NFL

2026 Mock Drafts

Mike Renner's Mock Draft: Browns Select Fernando Mendoza 1st Overall

The Heisman winner and leader of the undefeated Hoosiers keeps passing every test thrown his way. He made mincemeat of the Alabama defense in his first playoff game. We can debate his ceiling all we want, but his floor is very high for an incoming quarterback prospect.

Moore has some of the most effortless arm talent you'll ever see, with a throwing motion taken straight out of a textbook. He's shown some cracks under pressure this season, but that's to be expected with his limited experience. If Moore doesn't declare, the Jets look poised to go the veteran quarterback route, as there's no one else worthy of reaching for in the top five or even top 20 this year.

Bailey saved his best for last with an elite all-around performance against Oregon's vaunted offensive line in the playoff. A year ago, he couldn't even start for Stanford because of his timidness against the run. Now, he single-handedly shut down the Ducks' rushing attack with four run stops in the loss. He's skyrocketed up boards this season.

Reese is a modern hybrid linebacker who would bring pass-rushing juice from anywhere to the Titans' front seven. The Titans need all the help getting after opposing quarterbacks they can get.

Mike Renner's Mock Draft: Cowboys Select 2 Defensive Lineman In 2026

Faulk may be listed as a defensive end, but his body type fits as a defensive tackle for pretty much every scheme in the NFL nowadays. At 6-foot-6, 285 pounds, he is a Calais Campbell-esque tweener who is already a handful in the run game. If you watched the Giants' worst-ranked run defense this past fall, you know that's a massive need.

Goosby finished the season on a tear and looks like the only tackle in the class with bona fide top-10 tools. The Browns' tackle position was a banged-up mess this past fall, so he'll be a welcome addition.

With both Terry McLaurin and Deebo Samuel getting up there in age, the Commanders have to think about someone to pair with Jayden Daniels long term. Tate is the exact kind of rangy vertical threat that would pair perfectly with Daniels' feathery deep balls.

Kellen Moore loves himself a running game but could never quite find one in his first year in New Orleans while cycling through numerous backs. That cycle would end with Love, as he's the kind of home run threat who can be the focal point of an offense.

Mike Renner's Mock Draft: Titans Select Edge Rueben Bain Jr. 2nd Overall

If Bain falls because of his arm length, the Chiefs aren't likely to hesitate to add him to Steve Spagnuolo's defense. He's the exact type of power defensive end that Spagnuolo has loved dating back to his days as the Giants' defensive coordinator.

Downs is the reliable secondary player the Bengals desperately need. He's not only assignment-sure in coverage but also rarely misses tackles.

Sadiq was born to play tight end for Mike McDaniel for two reasons. The first is that he's electric after the catch. With a squattier frame than most running backs, he resembles a jumbo running back with the ball in his hands. The other is that Sadiq is a ferocious blocker in space. That's a far more common assignment for a Dolphins tight end than inline blocking a defensive end.

Styles feels like exactly what the Cowboys need in their front seven: someone with elite range who also is assignment-sure. The former safety turned linebacker is easily the best tackler at the position in the draft class.

Tyson's injury history, which has cost him time in three straight seasons, could cause him to fall, and that would be bad news for the rest of the NFL. He's the best pure separator in the draft class and would be able to pick up Davante Adams' torch in the offense whenever he hangs them up.

Mauigoa would likely start at guard early in his career, with the option to kick out to tackle when Ronnie Stanley retires. The Ravens simply have to get better at guard, and Mauigoa is exactly the kind of butt-kicker who could make the switch.

The Buccaneers could look to bolster their guard position, which was an issue for much of 2025. Fano was a tackle at Utah but looks best suited for the interior in the NFL.

Lemon is the missing link in the slot on what's been an overhauled receiving corps. Garrett Wilson, Adonai Mitchell, Mason Taylor and Makai Lemon would be a formidable front four for years to come.

