We asked five AI chatbots to predict the 2026 NFL Draft. Here's how it went

We asked five AI chatbots to predict the 2026 NFL Draft. Here's how it went

AI may have many uses. Predicting the NFL draft may not be one of them.

As the 2026 NFL Draft approaches, draft experts around the internet have tried to predict the outcome of the first round in their own unique mock drafts. Each expert has provided their own spin on the first 32 picks in this year's draft, and most of them have provided analysis while explaining their thought process for those picks.

But what if we pawned off all of that lousy "thinking" and "analysis" to a large language model (LLM) powered by AI? Can the chatbots come up with their own versions of a mock draft that compete with the accuracy and predictive analysis provided by real draft experts?

AI VS. EXPERT: How chatbot picks compare to expert predictions in 2026 NFL mock draft

Over the last month, USA TODAY Sports has consulted with five different AI chatbots, asking each one to come up with its own predictions for the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft. OpenAI's ChatGPT, xAI's Grok, Microsoft Copilot, Meta AI and Google Gemini each put together its own mock draft.

Here is a full roundup of the results of AI mock drafts ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft:

Quarterbacks headline early evaluations for the 2026 NFL Draft as teams begin sorting the best available prospects at the position.

See the college quarterbacks drawing attention as draft boards take shape ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft.

Above, Fernando Mendoza of the Indiana Hoosiers reacts after a touchdown against the Oregon Ducks during the fourth quarter of the 2025 College Football Playoff Semifinal at the Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on January 09, 2026, in Atlanta, Georgia.

Ty Simpson of the Alabama Crimson Tide scrambles during the first quarter against the Indiana Hoosiers in the College Football Playoff Quarterfinal at Rose Bowl Stadium on January 01, 2026, in Pasadena, California.

Garrett Nussmeier of the LSU Tigers drops back to pass against the Baylor Bears during the first half in the Kinder's Texas Bowl at NRG Stadium on December 31, 2024, in Houston, Texas.

Cade Klubnik of the Clemson Tigers warms up during the first half of a football game against the South Carolina Gamecocks at Williams-Brice Stadium on November 29, 2025, in Columbia, South Carolina.

Drew Allar of the Penn State Nittany Lions reacts after a touchdown against the UCLA Bruins during the fourth quarter at Rose Bowl Stadium on October 04, 2025, in Pasadena, California.

Miami's Carson Beck throws during the College Football Playoff National Championship college football game at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens on Monday, Jan. 19, 2026.

Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback Taylen Green passes during the third quarter against the Auburn Tigers at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium.

Colorado Buffaloes linebacker LaVonta Bentley #20 tackles North Dakota State Bison quarterback Cole Payton #9 in the first half at Folsom Field.

Luke Altmyer of the Illinois Fighting Illini throws a pass against the Western Illinois Leathernecks during the first half at Memorial Stadium on August 29, 2025, in Champaign, Illinois.

Diego Pavia of the Vanderbilt Commodores makes adjustments prior to the snap during the second quarter of the game against the Texas Longhorns at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium on November 01, 2025, in Austin, Texas.

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See the top quarterbacks available in the 2026 NFL Draft

Quarterbacks headline early evaluations for the 2026 NFL Draft as teams begin sorting the best available prospects at the position.

See the college quarterbacks drawing attention as draft boards take shape ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft.

Above, Fernando Mendoza of the Indiana Hoosiers reacts after a touchdown against the Oregon Ducks during the fourth quarter of the 2025 College Football Playoff Semifinal at the Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on January 09, 2026, in Atlanta, Georgia.

1 / 10

See the top quarterbacks available in the 2026 NFL Draft

Quarterbacks headline early evaluations for the 2026 NFL Draft as teams begin sorting the best available prospects at the position.

See the college quarterbacks drawing attention as draft boards take shape ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft.

Above, Fernando Mendoza of the Indiana Hoosiers reacts after a touchdown against the Oregon Ducks during the fourth quarter of the 2025 College Football Playoff Semifinal at the Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on January 09, 2026, in Atlanta, Georgia.

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See the top quarterbacks available in the 2026 NFL Draft

Ty Simpson of the Alabama Crimson Tide scrambles during the first quarter against the Indiana Hoosiers in the College Football Playoff Quarterfinal at Rose Bowl Stadium on January 01, 2026, in Pasadena, California.

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See the top quarterbacks available in the 2026 NFL Draft

Garrett Nussmeier of the LSU Tigers drops back to pass against the Baylor Bears during the first half in the Kinder's Texas Bowl at NRG Stadium on December 31, 2024, in Houston, Texas.

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See the top quarterbacks available in the 2026 NFL Draft

Cade Klubnik of the Clemson Tigers warms up during the first half of a football game against the South Carolina Gamecocks at Williams-Brice Stadium on November 29, 2025, in Columbia, South Carolina.

5 / 10

See the top quarterbacks available in the 2026 NFL Draft

Drew Allar of the Penn State Nittany Lions reacts after a touchdown against the UCLA Bruins during the fourth quarter at Rose Bowl Stadium on October 04, 2025, in Pasadena, California.

