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NFLPreview
NFL insider 2026 mock draft: What we're hearing around the league
TL;DR
The 2026 NFL mock draft highlights a weak class with limited top talent, particularly at quarterback, running back, and cornerback. Many teams are considering trading down, with potential mock trades included.
Key points
- 2026 NFL draft is considered weak by most teams
- Limited top talent at quarterback, running back, and cornerback
- Depth exists at offensive tackle and edge rusher
- Many top 10 teams may trade down
- Includes potential mock trades
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We made it to the week of the draft, where hopefully this event gets a little more juice. I love the draft, and I love doing my one and only mock, but this exercise was certainly a labor of love.
By now, you know that most teams don't feel this is a strong draft. There's depth at offensive tackle and edge rusher, but we could see only a combined three to five quarterbacks, running backs and cornerbacks go in the first round.
In past years, I liked to put several mock trades in my drafts to reflect what was likely to come later that week. The issue here is that about half of the top 10 could trade down with any number of teams. You'll find two mock trades below, but for the most part I tried to just hit on player and team.
I'll have my annual Thursday notebook filled with what I'm hearing around the league in the lead-up to the draft. Until then, mock this mock.
The 2026 NFL Draft will take place April 23-25 in Pittsburgh. You can find more draft coverage at CBSSports.com, including weekly mock drafts andregular evaluations of the top prospects.
NFL Mock Draft
Round 1
| Round 1 - Pick 1 team logo team logo player headshot Fernando Mendoza QB Indiana • Jr • 6'5" / 236 lbs | --- | --- | --- | ||||
| Round 1 - Pick 2 team logo team logo player headshot David Bailey EDGE Texas Tech • Sr • 6'4" / 250 lbs | --- | --- | --- | ||||
| Round 1 - Pick 3 team logo team logo player headshot Francis Mauigoa OT Miami (Fla.) • Jr • 6'6" / 329 lbs |
Q&A
Why is the 2026 NFL draft considered weak?
The 2026 NFL draft is seen as weak because most teams believe there is limited top talent, especially at key positions like quarterback, running back, and cornerback.
How many quarterbacks are expected to be drafted in the first round of the 2026 NFL draft?
It is anticipated that only three to five quarterbacks will be selected in the first round of the 2026 NFL draft.
Which positions have depth in the 2026 NFL draft?
The 2026 NFL draft features depth primarily at offensive tackle and edge rusher positions.
What are the chances of trades happening in the top 10 picks of the 2026 NFL draft?
There is a significant chance of trades occurring, as about half of the top 10 teams are considering trading down.