Delane was the best man corner in college football this fall, and the Lions are one of the man-heaviest teams in the NFL. While the Lions have options in the pipeline, like Terrion Arnold and Ennis Rakestraw, they've yet to prove anything meaningful two years in.

Kwesi Adofo-Mensah showed in free agency last year that he's willing to buy low on players with injury risks for the potential value they present. That describes no one in this draft class better than McCoy. His sophomore tape was top-10 worthy, but he didn't play all fall with an ACL tear suffered last January.

The Panthers have a lot of money committed to their defensive tackle position, but they need impact wherever they can get it on the defensive side of the ball. Woods was a projected top-five pick based on his sophomore film before a lackluster junior campaign. That talent didn't disappear, though, and would look great next to Derrick Brown on early downs.

Parker is, at minimum, an upgrade for the Cowboys in the run game. He's a powerful defensive end who's been productive ever since his freshman year at Clemson. It would bolster their by-committee approach in the wake of the Micah Parsons trade.

It seems like it's time to admit Broderick Jones can't be Plan A at left tackle for the future. Lomu is a much more refined pass blocker coming out than Jones ever was and could allow Jones to kick inside.

Banks might be the biggest wild card in the draft class. He's a fifth-year defensive tackle who's averaged fewer than 200 snaps per season for his career and played only 96 this fall with a foot injury. The high-end reps he has for a 6-foot-6, 330-pounder, though, are jaw-dropping.

This only makes sense if the Eagles and A.J. Brown finalize the divorce that looks inevitable this offseason. Boston is the kind of big-bodied vertical threat on the outside who could replace much of Brown's role in the offense.

Concepcion is a pure separator, the likes of which the Bills have not had since Stefon Diggs was in his prime. That's the biggest missing piece hampering the Bills' offense this season.

With how well Ben Johnson has protected his tackles in the passing game, Chicago is one of the few schemes in which Proctor could stick at tackle. His ability to move the line of scrimmage would be put to good use in the offense.

Spencer Burford has been a pain point in pass protection at left guard ever since he entered the starting lineup in 2022. With the emergence of the Rams' and Seahawks' defensive interiors, that's a big problem going forward. Ioane would be a massive upgrade in that regard.

Washington is the kind of explosive one-gap defensive tackle who could take the Texans' defense into the all-time category. He's not close to a finished product, but he doesn't need much polish to be disruptive with his physical tools.

Could the Browns nab a franchise left tackle and right tackle in one round? Iheanachor is one of the draft's most intriguing prospects, as he never played football before he got to college. He has all the traits to be an NFL tackle but is obviously raw.

The corner position has been one of the biggest points of contention for the Rams this season. Terrell changes that. He's a physical tackler and would allow the Rams to mix in more man coverage concepts.

The Patriots would prefer edge help here but would settle for a playmaking nose tackle like Hunter. Hunter is the rare 330-plus-pounder who can consistently get into opponents' backfields.

Allen would add even more oomph to the Broncos' blitz packages, and that's a scary thought. He's a downhill thumper who sends offensive linemen backward.

Mike Renner's Mock Draft: Cowboys Select 2 Defensive Lineman In 2026

This feels unfair. The Seahawks adding the draft's best run-defending nose tackle to the league's best run defense in six years would send a resounding message to the rest of the league: You aren't running on Seattle.

Mike Renner's Mock Draft: Browns Select Fernando Mendoza 1st Overall

Mendoza is a poised, accurate passer who has plus arm talent, consistently delivering catchable balls on time and in rhythm and excelling on layered second-level routes. He shows NFL-level field vision and coverage recognition, consistently ripping throws with anticipation. While not a true creator, Mendoza navigates collapsing pockets effectively and can make accurate off-platform throws, showing a calm, efficient style reminiscent of Jared Goff.

An explosive, high-motor LB with a versatile skill set that includes elite closing speed vs. both the run and the pass. He is a terror coming downhill, showcasing his strength and athleticism to shoot gaps, shed blocks and collapse the pocket. Reese is a wrap-up tackling machine who consistently plays with an aggressive edge and the versatility to line up across the front seven. One of the biggest risers over the first month of the college season.

