles
- Cleveland.com (10.29.26): No. 24 to Pittsburgh Steelers
4. Atlanta Falcons – Leonard Moore, CB, Notre Dame
Leonard Moore NFL Draft Profile
- Height: 6’2”
- Weight: 195 lbs
- Age (on CFB Week 1): 20
- Position: Cornerback
- School: Notre Dame
- Class: Junior
- Hometown: Round Rock, TX
- Jersey Number: 15
"While Atlanta already added cornerback Avieon Terrell alongside brother A.J., it probably would stand to benefit greatly by adding Moore, a coverage maven who recorded five interceptions last year and is the only consensus All-American on defense set to return to college football in 2026." — Schwartz

Reaction: Doubling down at corner is defensible when the prospect is this polished and dependable in coverage.

Leonard Moore Mock Drafts
- ESPN 2.0 (Reid): No. 7 to Carolina Panthers
- CBS Sports: No. 7 to New Orleans Saints
- The Sporting News (10.14.26): No. 6 to Arizona Cardinals
- Todd McShay (Ringer): No. 8 to New Orleans Saints
- Sports Illustrated 9.0 (9.23.26): No. 9 to Baltimore Ravens
- Tankathon (10.4.26): No. 4 to Los Angeles Chargers
- The Athletic (10.7.26): No. 2 to Tennessee Titans
- USA TODAY Sports (10.14.26): No. 8 to Washington Commanders
- Athlon Sports (10.23.26): No. 3 to Tennessee Titans
- Cleveland.com (10.29.26): No. 4 to Washington Commanders
5. Tennessee Titans – Trevor Goosby, OT, Texas
Trevor Goosby NFL Draft Profile
- Height: 6’7”
- Weight: 312 lbs
- Age (on CFB Week 1): 21
- Position: Offensive Tackle
- School: Texas
- Class: Junior
- Hometown: Melissa, TX
- Jersey Number: 74
"The Carnell Tate pick revealed how much of a premium Tennessee is placing on equipping Cam Ward with the help that was absent throughout his rookie campaign. The next step might be revisiting his protection plan after big-ticket left tackle Dan Moore Jr. flopped in his first season with the Titans." — Schwartz

Reaction: After investing in Cam Ward’s weapons, protecting the young quarterback would be the logical next phase of Tennessee’s rebuild.

Trevor Goosby Mock Drafts
- ESPN 2.0 (Reid): No. 11 to Atlanta Falcons
- CBS Sports: No. 5 to Tennessee Titans
- The Sporting News (10.14.26): No. 4 to Houston Texans
- Todd McShay (Ringer): No. 12 to New York Giants
- Sports Illustrated 9.0 (9.23.26): No. 15 to New York Giants
- Tankathon (10.4.26): No. 10 to Atlanta Falcons
- The Athletic (10.7.26): No. 9 to New Orleans Saints
- USA TODAY Sports (10.14.26): No. 11 to Houston Texans
- Athlon Sports (10.23.26): No. 8 to Houston Texans
- Cleveland.com (10.29.26): No. 11 to New Orleans Saints
6. Las Vegas Raiders – Jordan Seaton, OT, LSU
Jordan Seaton NFL Draft Profile
- Height: 6’5”
- Weight: 330 lbs
- Age (on CFB Week 1): 22
- Position: Offensive Tackle
- School: LSU
- Class: Junior
- Hometown: Washington, DC
- Jersey Number: 77
"Seems safe to say that all of the Raiders' plans will be colored by a desire to safeguard and support Fernando Mendoza." — Schwartz

Reaction: Protecting Fernando Mendoza has to be priority number one, and Seaton provides the massive anchor required to do just that.

Jordan Seaton Mock Drafts
- ESPN 2.0 (Reid): No. 16 to Chicago Bears
- CBS Sports: No. 8 to Atlanta Falcons
- The Sporting News (10.14.26): No. 8 to Wasington Commanders
- Todd McShay (Ringer): No. 24 to Cincinnati Bengals
- Sports Illustrated 9.0 (9.23.26): No. 18 to Arizona Cardinals
- Tankathon (10.4.26): No. 11 to Cincinnati Bengals
- The Athletic (10.7.26): No. 11 to New York Giants
- USA TODAY Sports (10.14.26): No. 9 to Atlanta Falcons
- Athlon Sports (10.23.26): No. 14 to Atlanta Falcons
- Cleveland.com (10.29.26): No. 5 to Houston Texans
Note: Chicago traded a 2027 first-, fourth-, and a 2028 first-round selection to Tennessee in exchange for a 2028 fifth-round selection and DT Jeffery Simmons.
7. Cleveland Browns – CJ Carr, QB, Notre Dame
CJ Carr NFL Draft Profile
- Height: 6’3”
- Weight: 210 lbs
- Age (on CFB Week 1): 21
- Position: Quarterback
- School: Notre Dame
- Class: Sophomore
- Hometown: Saline, MI
- Jersey Number: 13
"The nightmarish Deshaun Watson ordeal can finally come to a close after this season, though its specter will remain even beyond the dead cap hits that Cleveland is set to carry in future years. Moving on would be a lot easier if the Browns could pull themselves out of quarterback purgatory with a figure like Carr." — Schwartz

Reaction: Turning the page from the Watson era with Carr's pro-ready skill set is exactly the palate cleanser Cleveland desperately needs.

