NFL · 11 hours ago

ESPN’s Matt Miller Reveals Full First-Round Mock Draft Ahead of 2026 NFL Draft

John Canady

Host · Writer

32) Seattle Seahawks: EDGE Keldric Faulk, Auburn
Keldric Faulk rounds out the first round as a high-upside edge defender with intriguing physical tools. The Auburn standout brings size, power, and athleticism, even if his production has yet to match his potential fully. At just 20 years old, Faulk offers long-term developmental upside for a defense looking to stay dominant.

“Faulk is a high-potential prospect at 6-foot-6 and 276 pounds with pro-level power and agility.” - Miller

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1) Las Vegas Raiders: QB Fernando Mendoza, Indiana
Fernando Mendoza steps in as the clear-cut franchise quarterback for Las Vegas after a dominant, championship-caliber season at Indiana. The Heisman winner combines elite accuracy with poise and touch, consistently putting the ball in perfect spots for his playmakers while limiting mistakes. After throwing 41 touchdowns to just 6 interceptions, Mendoza gives the Raiders a true cornerstone to build around.

“He threw an FBS-high 41 touchdown passes and just six interceptions last season en route to a Heisman Trophy and national championship.” - Miller

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2) New York Jets: EDGE Arvell Reese, Ohio State
Arvell Reese brings elite upside to the Jets as a hybrid defender with the tools to become a nightmare off the edge. His combination of burst, speed, and physicality allows him to impact the game in multiple ways, and there’s a real sense that his best football is still ahead of him. For a Jets defense that needs juice, Reese offers the kind of ceiling teams gamble on early.

“Reese split time between linebacker and edge rusher but has the tools to be a Micah Parsons-type project in the NFL.” - Miller
3) Arizona Cardinals: OT Francis Mauigoa, Miami
Francis Mauigoa gives Arizona a foundational piece in the trenches, stepping in as the top offensive lineman in the class. The Miami standout pairs physicality in the run game with steady pass protection, showing the ability to anchor against top competition. After allowing just two sacks during a deep playoff run, Mauigoa profiles as a long-term building block.

“Mauigoa is the draft's top-ranked offensive lineman and allowed only two sacks during Miami's run to the national title game.” - Miller
4) Tennessee Titans: RB Jeremiyah Love, Notre Dame
Jeremiyah Love lands in Tennessee as a potential game-changer out of the backfield, bringing rare explosiveness and versatility to the offense. His ability to break off long runs, combined with his receiving production, makes him a true three-down weapon. With size, speed, and proven production, Love has the tools to emerge as one of the league’s top backs quickly.

“Love is a rare RB prospect with home run speed.” - Miller
5) New York Giants: S Caleb Downs, Ohio State
Caleb Downs gives the Giants a dynamic presence in the secondary, offering versatility and high-level instincts that translate immediately. His ability to impact the game both near the line of scrimmage and deep in coverage makes him a perfect fit for a defense looking to evolve. Downs’ experience and football IQ set him apart as a plug-and-play difference-maker.

“Downs' fit with new coach John Harbaugh can't be ignored.” - Miller
6) Cleveland Browns: WR Carnell Tate, Ohio State
Carnell Tate continues Ohio State’s wide receiver pipeline, bringing reliability and playmaking ability to Cleveland’s offense. The polished route runner consistently creates separation and capitalizes on opportunities, while his strong hands make him a dependable target. After recording just one drop last season, Tate profiles as a future WR1 option.

“The sure-handed 6-foot-2 receiver had just one drop last season.” - Miller
7) Washington Commanders: CB Mansoor Delane, LSU
Mansoor Delane emerges as one of the premier shutdown corners in the class, giving Washington a much-needed presence on the outside. His ability to limit completions and make plays on the ball stands out, as quarterbacks rarely found success when targeting him. Allowing just 10 completions for 119 yards, Delane offers immediate impact potential.

