With the 2026 NFL Combine in Indianapolis underway, the conversation around the first round of the NFL Draft is heating up. Over 300 prospects are trying to prove themselves, but only 32 will hear their names called on Day 1.
Based on my opinion, team needs, and player upside, here’s how I believe the top 10 picks should play out and why these selections could shape the future of the league.
1. Las Vegas Raiders - Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana
This pick is simple. The Raiders still haven’t found their franchise quarterback since moving on from Derek Carr.
Fernando Mendoza is the best QB in this draft class, and it’s not close. He threw for 3,535 yards, 48 touchdowns, and only 6 interceptions, while leading Indiana to a national championship.
He’s accurate, calm under pressure, and can extend plays when things break down. The Raiders need a leader — Mendoza is that guy.
My take: This is a franchise changing pick.
2. New York Jets - Arvell Reese, LB/EDGE, Ohio State
The Jets defense needs playmakers badly, especially in the pass rush.
Arvell Reese is one of the most versatile defenders in the draft. He can rush the passer, play linebacker, and disrupt offenses everywhere.
He has elite athleticism and huge upside.
My take: Reese could become the leader of the Jets defense for the next decade.
3. Arizona Cardinals - Francis Mauigoa, OT, Miami
The Cardinals must protect their quarterback and improve the offensive line.
Mauigoa brings size, strength, and consistency. He’s a three-year starter and dominates in the run game.
My take: This is a smart, long-term investment.
4. Tennessee Titans - Rueben Bain Jr., EDGE, Miami
Rueben Bain Jr. is one of the best defensive players in the entire draft.
He’s powerful, explosive, and relentless.
The Titans need a pass rusher, and Bain could immediately become their defensive cornerstone.
My take: This could be a steal if he falls here.
5. New York Giants - Spencer Fano, OT, Utah
The Giants must protect their young quarterback.
Spencer Fano didn’t allow a sack this past season and has the athleticism to dominate at the next level.
My take: This pick is about protecting the future.
6. Cleveland Browns - Carnell Tate, WR, Ohio State
The Browns need a true No. 1 receiver.
Carnell Tate is polished, reliable, and dangerous.
He finished with:
- 875 yards
- 9 touchdowns
- 17.2 yards per catch
My take: Tate gives Cleveland a true weapon.
7. Washington Commanders - David Bailey, EDGE, Texas Tech
Washington needs pass rush help badly.
Bailey had:
- 14.5 sacks
- 23 tackles for loss
He’s explosive and disruptive.
My take: Immediate defensive impact player.
8. New Orleans Saints - Jordyn Tyson, WR, Arizona State
The Saints need to help their young quarterback.
Tyson is a big, athletic receiver with strong hands and red-zone ability.
My take: He could become their top target quickly.
9. Kansas City Chiefs - Keldric Faulk, EDGE, Auburn
The Chiefs always build through the trenches.
Faulk has elite size and pass-rush potential.
He can line up anywhere on the defensive line.
My take: Kansas City continues building a dominant defense.
10. Cincinnati Bengals - Caleb Downs, S, Ohio State
The Bengals defense struggled badly last season.
Caleb Downs is a leader and playmaker.
He can cover, tackle, and create turnovers.
My take: He fixes a major weakness.
Final Thoughts
This draft will shape the NFL for years to come, especially at quarterback and edge rusher.
My biggest predictions:
- Fernando Mendoza becomes a franchise QB
- Rueben Bain Jr. becomes a star defender
- Carnell Tate becomes a top receiver
- Caleb Downs becomes one of the best safeties in the NFL
The combine will change things, but right now, this is how I see the top 10 playing out.
