The 2026 NFL Draft is just around the corner, and the buzz in Pittsburgh is building. With deep talent pools at wide receiver, edge rusher, and cornerback, but a notable drop-off in later rounds, expect a trade-heavy first night as teams scramble to secure top prospects.

In our latest mock draft, two teams make particularly bold moves. The Dallas Cowboys orchestrate a dramatic trade-up into the Top 10, targeting a game-changing edge rusher to supercharge their defense. Meanwhile, the Cleveland Browns leverage their assets to make a staggering three selections in the first round, aiming for a franchise-altering haul.

The action starts at the very top, where the Las Vegas Raiders are projected to make the easiest call of the night: selecting Heisman Trophy and National Championship-winning quarterback Alex Mendoza. He's the consensus top signal-caller and the clear future of the franchise.

For the New York Jets at pick two, the choice comes down to upside. They opt for the versatile defensive weapon James Reese, whose athleticism fits perfectly into the new defensive schemes head coach Aaron Glenn is installing.

The Arizona Cardinals, holding the third pick, face a tougher decision with needs at tackle, edge, and quarterback. Passing on a QB here, they are projected to select elite edge rusher David Bailey. His explosive physical profile addresses a critical pass-rush need that was glaringly unaddressed in free agency.