Get ready for an exciting draft season, folks! The 2026 NFL Combine has wrapped up, and now the NFL Draft is just around the corner. With Pro Day on the horizon, let's dive into the latest mock draft predictions from Charles Davis of NFL.com.
The Big Picture: Unveiling the 2026 NFL Draft Mock 2.0
In this highly anticipated mock draft, Davis makes some intriguing projections for the upcoming NFL Draft, which is set to take place from April 23rd to 25th. Here's a sneak peek at the top picks and some key insights:
- Las Vegas Raiders Select: QBFernando Mendoza, Indiana
Mendoza has been the talk of the town, and for good reason. He's an undisputed champion, leading his team to an undefeated season and claiming the Heisman Trophy. With his impressive stats - 3,535 passing yards, 41 touchdowns, and a stellar 90.3 QBR - he's poised to be the first overall pick. The pressure will be on in Las Vegas, but Mendoza's talent is undeniable.
- New York Jets Go With: EDGEDavid Bailey, Texas Tech
Bailey's performance at the NFL Combine was nothing short of impressive. He dominated with a 4.5-second 40-yard dash, a 10-foot-9 broad jump, and a lightning-fast 10-yard split of 1.62 seconds. His production score of 98 ranked him at the top among EDGE rushers. Bailey's impact on Texas Tech's CFP run was undeniable, leading the nation in sacks and pressures.
- Arizona Cardinals Opt for: RB Jeremiyah Love, Notre Dame
It's been a while since a running back was drafted in the top five, but Love could change that. With his explosive reputation, Love rushed for 1,372 yards and 18 touchdowns on 199 carries in 2025. He's poised to be the highest-drafted running back since Saquon Barkley in 2018.
- Tennessee Titans Choose: LB Arvell Reese, Ohio State
Reese is the first of three projected Ohio State draftees in this mock draft. With 112 combined tackles since 2024, Reese earned All-American status in 2025 and was a key player in Ohio State's national championship squad. The battle for the top linebacker spot between Reese and his former teammate, Sonny Styles, is one to watch.
- New York Giants Select: LB Sonny Styles, Ohio State
Styles turned heads at the NFL Combine with his impressive measurements and speed. Standing at 6-foot-5 and weighing 244 pounds, he ran a 4.46-second 40-yard dash. His vertical leap of 43.5 inches and broad jump of 11 feet 2 inches are freakishly good. Styles finished the season with 83 tackles, three pass breakups, a sack, and an interception.
And here's where it gets controversial...
- Cleveland Browns Go With: WR Carnell Tate, Ohio State
Tate is the third consecutive Ohio State star projected to be a top-10 pick. Despite conflicting reports on his 40-yard dash time, Tate's receiving stats are impressive - 52 catches, 875 yards, and nine touchdowns in 11 games. He could be the first receiver off the board in a highly competitive class.
The draft is full of surprises, and these projections are just the beginning. With the draft date rapidly approaching, stay tuned for more insights and analysis. Who do you think will make waves in the 2026 NFL Draft? Let's discuss in the comments!