Moore is a composed, confident pocket passer who thrives under pressure, consistently working through progressions and delivering accurate, tight-window throws with anticipation. He's highly effective when moving the launch point, showing the arm strength and touch to attack every level of the field -- often off-platform. While not a true dual-threat, Moore's poise, vision and athleticism allow him to extend plays and create when protection breaks down, and he repeatedly shows up in big moments.

Woods is a powerful, explosive interior defensive lineman who consistently wins at the point of attack with violent hands, low pad level and exceptional strength. He's immovable against the run -- stacking, shedding and disrupting plays in the backfield while maintaining gap integrity -- and can overwhelm interior blockers. Though not reliant on a deep move set, Woods' athleticism, effort and persistence allow him to collapse pockets and create chaos from multiple alignments.

Simpson is a big-armed pocket passer who plays with composure and outstanding mental processing both before and after the snap. He plays with an aggressive confidence and excels at navigating muddy pockets, throwing accurately on short and intermediate routes, and ripping tight-window throws with anticipation -- though he has been historically inconsistent on deep balls. Simpson is athletic enough to buy time with his legs to extend plays and move the sticks.

Tate is a long strider with a big catch radius and reliable hands who makes contested catches downfield look easy. He flashes quickness and short-area agility to create separation at the top of his route and has the ability to make defenders miss after the catch. His ball-tracking, route-running and ability to operate in space make him a Day 1 impact player at the next level.

Downs could be a Troy Polamalu-level talent in the NFL. He's only 5-foot-11, and he may not end up running a 4.35-second 40-yard dash, but I don't care. Not even a little bit. Both Kyle Hamilton and Brian Branch Jr. slipped on draft day because of mediocre 40 times. They're two of the best young defensive backs in football. Downs is a run-game enforcer and has the sideline-to-sideline juice, coupled with the short-area burst, to excel in pass coverage.

Mike Renner's Mock Draft: Cowboys Select 2 Defensive Lineman In 2026

First, Faulk just turned 20 in September. Second, he's unofficially 6-foot-6 and 288 pounds, and he is already near-elite as a run defender. The power and athleticism with which he plays make it an easy projection to see him as a dominant pass rusher down the road. Maybe it doesn't happen until, say, Year 2 in the league, but when it all comes together, it's going to be scary.

Love has legit track speed and high-end acceleration. He can stop on a dime and redirect with rare change-of-direction ability, while playing with good contact balance and the footwork to jump-cut to avoid defenders before hitting the crease.

Mike Renner's Mock Draft: Titans Select Edge Rueben Bain Jr. 2nd Overall

Bain Jr. is an explosive, violent edge rusher with rare power and bend, capable of turning the corner from wide alignments and overwhelming tackles with speed-to-power. He wins with a deep arsenal of pass-rush moves -- from bull rushes to inside counters -- and plays with exceptional contact balance and hand usage to shed blocks both as a rusher and run defender. Relentlessly disruptive and highly explosive off the snap, Bain consistently collapses pockets, sets a firm edge and makes impact plays from whistle to whistle.

A savvy, instinctive CB who excels in both off coverage and press man schemes, Delane is consistently in the WRs' back pocket on intermediate and vertical routes. He has a good understanding of route combinations, will drive on balls in front of him and is a reliable tackler in space.

Proctor is a massive, athletic LT with impressive balance and the ability to move effectively in space, making him a first-round talent in both pass protection and perimeter run schemes. When locked in, he can dominate defensive linemen in the run game and neutralize elite edge rushers in pass protection. While his weight, footwork and consistency can be an issue at times, his size, athleticism and upside make him a potential top-tier tackle when fully focused.

Cisse is a versatile corner who can consistently lock down receivers in press-man coverage and showcases elite athleticism, with explosive downhill speed and next-level change-of-direction ability. Whether he's driving on quick routes from off coverage or playing in press, he's consistently in position for pass breakup opportunities. He's also one of the best run-defending CBs in this entire class.