CJ Carr Mock Drafts
- ESPN 2.0 (Reid): No. 3 to New York Jets
- CBS Sports: NR
- The Sporting News (10.14.26): No. 9 to New York Jets
- Todd McShay (Ringer): No. 7 to Carolina Panthers
- Sports Illustrated 9.0 (9.23.26): No. 10 to Cleveland Browns
- Tankathon (10.4.26): No. 6 to New York Jets
- The Athletic (10.7.26): No. 5 to New York Jets
- USA TODAY Sports (10.14.26): No. 23 to Minnesota Vikings
- Athlon Sports (10.23.26): No. 10 to Arizona Cardinals
- Cleveland.com (10.29.26): No. 14 to Cleveland Browns
8. New York Giants – Cam Coleman, WR, Texas
Cam Coleman NFL Draft Profile
- Height: 6’3”
- Weight: 201 lbs
- Age (on CFB Week 1): 20
- Position: Wide Receiver
- School: Texas
- Class: Junior
- Hometown: Phenix City, AL
- Jersey Number: 8
"Coleman would further enhance Jaxson Dart's ability to attack deep, with few cornerbacks proving themselves capable of matching his speed and jump-ball prowess." — Schwartz

Reaction: Coleman’s vertical ability alongside Jaxson Dart is enticing, although New York would still need enough reliable options underneath.

Cam Coleman Mock Drafts
- ESPN 2.0 (Reid): No. 5 to Las Vegas Raiders
- CBS Sports: No. 9 to New York Giants
- The Sporting News (10.14.26): No. 14 to Atlanta Falcons
- Todd McShay (Ringer): No. 6 to Las Vegas Raiders
- Sports Illustrated 9.0 (9.23.26): No. 11 to Pittsburgh Steelers
- Tankathon (10.4.26): No. 7 to Washington Commanders
- The Athletic (10.7.26): No. 8 to Washington Commanders
- USA TODAY Sports (10.14.26): No. 7 to New York Giants
- Athlon Sports (10.23.26): No. 9 to New York Jets
- Cleveland.com (10.29.26): No. 13 to Las Vegas Raiders
9. New Orleans Saints – Colin Simmons, DE/OLB, Texas
Colin Simmons NFL Draft Profile
- Height: 6’3”
- Weight: 240 lbs
- Age (on CFB Week 1): 20
- Position: EDGE
- School: Texas
- Class: Junior
- Hometown: Dallas, TX
- Jersey Number: 1
"A Saints defense in transition is overdue for the youth movement that's helped reinvigorate the offense. Simmons has quickly established himself as one of college football's premier pass rushers after compiling 21 sacks in his first two years." — Schwartz

Reaction: This is exactly the kind of premium-position swing an aging Saints defense should make if Simmons reaches his anticipated ceiling.

Colin Simmons Mock Drafts
- ESPN 2.0 (Reid): No. 8 to New Orleans Saints
- CBS Sports: No. 12 to Minnesota Vikings
- The Sporting News (10.14.26): No. 5 to Tampa Bay Buccaneers
- Todd McShay (Ringer): No. 15 to Minnesota Vikings
- Sports Illustrated 9.0 (9.23.26): No. 6 to Washington Commanders
- Tankathon (10.4.26): No. 3 to Tampa Bay Buccaneers
- The Athletic (10.7.26): No. 3 to Tampa Bay Buccaneers
- USA TODAY Sports (10.14.26): No. 4 to Tampa Bay Buccaneers
- Athlon Sports (10.23.26): No. 4 to Tampa Bay Buccaneers
- Cleveland.com (10.29.26): No. 3 to Miami Dolphins
10. Washington Commanders – Dylan Stewart, DE/OLB, South Carolina
Dylan Stewart NFL Draft Profile
- Height: 6’5”
- Weight: 245 lbs
- Age (on CFB Week 1): 20
- Position: EDGE
- School: South Carolina
- Class: Junior
- Hometown: Washington, DC
- Jersey Number: 6
"What a homecoming this would be for the Washington D.C. native. If the 6-5, 245-pounder rediscovers his form after something of a letdown campaign last year, he'll no doubt be in the mix to be off the board very early." — Schwartz

Reaction: The local connection is appealing, but Stewart’s ability to rebound and develop matters far more than the homecoming storyline.

Dylan Stewart Mock Drafts
- ESPN 2.0 (Reid): No. 6 to Tennessee Titans
- CBS Sports: No. 6 to Las Vegas Raiders
- The Sporting News (10.14.26): No. 7 to New Orleans Saints
- Todd McShay (Ringer): No. 10 to Washington Commanders
- Sports Illustrated 9.0 (9.23.26): No. 5 to Tennessee Titans
- Tankathon (10.4.26): No. 17 to Philadelphia Eagles
- The Athletic (10.7.26): No. 15 to Philadelphia Eagles
- USA TODAY Sports (10.14.26): No. 14 to Philadelphia Eagles
- Athlon Sports (10.23.26): No. 5 to Washington Commanders
- Cleveland.com (10.29.26): No. 9 to Tampa Bay Buccaneers
11. Jets (from Indianapolis Colts) – KJ Bolden, S, Georgia
KJ Bolden NFL Draft Profile
- Height: 6’0”
- Weight: 185 lbs
- Age (on CFB Week 1): 20
- Position: Defensive Back
- School: Georgia
- Class: Junior
- Hometown: Buford, GA
- Jersey Number: 4
"Taking a safety this early might seem like a luxury for a Jets roster with so many unsettled spots. Bolden, however, can be a load-bearing asset for a secondary that lacks much in the way of dependability." — Schwartz

Reaction: Safety at No. 11 is expensive, but a versatile tone-setter like Bolden could justify it on a defense lacking dependable playmakers.

