NFL mock draft roundup: predictions for Bills, 49ers, Bears Ayrton Ostly, USA TODAYJanuary 21, 2026 at 6:05 AM 0 The NFL divisional playoffs are in the books and four teams are heading home to watch the rest of the postseason with us. Buffalo, San Francisco, Houston and Chicago all saw their seasons come to an end a few weeks earlier than they would've hoped. One of those four Buffalo is facing major changes this offseason. The Bills are searching for a new head coach for the first time since 2017.
- - NFL mock draft roundup: predictions for Bills, 49ers, Bears
Ayrton Ostly, USA TODAYJanuary 21, 2026 at 6:05 AM
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The NFL divisional playoffs are in the books and four teams are heading home to watch the rest of the postseason with us. Buffalo, San Francisco, Houston and Chicago all saw their seasons come to an end a few weeks earlier than they would've hoped.
One of those four - Buffalo - is facing major changes this offseason. The Bills are searching for a new head coach for the first time since 2017. Reigning MVP Josh Allen and company fell short in the divisional round for the fourth time in the last six years.
Buffalo and the others can turn to the offseason to improve their rosters and ramp up for another run in 2026. Free agency is a good way to find a few good starters and depth pieces but the best way to find difference-makers is through the NFL Draft.
The 2026 NFL Draft lacks star power at quarterback but teams looking for help at defensive line, interior offensive line, wide receiver and even tight end could be in luck. This is an especially good year to need a linebacker too.
Now that another four first-round picks are locked in, how could the 2026 NFL Draft shake out? We've tapped the latest projections from experts at CBS Sports, Fox Sports, Pro Football Focus and FantasyPros to predict how the first round will go come April.
Here's how they compare:
2. New York Jets – Arvell Reese, LB/DE, Ohio State
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2. New York Jets – Arvell Reese, LB/DE, Ohio State
">2. New York Jets – Arvell Reese, LB/DE, Ohio State
" src=https://ift.tt/FWL9p7E class=caas-img>3. Arizona Cardinals – David Bailey, DE/OLB, Texas Tech
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3. Arizona Cardinals – David Bailey, DE/OLB, Texas Tech
">3. Arizona Cardinals – David Bailey, DE/OLB, Texas Tech
" src=https://ift.tt/8Y7Tm9M class=caas-img>4. Tennessee Titans – Carnell Tate, WR, Ohio State
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4. Tennessee Titans – Carnell Tate, WR, Ohio State
">4. Tennessee Titans – Carnell Tate, WR, Ohio State
" src=https://ift.tt/W5HQfJ0 class=caas-img>5. New York Giants – Spencer Fano, OT, Utah
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5. New York Giants – Spencer Fano, OT, Utah
">5. New York Giants – Spencer Fano, OT, Utah
" src=https://ift.tt/7JChDjl class=caas-img>6. Cleveland Browns – Francis Mauigoa, OT, Miami (Fla.)
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6. Cleveland Browns – Francis Mauigoa, OT, Miami (Fla.)
">6. Cleveland Browns – Francis Mauigoa, OT, Miami (Fla.)
" src=https://ift.tt/9hRzLI7 class=caas-img>7. Washington Commanders – Rueben Bain Jr., DE, Miami (Fla.)
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7. Washington Commanders – Rueben Bain Jr., DE, Miami (Fla.)
">7. Washington Commanders – Rueben Bain Jr., DE, Miami (Fla.)
" src=https://ift.tt/LEf67hw class=caas-img>8. New Orleans Saints – Jeremiyah Love, RB, Notre Dame
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8. New Orleans Saints – Jeremiyah Love, RB, Notre Dame
">8. New Orleans Saints – Jeremiyah Love, RB, Notre Dame
" src=https://ift.tt/LaHNgYC class=caas-img>9. Kansas City Chiefs – Keldric Faulk, DE, Auburn
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9. Kansas City Chiefs – Keldric Faulk, DE, Auburn
">9. Kansas City Chiefs – Keldric Faulk, DE, Auburn
" src=https://ift.tt/ANCovM7 class=caas-img>10. Cincinnati Bengals – Caleb Downs, S, Ohio State
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10. Cincinnati Bengals – Caleb Downs, S, Ohio State
">10. Cincinnati Bengals – Caleb Downs, S, Ohio State
" src=https://ift.tt/HbP1Tpc class=caas-img>11. Miami Dolphins – Jermod McCoy, CB, Tennessee
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11. Miami Dolphins – Jermod McCoy, CB, Tennessee
">11. Miami Dolphins – Jermod McCoy, CB, Tennessee
" src=https://ift.tt/HX85Awy class=caas-img>12. Dallas Cowboys – Sonny Styles, LB, Ohio State
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12. Dallas Cowboys – Sonny Styles, LB, Ohio State
">12. Dallas Cowboys – Sonny Styles, LB, Ohio State
" src=https://ift.tt/rhEA9Tu class=caas-img>13. Los Angeles Rams (from Atlanta Falcons) – Mansoor Delane, CB, LSU
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13. Los Angeles Rams (from Atlanta Falcons) – Mansoor Delane, CB, LSU
">13. Los Angeles Rams (from Atlanta Falcons) – Mansoor Delane, CB, LSU
" src=https://ift.tt/5pPSrzU class=caas-img>14. Baltimore Ravens – Peter Woods, DT, Clemson
