2026 NFL Mock Draft: Colin Cowherd Believes 5 Edge Rushers Should Go in Top 15

Just like many others, Colin Cowherd is excited about the edge rusher talent in the 2026 NFL Draft. In fact, he's so impressed with the talent at the position that he thinks five edge rushers could go in the top 15 in this year's draft.

In his first 2026 NFL mock draft, Cowherd put on his general manager lenses and predicted what might happen with the top 15 picks. 

"I am going to draft based on what I would do as general manager, and I think it will look, mostly, like the first 15 picks," Cowherd said on Wednesday's episode of "The Herd." 

Does general manager Cowherd also think Mendoza should go No. 1? Who does he think the Jets should pick at No. 2? Does he have the Chiefs finding Patrick Mahomes another wide receiver at No. 9? 

Here's Cowherd's first mock draft. 

Cowherd's thoughts: "That’s the easiest one. The Raiders need a quarterback. Fernando Mendoza is easily the best quarterback prospect. Is he Matt Ryan plus Heisman Winner? 16-0 at a non-traditional power, big arm, moves well, humble, gratitude, and you get that rookie quarterback contract for the next four to five years.

Cowherd's thoughts: "My second pick is a little different than everyone else’s mock. I think the Jets draft David Bailey, the best pure edge [in the draft]. He’ll walk into the Jets — on one side you’ll have Will McDonald, on the other it’s David Bailey. I hear about Arvell Reese — Arvell Reese projects as an edge rusher. I don’t trust the Jets to get that right. This guy is a plug-and-play guy. He will be starting the first week."

Cowherd's thoughts: "I think Arizona should call on Fernando Mendoza, but their offensive line is a wreck and they have a new offensive coach. What do offensive coaches like Ben Johnson do? Solve the offensive