KJ Bolden Mock Drafts
- ESPN 2.0 (Reid): No. 23 to Cincinnati Bengals
- CBS Sports: No. 29 to Buffalo Bills
- The Sporting News (10.14.26): No. 18 to Seattle Seahawks
- Todd McShay (Ringer): NR
- Sports Illustrated 9.0 (9.23.26): No. 21 to Carolina Panthers
- Tankathon (10.4.26): No. 13 to New York Jets
- The Athletic (10.7.26): No. 28 to Jacksonville Jaguars
- USA TODAY Sports (10.14.26): No. 21 to New England Patriots
- Athlon Sports (10.23.26): No. 24 to New England Patriots
- Cleveland.com (10.29.26): No. 18 to New England Patriots
12. Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Jamari Johnson, TE, Oregon
Jamari Johnson NFL Draft Profile
- Height: 6’5”
- Weight: 257 lbs
- Age (on CFB Week 1): 21
- Position: Tight End
- School: Oregon
- Class: Junior
- Hometown: Inglewood, CA
- Jersey Number: 9
"The post-Mike Evans life might quickly reveal how badly the Buccaneers miss having a supersized option in the passing game. At 6-5 and 257 pounds, Johnson can handle in-line work and win contested catches while also stretching defenses vertically and doing damage after the catch." — Schwartz

Reaction: Johnson would not replace Mike Evans stylistically, but his size could preserve the matchup advantage Tampa Bay has long enjoyed.

Jamari Johnson Mock Drafts
- ESPN 2.0 (Reid): No. 18 to Denver Broncos
- CBS Sports: No. 20 to Houston Texans
- The Sporting News (10.14.26): NR
- Todd McShay (Ringer): NR
- Sports Illustrated 9.0 (9.23.26): No. 14 to New Orleans Saints
- Tankathon (10.4.26): No. 19 to Carolina Panthers
- The Athletic (10.7.26): No. 22 to Denver Broncos
- USA TODAY Sports (10.14.26): No. 27 to Baltimore Ravens
- Athlon Sports (10.23.26): No. 17 to Cincinnati Bengals
- Cleveland.com (10.29.26): No. 16 to Baltimore Ravens
13. Pittsburgh Steelers – Drew Mestemaker, QB, Oklahoma State
Drew Mestemaker NFL Draft Profile
- Height: 6’4”
- Weight: 211 lbs
- Age (on CFB Week 1): 20
- Position: Quarterback
- School: Oklahoma State
- Class: Sophomore
- Hometown: Austin, TX
- Jersey Number: 17
"Omar Khan unquestionably has a type when it comes to quarterbacks: Sturdy and strong-armed passers built to weather the elements in the AFC North." — Schwartz

Reaction: The physical profile fits Pittsburgh’s preferences, although the value depends on how convincingly Mestemaker handles a bigger stage.

Drew Mestemaker Mock Drafts
- ESPN 2.0 (Reid): NR
- CBS Sports: NR
- The Sporting News (10.14.26): No. 17 to Cleveland Browns
- Todd McShay (Ringer): NR
- Sports Illustrated 9.0 (9.23.26): No. 30 to Arizona Cardinals
- Tankathon (10.4.26): NR
- The Athletic (10.7.26): No. 13 to Pittsburgh Steelers
- USA TODAY Sports (10.14.26): No. 2 to Tennessee Titans
- Athlon Sports (10.23.26): No. 2 to Miami Dolphins
- Cleveland.com (10.29.26): No. 2 to Tennessee Titans
14. Jets (from Dallas Cowboys) – Ellis Robinson IV, CB, Georgia
Ellis Robinson IV NFL Draft Profile
- Height: 6’0”
- Weight: 180 lbs
- Age (on CFB Week 1): 20
- Position: Cornerback
- School: Georgia
- Class: Sophomore
- Hometown: New Haven, CT
- Jersey Number: 1
"Robinson recorded four interceptions last season, and his playmaking streak would surely stand out on a defense that didn't manage to pull down a single pick in 2025." — Schwartz

Reaction: With three first-round picks, the Jets can afford boldness, and pairing Robinson with Bolden could transform rather than merely patch the secondary.