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14. Baltimore Ravens – Peter Woods, DT, Clemson
">14. Baltimore Ravens – Peter Woods, DT, Clemson
" src=https://ift.tt/XOoVvuh class=caas-img>15. Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Cashius Howell, OLB, Texas A&M
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15. Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Cashius Howell, OLB, Texas A&M
">15. Tampa Bay Buccaneers – Cashius Howell, OLB, Texas A&M
" src=https://ift.tt/hrmi3Md class=caas-img>16. New York Jets (from Indianapolis Colts) – Jordyn Tyson, WR, Arizona State
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16. New York Jets (from Indianapolis Colts) – Jordyn Tyson, WR, Arizona State
">16. New York Jets (from Indianapolis Colts) – Jordyn Tyson, WR, Arizona State
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18. Minnesota Vikings – Brandon Cisse, CB, South Carolina
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18. Minnesota Vikings – Brandon Cisse, CB, South Carolina
">18. Minnesota Vikings – Brandon Cisse, CB, South Carolina
" src=https://ift.tt/Q3mSqxR class=caas-img>19. Carolina Panthers – Kadyn Proctor, OT, Alabama
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19. Carolina Panthers – Kadyn Proctor, OT, Alabama
">19. Carolina Panthers – Kadyn Proctor, OT, Alabama
" src=https://ift.tt/wIH3fMB class=caas-img>20. Dallas Cowboys (from Green Bay Packers) – Avieon Terrell, CB, Clemson
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20. Dallas Cowboys (from Green Bay Packers) – Avieon Terrell, CB, Clemson
">20. Dallas Cowboys (from Green Bay Packers) – Avieon Terrell, CB, Clemson
" src=https://ift.tt/2uK9YTc class=caas-img>21. Pittsburgh Steelers – Makai Lemon, WR, USC
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21. Pittsburgh Steelers – Makai Lemon, WR, USC
">21. Pittsburgh Steelers – Makai Lemon, WR, USC
" src=https://ift.tt/r16UMFH class=caas-img>22. Los Angeles Chargers – Kayden McDonald, DT, Ohio State
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22. Los Angeles Chargers – Kayden McDonald, DT, Ohio State
">22. Los Angeles Chargers – Kayden McDonald, DT, Ohio State
" src=https://ift.tt/tyuaFZK class=caas-img>23. Philadelphia Eagles – Olaivavega Ioane, G, Penn State
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23. Philadelphia Eagles – Olaivavega Ioane, G, Penn State
">23. Philadelphia Eagles – Olaivavega Ioane, G, Penn State
" src=https://ift.tt/QizOACt class=caas-img>24. Cleveland Browns (from Jacksonville Jaguars) – KC Concepcion, WR, Texas A&M
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24. Cleveland Browns (from Jacksonville Jaguars) – KC Concepcion, WR, Texas A&M
">24. Cleveland Browns (from Jacksonville Jaguars) – KC Concepcion, WR, Texas A&M
" src=https://ift.tt/X9bPrfV class=caas-img>25. Chicago Bears – Caleb Banks, DT, Florida
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25. Chicago Bears – Caleb Banks, DT, Florida
">25. Chicago Bears – Caleb Banks, DT, Florida
" src=https://ift.tt/yPAkOzv class=caas-img>26. Buffalo Bills – Denzel Boston, WR, Washington
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26. Buffalo Bills – Denzel Boston, WR, Washington
">26. Buffalo Bills – Denzel Boston, WR, Washington
" src=https://ift.tt/g9rVktb class=caas-img>27. San Francisco 49ers – Kenyon Sadiq, TE, Oregon
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27. San Francisco 49ers – Kenyon Sadiq, TE, Oregon
">27. San Francisco 49ers – Kenyon Sadiq, TE, Oregon
" src=https://ift.tt/C8aFRbc class=caas-img>28. Houston Texans – Emmanuel Pregnon, G, Oregon
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28. Houston Texans – Emmanuel Pregnon, G, Oregon
">28. Houston Texans – Emmanuel Pregnon, G, Oregon
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31. Denver Broncos – CJ Allen, LB, Georgia
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31. Denver Broncos – CJ Allen, LB, Georgia
">31. Denver Broncos – CJ Allen, LB, Georgia
" src=https://ift.tt/Tato2UJ class=caas-img>32. Seattle Seahawks – Colton Hood, CB, Tennessee
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32. Seattle Seahawks – Colton Hood, CB, Tennessee
">32. Seattle Seahawks – Colton Hood, CB, Tennessee
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1 / 322026 NFL mock draft: Where do College Football Playoff top stars rate?1. New York Jets - Fernando Mendoza, QB, Indiana2026 mock draft roundup1. Las Vegas RaidersCBS Sports: QB Fernando Mendoza, IndianaFox Sports: QB Fernando Mendoza, IndianaPro Football Focus: QB Fernando Mendoza, IndianaFantasyPros: QB Fernando Mendoza, Indiana
CBS Sports: "The 2026 NFL Draft is similar to 2025 in that there is only one quarterback worthy of No. 1 overall consideration. The Raiders are expected to take that player, but the real questions begin post-Fernando Mendoza selection. Las Vegas' roster is not in a state to support a rookie quarterback. Tight ends Brock Bowers and Michael Mayer are good pieces, along with running back Ashton Jeanty, but they need another receiver and multiple offensive linemen."
