NFL Mock Draft 2026: Final 3-round projections include Jordyn Tyson to Giants, Makai Lemon to Rams; Omar Cooper Jr. to Jets originally appeared on The Sporting News. Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
The 2026 NFL Draft is only a day and a half away. After a long pre-draft process that started in earnest with the 2025 college football season, the best pro prospects will finally have their names called in the first three rounds on April 23 and April 24 in Pittsburgh.
Now that all 32 teams are about to be on the clock, it's time to check with one last mock. With the latest information and rumors in mind, here's projecting how picks No. 1 through No. 100 might play out, including the lock at the top:
Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana (6-5, 236 pounds)
Mendoza to the Raiders is the only guarantee in the first round. Now the only question is whether he will beat out Kirk Cousins and start right away in Klint Kubiak's offense.
Arvell Reese, LB/EDGE, Ohio State (6-4, 241 pounds)
The Jets have been debating Reese vs. David Bailey, because they're both dynamic pass rushers who also have a ton of athleticism to make big plays in every capacity. Reese offers just a little more versatility for Aaron Glenn.
David Bailey, EDGE, Texas Tech (6-4, 251 pounds)
The Cardinals have become more enamored with Bailey as they try to boost their pass rush for retained defensive coordinator Nick Rallis. He also can be a huge needed coverage asset for them when needed.
MORE: Sporting News' complete 7-round mock draft
The Titans have been attached to Love more during the early part of draft month, making him the second-most likeliest pick after the Mendoza lock. Love would make sense to support Cam Ward well in Brian Daboll's offense as the team blows up a fading Tony Pollard-led backfield.
Sonny Styles, LB, Ohio State (6-5, 244 pounds)
The Giants have some flexibility with this pick now that they have acquired No. 10 overall, too, from the Dexter Lawrence trade with the Bengals. They have loved Styles for a while as a needed dominant rangy playmaker.
The Browns should be thinking a lot more about offense over defense early in the draft and it comes down to wide receiver or offensive line with this pick. Here's sticking with Tate from Columbus in state to become their new outside No. 1.
MORE: NFL power rankings 2026 after free agency
The Commanders are the strongest candidates to trade down in the first round with their multitude of needs that line up with the best players available. Downs would make sense plenty if they stay put as the top impact defender on the board for Dan Quinn.
Rueben Bain Jr., EDGE, Miami (6-2, 263 pounds)
The Saints also could consider a wide receiver early but it would be difficult to pass on Bain as the ideal replacement for Cameron Jordan in Brandon Staley's defense.
The Chiefs will be ready to jump on Delane, unless the Commanders make the bold move for him. Cornerback is a huge need for Kansas City after moving on from Trent McDuffie, Jaylen Watson and Joshua Williams in the offseason.
MORE: Mansoor Delane stuns with exceptional 40 time