6 / 10

See the top quarterbacks available in the 2026 NFL Draft

Miami's Carson Beck throws during the College Football Playoff National Championship college football game at Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens on Monday, Jan. 19, 2026.

7 / 10

See the top quarterbacks available in the 2026 NFL Draft

Arkansas Razorbacks quarterback Taylen Green passes during the third quarter against the Auburn Tigers at Donald W. Reynolds Razorback Stadium.

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See the top quarterbacks available in the 2026 NFL Draft

Colorado Buffaloes linebacker LaVonta Bentley #20 tackles North Dakota State Bison quarterback Cole Payton #9 in the first half at Folsom Field.

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See the top quarterbacks available in the 2026 NFL Draft

Luke Altmyer of the Illinois Fighting Illini throws a pass against the Western Illinois Leathernecks during the first half at Memorial Stadium on August 29, 2025, in Champaign, Illinois.

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See the top quarterbacks available in the 2026 NFL Draft

Diego Pavia of the Vanderbilt Commodores makes adjustments prior to the snap during the second quarter of the game against the Texas Longhorns at Darrell K Royal-Texas Memorial Stadium on November 01, 2025, in Austin, Texas.

AI mock draft predictions before 2026 NFL Draft

Note: All five mock draft predictions were compiled before the Cincinnati Bengals traded the No. 10 overall pick to the New York Giants.

1. Las Vegas Raiders

Microsoft Copilot: QB Fernando Mendoza, Indiana

Google Gemini: QB Fernando Mendoza, Indiana

Grok: QB Fernando Mendoza, Indiana

Meta AI: QB Fernando Mendoza, Indiana

ChatGPT: QB Fernando Mendoza, Indiana

The only consensus pick of the entire mock draft roundup. Mendoza to the Raiders is the closest thing to a foregone conclusion in this draft, so even the artificial intelligence couldn't screw this pick up.

2. New York Jets

Microsoft Copilot: RB Jeremiyah Love, Notre Dame

Google Gemini: LB/Edge Arvell Reese, Ohio State

Grok: LB/Edge Arvell Reese, Ohio State

Meta AI: LB/Edge Arvell Reese, Ohio State

ChatGPT: QB Dante Moore, Oregon

The Jets' selection at No. 2 was one of the picks that came the closest to a consensus in this roundup of AI mock drafts. One has to wonder how much of that came down to three out of the five chatbots seemingly forgetting about Texas Tech edge rusher David Bailey's existence. Copilot's decision to have Love match Eagles running back Saquon Barkley's draft position at No. 2 overall was a real head-scratcher, but it's not even the worst pick of the group. ChatGPT's selection of Moore, who has already announced he would return to Oregon instead of declaring for the draft, was just a bit of foreshadowing for the disastrous mock draft OpenAI's LLM put together.

3. Arizona Cardinals

Microsoft Copilot: Edge Rueben Bain Jr., Miami (Fla.)

Google Gemini: Edge David Bailey, Texas Tech

Grok: OT Francis Mauigoa, Miami (Fla.)

Meta AI: OT Francis Mauigoa, Miami (Fla.)

ChatGPT: S Caleb Downs, Ohio State

Spoiler alert: Gemini's pick is the highest that Bailey goes in any AI mock draft in this roundup. Meanwhile, Copilot had Arizona opting for a different edge rusher – Microsoft's LLM had Bailey go later – and the two social media-owned AIs were in lockstep on an offensive tackle selection instead. Bailey and Mauigoa are among consensus selections for the Cardinals in the draft community, so those picks don't stand out. Bain at No. 3 is a bit of a reach in the post-NFL combine world where his arm length raised concerns. Elsewhere, ChatGPT continued to march to the beat of its own drum.

4. Tennessee Titans

Microsoft Copilot: LB/Edge Arvell Reese, Ohio State

Google Gemini: RB Jeremiyah Love, Notre Dame

Grok: RB Jeremiyah Love, Notre Dame

Meta AI: RB Jeremiyah Love, Notre Dame

ChatGPT: OT Kadyn Proctor, Alabama

Another near-consensus pick. Tennessee would love to have Reese fall to them as one of the top edge rushers in the class, and Love is otherwise a popular consensus pick for the Titans among experts' mock drafts. For ChatGPT, none of that meant anything. While building up the offensive line in front of Cam Ward makes sense, no draft expert has Proctor as the top offensive tackle in this class, which is where he lands in OpenAI's mock.

5. New York Giants

Microsoft Copilot: S Caleb Downs, Ohio State

Google Gemini: LB Sonny Styles, Ohio State

Grok: LB Sonny Styles, Ohio State

Meta AI: LB Sonny Styles, Ohio State

ChatGPT: WR Carnell Tate, Ohio State

According to five different AI large language models, one thing was for sure when it came to the No. 5 pick: an Ohio State Buckeye was coming off of the board. Though the LLMs did not have a consensus pick, all of the selections made sense for New York. Downs and Styles provide a necessary upgrade to Big Blue's defense, while Tate is an excellent wide receiver to pair with lead wideout Malik Nabers to support quarterback Jaxson Dart.

6. Cleveland Browns

Microsoft Copilot: OT Francis Mauigoa, Miami (Fla.)

Google Gemini: OT Francis Mauigoa, Miami (Fla.)