Pro Football Focus: "Heading into the College Football Playoff National Championship game, the Indiana quarterback has produced a 6.1% big-time throw rate and a 2.5% turnover-worthy play rate. Compare that to the 6.3% and 3.3% rates, respectively, that we saw from Tennessee Titans quarterback Cam Ward in his final college season, and it's clear that Mendoza is worthy of being drafted first overall."
2. New York JetsCBS Sports: LB Arvell Reese, Ohio StateFox Sports: LB Arvell Reese, Ohio StatePro Football Focus: Edge David Bailey, Texas TechFantasyPros: LB Arvell Reese, Ohio State
Fox Sports: "New York will likely take the best player available here. A big riser on draft boards over the past few months, Reese has cemented himself as the clear-cut best linebacker in this draft. Due to his elite speed for his size, he can drop back into coverage as an off-ball backer or line up on the edge and rush the passer. Reese has 6.5 sacks and two passes defended on the year, and 112 total tackles in two seasons for the Buckeyes."
Pro Football Focus: "The news that quarterback Dante Moore is staying at Oregon for another season is a blow to the Jets, who could have either selected him at No. 2 overall or traded the pick for serious draft capital... the most logical route would be to target one of the top defensive players in the draft. Bailey's 81 quarterback pressures in 2025 led all FBS edge defenders, and while he's not as refined a prospect as Penn State's Abdul Carter was last year, he is more than good enough as a pass rusher to be worthy of a top-five selection."
3. Arizona CardinalsCBS Sports: OT Francis Mauigoa, Miami (FL)Fox Sports: OT Francis Mauigoa, Miami (FL)Pro Football Focus: S Caleb Downs, Ohio StateFantasyPros: OT Spencer Fano, Utah
CBS Sports: "The offensive line should be a point of emphasis for Arizona's next football coach, and Jonah Williams is slated to hit free agency. Francis Mauigoa is a building block for a fresh start on offense, which likely does not include Kyler Murray."
FantasyPros: "Ideally, the Cardinals would trade down a few spots, get some more capital and draft him a bit later, though. As for Fano as a prospect, he moves extremely well, but he's a bit slender, build-wise, for an offensive lineman. Worst-case scenario, Fano is a "set-it-and-forget-it" guard for years to come."
4. Tennessee TitansCBS Sports: Edge Rueben Bain Jr., Miami (FL)Fox Sports: S Caleb Downs, Ohio StatePro Football Focus: Edge Rueben Bain Jr., Miami (FL)FantasyPros: Edge Rueben Bain Jr., Miami (FL)
Fox Sports: "Downs might be the smartest football player in this draft, having lined up all over the field during his time at Alabama and Ohio State. This past season, he played 44 snaps on the defensive line, 241 in the box, 146 at slot corner, nine at wide corner, and 240 at free safety. For his career, he's totaled 256 tackles, 163 solo tackles, 10 passes defended and six interceptions."
Pro Football Focus: "Bain is likely to be a polarizing prospect if his measurements come in as expected, but it's hard to ignore his dominance in his final college season... His size should allow him to kick inside in obvious passing situations, too, giving him the type of versatility that can maximize his impact."
5. New York GiantsCBS Sports: WR Carnell Tate, Ohio StateFox Sports: OT Spencer Fano, UtahPro Football Focus: WR Carnell Tate, Ohio StateFantasyPros: WR Jordyn Tyson, Arizona State
CBS Sports: "New York has bigger needs than receiver, but do not overthink the board. It is entirely possible Wan'Dale Robinson leaves in free agency, Darius Slayton has struggled to stay healthy, and Malik Nabers is coming off an injury. Carnell Tate would provide more confidence going into Year 2 with Jaxson Dart. Tate is a bigger body with great body control and a feel for playing in space."
