College Football's Top Picks: Who's Going Where in the 2026 NFL Draft?
The 2026 NFL Draft is shaping up to be quite the event, with plenty of talent from the college football scene making the jump to the pros.
National Champions and Top Picks
The Indiana Hoosiers are celebrating their national championship win, and quarterback Fernando Mendoza is expected to be the first pick overall. But he's not the only star from this year's college football season making waves. Miami is also sending a bunch of players to the NFL, with several of them expected to be top picks.
Draft Order Shifts
The draft order has shifted a bit since the season ended, with some teams moving up or down the board.
Key Picks and Teams
- Las Vegas Raiders: Expected to take Fernando Mendoza (QB, Indiana).
- New York Jets: Looking at defensive players like Arvell Reese (Ohio State).
- Arizona Cardinals: Interested in offensive tackle Francis Mauigoa (Miami).
- Tennessee Titans: Expected to pick Rueben Bain Jr. (DE, Miami).
- New York Giants: Adding help for QB Jaxson Dart with Jordyn Tyson (Arizona State).
- Cleveland Browns: Picking offensive tackle Spencer Fano (Utah).
- Washington Commanders: Adding defensive help with David Bailey (Texas Tech).
- New Orleans Saints: Adding help for QB Tyler Shough with Carnell Tate (Ohio State).
- Kansas City Chiefs: Adding help for their run game with Jeremiyah Love (Notre Dame).
- Cincinnati Bengals: Adding defensive help with Caleb Downs (Ohio State).
Mid-Draft Surprises
The draft isn't just about the top 10 picks. Some teams are looking for specific needs:
- Minnesota Vikings: In a tough spot, not good enough to compete but not bad enough for a top pick.
- Pittsburgh Steelers: Looking to add a quarterback with Ty Simpson (Alabama).
- Philadelphia Eagles: Adding defensive help with T. J. Parker (Clemson).
- Buffalo Bills: Adding help for their passing game with Denzel Boston (Washington).
Conclusion
The draft is always full of surprises, and it's anyone's guess who will end up where. One thing is for sure: the 2026 NFL Draft is going to be one to remember.