“Delane did that better than anyone in the nation last season, allowing only 10 completions for 119 yards.” - Miller
8) New Orleans Saints: EDGE David Bailey, Texas Tech
David Bailey brings elite production and explosiveness to the Saints’ defensive front, immediately upgrading their pass rush. His first-step quickness and relentless motor allow him to disrupt plays in the backfield consistently. After posting 23 tackles for loss and 14.5 sacks, Bailey profiles as a high-impact edge at the next level.

“With 23 tackles for loss and 14.5 sacks last season, Bailey was unstoppable.” - Miller
9) Kansas City Chiefs: EDGE Rueben Bain Jr., Miami
Rueben Bain Jr. gives Kansas City a powerful and versatile presence off the edge, capable of impacting both the run and pass game. His ability to line up in multiple spots fits perfectly within an aggressive defensive scheme, while his production speaks for itself. With 71 pressures and 9.5 sacks in 2025, Bain brings proven disruption to a unit that needs it.

“Bain would immediately start opposite George Karlaftis and has the inside/outside alignment versatility that Steve Spagnuolo has typically preferred.” - Miller
10) Cincinnati Bengals: LB Sonny Styles, Ohio State
Sonny Styles slipping to Cincinnati would be a dream scenario, giving the Bengals a true difference-maker at the second level. The former safety brings rare size and speed, allowing him to erase mismatches in coverage while still impacting the pass rush with seven sacks over the past two seasons. Styles has the tools to become the centerpiece of this defense almost immediately.

“Styles is a top-five talent on my board, so the Bengals would be wise to stop his slide.” - Miller
11) Miami Dolphins: WR Makai Lemon, USC
Makai Lemon steps in as Miami’s new WR1 after a full reset at the position, bringing elite reliability and playmaking ability to the offense. The USC standout thrives over the middle and after the catch, pairing strong hands with explosive movement in space. After posting 79 catches for 1,156 yards and 11 touchdowns, Lemon gives the Dolphins a foundational piece in the passing game.

“He is an elite middle-of-the-field receiver who will immediately help new quarterback Malik Willis.” - Miller
12) Dallas Cowboys: CB Jermod McCoy, Tennessee
Jermod McCoy gives Dallas a much-needed alpha presence at corner, bringing the kind of coverage ability that can change how defenses operate. When healthy, the Tennessee standout has shown elite ball skills and physicality, highlighted by four interceptions and nine pass breakups in his last full season. If he returns to form, McCoy has true CB1 upside.

“He would have been my top cornerback in the 2025 class if he were draft-eligible.” - Miller
13) Los Angeles Rams (via ATL): OT Spencer Fano, Utah
Spencer Fano lands in Los Angeles as a tough, experienced lineman capable of locking down the right side for years to come. His versatility and movement skills stand out, especially after logging multiple seasons as a starter across both tackle spots. While length concerns exist, Fano’s toughness and consistency make him a strong long-term option.

“Teams love his toughness and quickness on top of his three seasons of starting experience.” - Miller
14) Baltimore Ravens: TE Kenyon Sadiq, Oregon
Kenyon Sadiq gives Baltimore a dynamic weapon at tight end, adding elite speed and scoring ability to the offense. The Oregon standout is a nightmare matchup in the red zone and down the seam, combining athleticism with strong hands. After running a 4.39 40-yard dash and scoring eight touchdowns in 2025, Sadiq profiles as a major addition for Lamar Jackson.

“Giving Lamar Jackson the fastest tight end to ever test at the combine seems like a good idea.” - Miller
15) Tampa Bay Buccaneers: LB CJ Allen, Georgia
CJ Allen steps into Tampa Bay as a potential leader in the middle of the defense, bringing toughness and instincts to a unit in transition. The Georgia linebacker plays with a physical edge, impacting the game as both a blitzer and coverage defender. While measurables may divide scouts, Allen’s production and leadership traits stand out.

“He's also a nasty blitzer who is able to hang in coverage when matched up with tight ends.” - Miller
16) New York Jets (via IND): WR Jordyn Tyson, Arizona State
Jordyn Tyson gives the Jets a big-bodied playmaker who can complement Garrett Wilson and stretch defenses vertically. His ability to win in contested situations and dominate in the red zone makes him a valuable target, especially with his 6-foot-2, 203-pound frame. If he stays healthy, Tyson has the tools to become a major factor in the passing game.