FantasyPros: "This spot, like the Cardinals, is another potential trade-down spot... but I'm taking the best receiver in the draft in Jordyn Tyson. Tyson does have the two injuries in 2022 and 2024 that ended his seasons, but if those medicals come back clean, Tyson will be a perfect No. 2 WR alongside Malik Nabers in an offense with Jaxson Dart, Cam Skattebo, under new head coach John Harbaugh."
6. Cleveland BrownsCBS Sports: WR Jordyn Tyson, Arizona StateFox Sports: WR Carnell Tate, Ohio StatePro Football Focus: WR Jordyn Tyson, Arizona StateFantasyPros: WR Carnell Tate, Ohio State
CBS Sports: "Cleveland may use every pick in this draft on receivers and offensive linemen. (I'm only partially joking.) Jordyn Tyson is a big-time player with the ball in his hands; the only concern is that he battled injuries during his collegiate career."
Fox Sports: "Tate is next in the long line of pro Buckeye receivers. At 6-3, 195 pounds, he's a big receiver who can dominate in the red zone while also serving as a deep threat. This year, he's one of 12 Power 4 receivers to have nine receiving touchdowns and over 800 receiving yards. He is the instant offensive boost the Browns have so desperately needed."
7. Washington CommandersCBS Sports: S Caleb Downs, Ohio StateFox Sports: Edge Rueben Bain Jr., Miami (FL)Pro Football Focus: Edge Cashius Howell, Texas A&MFantasyPros: S Caleb Downs, Ohio State
Pro Football Focus: "The Commanders will dream that one of the top two edge defenders falls to them at No. 7 overall, but if not, Howell would be a solid consolation prize. The Texas A&M standout earned a 90.3 PFF pass-rush grade and produced a 19.8% PFF pass-rush win rate in 2025."
FantasyPros: "While safety may not be the most alluring position to take in the top 10, Caleb Downs may very well be the best overall player from this class. The Commanders get an easy win here at pick No. 7."
8. New Orleans SaintsCBS Sports: RB Jeremiyah Love, Notre DameFox Sports: DL Peter Woods, ClemsonPro Football Focus: WR Makai Lemon, USCFantasyPros: WR Makai Lemon, USC
Fox Sports: "While Clemson had a down year, Woods has too many tools for any team looking for a dominant defensive lineman to pass on. At 6-3, 315 pounds, he's reported to have a lean muscle mass percentage of 77%. He's also another player who was a freshman All-American in 2023 and posted a dominant follow-up campaign in 2024 while playing both defensive end and tackle for the Tigers. Woods finished 2025 with a career-high 30 tackles along with two sacks."
Pro Football Focus: "Rookie quarterback Tyler Shough showed enough in 2025 for the Saints to want to build around him with a playmaker like Lemon. The USC star logged an 81.0 PFF receiving grade against man coverage, caught 66.7% of contested targets and dropped just 2.5% of the catchable targets thrown his way this season."
9. Kansas City ChiefsCBS Sports: DL Peter Woods, ClemsonFox Sports: RB Jeremiyah Love, Notre DamePro Football Focus: RB Jeremiyah Love, Notre DameFantasyPros: RB Jeremiyah Love, Notre Dame
CBS Sports: "Kansas City appears to be a team in transition. It needs an infusion of young impact players on both sides of the ball as it works to return to glory. Peter Woods was overrated early in the draft process but is now undervalued. In theory, Woods is the heir apparent to Chris Jones, and the hope is Omarr Norman-Lott can still develop into a complementary piece."
FantasyPros: "The Chiefs' running game was borderline unwatchable in 2025. With quarterback Patrick Mahomes coming off a torn ACL, handing the ball or dumping it off to one of the best running back prospects in recent memory is a great move."
10. Cincinnati BengalsCBS Sports: CB Jermod McCoy, TennesseeFox Sports: Edge Keldric Faulk, AuburnPro Football Focus: DL Peter Woods, ClemsonFantasyPros: OT Francis Mauigoa, Miami (FL)
CBS Sports: "Jermod McCoy sat out the entire 2025 season, but his film resembled that of a top-10 overall pick in 2024. If the medical check comes back clean, Cincinnati would be getting a great player at a position of need. Defense is once again expected to be a point of emphasis for a franchise that has struggled to identify defensive contributors in the draft."
Fox Sports: "Faulk is a monster at 6-6 and 288 pounds, and he displayed an incredible ability to blow past offensive tackles in the SEC over the past two seasons. He posted 11 tackles for loss, seven sacks and 45 total tackles for the Tigers in his true sophomore season in 2024."
11. Miami DolphinsCBS Sports: CB Mansoor Delane, LSUFox Sports: CB Mansoor Delane, LSUPro Football Focus: CB Mansoor Delane, LSUFantasyPros: CB Jermod McCoy, Tennessee
Fox Sports: "No cornerback in Power 4 had a higher pass coverage grade on PFF than Delane at 90.9. In 357 coverage snaps, he gave up just 13 receptions for 147 yards and no touchdowns with opposing QBs sporting a 26.7 passer rating when targeting him. Miami needs immediate help at the position, with four cornerbacks on injured reserve at the end of the season. Delane should be an instant starter for them."