Ellis Robinson IV Mock Drafts
- ESPN 2.0 (Reid): No. 12 to New York Jets
- CBS Sports: No. 11 to Carolina Panthers
- The Sporting News (10.14.26): No. 23 to Chicago Bears
- Todd McShay (Ringer): No. 20 to Los Angeles Chargers
- Sports Illustrated 9.0 (9.23.26): No. 20 to Detroit Lions
- Tankathon (10.4.26): No. 9 to New Orleans Saints
- The Athletic (10.7.26): No. 19 to Detroit Lions
- USA TODAY Sports (10.14.26): No. 19 to Detroit Lions
- Athlon Sports (10.23.26): No. 13 to New York Jets
- Cleveland.com (10.29.26): No. 12 to New York Jets
15. Carolina Panthers – Quincy Rhodes, DE/OLB, Arkansas
Quincy Rhodes Jr. NFL Draft Profile
- Height: 6’6”
- Weight: 276 lbs
- Age (on CFB Week 1): 21
- Position: EDGE
- School: Arkansas
- Class: Senior
- Hometown: North Little Rock, AR
- Jersey Number: 97
"After following up two Day 2 picks at edge in 2025 with the massive Jaelan Phillips contract this spring, this might seem like a lot for Carolina to throw at one spot. Yet if their young alternatives hit a snag in their development opposite Phillips, it will be mighty tempting to look to Rhodes, who surprised many by returning to school." — Schwartz

Reaction: You can never have enough edge rushers, and Rhodes provides a high-upside insurance policy.

Quincy Rhodes Jr. Mock Drafts
- ESPN 2.0 (Reid): NR
- CBS Sports: NR
- The Sporting News (10.14.26): NR
- Todd McShay (Ringer): NR
- Sports Illustrated 9.0 (9.23.26): NR
- Tankathon (10.4.26): NR
- The Athletic (10.7.26): NR
- USA TODAY Sports (10.14.26): NR
- Athlon Sports (10.23.26): NR
- Cleveland.com (10.29.26): NR
16. Cincinnati Bengals – Zabien Brown, CB, Alabama
Zabien Brown NFL Draft Profile
- Height: 6’0”
- Weight: 192 lbs
- Age (on CFB Week 1): 21
- Position: Cornerback
- School: Alabama
- Class: Junior
- Hometown: Santa Ana, CA
- Jersey Number: 2
"At 6-0 and 194 pounds with the physical mentality and make-up speed to handle press coverage, Brown clears the bar on plenty of traits the Bengals covet from their defensive backs." — Schwartz

Reaction: Brown’s physical, press-man profile provides defensive coordinator Al Golden with the exact type of sticky, competitive corner needed to keep elevating Cincy's defense.

Zabien Brown Mock Drafts
- ESPN 2.0 (Reid): NR
- CBS Sports: No. 30 to Seattle Seahawks
- The Sporting News (10.14.26): NR
- Todd McShay (Ringer): NR
- Sports Illustrated 9.0 (9.23.26): NR
- Tankathon (10.4.26): NR
- The Athletic (10.7.26): NR
- USA TODAY Sports (10.14.26): NR
- Athlon Sports (10.23.26): NR
- Cleveland.com (10.29.26): NR
17. Minnesota Vikings – Ahmad Hardy, RB, Missouri
Ahmad Hardy NFL Draft Profile
- Height: 5’10”
- Weight: 206 lbs
- Age (on CFB Week 1): 20
- Position: Running back
- School: Missouri
- Class: Junior
- Hometown: Oma, MS
- Jersey Number: 29
"At 5-10 and 210 pounds, Hardy is more Ashton Jeanty than Jeremiyah Love, though it remains to be seen whether he can transcend the running back value conversation the way either ball carrier did." — Schwartz

Reaction: It's a steep price for a running back in the first round, but Hardy's dynamic playmaking could redefine the Vikings' ground game.

Ahmad Hardy Mock Drafts
- ESPN 2.0 (Reid): NR
- CBS Sports: NR
- The Sporting News (10.14.26): NR
- Todd McShay (Ringer): NR
- Sports Illustrated 9.0 (9.23.26): NR
- Tankathon (10.4.26): No. 29 to Baltimore Ravens
- The Athletic (10.7.26): NR
- USA TODAY Sports (10.14.26): NR
- Athlon Sports (10.23.26): NR
- Cleveland.com (10.29.26): NR
18. Detroit Lions – Will Heldt, DE, Clemson
Will Heldt NFL Draft Profile
- Height: 6’6”
- Weight: 260 lbs
- Age (on CFB Week 1): 21
- Position: EDGE
- School: Clemson
- Class: Senior
- Hometown: Carmel, IN
- Jersey Number: 13
"The Lions traded up in the second round to take Derrick Moore as Aidan Hutchinson's running mate, but it might be hard to resist first-round options next year. One promising possibility could be Heldt, who was talented enough to change the mind of noted transfer holdout Dabo Swinney." — Schwartz

Reaction: Putting Heldt opposite Aidan Hutchinson would give the Lions a relentless pass-rushing duo that keeps NFC North quarterbacks awake at night.

