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2026 NFL Draft Mock: Early Projections Emerge

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  Published in House and Home on Monday, February 9th 2026 at 10:26 GMT by FanSided
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Monday, February 9th, 2026 - As the dust settles on the 2025 NFL season and teams begin their offseason evaluations, the anticipation for the 2026 NFL Draft is already building. While much can - and undoubtedly will - change in the coming months, we're taking a look at a projected first-round mock draft based on current college performances, team needs, and early scouting reports. The landscape is heavily influenced by the perceived depth at certain positions, particularly quarterback and offensive tackle, as well as consistently needy teams looking to rebuild or fortify key areas.

The Quarterback Carousel Continues

The biggest storyline heading into the 2026 draft, mirroring trends from recent years, is the demand for quarterbacks. Caleb Williams (USC), Drake Maye (North Carolina), and Jaden Daniels (LSU) currently lead the pack. Williams, often touted as a generational talent, is projected to go first overall to the Chicago Bears (via the Carolina trade). The Bears, still in a rebuilding phase, see Williams as the cornerstone of their future. Similarly, the Washington Commanders are expected to target a quarterback with the second overall pick, with Maye representing a strong alternative if Williams is off the board. The New England Patriots, after years of searching for a long-term solution, are projected to grab Daniels, hoping his potential and arm talent can revitalize their offense. The Chiefs' late-round selection of Cooper Bateman suggests they are also looking to the future at the QB position, possibly grooming him as a backup or long-term replacement for Patrick Mahomes.

Offensive Line Dominance The offensive tackle position is remarkably deep in this projected class, leading to a run on tackles in the early rounds. The Los Angeles Rams (Joe Alt, Notre Dame), Las Vegas Raiders (Brock Tagliabuen, Tennessee), Atlanta Falcons (Taliese Fuaga, Oregon State), New York Jets (JC Latham, Alabama), and others are all prioritizing protecting their quarterbacks and establishing a strong running game. This reflects a league-wide emphasis on offensive line play as a foundational element of success. Beyond tackles, interior offensive line play is also valued, with players like Brian Wright (Illinois) and Graham Barton (Stanford) projected to be selected to improve run blocking and pass protection.

Defensive Needs: Edge Rushers and Cornerbacks

While offense often drives early draft picks, several teams are heavily focused on bolstering their defenses. The New York Giants (Dallas Turner, Alabama), Seattle Seahawks (Jared Verse, Florida State), and others are desperate for pass-rushing prowess. This demand is driving up the value of edge rushers with athleticism and power. However, the greatest positional need across the league, according to this mock draft, seems to be at cornerback. An astounding nine of the final fifteen picks are dedicated to cornerbacks - Kool-Aid McKinstry (Alabama), Smoke Bey (Ole Miss), Troy Bowdry (Georgia), Khadarien Pisarcik (Texas), Zion Stamper (South Carolina), Amod Stroud (Jacksonville), William Mincy (Kent State), TJ Searcy (Mississippi State), and Terrion Arnold (Alabama). This points to a perceived lack of quality at the position and a league-wide struggle to find consistent coverage.

Defensive Tackle Depth

Several teams are also looking to improve their defensive interior. Malik Freemand (Florida), Nate Willis (Clemson), and Maason Smith (LSU) are all projected to be selected in the first round, indicating a decent level of depth at the defensive tackle position. These players are valued for their ability to disrupt opposing offenses and create opportunities for linebackers and edge rushers.

Looking Ahead

This mock draft offers a snapshot of the current projections, but the coming months will be filled with combine performances, pro days, and team interviews that will dramatically alter the landscape. Injuries, unexpected breakouts, and changes in team direction will all play a role in shaping the final draft order. However, the early trends suggest a draft heavily focused on quarterbacks, offensive line play, and, surprisingly, cornerbacks. It promises to be an intriguing draft class with the potential to reshape the NFL for years to come.