FantasyPros: "The Dolphins desperately need some answers in the secondary, and while Jermod McCoy didn't play in 2025 due to a torn ACL, he may be healthy enough to compete at the NFL Scouting Combine, where, if healthy, he'll show how excellent an athlete he is. In 2024, McCoy showed excellent ball skills, and the Dolphins could use someone like that."
12. Dallas CowboysCBS Sports: Edge Keldric Faulk, AuburnFox Sports: LB CJ Allen, GeorgiaPro Football Focus: LB Arvell Reese, Ohio StateFantasyPros: Edge David Bailey, Texas Tech
CBS Sports: "Keldric Faulk is a long, powerful pass rusher who does not turn 21 until the beginning of the 2026 season. Dallas needs young, impactful players at all three levels of the defense. Donovan Ezeiruaku had some good moments as a rookie, so the two can develop together."
Fox Sports: "The heartbeat of Georgia's defense this year, Allen is a tenacious tackler who thrives in the run game and can also cover receivers in the slot. Dallas has bolstered its defensive line with Kenny Clark and Quinnen Williams, but it needs an off-ball backer with a high IQ to prevent explosive plays at the second level."
13. Los Angeles Rams (from Atlanta)CBS Sports: OT Spencer Fano, UtahFox Sports: OT Kadyn Proctor, AlabamaPro Football Focus: CB Jermod McCoy, TennesseeFantasyPros: CB Mansoor Delane, LSU
Fox Sports: "Matthew Stafford is the current MVP favorite with no signs of slowing down. At 37 years old, everything the Rams do from a roster construction standpoint should and will likely be with the intent of winning a Super Bowl immediately. Proctor is a specimen at 6-7, 366 pounds and has given up just five sacks in the last two seasons (according to PFF). Rob Havenstein is 33 years old and dealing with injuries, making this an ideal fit for Los Angeles."
FantasyPros: "I'd like to see the Rams get a bigger cornerback to complement their current room. However, Mansoor Delane brings so much positional versatility that he'd be excellent under head coach Sean McVay in a defense that needs more defensive back talent."
14. Baltimore RavensCBS Sports: WR Denzel Boston, WashingtonFox Sports: Edge David Bailey, Texas TechPro Football Focus: OT Francis Mauigoa, Miami (FL)FantasyPros: OT Kadyn Proctor, Alabama
CBS Sports: "Baltimore has the same decision-makers in place to make selections, so fans should not anticipate a shift in philosophy. The Ravens will continue to stockpile picks, but it will be interesting to learn whom the franchise tabs as the next head coach and the personnel that person will need to execute his schemes on each side of the ball. Denzel Boston is a big body with a skill set that complements Zay Flowers and Rashod Bateman."
Pro Football Focus: "Mauigoa is listed as a tackle, but he would begin his NFL career at guard for the Ravens, where they are unlikely to re-sign right guard Daniel Faalele — who earned a 57.2 overall grade in 2025. Mauigoa is an excellent pass blocker who earned an 85.4 PFF pass blocking grade on true pass sets this past season. He was also no slouch in the run game, earning a PFF run-blocking grade above 74.0 on both gap and zone concepts."
15. Tampa Bay BuccaneersCBS Sports: LB Sonny Styles, Ohio StateFox Sports: LB Sonny Styles, Ohio StatePro Football Focus: LB Sonny Styles, Ohio StateFantasyPros: LB Sonny Styles, Ohio State
Fox Sports: "If it weren't for Arvell Reese, Sonny Styles would be getting a lot more recognition as a Buckeye linebacker. In his past two seasons at Ohio State, he's totaled 183 tackles, 95 solo tackles, eight passes defended, seven sacks, and two forced fumbles. He hits like a truck and can move well in space."
FantasyPros: "With Lavonte David set to be a free agent and turning 36 later this month, the Buccaneers could look for a linebacker replacement in Sonny Styles... Styles started his career at Ohio State as a safety, so he'll offer positional versatility and fit the modern game. I'd bring back David, so long as he wants to continue playing, and have him mentor Styles as he learns the position further."
16. New York Jets (from Indianapolis)CBS Sports: DL Kayden McDonald, Ohio StateFox Sports: CB Jermod McCoy, TennesseePro Football Focus: WR Denzel Boston, WashingtonFantasyPros: DT Peter Woods, Clemson
CBS Sports: "New York traded away Quinnen Williams at the deadline, and the position had already been a need. The Jets could add a few bodies to the interior this offseason. Kayden McDonald has a high floor as a run defender, and teams will not feel comfortable taking him this early unless they are sold on his potential contributions as a pass rusher."
FantasyPros: "After trading Quinnen Williams, the Jets reload with Peter Woods, a player who didn't have the best season, but who has all the tools to help replace some of the production lost in the Williams trade."