Will Heldt Mock Drafts
- ESPN: No. 32 to Miami Dolphins
- CBS Sports: NR
- The Sporting News (10.14.26): NR
- Todd McShay (Ringer): No. 30 to Seattle Seahawks
- Sports Illustrated 9.0 (9.23.26): No. 24 to Cleveland Browns
- Tankathon (10.4.26): No. 28 to Chicago Bears
- The Athletic (10.7.26): No. 25 to Chicago Bears
- USA TODAY Sports (10.14.26): NR
- Athlon Sports (10.23.26): NR
- Cleveland.com (10.29.26): NR
Note: Chicago traded a 2027 first-, fourth-, and a 2028 first-round selection to Tennessee in exchange for a 2028 fifth-round selection and DT Jeffery Simmons.
19. Baltimore Ravens – Kelley Jones, CB, Mississippi State
Kelley Jones NFL Draft Profile
- Height: 6’4”
- Weight: 195 lbs
- Age (on CFB Week 1): 22
- Position: Cornerback
- School: Mississippi State
- Class: Junior
- Hometown: Clarksdale, MS
- Jersey Number: 1
"A towering presence on the back end at 6-4 and 195 pounds, Jones could help the Ravens combat the likes of Ja'Marr Chase, Tee Higgins and DK Metcalf in the AFC North." — Schwartz

Reaction: Jones has the rare frame to challenge the AFC North’s oversized receivers, though his technique must ensure that size remains an asset.

Kelley Jones Mock Drafts
- ESPN 2.0 (Reid): No. 22 to Philadelphia Eagles
- CBS Sports: NR
- The Sporting News (10.14.26): No. 12 to New York Jets
- Todd McShay (Ringer): NR
- Sports Illustrated 9.0 (9.23.26): NR
- Tankathon (10.4.26): No. 27 to New York Giants
- The Athletic (10.7.26): No. 30 to Buffalo Bills
- USA TODAY Sports (10.14.26): No. 22 to Cincinnati Bengals
- Athlon Sports (10.23.26): NR
- Cleveland.com (10.29.26): No. 20 to Dallas Cowboys
20. Houston Texans – Kyngstonn Viliamu-Asa, LB, Notre Dame
Kyngstonn Viliamu-Asa NFL Draft Profile
- Height: 6’3”
- Weight: 230 lbs
- Age (on CFB Week 1): 20
- Position: Linebacker
- School: Notre Dame
- Class: Junior
- Hometown: Inland Empire, CA
- Jersey Number: 27
"There's not much missing from DeMeco Ryans' defense, which routinely overwhelms opponents with the sheer force of its starters. But linebackers Azeez Al-Shaair and Henry To'oTo'o are both entering the final year of their deals, and money will be a tight for a franchise with so much top-of-market talent. Viliamu-Asa can patrol the second level as a trusted run stopper." — Schwartz

Reaction: It is not a glamorous selection, but planning ahead at linebacker is how elite defenses avoid becoming expensive and top-heavy.

Kyngstonn Viliamu-Asa Mock Drafts
- ESPN: NR
- CBS Sports: No. 31 to New England Patriots
- The Sporting News (10.14.26): No. 22 to Denver Broncos
- Todd McShay (Ringer): NR
- Sports Illustrated 9.0 (9.23.26): NR
- Tankathon (10.4.26): NR
- The Athletic (10.7.26): NR
- USA TODAY Sports (10.14.26): No. 28 to Buffalo Bills
- Athlon Sports (10.23.26): NR
- Cleveland.com (10.29.26): NR
21. Kansas City Chiefs – Trey'Dez Green, TE, LSU
Trey'Dez Green NFL Draft Profile
- Height: 6’7”
- Weight: 240 lbs
- Age (on CFB Week 1): 20
- Position: Tight End
- School: LSU
- Class: Junior
- Hometown: Jackson, LA
- Jersey Number: 14
"Here's a fun vision for a Travis Kelce successor. At 6-7 and 240 pounds, Green would give Patrick Mahomes an easy button in the red zone and on jump balls." — Schwartz

Reaction: Giving Patrick Mahomes a 6-foot-7 red-zone cheat code as the heir apparent to Travis Kelce is a terrifying thought for the rest of the league.

Trey'Dez Green Mock Drafts
- ESPN 2.0 (Reid): No. 13 to Minnesota Vikings
- CBS Sports: No. 13 to Washington Commanders
- The Sporting News (10.14.26): No. 24 to New England Patriots
- Todd McShay (Ringer): No. 14 to Tampa Bay Buccaneers
- Sports Illustrated 9.0 (9.23.26): No. 17 to Denver Broncos
- Tankathon (10.4.26): No. 24 to Seattle Seahawks
- The Athletic (10.7.26): No. 14 to Carolina Panthers
- USA TODAY Sports (10.14.26): No. 18 to Carolina Panthers
- Athlon Sports (10.23.26): No. 20 to Carolina Panthers
- Cleveland.com (10.29.26): No. 27 to Denver Broncos
22. Philadelphia Eagles – Julian Sayin, QB, Ohio State
Julian Sayin NFL Draft Profile
- Height: 6’1”
- Weight: 208 lbs
- Age (on CFB Week 1): 21
- Position: Quarterback
- School: Ohio State
- Class: Junior
- Hometown: Carlsbad, CA
- Jersey Number: 10
"If Jalen Hurts doesn't receive a contract extension this offseason and struggles to mesh with new offensive coordinator Sean Mannion's plan, things could come to a head next offseason for the Eagles and their star quarterback." — Schwartz

Reaction: This is the mock’s boldest scenario, because selecting Sayin would signal not competition for Jalen Hurts but a complete organizational pivot at the game's most important position.

