2026 NFL mock draft: Yates' pick predictions in Rounds 1-2 - ESPN

In the month since I did my last mock draft, we've had the NFL combine, the opening of free agency and a couple of blockbuster trades. Most recently, the Broncos traded their first-round pick in a package to the Dolphins for wide receiver Jaylen Waddle.

We still have a long road ahead, with pro days just starting up around the country. But for now, it's safe to make some predictions for the first two rounds based on team needs, my personal rankings and what I'm hearing from people around the league. That even allows us to get into what the Broncos, Colts, Falcons, Jaguars and Packers might do early — all five teams traded away their first-round selections but will pick in Round 2.

Let's begin with the Raiders at No. 1. 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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Round 1 | Round 2

Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana

The draft starts at No. 2, as this pick has been etched in stone basically since the order was decided. Mendoza's Heisman-winning season displayed superior accuracy, arm strength, ability to scan the field, clutch production and good in-pocket mobility.

The Raiders worked hard in free agency to beef up the roster around Mendoza, specifically landing the best available offensive lineman in center Tyler Linderbaum. One area Mendoza will need to work on is being under center. He did that just 3% of the time in 2025; NFL teams played under center on 34.9% of snaps in 2025.

David Bailey, Edge, Texas Tech

A busy free agency period has the Jets' defense in an improved place compared with the end of last season, with the team adding linebacker Demario Davis and two edge rushers