17. Detroit LionsCBS Sports: Edge David Bailey, Texas TechFox Sports: CB Avieon Terrell, ClemsonPro Football Focus: OT Kadyn Proctor, AlabamaFantasyPros: Edge Keldric Faulk, Auburn
Fox Sports: "The brother of All-Pro corner A.J. Terrell, Avieon has had a ton of production in three seasons at Clemson, recording 25 passes defended, 125 total tackles, eight forced fumbles, four sacks, and three interceptions in 1,860 defensive snaps played in that span. Avieon will be a great compliment to a secondary already featuring Kerby Joseph, Brian Branch and Terrion Arnold."
FantasyPros: "The Lions need a Robin to go with their Batman in Aidan Hutchinson. Keldrick Faulk can play in various spots along the defensive line. For a Lions team that needs more pass-rushing help, Faulk feels safe."
18. Minnesota VikingsCBS Sports: CB Avieon Terrell, ClemsonFox Sports: WR Jordyn Tyson, Arizona StatePro Football Focus: CB Avieon Terrell, ClemsonFantasyPros: CB Avieon Terrell, Clemson
Fox Sports: "Tyson could easily go top 10 or 15 in this draft, depending on how badly teams want a receiver. While it might seem like a surprise for the Vikings to draft him, Jordan Addison is on the last year of his deal and will likely command a big contract given his production as the second option over the past three seasons. Tyson is a big-bodied receiver at 6-2, 200 pounds, and he catches everything thrown at him. In two seasons with ASU, he's caught 136 balls for 1,812 yards and a whopping 18 touchdowns."
FantasyPros: "The Vikings have two cornerbacks ready to go for next season in Isaiah Rodgers and Byron Murphy Jr., but neither (more so Murphy) played exceptionally well this season. Avieon Terrell would be perfect in a Brian Flores-led defense due to his aggressive play style. He'd platoon as a rookie, but could take over an outside spot full-time with Rodgers a free agent in the 2026-27 season."
19. Carolina PanthersCBS Sports: WR Makai Lemon, USCFox Sports: TE Kenyon Sadiq, OregonPro Football Focus: DT Kayden McDonald, Ohio StateFantasyPros: DT Kayden McDonald, Ohio State
CBS Sports: "Carolina has greater weaknesses than wide receiver and has invested significant draft capital into the position to little avail beyond Tetairoa McMillan. Makai Lemon is a smaller slot receiver who is grounded through the catch, a complement to McMillan's skill set."
Fox Sports: "Sadiq is the best tight end in the draft, and it's not close. He can run, block well and has great hands. His eight receiving touchdowns were the most of any tight end in FBS, making him a big-time red zone threat, as well... Bryce Young has taken a huge step this year. A lot of that progress has to do with the addition of wide receiver Tetairoa McMillan in last year's draft. Expect the Panthers to continue to give their young QB offensive weapons."
20. Dallas Cowboys (from Green Bay)CBS Sports: CB Colton Hood, TennesseeFox Sports: CB Brandon Cisse, South CarolinaPro Football Focus: Edge Keldric Faulk, AuburnFantasyPros: WR KC Concepcion, Texas A&M
Fox Sports: "Trevon Diggs and DaRon Bland both dealt with injuries this season, and the Cowboys' defense is giving up 251.5 passing yards per game, which is the worst mark in the league. Cisse is a tough corner who isn't afraid to tackle and has 10 passes defended over the past two seasons, and he gave up just 18 receptions and one TD in 2025 (PFF)."
FantasyPros: "If the Cowboys are unable to retain George Pickens, KC Concepcion would be a fantastic backup plan to complement CeeDee Lamb. He had some drop issues in college, but if he works out those kinks, he'll be incredible against man coverage and electric with the ball in his hands."
21. Pittsburgh SteelersCBS Sports: QB Ty Simpson, AlabamaFox Sports: QB Ty Simpson, AlabamaPro Football Focus: WR KC Concepcion, Texas A&MFantasyPros: OT Caleb Lomu, Utah
CBS Sports: "Pittsburgh will have a new head coach for the first time in nearly two decades, so the direction at quarterback is fascinating. If the team wants to get off the hamster wheel of signing a veteran every year, it will either need to continue taking chances on prospects who may be available to it, like Ty Simpson, or tank and be in a position to draft one next year. The choice has been made in this exercise, but a very real one awaits the franchise."
FantasyPros: "Broderick Jones just hasn't worked out in Pittsburgh, and it's time to take someone like Caleb Lomu, who may have a bit more development ahead of him. He's an excellent athlete; however, and should shine as a pass protector under the right coaching. While Mike Tomlin may no longer be the Pittsburgh Steelers' head coach, the organization has a long track record of bringing in strong coaching candidates, which will be great for Lomu."
