2026 NFL mock draft: Miller's pick predictions for Rounds 1-7 - ESPN

The 2026 NFL draft kicks off in Pittsburgh on April 23. That's only 24 days away. And while boards can still be shaken up a bit more, it's time to stop messing around and predict the entire 2026 draft. That's right — I'm projecting all seven rounds and 257 draft picks.

Predraft events are winding down, and teams are starting to finalize their plans. We have a clearer idea of what every roster needs with the bulk of free agency complete. How might each front office approach its picks? How many teams will target a quarterback? Which positions will run deepest, and where can teams find value?

Here are my predictions for Rounds 1-7. I provided complete breakdowns for the first three rounds and listed names for the final four. Asterisks indicate compensatory picks. It all starts and ends in the AFC West, with the Raiders at No. 1 and the Broncos at No. 257. And for more on these predictions, check out our new show «NFL Draft Daily» at 3 p.m. ET on ESPN2.

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Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana

As soon as the Raiders were locked in with the first overall pick, they were expected to select a quarterback, and Mendoza is the clear QB1. Mendoza is a smart, accurate, poised quarterback with enough arm talent and mobility to be a threat, but his trademark is his ability to layer the ball as a thrower to the right spot for his receivers. He threw an FBS-high 41 touchdown passes and just six interceptions last season en route to a Heisman Trophy and national championship.

Arvell Reese, Edge, Ohio State

A couple of trades (acquiring QB Geno Smith and sending edge rusher Jermaine Johnson to the Titans) teased what the Jets might be thinking here. Instead of reaching for a quarterback, GM Darren Mougey