Sportsnaut
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.
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.
Related: Cleveland Browns Coaching Candidates to Replace Kevin Stefanski
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.
Related: Las Vegas Raiders Coaching Candidates to Replace Pete Carroll
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 is his 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
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...