Road grader/earth mover in the run game with enormous size and insane athleticism for that size. He plays with an edge and is better vs. the run than in pass protection right now but well above average in both departments. He could play right tackle or kick inside to guard.

McCoy is a physical corner who can play man on an island and is also comfortable in zone looks. He's in phase on vertical routes, and in run support he comes downhill looking to thump someone. He's coming off a January ACL injury, and while he's yet to get back on the field, he could end up being the best CB in this class.

Thomas wins with twitch and a relentless motor. He's explosive off the snap, bends the corner with ease and keeps coming even when the first move doesn't work, which explains his knack for turning pressures into sacks. He can beat OTs with speed or power (or both in the same rep), collapse the pocket from different alignments, and is the definition of playing with "your hair on fire." He might be undersized by typical NFL edge rusher standards, but we all said the same thing about former Sooner Nik Bonitto.

Terrell has NFL bloodlines -- his brother is former first-round pick A.J. Terrell. Avieon plays bigger than his listed size (see his matchup in 2024 against former Stanford WR Eric Ayomanor). He can stay in phase on vertical routes, has good ball skills and will try to bait QBs into making throws. In run support, he plays outside CB like a strong safety.

A big, physical WR with a massive catch radius, contested-catch ability and the speed to separate quickly and hit top-end velocity in 2-3 steps. Boston is an effective route runner at all three levels, will run through arm tackles in space, and can outmuscle defenders in the red zone. While primarily an outside threat, his size, strength and hands make him a potential matchup problem in the slot, too. Added bonus: he's a legit threat as a punt returner.

Ioane is one of the cleanest prospects in this class, excelling as an earth mover in the run game and showing the athleticism to be effective in both gap and zone schemes. In pass protection, he plays with a strong base, using a well-timed, powerful punch to neutralize the bull rush.

Tyson is an explosive receiver with the size, speed and catch radius to win at all three levels. A smooth hands-catcher, he consistently makes contested and high-point grabs look effortless while creating surprising separation at the top of his routes for his size. Tyson can hit top-end speed in just a few steps and shows the type of short-area quickness reserved for smaller, shiftier WRs. He's also an asset in the screen game, making him a dynamic threat both outside and from the slot.

Bailey brings a mix of power and athleticism off the edge, pairing a strong long-arm move and a nasty bull rush with the burst to win around the corner. At 247 pounds, he's lighter than some, but his strength, motor and variety of pass-rush moves make him a constant problem for tackles who don't anchor well.

Sonny Styles is a fast, physical linebacker who flies downhill and makes plays all over the field. He's tough enough to take on offensive linemen in the box, athletic enough to cover ground in space and smart enough to handle multiple roles across a defense. Whether he's blitzing, filling a gap or dropping into coverage, he plays with urgency, confidence and the kind of versatility coaches love.

Sadiq oozes athleticism, will run through arm tackles and is used all over the formation. He can be a quick-game target as an outside WR and is used effectively on jet sweeps. He's also one of the best blocking TEs in college football who is an asset on special teams, too. He reminds me of Kadarius Toney in the quick game and Anquan Boldin in space with the ball in his hands.

Allen is a consistent problem for offensive linemen trying to block him because of his combination of speed, quickness and power. He has a nose for the ball, rarely takes false steps, and is a reliable, physical tackler who limits yards after contact all over the field. He can more than hold his own in coverage vs. TEs and slot receivers, and he brings juice as a blitzer, too.

Parker is an explosive, high-motor edge rusher with the juice to both collapse pockets with a bull rush and the bend to win around the corner. He's stout and disciplined against the run, from setting the edge to blowing up plays in the backfield with his quickness. He shows surprising versatility, with the athleticism to drop into coverage from wide alignments and disrupt passing lanes.

Pregnon is an absolute mauler in the run game, possessing the strength to move defensive linemen at the point of attack and the athleticism to easily get to and handle second-level defenders -- he anchors as well as any interior offensive lineman in the class. In pass protection, a balanced base, strong hands and smooth footwork allow him to mirror and redirect rushers, and he makes it look easy.