Grok: OT Monroe Freeling, Georgia

Meta AI: OT Spencer Fano, Utah

ChatGPT: DT Peter Woods, Clemson

Build up the trenches! Getting an offensive tackle in the building is important for protecting whichever quarterback wins the starting battle in Cleveland for 2026, whether that be Mauigoa, Fano or Freeling (though the latter is a bit of a reach at 6). ChatGPT continues to do its own thing here, and while Woods is also a reach this early, he is also one of the top defensive tackle prospects in the class.

7. Washington Commanders

Microsoft Copilot: LB Sonny Styles, Ohio State

Google Gemini: WR Carnell Tate, Ohio State

Grok: S Caleb Downs, Ohio State

Meta AI: Edge Rueben Bain Jr., Miami (Fla.)

ChatGPT: Edge Rueben Bain Jr., Miami (Fla.)

The Commanders' pick was another rare instance in which there were several different options from the different LLMs and all of them would make sense. Styles is a pick that would make a ton of sense for Washington if he fell this far – helping to replace Bobby Wagner in the linebackers group and provide a capable pass defender at the position. Downs would help give the Commanders an extra boost in the secondary, which they desperately need with a weak group of cornerbacks. Bain could slot in across from free agent signing Odafe Oweh to upgrade Washington's pass-rush attack in a big way, and Tate could be the No. 2 wide receiver the Commanders are in need of behind Terry McLaurin.

8. New Orleans Saints

Microsoft Copilot: WR Carnell Tate, Ohio State

Google Gemini: CB Mansoor Delane, LSU

Grok: WR Carnell Tate, Ohio State

Meta AI: CB Mansoor Delane, LSU

ChatGPT: WR Evan Stewart, Oregon

Addressing the worst pick first: ChatGPT's selection of Stewart was the second time in its mock draft it tried to pick a player that did not declare for the draft. Outside of that, it was either Tate – to give New Orleans quarterback Tyler Shough a strong second option to throw to outside of Chris Olave – or Delane, a cornerback that fills a need across from Kool-Aid McKinstry after Alontae Taylor's departure in free agency. Not bad.

9. Kansas City Chiefs

Microsoft Copilot: WR Jordyn Tyson, Arizona State

Google Gemini: S Caleb Downs, Ohio State

Grok: Edge Rueben Bain Jr., Miami (Fla.)

Meta AI: WR Jordyn Tyson, Arizona State

ChatGPT: OT Will Campbell, LSU

Giving Mahomes more wide receiver help with Tyson would make sense at No. 9, as would improving the secondary or edge rusher situation in Kansas City. The Chiefs have not done well getting after opposing quarterbacks on the edge – though Chris Jones has held things down in the interior – and they've lost some key defenders in the secondary this offseason.

What does not make sense in the slightest is wasting a top-10 pick on a player that already plays for another professional team. This is only the beginning of many (many) such moves by ChatGPT.

10. Cincinnati Bengals

Microsoft Copilot: DL Peter Woods, Clemson

Google Gemini: Edge Rueben Bain Jr., Miami (Fla.)

Grok: LB Sonny Styles, Ohio State

Meta AI: S Caleb Downs, Ohio State

ChatGPT: OT Kelvin Banks Jr., Texas

Improving the defense had to be a clear point of focus for the Bengals this offseason – which they made clear in their trade of this pick for Dexter Lawrence. These AI mock drafts were all put together before that trade, and each LLM understood that assignment except for ChatGPT. Offensive tackle is a position of need, but Cincinnati will have a hard time if it tries to draft one of the Saints' players.

10. New Orleans Saints

    Tyler Shough #6 of the New Orleans Saints and Chris Olave #12 celebrate a touchdown during the second half against the Carolina Panthers in the game at Bank of America Stadium on November 09, 2025, in Charlotte, North Carolina.

9. Washington Commanders

   Terry McLaurin #17 of the Washington Commanders celebrates with Jayden Daniels #5 after catching a pass for a touchdown during the second quarter against the Detroit Lions in the NFC Divisional Playoff at Ford Field on January 18, 2025, in Detroit, Michigan.

8. New York Giants

   Jaxson Dart #6 and Cam Skattebo #44 of the New York Giants celebrate after Skattebo carried the ball into the endzone for a touchdown during the second quarter of the game against the Philadelphia Eagles at MetLife Stadium on October 09, 2025, in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

7. Tennessee Titans

   Head coach Brian Callahan talks with Cam Ward of the Tennessee Titans during the fourth quarter of a game against the Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium on October 05, 2025, in Glendale, Arizona.

6. Cleveland Browns

   Shedeur Sanders of the Cleveland Browns reacts to a touchdown in the fourth quarter against the Las Vegas Raiders at Allegiant Stadium on November 23, 2025, in Las Vegas, Nevada.

5. Dallas Cowboys

   Dak Prescott #4 and CeeDee Lamb #88 of the Dallas Cowboys celebrate after their touchdown connection against the Kansas City Chiefs during the first quarter in the game at AT&T Stadium on November 27, 2025, in Arlington, Texas.

4. Las Vegas Raiders

   Maxx Crosby of the Las Vegas Raiders celebrates after a missed field goal during the game against the New England Patriots at Gillette Stadium on September 07, 2025, in Foxborough, Massachusetts.