Julian Sayin Mock Drafts
- ESPN: NR
- CBS Sports: NR
- The Sporting News (10.14.26): NR
- Todd McShay (Ringer): NR
- Sports Illustrated 9.0 (9.23.26): NR
- Tankathon (10.4.26): No. 21 to Cleveland Browns
- The Athletic (10.7.26): NR
- USA TODAY Sports (10.14.26): NR
- Athlon Sports (10.23.26): NR
- Cleveland.com (10.29.26): NR
23. Cowboys (from Packers) – Nick Marsh, WR, Indiana
Nick Marsh NFL Draft Profile
- Height: 6’3”
- Weight: 203 lbs
- Age (on CFB Week 1): 19
- Position: Wide Receiver
- School: Indiana
- Class: Junior
- Hometown: Detroit, MI
- Jersey Number: 11
"George Pickens might soon be running an out route after Dallas informed the franchise-tagged receiver it wouldn't be offering him an extension before the season. Should a trade materialize or the Cowboys simply want to move on, they could use their second first-rounder from the Micah Parsons deal to find a replacement. Marsh presents a comparable skill set, highlighted by the 6-3, 203-pounder's penchant for pulling down contested catches and a clear comfort working deep." — Schwartz

Reaction: Marsh is an ideal, plug-and-play successor to George Pickens, bringing the same alpha mentality and deep-threat ability.

Nick Marsh Mock Drafts
- ESPN 2.0 (Reid): No. 31 to Buffalo Bills
- CBS Sports: NR
- The Sporting News (10.14.26): No. 29 to Baltimore Ravens
- Todd McShay (Ringer): NR
- Sports Illustrated 9.0 (9.23.26): No. 22 to New York Jets
- Tankathon (10.4.26): NR
- The Athletic (10.7.26): No. 16 to Las Vegas Raiders
- USA TODAY Sports (10.14.26): No. 16 to Las Vegas Raiders
- Athlon Sports (10.23.26): No. 29 to Buffalo Bills
- Cleveland.com (10.29.26): No. 21 to New York Giants
24. San Francisco 49ers – Koi Perich, S, Oregon
Koi Perich NFL Draft Profile
- Height: 6’1”
- Weight: 200 lbs
- Age (on CFB Week 1): 20
- Position: Safety
- School: Minnesota
- Class: Junior
- Hometown: Esko, MN
- Jersey Number: 3
"The back end of the 49ers' defense hasn't generated many splash plays in recent years. Perich, who dabbled at receiver at Minnesota and also was a standout returner, could change the dynamic of the secondary." — Schwartz

Reaction: Perich’s playmaking instincts and return-game versatility provide the exact kind of spark the 49ers' secondary has been missing.

Koi Perich Mock Drafts
- ESPN: NR
- CBS Sports: NR
- The Sporting News (10.14.26): NR
- Todd McShay (Ringer): NR
- Sports Illustrated 9.0 (9.23.26): NR
- Tankathon (10.4.26): NR
- The Athletic (10.7.26): NR
- USA TODAY Sports (10.14.26): NR
- Athlon Sports (10.23.26): NR
- Cleveland.com (10.29.26): NR
25. Jacksonville Jaguars – David Stone, DT, Oklahoma
David Stone NFL Draft Profile
- Height: 6’3”
- Weight: 310 lbs
- Age (on CFB Week 1): 20
- Position: Defensive Tackle
- School: Oklahoma
- Class: Junior
- Hometown: Del City, OK
- Jersey Number: 0
"At the center of the Jaguars' defensive turnaround was a heavy emphasis on creating chaos. The interior defensive line, however, didn't live up to the standard set by the rest of the unit. Coordinator Anthony Campanile would surely find a way to take advantage of Stone's rapid initial burst and imposing length." — Schwartz

Reaction: Stone’s explosive first step fits Jacksonville’s chaos-driven approach, and interior disruption is the logical place to complete the defensive front.

David Stone Mock Drafts
- ESPN 2.0 (Reid): No. 15 to New York Jets
- CBS Sports: No. 16 to Jacksonville Jaguars
- The Sporting News (10.14.26): No. 11 to New York Jets
- Todd McShay (Ringer): No. 32 to Cleveland Browns
- Sports Illustrated 9.0 (9.23.26): NR
- Tankathon (10.4.26): No. 18 to Denver Broncos
- The Athletic (10.7.26): NR
- USA TODAY Sports (10.14.26): No. 29 to Chicago Bears
- Athlon Sports (10.23.26): No. 28 to Chicago Bears
- Cleveland.com (10.29.26): No. 29 to Buffalo Bills
Note: Chicago traded a 2027 first-, fourth-, and a 2028 first-round selection to Tennessee in exchange for a 2028 fifth-round selection and DT Jeffery Simmons.
26. Buffalo Bills – Damon Wilson II, DE, Miami (Fla.)
Damon Wilson II NFL Draft Profile
- Height: 6’4”
- Weight: 250 lbs
- Age (on CFB Week 1): 21
- Position: Defensive End
- School: Miami
- Class: Senior
- Hometown: Venice, FL
- Jersey Number: 8
"For the Bills to truly thrive in new defensive coordinator Jim Leonhard's system, the franchise might need to break from some of its past proclivities. That could mean trying to jolt a stubborn edge rush with Wilson, who isn't yet a reliable presence against the run but could be in line to follow ex-Hurricanes Rueben Bain Jr. and Akheem Mesidor as an early pick after transferring from Missouri." — Schwartz

Reaction: Buffalo may have to tolerate some early run-defense shortcomings if Wilson can finally add genuine explosiveness to its edge rush.