Concepcion is a versatile WR who uses his quickness and burst to consistently get open against man coverage, proving himself a deep threat with the speed to stack defenders. He is a natural hands-catcher who runs precise routes to all three levels and adds significant value as a dynamic punt returner with impressive YAC ability.

Smith is a smooth, athletic pass protector who hasn't allowed a sack this season. He excels at mirroring speed rushers and seamlessly handles stunting defensive linemen. He plays with a strong anchor and heavy hands, flashes lateral quickness and change of direction, and can get to the second level or blow up defenders in the screen game.

Lemon, who also excels as a returner, is a dynamic, versatile receiver with explosive burst, top-tier route running and exceptional YAC ability, making him a threat at all three levels of the field. He excels in space and consistently creates separation with quickness, balance and body control, and has the tackle-breaking ability to turn short gains into big plays.

When Iheanachor is locked in, he can make pass rushers disappear -- he plays with light feet, calm hands and the kind of balance that lets him mirror twitchy edge rushers without panicking. If he gets his hands inside, the rep is basically over; he can absorb power, reset against counters and ride speed rushers right past the quarterback. He's not flashy, but he's reliable, athletic and tough to beat clean -- the kind of pass protector coaches trust on an island.

Banks is surprisingly explosive for his size, playing with power, juice and a nonstop motor. A foot injury early in the 2025 season has affected him and kept him on the sidelines; the injury will be worth monitoring as the draft process unfolds.

Neal is a long-striding, physical corner who excels in vertical coverage, using his height and makeup speed to consistently stay in phase and be in position for pass breakup opportunities downfield. He's comfortable in both man and zone schemes, is a red zone asset due to his size and physicality, and his willingness to come downhill and tackle like a safety makes him a reliable run defender.

Mock Trade from: NYG

Shedeur Sanders has fluctuated between good and bad, which is to be expected from a rookie quarterback. Moore, still just 20 years old, has already faced adversity after starting for UCLA as a true freshman. The Cleveland-born quarterback would have a chance to accomplish what four other first-round quarterbacks taken by the franchise have been unable to do.

Mike Renner's Mock Draft: Browns Select Fernando Mendoza 1st Overall

Las Vegas' roster is so thin that the Raiders may want to consider trading down if the option is afforded to them. The opportunity to draft a franchise quarterback doesn't come around often, however, making it a difficult proposition to bypass. Mendoza has been the most consistent passer in college football this season, with accuracy and anticipation that stand out.

Mock Trade from: CLE

Wan'Dale Robinson has been a high-volume target for the Giants this season, but there's no guarantee he re-signs. While New York has bigger needs, a tandem of Carnell Tate and Malik Nabers could quickly become one of the league's best. The franchise would be wise to do everything it can to support Jaxson Dart.

Caleb Downs could potentially be the best player in this draft class. The choice boils down to pass rusher Arvell Reese and Downs; the latter is a more pressing need at this stage of the rebuild, but the former plays a more impactful position.

Tennessee won Sunday and fell in the draft order, but still lands the prospect who had been mocked to them in prior mocks. Arvell Reese has played linebacker, but is best rushing the passer. Cam Ward is the quarterback of the future and now the objective is finding additional building blocks.

Arizona's loss of Klayton Adams was significant, but the team can overcome it with better talent along the offensive line. Spencer Fano played right tackle for the Utes but may be slated to move inside at the next level. The Cardinals also have big decisions to make on head coach and quarterback.

Mike Renner's Mock Draft: Titans Select Edge Rueben Bain Jr. 2nd Overall

Rueben Bain won't be every team's cup of tea -- because he is lacking ideal length -- but his power and motor should appeal to head coach Dan Quinn. Washington has relied on stopgap options to pressure opposing quarterbacks and could finally address the position long term.

