2026 NFL Mock Draft: Final Predictions for Rounds 1, 2

It's the eve of the 2026 NFL Draft, and after a year’s worth of player evaluations and careful combing of current team needs, this is how I see things shaking out over the first two rounds. 

I considered projecting trades. Some expect the first round to be full of them. Rather than add even more hypotheticals to the exercise, I did what most of the league will do Thursday: "stick and pick." 

I did roll the dice in projecting a few surprises, however. The unexpected picks are what make the NFL Draft so compelling every year. One thing fans should expect are runs on receivers, offensive tackles and cornerbacks in the first round, with edge rushers being all the rage throughout the late portion of the first and throughout the second round. 

1. Las Vegas Raiders: Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana 

Long-suffering Raiders fans, this is your moment. Klint Kubiak, the brilliant playcaller that helped turn Sam Darnold into a Super Bowl winner, took this job in large part because of the opportunity to select Mendoza, a perfect match for his offense. Prototypically built — from both a size and intangibles perspective — Mendoza looks like a good bet to hit big in Las Vegas.  

2. New York Jets: David Bailey, Edge, Texas Tech 

The Jets finished last in the AFC in sacks last season — and that was with defensive linemen Quinnen Williams and Jermaine Johnson for much of it. Bailey is the best pass-rusher in this class, winning with great burst and bend. An aggressive offseason spent adding veterans suggests that the Jets want the most bang for their buck with this pick, which is why they might lean toward Bailey over Arvell Reese, who has better traits.

David Bailey #DL31 of Texas Tech runs the 40-yard dash during the 2026 NFL Scouting