3. Miami Dolphins

   De'Von Achane #28 of the Miami Dolphins rushes for yards against Brandin Echols #26 of the Pittsburgh Steelers in the fourth quarter of the game at Acrisure Stadium on December 15, 2025, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

2. Kansas City Chiefs

   Patrick Mahomes of the Kansas City Chiefs and Andy Reid interact against the New York Giants during the second quarter at MetLife Stadium on September 21, 2025, in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

1. New York Jets

   Head coach Aaron Glenn of the New York Jets looks on during the fourth quarter against the Green Bay Packers during the NFL Preseason 2025 game between New York Jets and Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field on August 09, 2025, in Green Bay, Wisconsin.

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The 10 NFL teams with the most at stake in the 2026 draft

10. New Orleans Saints

    Tyler Shough #6 of the New Orleans Saints and Chris Olave #12 celebrate a touchdown during the second half against the Carolina Panthers in the game at Bank of America Stadium on November 09, 2025, in Charlotte, North Carolina.

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The 10 NFL teams with the most at stake in the 2026 draft

10. New Orleans Saints

    Tyler Shough #6 of the New Orleans Saints and Chris Olave #12 celebrate a touchdown during the second half against the Carolina Panthers in the game at Bank of America Stadium on November 09, 2025, in Charlotte, North Carolina.

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The 10 NFL teams with the most at stake in the 2026 draft

9. Washington Commanders

   Terry McLaurin #17 of the Washington Commanders celebrates with Jayden Daniels #5 after catching a pass for a touchdown during the second quarter against the Detroit Lions in the NFC Divisional Playoff at Ford Field on January 18, 2025, in Detroit, Michigan.

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The 10 NFL teams with the most at stake in the 2026 draft

8. New York Giants

   Jaxson Dart #6 and Cam Skattebo #44 of the New York Giants celebrate after Skattebo carried the ball into the endzone for a touchdown during the second quarter of the game against the Philadelphia Eagles at MetLife Stadium on October 09, 2025, in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

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The 10 NFL teams with the most at stake in the 2026 draft

7. Tennessee Titans

   Head coach Brian Callahan talks with Cam Ward of the Tennessee Titans during the fourth quarter of a game against the Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium on October 05, 2025, in Glendale, Arizona.

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The 10 NFL teams with the most at stake in the 2026 draft

6. Cleveland Browns

   Shedeur Sanders of the Cleveland Browns reacts to a touchdown in the fourth quarter against the Las Vegas Raiders at Allegiant Stadium on November 23, 2025, in Las Vegas, Nevada.

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The 10 NFL teams with the most at stake in the 2026 draft

5. Dallas Cowboys

   Dak Prescott #4 and CeeDee Lamb #88 of the Dallas Cowboys celebrate after their touchdown connection against the Kansas City Chiefs during the first quarter in the game at AT&T Stadium on November 27, 2025, in Arlington, Texas.

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The 10 NFL teams with the most at stake in the 2026 draft

4. Las Vegas Raiders

   Maxx Crosby of the Las Vegas Raiders celebrates after a missed field goal during the game against the New England Patriots at Gillette Stadium on September 07, 2025, in Foxborough, Massachusetts.

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The 10 NFL teams with the most at stake in the 2026 draft

3. Miami Dolphins

   De'Von Achane #28 of the Miami Dolphins rushes for yards against Brandin Echols #26 of the Pittsburgh Steelers in the fourth quarter of the game at Acrisure Stadium on December 15, 2025, in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania.

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The 10 NFL teams with the most at stake in the 2026 draft

2. Kansas City Chiefs

   Patrick Mahomes of the Kansas City Chiefs and Andy Reid interact against the New York Giants during the second quarter at MetLife Stadium on September 21, 2025, in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

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The 10 NFL teams with the most at stake in the 2026 draft

1. New York Jets

   Head coach Aaron Glenn of the New York Jets looks on during the fourth quarter against the Green Bay Packers during the NFL Preseason 2025 game between New York Jets and Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field on August 09, 2025, in Green Bay, Wisconsin.

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11. Miami Dolphins

Microsoft Copilot: Edge David Bailey, Texas Tech

Google Gemini: WR Makai Lemon, Southern California

Grok: WR Makai Lemon, Southern California

Meta AI: WR Makai Lemon, Southern California

ChatGPT: CB Will Johnson, Michigan

Lemon's a good fit for a team that released wide receiver Tyreek Hill and traded away Jaylen Waddle this offseason. Bailey is a steal at the No. 11 pick in the draft and gets the Dolphins a high-ceiling replacement for Bradley Chubb, whom they also released in the offseason. But once again, ChatGPT is trying to use the draft to steal players from other teams. Johnson was the Cardinals' second-round pick last year.

12. Dallas Cowboys

Microsoft Copilot: CB Mansoor Delane, LSU

Google Gemini: CB Jermod McCoy, Tennessee

Grok: LB Sonny Styles, Ohio State

Meta AI: CB Jermod McCoy, Tennessee

ChatGPT: Edge James Pearce Jr., Tennessee

Defense, defense, defense for the Cowboys, who finished last year with one of the worst units in the sport. Dallas allowed the third-highest completion rate, second-highest passer rating and most passing yards to opponents in 2025, so adding a cornerback makes sense. Styles, a super-versatile freak athlete, would be a steal for Dallas here as well. But not as much of a steal as Pearce, who is currently rostered by the Atlanta Falcons.

13. Los Angeles Rams (from Atlanta Falcons)

Microsoft Copilot: OT Spencer Fano, Utah

Google Gemini: WR Jordyn Tyson, Arizona State

Grok: WR Makai Lemon, Southern California

Meta AI: TE Kenyon Sadiq, Oregon

ChatGPT: Edge Mykel Williams, Georgia

Fano would give the Rams talented extra depth at offensive tackle, while Tyson and Lemon would do the same at wide receiver to eventually replace Davante Adams. Notably, Grok just re-drafted Lemon two picks after sending him to the Dolphins. Sadiq would be a strong addition to an offense that loved to run three-tight-end sets in 2025, though there isn't an immediate need there. Meanwhile, ChatGPT tries to steal a player who is already in the NFL for a fifth straight pick.

14. Baltimore Ravens

Microsoft Copilot: Edge T.J. Parker, Clemson

Google Gemini: OG Olaivavega Ioane, Penn State

Grok: OG Olaivavega Ioane, Penn State

Meta AI: OG Olaivavega Ioane, Penn State

ChatGPT: CB/WR Travis Hunter, Colorado

Make it six straight stolen players for ChatGPT as Hunter, currently on the Jaguars, apparently manages to both play offense and defense and play for two different teams. Otherwise, Ioane is the most popular pick for a Ravens offensive line that just parted ways with center Tyler Linderbaum. Edge rusher is not as pressing a need for Baltimore after it signed Trey Hendrickson, and the Parker pick is also a bit of a reach by Copilot. Still not as bad as ChatGPT.

15. Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Microsoft Copilot: WR Makai Lemon, Southern California

Google Gemini: Edge Keldric Faulk, Auburn

Grok: Edge Akheem Mesidor, Miami (Fla.)

Meta AI: Edge Akheem Mesidor, Miami (Fla.)

ChatGPT: WR Tetairoa McMillan, Arizona

Replacing wide receiver Mike Evans is on the docket for the Buccaneers in the logic of Copilot and ChatGPT, but only one of them picked a draftable player. McMillan, the reigning Offensive Rookie of the Year for the Carolina Panthers, isn't going anywhere. The three other LLMs opted to address a more pressing draft need for Tampa Bay: edge rusher.

16. New York Jets (from Indianapolis Colts)

Microsoft Copilot: QB Ty Simpson, Alabama

Google Gemini: QB Ty Simpson, Alabama

Grok: WR Jordyn Tyson, Arizona State

Meta AI: WR Denzel Boston, Washington

ChatGPT: Edge LT Overton, Alabama

A new quarterback for Gang Green? That makes sense, Copilot and Gemini. More wide receiver help across from Garrett Wilson? Solid decisions, Grok and Meta AI. An edge rusher that ranks outside the top 75 of USA TODAY Sports' draft expert Ayrton Ostly's big board? Well, ChatGPT, at least it's a 2026 draft prospect for the first time since No. 7 overall.

17. Detroit Lions

Microsoft Copilot: OT Monroe Freeling, Georgia

Google Gemini: OT Kadyn Proctor, Alabama

Grok: OT Monroe Freeling, Georgia

Meta AI: OT Kadyn Proctor, Alabama

ChatGPT: DT Mason Graham, Michigan

Offensive tackle is a clear need for the Lions with Taylor Decker's surprise release request, and four out of five AI LLMs got that memo. If you had one guess as to which missed it... That's right, ChatGPT picked another player that already plays in the NFL.

18. Minnesota Vikings

Microsoft Copilot: CB Jermod McCoy, Tennessee

Google Gemini: S Dillon Thieneman, Purdue

Grok: S Dillon Thieneman, Purdue

Meta AI: S Dillon Thieneman, Purdue

ChatGPT: OT Aireontae Ersery, Minnesota

Thieneman is by far the most popular pick for the Vikings at No. 18 in draft experts' mocks around the web, so it makes sense to see him well-represented in the LLMs' picks. McCoy also makes some sense for Minnesota as help in the secondary at a different position. What doesn't make sense? Drafting an offensive tackle that already plays for the Houston Texans.

19. Carolina Panthers

Microsoft Copilot: WR Denzel Boston, Washington

Google Gemini: TE Kenyon Sadiq, Oregon

Grok: WR Makai Lemon, Southern California

Meta AI: OT Monroe Freeling, Georgia

ChatGPT: TE Colston Loveland, Michigan

More pass-catching help for Bryce Young? Sure, even if it means a third straight year of taking a wide receiver in the first round. For Grok, this is the third time Lemon has been drafted, so that's not ideal. Gemini's Sadiq selection is the best of the bunch here by getting tight end help instead. While ChatGPT's "heart" was in the right place, its logic once again misled it by trying to draft yet another player that has already been employed by another pro team.

20. Dallas Cowboys (from Green Bay Packers)

Microsoft Copilot: OT Caleb Lomu, Utah

Google Gemini: Edge Akheem Mesidor, Miami (Fla.)

Grok: Edge Akheem Mesidor, Miami (Fla.)

Meta AI: LB CJ Allen, Georgia

ChatGPT: DT Deone Walker, Kentucky

More defensive help for the Cowboys in most of the selections here at No. 20 after most LLMs had them taking a cornerback at 12. Meanwhile, ChatGPT is back to its old ways and trying to give Dallas another already-drafted player: first it was James Pearce Jr., now Walker, who was the Bills' fourth-round pick last year.

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1. Las Vegas Raiders – Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana

2. New York Jets – David Bailey, OLB/DE, Texas Tech

3. Arizona Cardinals – Arvell Reese, LB/DE, Ohio State

4. Tennessee Titans – Sonny Styles, LB, Ohio State

5. New York Giants – Jeremiyah Love, RB, Notre Dame

6. Cleveland Browns – Carnell Tate, WR, Ohio State

7. Washington Commanders – Caleb Downs, S, Ohio State

8. New Orleans Saints – Makai Lemon, WR, USC

9. Kansas City Chiefs – Mansoor Delane, CB, LSU

10. Cincinnati Bengals – Jermod McCoy, CB, Tennessee

11. Miami Dolphins – Francis Mauigoa, OT/G, Miami (Fla.)

12. Dallas Cowboys – Rueben Bain Jr., DE, Miami (Fla.)

13. Los Angeles Rams (from Atlanta Falcons) – Monroe Freeling, OT, Georgia

14. Baltimore Ravens – Kenyon Sadiq, TE, Oregon

15. Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Keldric Faulk, DE, Auburn

16. New York Jets (from Indianapolis Colts) – Omar Cooper Jr., WR, Indiana

17. Detroit Lions – Kadyn Proctor, OT, Alabama

18. Minnesota Vikings – Dillon Thieneman, S, Oregon

19. Carolina Panthers – Spencer Fano, OT, Utah

20. Dallas Cowboys (from Green Bay Packers) – Avieon Terrell, CB, Clemson

21. Pittsburgh Steelers – Olaivavega Ioane, G, Penn State

22. Los Angeles Chargers – Akheem Mesidor, DE, Miami (Fla.)

23. Philadelphia Eagles – Max Iheanachor, OT, Arizona State

24. Cleveland Browns (from Jacksonville Jaguars) – Blake Miller, OT, Clemson

25. Chicago Bears – T.J. Parker, DE, Clemson

26. Buffalo Bills – Jordyn Tyson, WR, Arizona State

27. San Francisco 49ers – KC Concepcion, WR, Texas A&M

28. Houston Texans – Keylan Rutledge, G, Georgia Tech

29. Kansas City Chiefs (from Rams) – Malachi Lawrence, DE, UCF

30. Miami Dolphins (from Denver Broncos) – Chris Johnson, CB, San Diego State

31. New England Patriots – Zion Young, DE/OLB, Missouri

32. Seattle Seahawks – Colton Hood, CB, Tennessee

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NFL mock draft: Big-name prospect drops in latest first-round projection

1. Las Vegas Raiders – Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana

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NFL mock draft: Big-name prospect drops in latest first-round projection

1. Las Vegas Raiders – Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana

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NFL mock draft: Big-name prospect drops in latest first-round projection

2. New York Jets – David Bailey, OLB/DE, Texas Tech

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NFL mock draft: Big-name prospect drops in latest first-round projection

3. Arizona Cardinals – Arvell Reese, LB/DE, Ohio State

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NFL mock draft: Big-name prospect drops in latest first-round projection

4. Tennessee Titans – Sonny Styles, LB, Ohio State

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NFL mock draft: Big-name prospect drops in latest first-round projection

5. New York Giants – Jeremiyah Love, RB, Notre Dame

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NFL mock draft: Big-name prospect drops in latest first-round projection

6. Cleveland Browns – Carnell Tate, WR, Ohio State

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NFL mock draft: Big-name prospect drops in latest first-round projection

7. Washington Commanders – Caleb Downs, S, Ohio State

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NFL mock draft: Big-name prospect drops in latest first-round projection

8. New Orleans Saints – Makai Lemon, WR, USC

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NFL mock draft: Big-name prospect drops in latest first-round projection

9. Kansas City Chiefs – Mansoor Delane, CB, LSU

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NFL mock draft: Big-name prospect drops in latest first-round projection

10. Cincinnati Bengals – Jermod McCoy, CB, Tennessee

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NFL mock draft: Big-name prospect drops in latest first-round projection

11. Miami Dolphins – Francis Mauigoa, OT/G, Miami (Fla.)

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NFL mock draft: Big-name prospect drops in latest first-round projection

12. Dallas Cowboys – Rueben Bain Jr., DE, Miami (Fla.)

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NFL mock draft: Big-name prospect drops in latest first-round projection

13. Los Angeles Rams (from Atlanta Falcons) – Monroe Freeling, OT, Georgia

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NFL mock draft: Big-name prospect drops in latest first-round projection

14. Baltimore Ravens – Kenyon Sadiq, TE, Oregon

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NFL mock draft: Big-name prospect drops in latest first-round projection

15. Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Keldric Faulk, DE, Auburn

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NFL mock draft: Big-name prospect drops in latest first-round projection

16. New York Jets (from Indianapolis Colts) – Omar Cooper Jr., WR, Indiana

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NFL mock draft: Big-name prospect drops in latest first-round projection

17. Detroit Lions – Kadyn Proctor, OT, Alabama

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NFL mock draft: Big-name prospect drops in latest first-round projection

18. Minnesota Vikings – Dillon Thieneman, S, Oregon

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NFL mock draft: Big-name prospect drops in latest first-round projection

19. Carolina Panthers – Spencer Fano, OT, Utah

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NFL mock draft: Big-name prospect drops in latest first-round projection

20. Dallas Cowboys (from Green Bay Packers) – Avieon Terrell, CB, Clemson

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NFL mock draft: Big-name prospect drops in latest first-round projection

21. Pittsburgh Steelers – Olaivavega Ioane, G, Penn State

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NFL mock draft: Big-name prospect drops in latest first-round projection

22. Los Angeles Chargers – Akheem Mesidor, DE, Miami (Fla.)

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NFL mock draft: Big-name prospect drops in latest first-round projection

23. Philadelphia Eagles – Max Iheanachor, OT, Arizona State

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NFL mock draft: Big-name prospect drops in latest first-round projection

24. Cleveland Browns (from Jacksonville Jaguars) – Blake Miller, OT, Clemson

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NFL mock draft: Big-name prospect drops in latest first-round projection

25. Chicago Bears – T.J. Parker, DE, Clemson

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NFL mock draft: Big-name prospect drops in latest first-round projection

26. Buffalo Bills – Jordyn Tyson, WR, Arizona State

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NFL mock draft: Big-name prospect drops in latest first-round projection

27. San Francisco 49ers – KC Concepcion, WR, Texas A&M

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NFL mock draft: Big-name prospect drops in latest first-round projection

28. Houston Texans – Keylan Rutledge, G, Georgia Tech

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NFL mock draft: Big-name prospect drops in latest first-round projection

29. Kansas City Chiefs (from Rams) – Malachi Lawrence, DE, UCF

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NFL mock draft: Big-name prospect drops in latest first-round projection

30. Miami Dolphins (from Denver Broncos) – Chris Johnson, CB, San Diego State

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NFL mock draft: Big-name prospect drops in latest first-round projection

31. New England Patriots – Zion Young, DE/OLB, Missouri

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NFL mock draft: Big-name prospect drops in latest first-round projection

32. Seattle Seahawks – Colton Hood, CB, Tennessee

21. Pittsburgh Steelers

Microsoft Copilot: DL Caleb Banks, Florida

Google Gemini: WR Denzel Boston, Washington

Grok: OG Olaivavega Ioane, Penn State

Meta AI: Edge T.J. Parker, Clemson

ChatGPT: CB Benjamin Morrison, Notre Dame

No real theme emerges from the collective AI picks at No. 21. In addition to ChatGPT continuing its tendency to select 2025 draft picks (Morrison was a second-rounder for the Buccaneers last year), Grok got in on the weirdness. The xAI chatbot tried to select Ioane a second time after sending him to the Ravens seven picks prior.

22. Los Angeles Chargers

Microsoft Copilot: CB Chris Johnson, San Diego State

Google Gemini: OT Spencer Fano, Utah

Grok: OG Olaivavega Ioane, Penn State

Meta AI: OT Blake Miller, Clemson

ChatGPT: OT Josh Conerly Jr., Oregon

So Grok apparently loves re-drafting players in the same draft. First Lemon, now Ioane gets drafted a third time. ChatGPT still loves stealing players from other teams, with the Commanders losing their offensive tackle this time. Tackle depth makes some sense here from Meta AI and Gemini's picks after last year's disaster. Johnson, one of the best small school prospects in this class, gets into the first round in Copilot's mock draft.

23. Philadelphia Eagles

Microsoft Copilot: TE Kenyon Sadiq, Oregon

Google Gemini: S Emmanuel McNeil-Warren, Toledo

Grok: TE Kenyon Sadiq, Oregon

Meta AI: Edge Keldric Faulk, Auburn

ChatGPT: WR Luther Burden III, Missouri

If the Eagles are able to get Sadiq, their eventual replacement for Dallas Goedert, at No. 23, their draft would be off to an incredible start. One thing Howie Roseman definitely won't do? Try to poach Luther Burden III from the Bears with his first-round pick, at least in any way that isn't via trade. McNeil-Warren and Faulk would address Philly's needs on defense, with edge rusher among the biggest roster holes.

24. Cleveland Browns (from Jacksonville Jaguars)

Microsoft Copilot: OT Kadyn Proctor, Alabama

Google Gemini: WR Chris Brazzell II, Tennessee

Grok: WR Denzel Boston, Washington

Meta AI: WR Omar Cooper Jr., Indiana

ChatGPT: Edge Laiatu Latu, UCLA

Disregarding ChatGPT again here, the rest of the picks mostly make sense. Copilot's move to have Cleveland double down on offensive tackles in the first round is questionable, but the wide receiver picks from other LLMs make a ton of sense for a team needing more support in the receiving corps.

25. Chicago Bears

Microsoft Copilot: WR Omar Cooper Jr., Indiana

Google Gemini: DT Kayden McDonald, Ohio State

Grok: S Emmanuel McNeil-Warren, Toledo

Meta AI: S Emmanuel McNeil-Warren, Toledo

ChatGPT: OT Olu Fashanu, Penn State

Once again, we're going to disregard ChatGPT's shenanigans at this point. The Bears could really use safety help after letting so many of their safeties walk in free agency this offseason. Grok and Meta AI's McNeil-Warren picks address that. Copilot's Omar Cooper Jr. selection serves as Chicago's replacement for DJ Moore, whom the Bears traded to the Bills, but is also a more questionable pick with more pressing needs elsewhere.

26. Buffalo Bills

Microsoft Copilot: S Dillon Thieneman, Oregon

Google Gemini: Edge R Mason Thomas, Oklahoma

Grok: Edge Cashius Howell, Texas A&M

Meta AI: CB Avieon Terrell, Clemson

ChatGPT: S Malaki Starks, Georgia

Again, ChatGPT makes a horrible pick of a 2025 draft prospect, and again, we disregard. Gemini and Grok's picks for an edge rusher make the most sense here to address one of Buffalo's biggest needs.

27. San Francisco 49ers

Microsoft Copilot: Edge Keldric Faulk, Auburn

Google Gemini: OT Caleb Lomu, Utah

Grok: Edge T.J. Parker, Clemson

Meta AI: OT Max Iheanachor, Arizona State

ChatGPT: DT Brandon Dorlus, Oregon

ChatGPT disregarded. Gemini and Meta AI have the 49ers drafting their possible Trent Williams replacement, while Copilot and Grok have them addressing one of their biggest needs at edge rusher. Outside of ChatGPT, solid choices all around.

28. Houston Texans

Microsoft Copilot: LB Anthony Hill Jr., Texas

Google Gemini: CB Avieon Terrell, Clemson

Grok: DT Kayden McDonald, Ohio State

Meta AI: Edge Cashius Howell, Texas A&M

ChatGPT: TE Ja'Tavion Sanders, Texas

All AI LLMs (except one, because of course) went with an interesting strategy of going defense with the Texans' first-round pick. Houston already has one of the strongest defensive units in the sport, and offensive line felt like a bigger priority heading into this draft. The chatbots seemed to disagree here at pick 28.

29. Kansas City Chiefs (from Rams)

Microsoft Copilot: WR KC Concepcion, Texas A&M

Google Gemini: Edge Nic Scourton, Texas A&M

Grok: CB Jermod McCoy, Tennessee

Meta AI: CB Colton Hood, Tennessee

ChatGPT: CB Kalen King, Penn State

Similar to the Chiefs' first pick in this mock draft roundup at No. 9, pretty much every pick (except the one bad one, you know which) makes sense. Cornerback needs to be a priority with Trent McDuffie and Jaylen Watson going to the Rams earlier in the offseason, and that's what Grok and Meta AI address. Wide receiver and edge rusher help is necessary as well, which jibe with Copilot and Gemini's selections.

30. Miami Dolphins (from Denver Broncos)

Microsoft Copilot: OT Blake Miller, Clemson

Google Gemini: CB Colton Hood, Tennessee

Grok: CB Avieon Terrell, Clemson

Meta AI: DT Kayden McDonald, Ohio State

ChatGPT: OT Amarius Mims, Georgia

Another pick, another nonsensical ChatGPT selection. Outside of that, more draft capital spent on building up the Dolphins' foundation makes sense after each AI took strides to do so with the No. 11 pick. Meta AI's selection stands out as the most unique of this bunch as a player at a non-premium position.

31. New England Patriots

Microsoft Copilot: QB Garrett Nussmeier, LSU

Google Gemini: DT Peter Woods, Clemson

Grok: OT Blake Miller, Clemson

Meta AI: LB Jake Golday, Cincinnati

ChatGPT: CB Kool-Aid McKinstry, Alabama

Copilot got in on the jaw-droppingly bad logic train with this pick. The Patriots are not drafting a quarterback in the first round after Drake Maye was the MVP runner up and led New England back to the Super Bowl. ChatGPT also picked another 2025 prospect, so nothing new there, and Meta AI reached for a linebacker. That leaves Grok, shockingly, with one of the better picks to give Maye some blocking help up front. Gemini's defensive tackle pick – getting Woods, a top-ranked player at his position as well – is the best pick here.

32. Seattle Seahawks

Microsoft Copilot: CB Avieon Terrell, Clemson

Google Gemini: WR KC Concepcion, Texas A&M

Grok: CB Brandon Cisse, South Carolina

Meta AI: CB Brandon Cisse, South Carolina

ChatGPT: Edge Chop Robinson, Penn State

ChatGPT closes out its mock with a whimper. Copilot, Grok and Meta AI all make a logical pick for a cornerback with Riq Woolen departing earlier in the offseason. Gemini's selection of a wide receiver is a bit surprising given Seattle's retention of Rashid Shaheed in free agency, but the extra depth wouldn't hurt for the Seahawks' offense.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Five AI chatbots predict the 2026 NFL Draft: Mock draft roundup