Tyler Shough has inspired the Saints to win three consecutive games. They select Jordyn Tyson to pair with Chris Olave. Both players are versatile enough to play on or off the line of scrimmage, which will challenge the opposition's approach to defending them.

Defense, defense, defense is the approach for Cincinnati. Ohio State safety Caleb Downs has been a popular choice for the franchise but, with Downs off the board, the focus shifts to the defensive line. Peter Woods was never the No. 1 overall prospect he had been billed as, but Woods remains a very disruptive player.

Jermod McCoy did not play in 2025 due to injury, but profiled as a top 10 overall prospect a year ago. Once upon a time, missing a full season did not negatively impact the value of talents like Derek Stingley Jr., Micah Parsons and Ja'Marr Chase. McCoy has size, ball production and oily hips in man coverage.

Reliance on a soon-to-be 38-year-old quarterback is eventually going to cost Los Angeles, in all likelihood. However, as long as he feels he is able to play, he continues to provide championship-caliber performance. As the pieces around him erode, vanish and are rebuilt, Stafford continues constructing his Pro Football Hall of Fame legacy. Francis Mauigoa gives the team more stability on the right side.

Kansas City may be hesitant to draft another running back in the first round after the limited impact of Clyde Edwards-Helaire. If Love doesn't go here, it would be interesting to see how long his wait lasts on draft night.

Mike Renner's Mock Draft: Cowboys Select 2 Defensive Lineman In 2026

Long and powerful has been the profile of pass rushers in Dallas. Keldric Faulk is still a young prospect who can continue to develop in a place where DeMarcus Ware, DeMarcus Lawrence, Micah Parsons and others have roamed the halls.

Baltimore is in a similar spot to Buffalo. Wide receivers tend to produce when paired with elite quarterbacks like Josh Allen and Lamar Jackson, but the Ravens lack a true game-changing presence on the outside. Denzel Boston brings a bigger body who can win above the rim in this offense. He has 11 touchdowns on the season.

Minnesota isn't a linebacker away from contention, but it remains a clear point of weakness on the roster. Styles has been fantastic for the defending national champions this season. The Vikings also need to start turning draft picks into production, as many of their key contributors were either selected by the previous regime or acquired via free agency.

There's nothing creative about this selection, but it makes sense. Linebacker has felt like Tampa Bay's position of choice for much of the past year. Allen isn't flashy, but he profiles as a steady bridge from the Lavonte David era to the next phase of the defense.

Detroit has used every form of player acquisition (free agency, trade, etc.) to address its pass-rushing need opposite Aidan Hutchinson. Injuries have maligned the unit. The Lions are almost to a point of starting from scratch and David Bailey has put together a nice resume with which to sell himself; first at Stanford and most recently at Texas Tech.

New York has pressed the big red button on its rebuild. The Jets need a franchise quarterback, but they also need to replace Sauce Gardner and Quinnen Williams. Five first-round picks is a lot to accomplish that task, but execution is all that matters at this point. Washington is an ascending talent who has already made an impact in the College Football Playoff.

Carolina has been a confusing team all season, but are in the NFC South driver's seat with two games to play. The Panthers continue building out the secondary with the selection of Mansoor Delane. There is work to be done, but Delane and Jaycee Horn are a good duo.

Pittsburgh still lacks a long-term answer at quarterback in this scenario, but Makai Lemon would be an ideal complement to DK Metcalf. Metcalf is on pace to eclipse 900 receiving yards for the seventh time in as many seasons. Lemon is strong and controlled through the catch, allowing him to get upfield quickly and generate additional yardage after the reception.

Dallas is nearing the point where it needs to turn the page on its incumbent cornerback room. Those investments have not paid off, as injuries have been a constant issue. Terrell, the younger brother of Falcons CB A.J. Terrell, would at least provide insurance at the position while also offering a fresh outlook on a deteriorating situation.

Dallas Goedert is playing out his final season under contract. Kenyon Sadiq could be the succession plan that Goedert had been for Zach Ertz. Sadiq is a big part of a dynamic Oregon offense, but his lack of ideal size has not prohibited him from being impactful in the run game.