Damon Wilson II Mock Drafts
- ESPN 2.0 (Reid): NR
- CBS Sports: No. 32 to Los Angeles Rams
- The Sporting News (10.14.26): NR
- Fox Sports: No. 32 to Seattle Seahawks
- Sports Illustrated 9.0 (9.23.26): NR
- Tankathon (10.4.26): NR
- The Athletic (10.7.26): NR
- USA TODAY Sports (10.14.26): NR
- Athlon Sports (10.23.26): NR
- Cleveland.com (10.29.26): NR
27. Los Angeles Chargers – A'Mauri Washington, DT, Oregon
A'Mauri Washington NFL Draft Profile
- Height: 6’3”
- Weight: 330 lbs
- Age (on CFB Week 1): 21
- Position: Defensive Tackle
- School: Oregon
- Class: Senior
- Hometown: Detroit, MI
- Jersey Number: 52
"Jim Harbaugh's quest to control the line of scrimmage on both sides of the ball seems bound to extend to next offseason. Washington moves astonishingly well for a 330-pounder, but his real value to the Chargers would be the double teams he draws and run plays he routinely blows up." — Schwartz

Reaction: Jim Harbaugh loves building through the trenches, and a 330-pound block-eater like Washington perfectly fits that physical identity.

A'Mauri Washington Mock Drafts
- ESPN 2.0 (Reid): No. 17 to Jacksonville Jaguars
- CBS Sports: No. 10 to Pittsburgh Steelers
- The Sporting News (10.14.26): No. 21 to Dallas Cowboys
- Todd McShay (Ringer): No. 22 to New England Patriots
- Sports Illustrated 9.0 (9.23.26): NR
- Tankathon (10.4.26): No. 22 to Cleveland Browns
- The Athletic (10.7.26): No. 21 to Dallas Cowboys
- USA TODAY Sports (10.14.26): No. 26 to Dallas Cowboys
- Athlon Sports (10.23.26): No. 27 to Dallas Cowboys
- Cleveland.com (10.29.26): NR
28. Chicago Bears – Ahmad Moten, DT, Miami (Fla.)
Ahmad Moten NFL Draft Profile
- Height: 6’3”
- Weight: 325 lbs
- Age (on CFB Week 1): 22
- Position: Defensive Lineman
- School: Miami
- Class: Senior
- Hometown: Fort Lauderdale, FL
- Jersey Number: 99
"Dennis Allen's defense might require more meaningful disruption from the interior than Gervon Dexter Sr. and Grady Jarrett can provide. Moten's quick-twitch movements that leave plodding blockers playing catch-up could yield the level of penetration that Allen relishes." — Schwartz

Reaction: Moten’s penetration would suit Dennis Allen’s defense, although Chicago may seek a more complete three-down interior player this early.

Ahmad Moten Sr. Mock Drafts
- ESPN 2.0 (Reid): No. 30 to Baltimore Ravens
- CBS Sports: No. 15 to New York Jets
- The Sporting News (10.14.26): NR
- Todd McShay (Ringer): NR
- Sports Illustrated 9.0 (9.23.26): No. 32 to Seattle Seahawks
- Tankathon (10.4.26): No. 28 to Chicago Bears
- The Athletic (10.7.26): NR
- USA TODAY Sports (10.14.26): NR
- Athlon Sports (10.23.26): NR
- Cleveland.com (10.29.26): NR
Note: Chicago traded a 2027 first-, fourth-, and a 2028 first-round selection to Tennessee in exchange for a 2028 fifth-round selection and DT Jeffery Simmons.
29. New England Patriots – Whit Weeks, LB, LSU
Whit Weeks NFL Draft Profile
- Height: 6’3”
- Weight: 223 lbs
- Age (on CFB Week 1): 21
- Position: Linebacker
- School: LSU
- Class: Senior
- Hometown: Watkinsville, GA
- Jersey Number: 40
"Weeks was waylaid by a broken ankle last season but could be a terror on blitzes for a Patriots defense that likes to keep its opponents guessing." — Schwartz

Reaction: Weeks possesses the exact blend of downhill aggression and blitzing versatility that the Patriots have always prioritized at linebacker.

Whit Weeks Mock Drafts
- ESPN: NR
- CBS Sports: NR
- The Sporting News (10.14.26): NR
- Todd McShay (Ringer): NR
- Sports Illustrated 9.0 (9.23.26): NR
- Tankathon (10.4.26): NR
- The Athletic (10.7.26): NR
- USA TODAY Sports (10.14.26): NR
- Athlon Sports (10.23.26): NR
- Cleveland.com (10.29.26): NR
30. Los Angeles Rams – Princewill Umanmielen, DE/OLB, LSU
Princewill Umanmielen NFL Draft Profile
- Height: 6’5”
- Weight: 245 lbs
- Age (on CFB Week 1): 21
- Position: Defensive End
- School: LSU
- Class: Senior
- Hometown: Austin, TX
- Jersey Number: 1
"A two-time transfer from Nebraska and Mississippi, Umanmielen - the brother of Panthers outside linebacker Princely Umanmielen - could form an imposing tandem with Jared Verse if he continues to develop after posting nine sacks last year." — Schwartz

Note: This mock was done prior to the Cleveland Browns trading Myles Garrett to the Los Angeles Rams. Cleveland now owns this selection.

Reaction: Umanmielen could still be the pick here as a foundational piece for Cleveland’s post-Garrett rebuild.

Princewill Umanmielen Mock Drafts
- ESPN: NR
- CBS Sports: NR
- The Sporting News (10.14.26): NR
- Todd McShay (Ringer): NR
- Sports Illustrated 9.0 (9.23.26): NR
- Tankathon (10.4.26): NR
- The Athletic (10.7.26): NR
- USA TODAY Sports (10.14.26): NR
- Athlon Sports (10.23.26): NR
- Cleveland.com (10.29.26): NR
31. Denver Broncos – A.J. Holmes Jr., DT, Texas Tech
A.J. Holmes Jr. NFL Draft Profile
- Height: 6’3”
- Weight: 300 lbs
- Age (on CFB Week 1): 22
- Position: Defensive Tackle
- School: Texas Tech
- Class: Senior
- Hometown: Houston, TX
- Jersey Number: 33
"After the Jaylen Waddle trade, the Broncos might be poised to boast the AFC's most well-balanced roster for some time. Holmes would make Denver's stacked defense ramp up the pressure on opponents even further while demanding attention and creating opportunities for others." — Schwartz

Reaction: On an already balanced roster, Holmes would be a classic strength-on-strength selection designed to keep Denver’s defense dominant.

A.J. Holmes Jr. Mock Drafts
- ESPN: NR
- CBS Sports: NR
- The Sporting News (10.14.26): NR
- Todd McShay (Ringer): NR
- Sports Illustrated 9.0 (9.23.26): NR
- Tankathon (10.4.26): NR
- The Athletic (10.7.26): NR
- USA TODAY Sports (10.14.26): NR
- Athlon Sports (10.23.26): NR
- Cleveland.com (10.29.26): NR
32. Seattle Seahawks – Mateen Ibirogba, DT, Texas Tech
Mateen Ibirogba NFL Draft Profile
- Height: 6’4”
- Weight: 300 lbs
- Age (on CFB Week 1): 22
- Position: Defensive Lineman
- School: Texas Tech
- Class: Senior
- Hometown: Clarksburg, MD
- Jersey Number: 98
"Mike Macdonald's deep and varied pass rush appears due for upheaval next year, with defensive tackle Leonard Williams and edge rushers Uchenna Nwosu and Derick Hall all unsigned beyond this season. A former edge rusher at Georgetown, Ibirogba bulked up to become an interior pest at Wake Forest but maintained the explosiveness and versatility that Macdonald and general manager John Schneider would no doubt appreciate." — Schwartz

Reaction: A high-motor, versatile interior rusher is exactly the kind of chess piece Mike Macdonald needs to restock his defensive line.

Mateen Ibirogba Mock Drafts
- ESPN: NR
- CBS Sports: NR
- The Sporting News (10.14.26): NR
- Todd McShay (Ringer): NR
- Sports Illustrated 9.0 (9.23.26): NR
- Tankathon (10.4.26): NR
- The Athletic (10.7.26): NR
- USA TODAY Sports (10.14.26): NR
- Athlon Sports (10.23.26): NR
- Cleveland.com (10.29.26): NR
1. New York Jets – Arch Manning, QB, Texas
Arch Manning NFL Draft Profile
- Height: 6’4”
- Weight: 219 lbs
- Age (on CFB Week 1): 22
- Position: Quarterback
- School: Texas
- Class: Junior
- Hometown: New Orleans, LA
- Jersey Number: 16
"Manning would provide an unparalleled level of hope and excitement to a franchise that doesn't look equipped to end the lengthiest active postseason drought in North American men's team sports anytime soon." — Michael Middlehurst-Schwartz

Reaction: It is the obvious marriage of need and star power, but Manning's 2026 performance, not his famous last name, must ultimately justify the No. 1 pick.

Arch Manning Mock Drafts
- ESPN 2.0 (Reid): No. 2 to Arizona Cardinals
- CBS Sports: No. 1 to Miami Dolphins
- The Sporting News (10.14.26): No. 1 to Tennessee Titans
- Todd McShay (Ringer): No. 1 to Miami Dolphins
- Sports Illustrated 9.0 (9.23.26): No. 2 to New York Jets
- Tankathon (10.4.26): No. 2 to Tennessee Titans
- The Athletic (10.7.26): No. 12 to Cleveland Browns
- USA TODAY Sports (10.14.26): No. 5 to New York Jets
- Athlon Sports (10.23.26): No. 11 to Cleveland Browns
- Cleveland.com (10.29.26): No. 8 to Arizona Cardinals