“Tyson plays above the rim like his brother.” - Miller
17) Detroit Lions: OT Monroe Freeling, Georgia
Monroe Freeling fills a major need for Detroit, offering rare size and athleticism at left tackle. The Georgia product moves exceptionally well for his frame, showcasing traits that point to long-term success protecting the blindside. With 6-foot-7, 315-pound size and impressive speed, Freeling brings both immediate value and high-end upside.

“Freeling is one of the few proven left tackles with a Round 1 grade.” - Miller
18) Minnesota Vikings: S Dillon Thieneman, Oregon
Dillon Thieneman feels like a seamless fit in Minnesota, stepping into a role that demands range, instincts, and playmaking ability. The Oregon safety has consistently produced, recording eight career interceptions while limiting production in coverage. His ability to read the field and create turnovers makes him a natural replacement in the secondary.

“Having Thieneman replace Harrison Smith is one of the cleanest and easiest picks to predict in this draft.” - Miller
19) Carolina Panthers: G Olaivavega Ioane, Penn State
Olaivavega Ioane gives Carolina a powerful and versatile building block along the interior offensive line. His ability to play multiple positions, combined with improved movement skills, makes him a valuable long-term piece. Ioane’s physicality and development trajectory point to a player capable of anchoring a unit moving forward.

“Ioane played left guard, center, and right guard in college and has the power to be an effective run blocker at any position.” - Miller
20) Dallas Cowboys (via GB): S Emmanuel McNeil-Warren, Toledo
Emmanuel McNeil-Warren adds a physical, playmaking presence to Dallas’ secondary, bringing size and versatility to the safety position. His ability to impact the game near the line of scrimmage stands out, especially with nine career forced fumbles showcasing his knack for creating turnovers. McNeil-Warren offers immediate value in multiple defensive looks.

“McNeil-Warren's best asset is his downhill tackling ability that has led to nine career forced fumbles.” - Miller
21) Pittsburgh Steelers: OT Kadyn Proctor, Alabama
Kadyn Proctor gives Pittsburgh a massive presence at left tackle, addressing a key need along the offensive line. The Alabama standout combines size and power with improving technique, allowing him to hold up against top competition. After allowing just three sacks and committing two penalties last season, Proctor shows clear starting potential.

“Proctor had three sacks allowed and only two penalties last season.” - Miller
22) Los Angeles Chargers: EDGE Cashius Howell, Texas A&M
Cashius Howell brings speed and production to the Chargers’ pass rush, immediately filling a void off the edge. His burst off the line and ability to consistently pressure quarterbacks stand out, highlighted by 11.5 sacks and 40 pressures in 2025. Howell’s play style gives him the tools to contribute early in a rotational role.

“Howell led the SEC with 11.5 sacks and added 40 pressures.” - Miller
23) Philadelphia Eagles: EDGE Akheem Mesidor, Miami
Akheem Mesidor lands in Philadelphia as a pro-ready edge rusher ready to contribute right away. His polished technique and powerful hands allow him to win consistently against offensive tackles. After breaking out with 12.5 sacks and 58 pressures, Mesidor brings proven production to a defense in need of reinforcements.

“Mesidor is a pro-ready pass rusher with the tools to beat offensive tackles with his powerful hands, technique, and moves.” - Miller
24) Cleveland Browns (via JAX): CB Brandon Cisse, South Carolina
Brandon Cisse gives Cleveland another versatile piece in the secondary, adding depth and playmaking ability at corner. His physicality and willingness to contribute against the run make him more than just a coverage defender. With the ability to line up inside or outside, Cisse provides flexibility to a talented defensive back group.

“He's also an elite tackler who could bring added value as a blitzer and run defender from the slot.” - Miller
25) Chicago Bears: DT Peter Woods, Clemson
Peter Woods offers Chicago a high-upside interior presence, bringing rare physical tools to a position of need. While his college production didn’t fully match expectations, his explosiveness and strength stand out on tape. With the right development, Woods has the potential to become a disruptive force along the defensive line.