For Houston, it's all about adding options along the offensive line. Proctor could, in theory, slide inside to guard at the next level, or he could compete with Aireontae Ersery at left tackle. The goal is to add depth and foster a healthier offensive line for an offense that has been rejuvenated over the second half of the season.

There isn't much KC Concepcion doesn't offer. He's comfortable working in space, understands how to protect himself from big hits, and is elusive in the open field. The NC State transfer would likely have even stronger production if he'd seen a higher volume of on-target throws this season. At 5-foot-11, he isn't the prototypical WR1, but he plays bigger than his frame and would pair well with Josh Allen.

Play strength is going to be the concern teams have with Caleb Lomu. Trent Williams is 37 years old, but has given no indication that he is done playing. If Williams plays for another season, then Lomu has a year to learn from the best left tackle in the game and continue filling out his frame.

Mike Renner's Mock Draft: Cowboys Select 2 Defensive Lineman In 2026

Kayden McDonald is a solid player whose impact shows up more against the run than as a pass rusher, which caps his ceiling. Still, it wasn't long ago that Kenneth Grant was selected No. 13 overall, and Jim Harbaugh is likely to appreciate many of McDonald's traits.

In this particular scenario, imagine that Cleveland does not have to part with this selection as part of its trade up. It is more realistic considering the Browns will be in position to draft one of the top two quarterback prospects next week after the Giants or Raiders lose. The team may need five new offensive line starters and more reliable wide receiver play, so that should be the focus.

Los Angeles would probably never make this selection because it does not seem to value cornerbacks in the first round. The Rams have also gotten elevated play from former first-round pick Emmanuel Forbes. Colton Hood is a cornerback with good ball production and man-coverage skills.

Chicago's offense is rolling right now, but the defense still needs work. Dennis Allen has always looked for those long defensive linemen who are powerful at the point of attack. Caleb Banks is a big body who can hopefully develop into a foundational piece of the Bears defense. Banks missed a portion of the college football season dealing with an injury.

Cashius Howell is not of prototypical size, but his production has been undeniable. He is another log for Mike Vrabel to throw on the pass-rushing fire. Howell is similarly built to K'Lavon Chaisson and Harold Landry; both were top 50 overall selections.

A run on wide receivers may lead Sean Payton to a familiar form of roster construction. Payton has always been proactive in building out his offensive lines. Vega Ioane is a powerful offensive guard who immediately provides depth.

Riq Woolen is scheduled to hit free agency after the season. Seattle staves off regression in that room with an investment at the highest level. In a short period of time, Mike Macdonald has already proven to be one of the game's best defensive coaches and a successful developer.

Mike Renner's Mock Draft: Titans Select Edge Rueben Bain Jr. 2nd Overall

I'd expect the Titans to trade the pick to a QB-needy team, but Bain is a plug-and-play disruptive edge who has delivered a dominant season in both phases. He's powerful and twitchy off the edge and offers versatility to kick inside if needed.

The Giants will likely shop this pick to a quarterback-needy team, but Reese provides versatility on defense. He can stay on the field every down as an outside linebacker and also has the ability to rush the passer.

Moore may or may not declare, but he should, given his poise, accuracy and ability to use his legs as a weapon. He has a big arm and delivers the ball with anticipation, particularly in tight windows and clutch moments.

Simpson has produced strong tape in his lone season as a starter, showing quick processing and the ability to anticipate and hit tight windows at all levels. He offers big upside with multiple NFL-caliber traits.

Fano is a consistent left tackle who will likely kick inside despite his impressive résumé manning the blind side over the last few seasons. He shows great feet and balance and displays power in the run game.

Mike Renner's Mock Draft: Browns Select Fernando Mendoza 1st Overall

The Jets, like the Browns, keep swinging and missing, and Mendoza remains a big question mark as a potential elite quarterback in the NFL. He's an accurate passer with adequate athleticism to extend plays. Mendoza processes well, gets the ball out on time and brings good experience and production.