22. Los Angeles ChargersCBS Sports: IOL Olaivavega Ioane, Penn StateFox Sports: Edge R Mason Thomas, OklahomaPro Football Focus: IOL Olaivavega Ioane, Penn StateFantasyPros: IOL Olaivavega Ioane, Penn State
Fox Sports: "Thomas is one of three SEC players to have recorded over 15 sacks and three forced fumbles in the last two seasons, and has demonstrated elite speed off the edge. While he's a bit undersized at 6-2, he's an ideal fit for a Chargers defense that needs a speed-rusher."
Pro Football Focus: "Offensive line issues crippled the Chargers in the playoffs, and while tackles Rashawn Slater and Joe Alt will return from injuries in 2026, the team needs big improvements on the interior. Ioane is the best pure guard in this class, having logged an elite 90.9 PFF pass-blocking grade on true pass sets in 2025. He would immediately upgrade the unit and provide more protection for quarterback Justin Herbert."
23. Philadelphia EaglesCBS Sports: TE Kenyon Sadiq, OregonFox Sports: OT Caleb Lomu, UtahPro Football Focus: TE Kenyon Sadiq, OregonFantasyPros: Edge T.J. Parker, Clemson
CBS Sports: "When Philadelphia felt Zach Ertz's career was nearing the end, it made the decision to move on from a fan favorite in favor of first-round pick Dallas Goedert. Goedert is scheduled to become a free agent in March. Sadiq is an off-ramp much the same way Goedert had been for Ertz."
FantasyPros: "The Eagles could bring back Jaelan Phillips, but in the event they don't, T.J. Parker could be an option for them. That said, it's also possible Parker goes much higher than this. Parker took a step back in production this season with five sacks compared to 11 in 2024, but he would thrive on an Eagles defensive line where multiple other players will demand attention. He has a skill set that should immediately translate to the NFL."
24. Cleveland Browns (from Jacksonville)CBS Sports: OT Caleb Lomu, UtahFox Sports: IOL Emmanuel Pregnon, OregonPro Football Focus: OT Spencer Fano, UtahFantasyPros: IOL Gennings Dunker, Iowa
Fox Sports: "The Browns desperately need an offensive lineman, having given up 51 sacks this season. But with the sixth pick, it's hard to imagine that Mauigoa or Fano will be available at that point, hence our projection of Carnell Tate. Pregnon is arguably the best guard in the draft, recording a pass block grade of 88.2 on the year — the seventh highest of all FBS guards with at least 300 pass blocking snaps."
Pro Football Focus: "If the Browns can come out of the first round of April's draft with an upgraded offensive line and more skill-position talent, it will have been a successful first night. Fano took a step back in 2025 but still earned 80.0-plus PFF grades as a run blocker and in pass protection. His 2024 season was even better, though, headlined by a 92.6 PFF overall grade that made him one of the top players in this class coming into the season."
25. Chicago BearsCBS Sports: DT Caleb Banks, FloridaFox Sports: Edge LT Overton, AlabamaPro Football Focus: DT Christen Miller, GeorgiaFantasyPros: DT Caleb Banks, Florida
Fox Sports: "Overton fits the mold of all the past Alabama defensive linemen over the past decade in that he's incredibly athletic, nasty, physical and relentless. At 6-5, 283 pounds, he can play inside and can thrive in multiple schemes. Chicago can go with an offensive player here, but Overton has the potential to be a game-wrecker for it if he's available."
FantasyPros: "Andrew Billings and Chris Williams are free agents, and not only that, but Billings had a terrible season. Caleb Banks can line up anywhere along the defensive line, and his explosiveness should help the Bears' interior."
26. Buffalo BillsCBS Sports: S Emmanuel McNeil-Warren, ToledoFox Sports: WR Makai Lemon, USCPro Football Focus: Edge T.J. Parker, ClemsonFantasyPros: WR Denzel Boston, Washington
CBS Sports: "Buffalo hardly addressed the safety room last offseason despite it being a need. The position remains a need entering this offseason. Emmanuel McNeil-Warren is a versatile player and represents a continued investment of team resources in the defense."
Pro Football Focus: "The Bills fell short in the playoffs again, but the production they got from veteran edge defender Joey Bosa — who is now set to head to free agency — should reinforce their desire to invest in the position. Parker is coming off a season where he tallied a 15.5% PFF pass-rush win rate and proved capable as a run defender, earning a 77.5 PFF run-defense grade."
27. San Francisco 49ersCBS Sports: OT Monroe Freeling, GeorgiaFox Sports: DT Kayden McDonald, Ohio StatePro Football Focus: OT Caleb Lomu, UtahFantasyPros: Edge Cashius Howell, Texas A&M
CBS Sports: "Trent Williams' time will eventually come to an end, considering he will be 38 prior to next season. The 2026 season is the final year of his contract. Even if Monroe Freeling does not start next season, the team would theoretically have an in-house replacement who benefited from learning under a Hall of Fame tackle for a year."
