2026 NFL Mock Draft: Predicting the First-Round QB Selections

The 2026 NFL Draft is fast approaching, and quarterback selections are anticipated to dominate the first round. While several underclassmen show promise, their choices to declare for the draft remain uncertain. Among them are Dante Moore from Oregon, Alabama’s Ty Simpson, South Carolina’s LaNorris Sellers, and Arch Manning from Texas. Their potential return to college stems from both inexperience and opportunities for NIL revenue.

2026 NFL Mock Draft: Projected First-Round QB Selections

In addition to underclassmen, experienced quarterbacks will also enter the draft. However, many teams might focus on bolstering their defenses, as this draft class features a wealth of defensive talent.

Top Teams and Their Picks

• New Orleans Saints (1-7): Reuben Bain Jr., DE, Miami (6-3, 275)
  • The Saints look to improve their aging defense with Bain, who adds physicality and production.
• New York Jets (1-7): Caleb Downs, S, Ohio State (6-0, 205)
  • Downs stands out for his instincts and tackling ability, aiming to elevate the Jets’ secondary.
• Tennessee Titans (1-7): Arvell Reese, OLB, Ohio State (6-4, 243)
  • The Titans prioritize defense with Reese, who has a versatile skill set reminiscent of Micah Parsons.
• Cleveland Browns (2-6): Spencer Fano, OT, Utah (6-5, 310)
  • Investing in Fano secures the offensive line for the Browns’ future quarterback.
• Miami Dolphins (2-6): Mansoor Delane, CB, LSU (6-0, 190)
  • Delane is a key defensive addition, having not allowed a touchdown this season.
• New York Giants (2-6): Jordyn Tyson, WR, Arizona State (6-1, 195)
  • Tyson’s route-running enhances the Giants’ offense as they develop their young quarterback.
• Baltimore Ravens (2-5): Peter Woods, DT, Clemson (6-3, 315)
  • Woods’ ability to occupy space will bolster the Ravens’ defense amid injury troubles.
• Las Vegas Raiders (2-5): Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana (6-5, 225)
  • Mendoza could be the Raiders’ future quarterback, offering mobility and quick decision-making.
• Arizona Cardinals (2-5): Jeremiyah Love, RB, Notre Dame (6-0, 212)
  • Love’s explosive ability fits well with the Cardinals’ injury-riddled roster.
• Cincinnati Bengals (3-5): Keldrick Faulk, DE, Auburn (6-6, 270)
  • Faulk provides option to fill a potential void in the Bengals’ pass rush for next season.
• Washington Commanders (3-5): Kenyon Sadiq, TE, Oregon (6-3, 240)
  • Sadiq is a strategic pick to enhance the playmaking capabilities of the Commanders’ offense.

Further Projections

• Los Angeles Rams (from Atlanta Falcons, 3-4): Francis Mauigoa, OT, Miami (6-6, 315)
• Minnesota Vikings (3-4): CJ Allen, LB, Georgia (6-1, 235)
• Houston Texans (3-4): Justice Haynes, RB, Michigan (5-11, 210)
• Dallas Cowboys (3-4): Cashius Howell, Edge, Texas A&M (6-2, 248)
• Chicago Bears (4-3): Anthony Hill Jr., LB, Texas (6-3, 237)
• Pittsburgh Steelers (4-3): Carson Beck, QB, Miami (6-4, 225)
• San Francisco 49ers (5-3): Kayden Proctor, OT, Alabama (6-7, 360)
• Los Angeles Chargers (5-3): Olaivavega Ioane, OG, Penn State (6-4, 328)
• New England Patriots (6-2): Denzel Boston, WR, Washington (6-4, 210)
• Indianapolis Colts (7-1): Carnell Tate, WR, Ohio State (6-3, 195)

As teams approach the draft on April 23, 2026, the quarterback selections remain a focal point. The decisions made by underclassmen, in particular, will significantly shape the landscape of this anticipated event.