Tyson is a dynamic and speedy receiver who can stretch the defense. He's also capable of making tough contested catches to move the chains.

Downs is one of the top prospects in the draft but may fall due to safety not being viewed as a premium position. He's a high-IQ player who has competed in three elite defensive systems. Downs is strong in coverage and physical in the box as well.

Love is one of the safest bets in the draft with elite traits across the board. He's a dynamic player with elite speed and vision and is also a receiving weapon.

Mike Renner's Mock Draft: Cowboys Select 2 Defensive Lineman In 2026

Faulk has not produced the dominant stats that I expected, but he has been effective at pressuring the quarterback with his length and ability to convert speed to power. He also offers positional versatility to play inside.

Mauigoa is a thick and powerful right tackle who could move to any position on the offensive line except left tackle. He's strong at the point of attack in the run game and maintains a solid anchor against power.

Delane has returned to his 2023 form and has been an eraser in coverage. He shows excellent change of direction and competitiveness at the catch point and should transition well to the next level.

Lemon plays with a defensive mentality at the catch point and brings a competitive edge. He's a problem in the slot due to his ability to create separation and make plays after the catch.

Howell is a twitchy edge rusher who has put it all together in 2025. He has an explosive get-off and the ability to convert speed to power.

Mike Renner's Mock Draft: Cowboys Select 2 Defensive Lineman In 2026

McDonald is a strong run stuffer who can clog interior gaps with leverage and explosive lower-body strength. He also shows some upside as a pass rusher.

Tate is a savvy and experienced route runner who plays beyond his years. He demonstrates excellent spatial awareness and dependable hands, projecting as the next OSU receiver to make an immediate impact in the NFL.

Loane brings excellent size and experience. He's a powerful run blocker with heavy hands and physicality at the point of attack and has improved his pass protection in 2025.

Jones is a rare 6-foot-4 corner with both athleticism and range. He excels in press coverage and shows quickness and the ability to run with receivers on in-breaking routes.

Washington is a dominant run stuffer who can reset the line of scrimmage and shows lateral quickness on stunts. He brings excellent power as a rusher and has upside.

Bailey is an explosive rusher with elite get-off and natural pass-rushing instincts. His run defense has improved, but he should contribute immediately as a situational rusher.

Mesidor may lack ideal size and length, but he consistently dominates with refined hand usage and the ability to bend the edge and reach the quarterback.

World is a massive prospect who has developed rapidly in his year at Oregon and is trending in the right direction. He possesses elite length and power at the point of attack.

Lomu is a fluid and athletic right tackle who is effective in both the run and pass game. He displays sound technique and footwork and has the versatility to play multiple positions.

Cisse is a sticky coverage defender with fluid hips and strong change-of-direction ability. He mirrors routes well and contests throws with strong hands.

Proctor is a jumbo but inconsistent player who will likely transition inside to guard. He is a strong run blocker with experience and offers some positional versatility.

Bell is an explosive, big-bodied receiver who presents matchup issues wherever he aligns. He's a high-upside player who would be a national name if he were in an offense that funneled him the ball more consistently.

Woods is a raw but high-upside interior defender who may rise in a weaker defensive tackle class. His 2025 film is streaky but shows flashes of twitch and functional power and moves well.

McCoy was one of the better corners in 2024 but missed the 2025 season recovering from an ACL injury. He brings length and man-coverage ability and is expected to return fully healthy.

McNeil-Warren shows strong range and closing ability in space. He is a high-ceiling defender with length and versatility, providing valuable flexibility to a secondary that often deals with injuries.

Sadiq is an explosive and dynamic tight end who can stretch the middle of the field and move the chains. He has reliable hands and generates yards after the catch and is also an adequate run blocker.

Boston is a long and fluid receiver who can stretch the field outside and create separation in the slot. He has strong production and is a red-zone threat due to his contested-catch ability.

Concepcion brings elite speed and versatility to stretch defenses vertically while also working effectively on short and intermediate routes. His return ability on special teams adds additional value.