Fox Sports: "McDonald was an absolute monster in the middle of Ohio State's defensive line, which held opponents to 9.3 points per game and 89.4 rush yards per game. The 6-3, 326-pound defensive tackle has three sacks and two forced fumbles on the year, and would be a huge addition to a defense that won 12 games despite missing Nick Bosa, Mykel Williams and Fred Warner for most of the year."
28. Houston TexansCBS Sports: OT Kadyn Proctor, AlabamaFox Sports: Edge Akheem Mesidor, Miami (FL)Pro Football Focus: IOL Emmanuel Pregnon, OregonFantasyPros: DT Christen Miller, Georgia
Fox Sports: "Mesidor really bolstered his stock in his final year of eligibility, recording 10.5 sacks on the year and dominating offensive lines throughout Miami's CFP run. The only edge rusher that's played 400 pass rush snaps and has a higher PFF grade than him is Rueben Bain Jr., who we have going seventh overall. Mesidor also played in the interior last year, making him a versatile option for a Houston defensive line that features two 31-year-old players in Danielle Hunter and Sheldon Rankins."
FantasyPros: "The Texans have numerous defensive linemen hitting free agency, such as Sheldon Rankins and Tim Settle. Adding Christen Miller helps replenish those losses. At the moment, though, he's a limited pass-rusher. That said, Miller would be heading to a great spot to develop under head coach DeMeco Ryans."
29. Los Angeles RamsCBS Sports: WR KC Concepcion, Texas A&MFox Sports: DT Caleb Banks, FloridaPro Football Focus: CB Chris Johnson, San Diego StateFantasyPros: CB Colton Hood, Tennessee
CBS Sports: "Davante Adams is aging more gracefully than some of his peers because he wins with his attention to detail as a route runner. KC Concepcion gives them depth at a position they have valued during the Sean McVay era while also providing an off-ramp to Adams' time with the organization."
Pro Football Focus: "Johnson is flying under the radar despite his sensational 2025 season. He earned an elite 92.4 PFF coverage grade in 2025 after allowing just 18 receptions and a 16.1 NFL passer rating on throws into his coverage."
30. New England PatriotsCBS Sports: Edge Cashius Howell, Texas A&MFox Sports: Edge T.J. Parker, ClemsonPro Football Focus: OL Gennings Dunker, IowaFantasyPros: Edge R Mason Thomas, Oklahoma
Pro Football Focus: "Although Morgan Moses has been solid for the Patriots this season, he'll be 35 years old in March. New England should set out to find his long-term replacement in this draft. Dunker was better in 2024, logging an elite 90.2 PFF overall grade, but still put together a solid 2025 campaign with 75.0-plus PFF grades in pass protection and as a run blocker."
FantasyPros: "The Patriots were middle of the pack in pressures this season, and K'Lavon Chaisson is set to hit the open market after having a career year. Assuming they're unable to bring him back, Mason Thomas' explosiveness could be a nice way to make up for it. That said, we'll see if Thomas' ankle injuries are cleared. It remains to be seen if his size will be a detriment to his draft stock."
31. Denver BroncosCBS Sports: DT Christen Miller, GeorgiaFox Sports: IOL Olaivavega Ioane, Penn StatePro Football Focus: DT Caleb Banks, FloridaFantasyPros: TE Kenyon Sadiq, Oregon
CBS Sports: "The defensive line has been a unit of strength for Denver, which has been important for freeing up Jonathan Cooper and Nik Bonitto in pass-rush situations. The addition of Christen Miller ensures the defensive line remains atop the league while also providing depth."
Pro Football Focus: "The Broncos don't have many needs at this point, but it's never a bad idea to acquire more depth along the defensive line. Banks missed most of the 2025 season but flashed as a pass rusher toward the end of the 2024 campaign, with 17 pressures on 92 pass-rushing snaps in the final three games of the year."
32. Seattle SeahawksCBS Sports: Edge Akheem Mesidor, Miami (FL)Fox Sports: Edge Cashius Howell, Texas A&MPro Football Focus: CB Keith Abney II, Arizona StateFantasyPros: WR Chris Bell, Louisville
Fox Sports: "Howell ranks fourth in FBS in sacks since 2022 with 27 to his name in that span, but he's a bit undersized at 6-2, 248 pounds. Still, he has an incredible burst off the edge and would be a great supplement to 33-year-old DeMarcus Lawrence, who has two years left on his contract with Seattle."
Pro Football Focus: "The Seahawks already have some high-profile players in their secondary — Devon Witherspoon and Nick Emmanwori — but cornerback Tariq Woolen is currently headed for free agency. Abney doesn't bring Woolen's size, but as his 77.9 PFF run-defense grade shows, he plays with the type of physicality on which the Seahawks' defense thrives."
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: NFL mock draft roundup: New predictions for playoff teams
Source: "AOL Sports"
Source: Sports
Published: January 21, 2026 at 01:27PM on Source: RED MAG
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