“Scouts believe that he'll be a better pro than college player.” - Miller
26) Buffalo Bills: WR Omar Cooper Jr., Indiana
Omar Cooper Jr. gives Buffalo a polished and dependable target who can contribute right away in multiple alignments. The Indiana standout thrives as a route runner and consistently finishes through contact, making him a reliable chain-mover. After recording just three drops on 94 targets, Cooper profiles as a steady presence in the passing game.

“He's dependable with great hands -- only three drops on 94 targets last season.” - Miller
27) San Francisco 49ers: OT Caleb Lomu, Utah
Caleb Lomu finally gives San Francisco a long-term answer at left tackle, stepping in as a potential successor to an aging cornerstone. The Utah product brings balance and athleticism that fit seamlessly in the 49ers’ scheme, showing consistency in pass protection. After allowing just three sacks over the past two seasons, Lomu looks like a future starter on the blindside.

“Considering that All-Pro Trent Williams will be 38 and is in the midst of a contract impasse, this would be a good time for San Francisco to finally make that pick.” - Miller
28) Houston Texans: OT Blake Miller, Clemson
Blake Miller offers Houston a steady and experienced option at right tackle, continuing their effort to build a young offensive line. The Clemson standout has shown consistent growth throughout his career, backed by strong fundamentals and durability. After allowing only two sacks in 2025, Miller brings both reliability and upside to the position.

“Miller started 54 college games at right tackle and improved every season.” - Miller
29) Kansas City Chiefs (via LAR): CB Avieon Terrell, Clemson
Avieon Terrell gives Kansas City another versatile defensive back who can thrive in multiple roles across the secondary. His ability to line up inside or outside, combined with strong coverage instincts, makes him a natural fit in their system. Allowing just 4.4 yards per attempt when targeted, Terrell adds immediate value to a retooling secondary.

“Terrell is similar to McDuffie in his ability to play inside or outside.” - Miller
30) Miami Dolphins (via DEN): CB Colton Hood, Tennessee
Colton Hood steps into a major need for Miami, bringing speed and physicality to a depleted cornerback room. The Tennessee defender has the tools to thrive in press coverage, using his athleticism to stay in phase with receivers. With 4.44 speed, Hood offers the upside to develop into a key contributor early.

“He has 4.44 speed and excellent ability to play the press scheme new coach Jeff Hafley prefers.” - Miller
31) New England Patriots: DT Caleb Banks, Florida
Caleb Banks adds size and power to New England’s defensive front, giving them a true presence in the middle. The Florida standout moves exceptionally well for his frame, combining strength with surprising athleticism. At 6-foot-6, 327 pounds with a 5.04 40, Banks has the tools to clog lanes and collapse the pocket.

“Banks' power and push in the middle could open things further for Barmore and Williams to rush the passer.” - Miller
32) Seattle Seahawks: EDGE Keldric Faulk, Auburn
Keldric Faulk rounds out the first round as a high-upside edge defender with intriguing physical tools. The Auburn standout brings size, power, and athleticism, even if his production has yet to match his potential fully. At just 20 years old, Faulk offers long-term developmental upside for a defense looking to stay dominant.

“Faulk is a high-potential prospect at 6-foot-6 and 276 pounds with pro-level power and agility.” - Miller

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1) Las Vegas Raiders: QB Fernando Mendoza, Indiana
Fernando Mendoza steps in as the clear-cut franchise quarterback for Las Vegas after a dominant, championship-caliber season at Indiana. The Heisman winner combines elite accuracy with poise and touch, consistently putting the ball in perfect spots for his playmakers while limiting mistakes. After throwing 41 touchdowns to just 6 interceptions, Mendoza gives the Raiders a true cornerstone to build around.

“He threw an FBS-high 41 touchdown passes and just six interceptions last season en route to a Heisman Trophy and national championship.” - Miller

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ESPN’s Matt Miller Reveals Full First-Round Mock Draft Ahead of 2026 NFL Draft

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