2026 NFL Mock Draft: David Bailey Goes After Mendoza; Jeremiyah Love Goes Fourth

We learned a lot from the NFL Combine. We saw some absolute studs shine in Indianapolis, and we also got a clearer picture of which players will be the best fits for different squads next season.

And after the combine came a blockbuster trade, which saw the Chiefs send cornerback Trent McDuffie to the Rams.

I've factored all of this into my projections for my first mock draft leading up to April.

Let's take a look.

This page may contain affiliate links to legal sports betting partners. If you sign up or place a wager, FOX Sports may be compensated. Read more about Sports Betting on FOX Sports .

1. Las Vegas Raiders: Fernando Mendoza , QB, Indiana
Super Bowl Odds: +20000 (bet $10 to win $2,010 total)

The Raiders need a quarterback and Mendoza is the best one in this draft. This is a no-brainer draft pick and no need to discuss the reasoning. Mendoza will be a Raider.

2. New York Jets: David Bailey , Edge Rusher, Texas Tech
Super Bowl Odds: +20000 (bet $10 to win $2,010 total)

I was tempted to have New York draft Arvell Reese, but the Jets need a ready pass rusher. They traded Quinnen Williams during the 2025 season and just last week, traded pass rusher Jermaine Johnson to the Titans. The Jets were 31st in pressure generated per dropback and had zero defensive interceptions. Bailey is a twitched-up pass rusher who is rarely blocked by the opposing tackle. He’s instinctive and finishes strongly to the ball. This is an immediate upgrade for the Jets.

3. Arizona Cardinals: Arvell Reese , (LB, Ohio State
Super Bowl Odds: +30000 (bet $10 to win $3,010 total)

I put the best player on the draft board into a Cardinals uniform. Reese is a physical freak who projects to rush the passer in the NFL. His