Rueben Bain Jr. 2026 NFL mock draft: latest prediction for Miami (FL) Defensive Lineman

The 2026 NFL Draft is approaching fast and league scouts are solidifying their big boards. Defensive Lineman Rueben Bain Jr. could be among the players who hear their name called early in Pittsburgh this week when the NFL welcomes its newest class of rookies.

USA TODAY Sports has all the latest on where the prospect out of Miami (FL) may land.

Here's how USA TODAY's latest mock draft currently projects draft day will play out for the former college star.

Rueben Bain Jr. 2026 NFL Draft prediction: Pick No. 12 overall, Dallas Cowboys

Nate Davis' Fit Analysis:

Jones covets Styles, per reports, but almost certainly cant expect him to fall here. But barring an aggressive move up, the Cowboys almost surely have to do something else to redress the D, Dallas failing to play "a lick of defense" in 2025, per Jones. Bain's T-rex limbs didnt stop him from being extremely productive often against NFL-caliber offensive tackles for the Canes. He bulled his way to 9 sacks and 15 TFLs last season and was a menace during the College Football Playoff. Hes also a high-motor player who could play extensively opposite recently acquired Rashan Gary in Dallas new 3-4 front while potentially allowing Donovan Ezeiruakus snaps to be more focused on passing downs when Bain could rush from the interior.

Ayrton Ostly's Big Board Rank: No. 9

Bain stepped up in the College Football Playoff and that improved his stock. At 6-foot-2 and 263 pounds, his physicality and power will fit in at the NFL level immediately. He wasn't as productive numbers-wise as you'd like from a top-10 pick and his arm length may force him inside long-term. But he has the makings of a high-end No. 2 pass rusher.

See the full big board here

Campus Intel: