Dan Parr unveils his simulated 2026 NFL draft

With the Super Bowl barely over, speculation surrounding the 2026 NFL draft is intensifying.

Between the Combine and the opening of the free agent market, several things could still change. But if the first round were held today, the Las Vegas Raiders would be at the heart of the action.

With the first overall pick, the Las Vegas Raiders would finally resolve their quarterback instability by selecting Fernando Mendoza (Indiana). Unless a monumental trade offer comes along, the franchise can no longer afford to ignore this priority. With the second pick, the New York Jets would go for Arvell Reese (Ohio State), an explosive linebacker capable of immediately transforming a defense. Even though the quarterback question remains pressing, New York would choose the best talent available here. The Arizona Cardinals would strengthen their offensive line with Spencer Fano (Utah), while the Tennessee Titans would add defensive pressure with David Bailey (Texas Tech). The New York Giants would protect their young quarterback with Francis Mauigoa (Miami).

New York Jets, Dallas Cowboys, and Cleveland Browns multiply their strategies

Further down in the first round, the New York Jets would be particularly aggressive. In addition to their initial selection, they would move up to 28th to get their hands on Ty Simpson (Alabama), securing the future at the most important position.

The Dallas Cowboys would invest heavily in defense with two strategic picks, seeking to restore a physical identity to their unit. For their part, the Cleveland Browns would address both the secondary and the offensive line, aware of the gaps that need to be filled.

The Kansas City Chiefs would add even more bite to their defensive front, while the Buffalo Bills would try to solidify their run defense.

Finally, the Seattle Seahawks would conclude the first round by strengthening their defensive coverage, determined to remain among the elite.

The picture could change between now and April, but one thing is certain: the 2026 draft promises to be explosive, with several teams ready to make moves to change their destiny.

To see the full draft, click here.

Created by humans, assisted by AI.